28/05/2026
* Pakistan’s nuclear journey began in 1972 under the leadership of Zulfikar Ali Bhutto, who laid the foundation of the atomic program following the historic Multan meeting.
* To achieve this vital national goal, Dr. Abdul Qadeer Khan and other prominent Pakistani scientists worked tirelessly, demonstrating immense dedication.
* Dr. A.Q. Khan played a central role by pioneering uranium enrichment techniques, which ultimately made the nation's defense invincible.
* The Kahuta-based Khan Research Laboratories (KRL) served as the primary hub where the crucial scientific developments for the atomic program took place.
* Despite severe international pressure and economic sanctions, consecutive civilian and military leaderships consistently prioritized the program as a top national interest.
* When India conducted nuclear tests in May 1998, Pakistan faced immense strategic and public pressure to demonstrate its own capabilities.
* Consequently, under the leadership of the then Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif, Pakistan took the bold decision to establish its strategic deterrence.
* On May 28, 1998, Pakistan successfully conducted its underground nuclear tests, known as Chagai-I, in the remote hills of Chagai, Balochistan.
* With these successful tests, Pakistan officially became the world's 7th nuclear-armed state and the first nuclear power in the Muslim world.
* Today marks the 28th anniversary of this historic achievement, which is celebrated across the country with great pride and zeal as "Youm-e-Takbeer."
