Three Gilgit-Baltistan Shepherds honored with Rs 2.5 million each from PM Shehbaz Sharif
In the midst of the towering Karakoram ranges, where nature is usually as beautiful as it is violent, three humble shepherds Wasit Khan, Ansar, and Muhammad Khan demonstrated how real heroism is founded upon courage, wiseness, and mercy. Their selfless warning to communities before a furious flood swept through rescued more than 300 invaluable lives, and thus they emerged as the real protectors of Gilgit-Baltistan.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, as a tribute to their exceptional courage, himself greeted the shepherds and awarded each of them a cheque of Rs 2.5 million, announcing them as the nation’s pride and heroes.
A Call of Duty Beyond the Mountains
The shepherds, whose days are spent traveling rugged terrain and herding animals, were the first to realize the ominous portents of the imminent glacial outburst. Rather than seeking safety, they sprinted against time to alert neighboring villagers of the impending disaster. Their prompt warnings enabled hundreds to flee before the floodwaters swept over the valley.
What is so amazing about their act is that these individuals had no official mandate, no advanced equipment, and no resources to call upon just their instinct, their voice, and their will to salvage lives. Their acts of courage prove that sometimes the most humble people possess within themselves the strongest sense of duty towards mankind.
Prime Minister’s Heartfelt Acknowledgment
During a special session, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif commended the shepherds’ serving humanity heroically, labeling their bravery as an inspiration for the country. As he presented the cheques to them, he promised that what they were doing would never be forgotten and that Pakistan is proud of its unsung heroes who come to the fore in moments of need.
“Their act of courage is a reminder that heroes do not always wear uniforms or hold positions of authority. They might be mountain shepherds, guided only by the light of conscience and compassion,” the Prime Minister said.
A Lesson in Humanity and Resilience
This tale is more than a report of courage it is a tribute to the resilience of the residents of Gilgit-Baltistan. Deliberately living between towering glaciers and capricious weather, they have ever only learned to live alongside nature. But when in peril, their braveness and solidarity most truly shine through.
The state recognition also underscores the need to give value to local communities as first responders. Shepherds, farmers, and villagers from off-grid areas are usually the first to notice evidence of environmental hazards. By empowering them, Pakistan can build stronger early warning systems against climate disasters.
Heroes of Gilgit-Baltistan: A National Inspiration
The tale of Wasit Khan, Ansar, and Muhammad Khan has echoed throughout Pakistan, reminding all that greatness is not about money or might, but about the desire to serve humanity. Their act of courage is a lesson in humanity, sacrifice, and leadership for generations to come.
As the Prime Minister aptly put it, they are not merely flocks’ shepherds, but keepers of lives. Their bravery demonstrates that even in the farthest reaches of our nation, real national heroes silently emerge when humaneness beckons.
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