Punjab to include Marka-i-Haq in textbooks

LAHORE: Punjab has decided to include the four-day war between Pakistan and India — Marka-i-Haq — in the national curriculum and make films on it.

The decision was taken in a meeting of the Information Steering Committee with Punjab Information and Culture Minister Azma Bokhari in the chair here on Wednesday.

“To instil a spirit of patriotism among the younger generation, the content related to Marka-i-Haq will be incorporated into the academic curriculum. Besides, the programmes related to it (Marka-i-Haq) and national unity would be held in private educational institutions with the same enthusiasm as that of the public,” the minister said.

The four-day armed conflict between Pakistan and India in May last year marked one of the most serious military escalations between the two nuclear-armed neighbours in recent years. Tensions erupted after a militant attack in Indian-occupied Kashmir, which New Delhi blamed on Pakistan-based elements, an allegation Islamabad denied.

Films on war narrative will also be produced

The confrontation involved exchanges of artillery fire along the Line of Control (LoC), drone activity, missile strikes, and aerial engagements. Pakistan said it had shot down several Indian fighter jets.

To strengthen the national narrative, the meeting decided that films focusing on Marka-i-Haq and national unity would be produced under the Film Fund. Additionally, a special play based on the life and sacrifice of Shaheed Liaquat would be presented under the auspices of Alhamra Arts Council.

The meeting also requested the DG ISPR to continue visiting educational institutions for the “intellectual and ideological guidance of students.”

In view of the upcoming Muharram, Bokhari directed the authorities concerned to intensify actions against those spreading hate content. “The information department and home department will jointly establish a special monitoring cell to keep strict vigilance over social media. No form of provocation or hate speech will be tolerated during Muharram. Elements spreading mischief on social media will be immediately identified and dealt with through strict legal action. The special cell will also ensure timely dissemination of accurate information to curb rumours,” the minister said.

The meeting was also attended by Secretary Information Tahir Raza Hamdani, Additional Secretary Home Maham Asif, Deputy Secretary Finance Shehzad Hotiana and Director Law Shahid Imtiaz.

Meanwhile, an exhibition showcasing artworks from a painting competition titled ‘Marka-i-Haq’ was held at Alhamra Arts Council to pay tribute to the bravery and valour of the Pakistan armed forces.

More than 40 artworks were displayed in the exhibition. Huzaila Zahid secured first, Shehzadi Ayesha second and Zara Hanif third positions in the competition.

Published in Dawn, May 14th, 2026