The Nishan-e-Haider is the highest military gallantry award in Pakistan, given to members of the Pakistan Armed Forces who demonstrate exceptional courage and self-sacrifice during war. Established in 1957 but applied retroactively from 14 August 1947, this prestigious medal is only awarded posthumously, honoring the ultimate sacrifice for the nation. The medal is crafted from captured enemy equipment and symbolizes valor, bravery, and unwavering commitment to duty.
What is Nishan-e-Haider?
“Nishan-e-Haider,” meaning “Mark of the Lion,” refers to Hazrat Ali (RA), known for his courage. This award is reserved for soldiers who display extraordinary bravery in combat. Manufactured by the Pakistan Mint, it is made from 88% copper, 10% tin, and 2% zinc, using material recovered from enemy equipment. It is only awarded by the Government of Pakistan, and always posthumously, signifying supreme sacrifice.
Complete Nishan-e-Haider Recipients List
Here is the verified list of the 11 heroes who have received this esteemed award:
| No. | Name | Rank & Regiment | War/Conflict | Date of Martyrdom |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Captain Raja Muhammad Sarwar | 2/1 Punjab Regiment | 1947–48 Kashmir War | 27 July 1948 |
| 2 | Naik Saif Ali Janjua* | Azad Kashmir Regiment | 1947–48 Kashmir War | 26 April 1948 |
| 3 | Major Tufail Mohammad | East Pakistan Rifles | Border Skirmish (1958) | 7 August 1958 |
| 4 | Major Raja Aziz Bhatti | 17 Punjab Regiment | 1965 War (Lahore front) | 10 September 1965 |
| 5 | Pilot Officer Rashid Minhas | Pakistan Air Force | 1971 War (PAF hijack incident) | 20 August 1971 |
| 6 | Major Shabbir Sharif | 6 Frontier Force Regiment | 1971 War (Sulemanki Sector) | 6 December 1971 |
| 7 | Sawar Muhammad Hussain | 20 Lancers | 1971 War (Shakargarh Sector) | 10 December 1971 |
| 8 | Major Muhammad Akram | 4 Frontier Force Regiment | 1971 War (Hilli, East Pakistan) | 5 December 1971 |
| 9 | Lance Naik Muhammad Mahfuz | 15 Punjab Regiment | 1971 War (Wagah-Attari Sector) | 17 December 1971 |
| 10 | Captain Karnal Sher Khan | 12 NLI Regiment | 1999 Kargil War | 7 July 1999 |
| 11 | Havildar Lalak Jan | 12 NLI Regiment | 1999 Kargil War | 7 July 1999 |
Note: Naik Saif Ali Janjua received the Hilal-e-Kashmir, later officially declared equivalent to Nishan-e-Haider in 1995 by the Government of Pakistan.
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Overview of Nishan-e-Haider Heroes
Captain Raja Muhammad Sarwar
First recipient of Nishan-e-Haider. Martyred in Uri sector during the First Kashmir War while leading an attack on enemy fortifications.
Naik Saif Ali Janjua
Showed exemplary courage in Budha Khanna during the 1947–48 Kashmir conflict. Honored with Hilal-e-Kashmir, later equated with Nishan-e-Haider.
Major Tufail Mohammad
Engaged in intense combat in Lakshmipur, East Pakistan. Continued fighting despite severe injuries and embraced martyrdom in 1958.
Major Raja Aziz Bhatti
Defended the Lahore front in 1965 against heavy Indian assault for six days before being martyred.
Pilot Officer Rashid Minhas
Only Air Force officer and youngest recipient. Gave his life to prevent a PAF jet hijack during the 1971 war.
Major Shabbir Sharif
Led a direct assault on enemy bunkers at Sulemanki Sector. Fought fearlessly and died in combat. Also awarded Sitara-e-Jurat.
Sawar Muhammad Hussain
Destroyed several enemy tanks while directing artillery fire under hostile conditions. Martyred in action.
Major Muhammad Akram
Held the Hilli sector against superior forces in East Pakistan. Continued to fight bravely until his martyrdom.
Lance Naik Muhammad Mahfuz
After being injured, advanced into an enemy bunker and neutralized soldiers before embracing martyrdom.
Captain Karnal Sher Khan
Defended key positions during the Kargil War at high altitudes. Known for leadership and fearlessness under fire.
Havildar Lalak Jan
Held his post against continuous shelling during the Kargil War. Refused evacuation and laid down his life defending the nation.
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Conclusion
The Nishan-e-Haider recipients list serves as a symbol of unmatched bravery and sacrifice. These 11 heroes of Pakistan are honored for their dedication to duty and courage in battle. Their stories continue to inspire generations of Pakistanis and the armed forces.
