ISLAMABAD (Special Correspondent) – First Lady Asifa Bhutto Zardari marked the 79th Independence Day of Gilgit-Baltistan on Sunday by extending her warmest greetings to the region’s residents, with a specific focus on empowering youth, girls, and women. The First Lady Gilgit-Baltistan 79th Independence Day celebrations underscored the historical significance of the region’s liberation from Dogra rule.

Key Points

• First Lady Asifa Bhutto Zardari commemorated the 79th Independence Day of Gilgit-Baltistan on 1 November 2026.
• She paid tribute to the historical struggle for freedom from Dogra rule and the subsequent alignment with Pakistan.
• The First Lady emphasized the importance of education, healthcare, and economic independence for women and youth.
• She highlighted the PPP government’s 2009 reforms as a foundational step toward regional self-governance and dignity.

Reflecting on Historical Struggles and Future Aspirations

In a message released by the President Secretariat Media Wing, the First Lady honoured the sacrifices made by previous generations. She noted that the legacy of that struggle belongs to the modern generation, adding, “We must honour it by ensuring that every child can learn, every young person can pursue a meaningful livelihood and every woman can participate fully in the decisions that affect her life.”

Reflecting on her family’s political heritage, she cited the reforms of Shaheed Zulfikar Ali Bhutto and the democratic commitment of Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto. She highlighted how the introduction of self-governance in 2009 reflected a long-standing belief that the people of Gilgit-Baltistan deserve greater representation and a decisive say in their future.

Empowering the Women and Youth of Gilgit-Baltistan

Addressing the Gilgit-Baltistan 79th Independence Day audience, the First Lady drew inspiration from the life of Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto to encourage young women. She stated, “To the girls of Gilgit-Baltistan, I want to say: your dreams matter.” She stressed that barriers, whether physical distance to schools or financial constraints, must be dismantled through practical support such as scholarships and digital access.

Furthermore, Asifa Bhutto Zardari outlined a vision for economic growth that includes leveraging the region’s potential in tourism, technology, and agriculture. She emphasized that young people and women should act as partners in environmental stewardship, protecting the region’s glaciers, rivers, and cultural heritage, as noted in recent Gilgit-Baltistan 79th Independence Day commemorative discussions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What did the First Lady emphasize regarding the future of Gilgit-Baltistan?

She emphasized the need for practical support for women and youth, including better schools, quality healthcare, reliable internet, and access to finance to ensure economic independence.

Why was the 2009 reform significant for the region?

The 2009 reforms, introduced by the PPP government, provided self-governance to the region, reflecting an enduring commitment to giving the local population dignity and a greater say in their future.