On May 28, 1998, Pakistan boldly stepped onto the global stage as a nuclear power, altering the strategic landscape of South Asia. This day, known as Yom-e-Takbeer, marks the anniversary of Pakistan’s successful nuclear tests in the Chagai district of Balochistan. As we reflect on this milestone, it is essential to celebrate Pakistan’s successes in nuclear technology and consider the broader implications for national security, regional stability, and technological advancement. Yom-e-Takbeer is a symbol of our national pride and resilience.
In the face of regional security challenges, India conducted the military nuclear test just weeks earlier, Pakistan’s nuclear tests were a demonstration of its strategic autonomy and a robust deterrence capability. This move comprehended not merely as a tit-for-tat response to Indian tests but a critical step to ensure a balance of power in South Asia. By achieving nuclear parity with India, Pakistan established itself as a sovereign state capable of defending its territorial integrity and deterring aggression.
Beyond the achievement of strategic gains, Pakistan’s nuclear program has also catalyzed significant advancements in nuclear technology for peaceful purposes. The Pakistan Atomic Energy Commission (PAEC) has been at the forefront of these efforts, utilizing nuclear technology to address pressing national issues in energy, health, medicine, and agriculture. One of the most notable successes is Pakistan’s nuclear power generation capacity. With the establishment of multiple nuclear power plants, including Chashma and Karachi Nuclear Power Complexes, Pakistan has made strides towards reducing its energy deficit.
These plants not only provide a reliable source of electricity but also contribute to reducing carbon emissions, supporting global efforts to combat climate change. Pakistan’s energy generation mix is diverse, with natural gas contributing the largest share at 54.8 TWh, accounting for 35% of the total energy produced. Hydropower follows with 33.5 TWh, making up 19%, and coal also provides 19% with 29.1 TWh. Oil accounts for 12% of the mix at 18.2 TWh, while nuclear energy contributes 10% with 15.3 TWh. Renewable energy sources like wind and solar contribute smaller portions, with wind generating 3.1 TWh (2%) and solar 0.9 TWh. Biofuels and waste collectively produce 0.8 TWh. This diversified energy portfolio reflects Pakistan’s efforts to balance between traditional fossil fuels and increasing adoption of renewable energy sources.
In the field of medicine, nuclear technology has revolutionized cancer treatment and diagnostic procedures in Pakistan. The Pakistan Atomic Energy Commission (PAEC) operates 19 cancer treatment hospitals nationwide, providing state-of-the-art treatment to thousands of patients annually. These facilities are equipped with the latest technology for radiation therapy and nuclear medicine, making advanced healthcare accessible to a large number of the population. In Gilgit, the PAEC has established its 19th Atomic Energy Cancer Hospital (AECH), named the Gilgit Institute of Nuclear Medicine, Oncology, and Radiotherapy (GINOR). This 52-bed cancer hospital, completed at a cost of 2.5 billion PKR, was inaugurated in 2022.
Agriculture sector, a backbone of Pakistan’s economy, has been improved by nuclear technology. By developing high-yield, disease-resistant crop varieties and improving pest control methods, Pakistan has improved food security and agricultural output. These innovations are vital for sustaining the livelihoods of millions of Pakistani farmers and ensuring a stable food supply for the growing population.
The Pakistan Atomic Energy Commission (PAEC) has established four agriculture and biotechnology institutes to ensure food security issues. These institutes are the Nuclear Institute for Agriculture (NIA) in Tandojam, Sindh, the Nuclear Institute for Agriculture & Biology (NIAB) in Faisalabad, Punjab, the National Institute of Biotechnology & Genetic Engineering (NIBGE) in Faisalabad, Punjab, and the Nuclear Institute for Food & Agriculture (NIFA) in Peshawar, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
They focus on crop improvement, insect pest control, animal production and health, food and environmental protection, and soil-water and plant nutrition management. Their research has led to the development of high-yielding, heat-tolerant, insect and disease-resistant, and nutritionally enhanced varieties of wheat, cotton, rice, mung bean, chickpea, lentil, sugarcane, castor bean, kinnow, sesame, tomato, and brassica
While celebrating these achievements, it is crucial to acknowledge the responsibilities that come with being a nuclear state. Pakistan has consistently demonstrated its commitment to nuclear non-proliferation and safety. The establishment of robust command and control structures, adherence to international safety standards, and active participation in global non-proliferation efforts, are the testaments to Pakistan’s commitment as a responsible nuclear state. In this context it needs to be mentioned that Pakistan is also mindful of nuclear safety and security.
This framework is supported by five fundamental pillars: a strong command and control system led by the National Command Authority (NCA); an integrated intelligence system; a rigorous regulatory regime; a comprehensive export control regime; and active international cooperation. Together, these pillars ensure that Pakistan’s nuclear assets are managed safely and securely, reflecting the country’s allegiance to maintaining stringent nuclear security standards.
However, the journey ahead is fraught with challenges. The international community are suspicious of Pakistan’s nuclear program, and regional tensions continue to pose risks. It is imperative for Pakistan to maintain transparency, engage in confidence-building measures, and pursue diplomatic avenues to mitigate misunderstandings and build trust. As we celebrate Yom-e-Takbeer, we must also look towards the future. Pakistan’s nuclear achievements provide a foundation for further technological advancements and economic growth.
By investing in education, research, and international collaboration, Pakistan can harness its nuclear capabilities to address broader challenges such as energy sustainability, healthcare, and food security. Yom-e-Takbeer is more than a commemoration of Pakistan’s nuclear tests; it is a testament to the nation’s resilience, ingenuity, and strategic foresight. As we honor this day, let us embrace the responsibilities and opportunities that come with nuclear capabilities, and leverage nuclear technology for the betterment of Pakistan and the global community.
