Islamabad by IMTISAL BUKHARI
Federal Minister for Religious Affairs and Interfaith Harmony, Sardar Muhammad Yousaf, extended heartfelt congratulations to the nation on the arrival of Rabi-ul-Awwal. He announced that the Ministry has decided to commemorate the Islamic year 1447 Hijri as the 1500th blessed birth anniversary of the Holy Prophet Muhammad ﷺ. Calling it both a profound spiritual and historical honor, the minister emphasized that it presents a golden opportunity to promote national unity and religious harmony.
Speaking at a press conference held on Monday at the Ministry of Religious Affairs, he stated that from 1st to 12th Rabi-ul-Awwal, the country will observe the “Ashra Rahmat-ul-lil-Alameen ﷺ” with great enthusiasm. The highlight of this celebration will be the 50th International Seerat-un-Nabi ﷺ Conference, to be held in Islamabad. Distinguished government officials, renowned scholars, diplomats, and guests from within Pakistan and abroad will attend the event.
The central theme of this year’s conference is “State Responsibilities in Promoting Positive Use of Social Media – In Light of the Seerat-un-Nabi ﷺ.” A public call for papers on this topic was issued months ago through a national advertisement, and selected scholarly papers are being compiled into a publication to guide policymakers and youth alike. These will be distributed to major institutions and public libraries.
Sardar Yousaf stated that the celebrations will include a variety of events nationwide — including Seerat conferences, Na’at gatherings, seminars, competitions, and special youth programs at the provincial level. Educational institutions across the country will organize special ceremonies, speeches, and awareness campaigns to educate students about the life and teachings of the Prophet ﷺ and promote constructive use of digital platforms.
He announced that alongside the international conference in Islamabad, a National Quran and Seerat Exhibition will also take place, featuring manuscripts, publications, and digital content related to the Quran and the life of the Prophet ﷺ. Additionally, on the night of 11th Rabi-ul-Awwal, a National Na’at Gathering will be held, and outstanding participants of the 2025 national Seerat, Na’at, and essay competitions will be awarded.
All provincial governments, as well as authorities in Azad Jammu and Kashmir and Gilgit-Baltistan, have nominated focal persons to ensure coordination with the Ministry. Event reports, photographs, and videos will be collected from across the country for a comprehensive national report.
Minister Yousaf emphasized that this is not just a series of events but a national pledge to shape the character of the new generation in line with the teachings of the Holy Prophet ﷺ — promoting peace, love, tolerance, and responsible use of modern technology.
He urged the nation to actively participate in Ashra Rahmat-ul-lil-Alameen ﷺ celebrations and turn this blessed time into a means of unity, harmony, and compassion. He also appealed to the public to support the underprivileged and victims of recent floods through charity and goodwill.
Responding to media questions, he reiterated Pakistan’s consistent support for the oppressed people of Gaza, noting that the Deputy Prime Minister represented Pakistan’s stance at the recent OIC meeting.
Regarding the interest-based financial system, the minister reaffirmed that Islam allows no space for usury, and the government is making efforts to eliminate it. He said he personally raised this issue in parliament and mentioned that during the budget session, the Finance Minister confirmed that banks have been directed to shift towards an interest-free system. Some banks are already working on this transition, and the Ministry of Religious Affairs continues to play its part in this regard.
“I cast my vote against interest-based practices back in 1992,” he added, affirming his long-standing commitment to an Islamic economic framework.
