Flag of Pakistan

National Flag of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan

Basic Information

The national flag of Pakistan has a standard length-to-width ratio of 3:2. A white vertical stripe occupies one-quarter of the flag at the hoist, while the remaining three-quarters consists of a dark green field featuring a white crescent and five-pointed star.

Also known as the Crescent and Star Flag, it was officially adopted by the Constituent Assembly on August 11, 1947, as the national symbol of Pakistan’s sovereignty.

Symbolism

1. White Vertical Stripe: Symbolizes peace and represents Pakistan’s religious minority communities, including Hindus, Christians, and Sikhs. It reflects the principle of peaceful coexistence among different faiths.
2. Dark Green Field: Represents the Muslim majority and the country’s Islamic heritage. It also symbolizes prosperity.
3. White Crescent: Represents national progress and development.
4. White Five-Pointed Star: Represents light, knowledge, and guidance.

Main Uses

Government Buildings

The flag is flown at the Presidential Palace, Parliament House, the Supreme Court, provincial and local government offices, and border posts.

Parliament House permanently displays the flag both day and night, with illumination required after dark. At most other government buildings, the flag is raised at sunrise and lowered at sunset.

Diplomatic Use

The flag is displayed at Pakistani embassies, consulates, and official seats at international conferences to represent the country’s sovereignty and national identity.

Military Use

It is used at military installations and aboard naval vessels and military aircraft. It serves as a national symbol during military parades, oaths of allegiance, and official ceremonies.

Within military ceremonial traditions, infantry units use military colors, while cavalry units use standards.

National Holidays and Commemorations

The flag is flown nationwide on major national occasions, including:

• Pakistan Day — March 23
• Independence Day — August 14
• Birthday of Muhammad Ali Jinnah — December 25

During official periods of national mourning, the flag may be flown at half-mast under presidential instructions. It is also used ceremonially at state funerals.

Official Vehicles

Small vehicle-mounted national flags may be displayed on the official vehicles of the president, prime minister, provincial governors, and other authorized senior officials.

Civilian Uses

During Independence Day and other major national celebrations, people commonly display the flag at their homes or carry handheld versions to express patriotism. It is also widely used at sporting events, public gatherings, and parades.

Schools and community organizations may display it on important commemorative days as part of civic and patriotic education.

The flag design may appear on souvenirs and cultural products. However, defacing, damaging, trampling, or using the flag in advertising or disrespectful decorations is prohibited and may result in penalties.

Maritime Use

Pakistani merchant ships display the national flag while sailing as an official indication of the vessel’s nationality.

Key Rules of Flag Etiquette

1. The flag must not be displayed upside down or with the crescent and star incorrectly oriented.
2. When displayed horizontally, the white stripe must remain on the hoist side.
3. The flag must not touch the ground or any dirty surface.
4. It must be folded, stored, and handled with dignity. Damaged or worn flags should be disposed of respectfully rather than discarded casually.
5. During flag-raising and lowering ceremonies, uniformed personnel should salute, while civilians should stand at attention.
6. No words, images, or other markings may be added to the flag.