D I Khan - A colourful and dignified ceremony was held in Dera Ismail Khan to commemorate Pakistan’s Independence Day. The program featured the distribution of interest-free loans, a tree plantation drive, and a cultural performance celebrating the country’s rich heritage.
The event was organized by SERVE Development Organisation in collaboration with the Pakistan Poverty Alleviation Fund (PPAF), under the Prime Minister’s Interest-Free Loan Scheme.
Additional Deputy Commissioner (Relief & HR) Syeda Tahreem Shah attended the event as the chief guest, while other distinguished participants included District Social Welfare Officer Mumtaz Khan; Chairman of the Water and Sanitation Services Company (WSSC), Naimat Ullah Khan Gandapur; Amjad Pervaiz Khan; Rubina Shah; SERVE CEO Ahmed Zeb Khan Gandapur; and Programme Coordinator Advocate Shoaib Salam.
The ceremony commenced with the recitation of the Holy Quran, followed by the national anthem. In his welcome speech, Ahmed Zeb Khan Gandapur reflected on the organization’s journey since its founding in 1998, emphasizing its long-standing commitment to women’s economic empowerment and sustainable community development.
Chairman WSSC Naimat Ullah Khan Gandapur praised the initiatives, particularly those aimed at empowering women, calling them “worthy of appreciation.”
In her keynote address, Chief Guest Syeda Tahreem Shah highlighted the vital role of local organizations in community development. She commended the women’s empowerment initiatives in Dera Ismail Khan as highly commendable and assured her full support for the region’s women, pledging every possible effort to advance their independence and well-being.
As part of the celebrations, loan cheques were distributed to deserving families, a sapling was planted to promote environmental sustainability, and the audience enjoyed a vibrant cultural programme.
The event concluded with the cutting of an Independence Day cake amid applause and patriotic spirit.