- By: Dr. Imtiaz Ahmad
Youm-e-Takbeer, celebrated on May 28, marks a significant milestone in Pakistan’s history as the day the country became the first nuclear Muslim state and the seventh nuclear power globally. This achievement is a testament to the nation’s scientific prowess and technological advancements. Nuclear power is a game-changer for any nation, offering a wide range of benefits beyond just defense. It can generate electricity, power industries, and support daily life, making it an essential component of a country’s sustainable development.
Unfortunately, Pakistan has not fully utilized its nuclear power potential, particularly in the energy sector. Despite having the capability to generate significant electricity through nuclear power, the country still faces a substantial shortfall in meeting its energy demands. This is a missed opportunity, as nuclear power can play a vital role in bridging this gap and driving economic growth.
The nuclear tests conducted on May 28, 1998, under the codename Chagai-I and Chagai-II, were a culmination of the country’s nuclear program initiated in 1998. The program was led by the Pakistan Atomic Energy Commission (PAEC) and the Khan Research Laboratories (KRL), with the support of the Corps of Engineers. Abdul Qadeer Khan, a renowned Pakistani nuclear physicist and metallurgical engineer, is credited as the “father of Pakistan’s atomic weapons program.”
Nuclear energy has the potential to revolutionize Pakistan’s industries and economy. By harnessing its atomic strength, the country can generate electricity, drive industrial growth, and create prosperity for its citizens. The China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) offers a unique opportunity to establish heavy industries in Pakistan, realizing the dreams of the nation’s founding fathers, including Quaid-e-Azam, Shaheed Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto, and Mian Nawaz Sharif.
Declaring May 28 as a public holiday and celebrating it as Youm-e-Takbeer is a fitting tribute to the nation’s scientific achievements and a reminder of its potential for sustainable development. By recognizing this day as a symbol of national pride and progress, Pakistan can recommit itself to harnessing its nuclear power for the betterment of its people and the country’s future.
- The writer is a PhD from the university of Essex, UK and serving the university of Malakand as Associate Professor of Mathematics.