Scholars stress narrative warfare in modern era

Federal Minister for National Heritage and Culture, Aurangzeb Khan Khichi, has said that the success of Marka-e-Haq symbolised national unity, patriotism, and the enduring bond between the people and the Armed Forces of Pakistan.

He congratulated the nation on the completion of one year of Marka-e-Haq and paid tribute to the Armed Forces, particularly Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, for their steadfast commitment to defending the country during challenging times.

The minister expressed these views while addressing a special seminar titled "The Role of Literature in Achieving National Objectives", organised by the Pakistan Academy of Letters to commemorate one year since the success of Marka-e-Haq.

The minister said that certain elements had attempted to create the impression that the nation and the Armed Forces were divided; however, Marka-e-Haq had demonstrated that the entire nation stood firmly alongside its Armed Forces.

He further stated that Mazar-e-Iqbal and the Iqbal Academy Pakistan fall under the administrative control of the Ministry of National Heritage and Culture, where extensive restoration and development work had been undertaken through significant funding. Referring to the historic residence of Allama Muhammad Iqbal in Sialkot, Khichi said that the ministry had written to the Punjab government regarding its restoration, following which budgetary allocations were made and rehabilitation work commenced.

The minister also sought further guidance regarding the building associated with Allama Iqbal in Germany and reaffirmed the government's commitment to preserving Pakistan's literary and intellectual heritage. He expressed confidence that the nation would continue to achieve its collective aspirations through unity and resolve.

Presiding over the seminar, Izhar ul Haq said that books would always retain their relevance, although their form might evolve over time. He stressed that intellectuals and writers must continue promoting patriotism, Pakistani identity, and the ideology of Pakistan through literature and national discourse.

Chairperson of the Pakistan Academy of Letters, Dr Najeeba Arif, thanked the participants and observed that modern wars were no longer fought solely on borders, but also across hearts, minds, and digital platforms.