Islamabad: Federal Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi has said that the nation has not forgotten the devastation caused by the earthquake of October 8, 2005. In his special message on National Resilience Day, he paid tribute to the courage, sacrifice, and unity of the Pakistani people.

Interior Minister said that October 8 reminds us that instead of yielding to natural calamities, the Pakistani nation stood firm with patience, determination, and solidarity. He said that thousands of precious lives were lost and millions were displaced in the tragic disaster. He highlighted that the spirit with which the nation participated in rescue and relief operations remains a shining chapter in our history.

Mohsin Naqvi paid rich tribute to those who lost their lives on October 8, saying their sacrifices teach us lessons of humanity, service, and selflessness. He also expressed gratitude to the rescue agencies, the Pakistan Armed Forces, civil society, and international aid organizations that played a pivotal role in the rehabilitation of the affected people.

Interior Minister reaffirmed the Government's commitment to further strengthening systems and rapid response capabilities to effectively deal with natural disasters.

Meanwhile Mohsin Naqvi paid a surprise late-night visit to the National Police Academy. The Interior Minister reviewed the progress of the ongoing upgradation works at the academy. He inspected the construction activities of the new hostel building.

Mohsin Naqvi said that upon completion, the hostel will provide excellent accommodation to the trainee officers. He also met with the trainee police officers and inquired about the available facilities. The trainee officers expressed satisfaction over the existing facilities.

During the briefing, it was informed that three slabs of the hostel building have been completed, while work on the remaining sections is in full swing. Chairman CDA Muhammad Ali Randhawa and other officials were also present on the occasion.

Meanwhile Mohsin Naqvi has commended the security forces for eliminating 19 Indian-sponsored terrorists in Orakzai. He paid rich tribute to Lieutenant Colonel Junaid, Major Tayyab, and nine soldiers who embraced martyrdom while fighting bravely against the terrorists. He expressed heartfelt condolences with the families of the martyrs. He also prayed for the speedy recovery of the two injured soldiers.

Interior Minister said Lieutenant Colonel Junaid, Major Tayyab, and the nine soldiers sacrificed their precious lives to foil the nefarious designs of Indian-sponsored terrorists. He added that the great sacrifices of the martyrs are unforgettable, and the nation will forever remain indebted to them. 'The martyrs have written a new chapter in the history of love and loyalty to the homeland with their precious blood,' he stated.

Mohsin Naqvi emphasized that every drop of the martyrs' blood reflects the nation's unwavering resolve against terrorism. He said the entire nation salutes the brave families of the martyrs.