Asif Ali Zardari to Honor Olympic Champion Arshad Nadeem with Hilal-i-Imtiaz. President Asif Ali Zardari announced that Arshad Nadeem will be awarded the prestigious Hilal-i-Imtiaz in recognition of his record-breaking performance at the Paris Olympics 2024.
Arshad Nadeem, a national superstar, set a new Olympic record in the men’s javelin final, securing Pakistan’s first gold medal in 40 years. With a phenomenal throw of 92.97 meters on his second attempt, Arshad Nadeem not only clinched Pakistan’s first-ever individual gold medal but also marked the nation’s first track and field Olympic medal. This historic feat makes him the second South Asian to achieve a podium finish in track and field.
In acknowledgment of his remarkable achievement, the governments of Punjab and Sindh have collectively announced a cash prize of Rs151 million for Arshad Nadeem. Additionally, the National Assembly passed a unanimous resolution recommending that the highest civil award be bestowed upon the athlete.
A statement from the President’s House confirmed that Arshad Nadeem will receive the civil award at a special ceremony, highlighting his exceptional contributions to the field of sports. The President’s Office has already forwarded a letter to the federal cabinet for approval of this honor, in accordance with Article 259(2) of the Constitution, which allows the president to award distinctions to citizens for their valuable services.
“Arshad Nadeem has made the nation proud with his outstanding performance in sports,” stated President Zardari Asif Ali.
In a related development, Information Minister Attaullah Tarar announced the issuance of a special postage stamp in honor of Arshad Nadeem, commemorating both his Olympic victory and the nation’s 77th Independence Day. The stamp, titled “Azm-i-Istehkam,” was created under the special directives of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif. It features Arshad Nadeem’s image alongside the iconic Minar-i-Pakistan, symbolizing the nation’s enduring struggle for freedom and commitment to development.
Attaullah Tarar emphasized that the stamp will serve as a lasting tribute to Arshad Nadeem’s Olympic success and a reminder to future generations of the sacrifices made for the country’s independence and progress.
