As national awards were announced on August 14, many asked about the Nishan-e-Imtiaz.
This “Order of Excellence” is among Pakistan’s most important state decorations.
It recognises people whose work brings international recognition to Pakistan or who render outstanding service to the country.
Nishan-e-Imtiaz: origins, eligibility, and the annual ceremony
On 19 March 1957, Pakistan created the Nishan-e-Imtiaz following the adoption of the 1956 Constitution.
In addition, It is the first (highest) class in the Order of Imtiaz.
The other three classes are Hilal-i-Imtiaz, Sitara-i-Imtiaz and Tamgha-e-Imtiaz.
While Nishan-e-Pakistan ranks above it, that distinction is normally reserved for foreign heads of state.
The Nishan-e-Imtiaz is widely seen as the highest award most Pakistanis can receive.
Who can get it?
Both civilians and military officers, and even non-Pakistanis.
For civilians, it honours excellence in fields such as literature, arts, sports, medicine and science.
In the armed forces, the President awards the honour for distinguished service, usually to Generals, Air Chief Marshals, and Admirals.
The rules allow multiple awards to the same person, though a second conferment has not occurred since 1999.
How are recipients chosen?
A parliamentary committee reviews nominations and sends a final list to the Prime Minister.
On the PM’s advice, the President confers the awards at a public ceremony.
The pattern is simple and well known: nominees are announced each year on Independence Day, and the investiture takes place at Aiwan-e-Sadr.
What does it look like?
The badge is a pure golden star with light-white enamel and a polished green emerald ring inscribed in Urdu with “نشانِ امتیاز”.
A golden jasmine motif sits between the star’s points.
Civilians wear it on a yellow/white ribbon; military officers use a bright green/white ribbon.
A special grade includes a larger chest star and a sash worn from the right shoulder to the left hip.
Military recipients also receive a ribbon bar, a miniature for mess dress and a lapel badge.
