Government Declares Public Holiday on Iqbal Day, November 9, 2024
The Government of Pakistan has officially declared Saturday, November 9, 2024, a public holiday to commemorate Allama Iqbal Day. This announcement, detailed in a press release from the Cabinet Division, adheres to the guidelines issued in the Cabinet Division’s circular on December 20, 2023, which outlined the public and optional holidays for the year 2024. The notification, signed by Cabinet Secretary Kamran Ali Afzal, urges widespread dissemination through English and Urdu media to ensure that citizens are well informed about the upcoming holiday.
Commemorating Allama Iqbal’s Legacy
This holiday marks the 147th birth anniversary of Dr. Allama Muhammad Iqbal, a revered poet, philosopher, and visionary often referred to as the “Poet of the East” and the “Conceiver of Pakistan.” In honor of his contributions, all banks, Development Finance Institutions (DFIs), and Micro Finance Banks (MFBs) will observe the holiday on November 9, 2024. The State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) has also announced it will remain closed in observance of Iqbal Day.
The History of Iqbal Day Observance
Iqbal Day has seen an evolving history. In 2015, it was discontinued as a national holiday but was reinstated in 2022. The Cabinet Division’s recognition of Iqbal Day as a public holiday in 2023 had already raised expectations that the tradition would continue this year.
Public and Educational Celebrations for Iqbal Day
Traditionally, Iqbal Day has been celebrated with various events across Pakistan, especially in educational institutions. Students participate in reciting Iqbal’s poetry and discussing his significant contributions to Pakistan’s heritage and culture. These gatherings are a way to honor and reflect on Iqbal’s philosophy and vision for the nation.
International Observance by Pakistani Missions
Earlier in 2024, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued a list of official holidays for Pakistani embassies and consulates worldwide. This list included November 9 as a designated holiday for Iqbal Day, ensuring that the legacy of Allama Iqbal is acknowledged not only within Pakistan but by its missions abroad.
FAQs about Iqbal Day and Public Holiday in Pakistan
1. Why is November 9 declared a holiday in Pakistan?
November 9 is declared a holiday to honor Allama Iqbal’s birth anniversary, celebrating his contributions to Pakistani culture, philosophy, and national identity.
2. Will banks be open on Iqbal Day?
No, all banks, including Development Finance Institutions and Micro Finance Banks, will be closed in observance of Iqbal Day.
3. When was Iqbal Day reinstated as a public holiday?
Iqbal Day was reinstated as a public holiday in 2022 after being suspended in 2015.
4. Are educational institutions open on Iqbal Day?
Typically, educational institutions close on Iqbal Day, with some hosting events to celebrate and discuss Allama Iqbal’s works.
5. Is Iqbal Day observed outside Pakistan?
Yes, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs includes Iqbal Day in its list of holidays for Pakistani missions abroad, allowing the day to be observed internationally.
