THE 76-year-old country with a nation of two hundred and twenty-two million with 5 provinces, agriculturally based with diverse culture and is a history-oriented country named Pakistan. From winning conventional wars to modern wars, proxy wars the country paid a huge price and laid thousands of sacrifices of its citizens and soldiers fighting at multiple ends to safeguard every inch of its country. It is pertinent to mention that the Pakistan Army is just one component of Pakistan’s military establishment, which also includes the Pakistan Navy and the Pakistan Air Force. The three branches work together to ensure the nation’s defence and security.
The life of a soldier is challenging and unusual in comparison to an ordinary man. It is a profession that requires dedication sacrifice and a strong sense of duty. The Pakistan Army which is the 5th biggest army in the world operates with a hierarchical structure, with officers at different ranks leading and supervising soldiers. The role of the Pakistan Army is to defend the country against external and internal threats, ensuring its territorial integrity and safeguarding national interests. It is also involved in providing assistance in internal security operations when required. Pakistan Army can be deployed both domestically and internationally.
Domestically, they assist in maintaining law and order, especially in areas affected by terrorism or insurgency. Internationally, they participate in United Nations peacekeeping missions, providing assistance in conflict zones around the world. Like any professional army, the Pakistan Army places significant emphasis on training. Soldiers undergo regions training programs designed to develop physical fitness, combat skills, discipline and teamwork. This includes basic training for new recruits, specialized training for various roles and professional development courses for career progression. Since 1947, the Pakistan Army had to face multiple challenges including wars with its neighbour India which never accepted the composition of Pakistan.
Followed by 3 battles with India and after 9/11 Pakistan Army fought vigorously against terrorism. The war the Pakistan Army fought against terrorism is self-explanatory and exemplary to date. Their integral role in bringing back peace in the country is unprecedented. From conventional war to modern proxy warfare Pakistan Army stands out.
The Pakistan Army has played a significant role in counter-terrorism efforts, particularly in the context of combating domestic and transnational terrorism within Pakistan’s borders. This involvement has been driven by various factors, including the threat posed by militant groups, insurgencies, and the country’s commitment to fighting terrorism on a global scale. The Pakistan Army conducted several military operations in the tribal areas along the Afghanistan-Pakistan border. These operations, such as Operation Zarb-e-Azb and Operation Radd-ul-Fasaad, aimed to clear these regions of militant sanctuaries and establish government control. In addition to FATA, the Pakistan Army has been involved in counter-insurgency operations in various parts of the country, including Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Punjab, Balochistan, and Karachi. These operations targeted insurgent and terrorist groups and aimed to restore law and order. Pakistan has been a key ally in the global war on terror, and the Pakistan Army has cooperated with various international partners, including the United States and NATO, in efforts to combat terrorism and stabilize the region.
The Pakistan Army has played a crucial role in securing its border with Afghanistan to prevent the cross-border movement of militants and terrorists. This is particularly important in the context of the porous and rugged Afghanistan-Pakistan border. The army has also been involved in intelligence gathering and surveillance operations to track down and neutralize terrorist networks. In addition to military operations, Pakistan has implemented initiatives to counter extremist ideologies that fuel terrorism. These include efforts to counter radicalization and promote moderation and tolerance.
The Pakistan Army has been involved in post-conflict rehabilitation and development efforts to help rebuild areas affected by conflict, providing humanitarian assistance and infrastructure development. Pakistan’s efforts in countering terrorism have come at a high cost, with many soldiers and officers losing their lives in the line of duty. The Pakistan Army has also faced challenges such as militant attacks on military installations and personnel. It is worth noting that Pakistan’s defence forces are the most disciplined, organized, and determined forces in the world. Pakistan Army, like any military organization operates within the legal framework established by the government and adheres to the principles of international law and human rights.
—The writer, based in Islamabad, occasionlly contributes to the National Press
views expressed are writer’s own.
