The Government of Pakistan has posthumously conferred the prestigious Nishan-e-Imtiaz upon Air Marshal Raja Shahid Hamid (Retd.) in recognition of his exceptional services and achievements for the country. The award ceremony was held at Aiwan-e-Sadr, Islamabad, where President Asif Ali Zardari presented the honor on behalf of the nation.
Air Marshal Raja Shahid Hamid hailed from the notable Gakhar Kayani family of Shakarparian, Islamabad, known for its deep-rooted legacy of leadership and service. His forefather, Raja Gulab Khan, was a prominent chieftain of Shakarparian and a respected Gakhar elder. His father, Raja Hamid Mukhtar, served as a Deputy Commissioner and held several high-ranking positions in Pakistan’s civil bureaucracy, continuing the family’s longstanding tradition of public service.
Born in 1949 in Jhelum, Pakistan, Air Marshal Raja Shahid Hamid joined the Pakistan Air Force in 1966. He earned a Bachelor’s degree in Engineering (Avionics) from the College of Aeronautical Engineering and also completed a BSc in Strategic Studies. A significant part of his career was dedicated to research and development, where he made pioneering contributions to Pakistan’s defense technology.
He was the founder of the Advanced Engineering Research Organization (AERO), Pakistan’s most respected R&D institutions His technical foresight and innovative leadership played a vital role in elevating Pakistan’s defense capabilities. He is remembered as one of the heroes who devoted their lives to the strength and sovereignty of Pakistan.
After retiring from the Air Force in 2003 as an Air Marshal, he continued his mission of national development by establishing the Alternative Energy Development Board (AEDB). Founded in May 2003 under the Federal Government, the AEDB aimed to promote renewable energy across the country. As its first Chairman, he spearheaded the creation of Pakistan’s first-ever renewable energy policy, which was approved in 2006. This landmark policy attracted 98 international investors, each committing to develop a 50-megawatt wind farm in Pakistan.
Air Marshal Raja Shahid Hamid also represented Pakistan on international platforms by presenting research papers on renewable energy in global forums across the United States, China, Germany, India, Turkey, and other countries.
Throughout his distinguished career, he held several prominent public service roles, including:
- Chairman of LTE (Optical Fiber Manufacturing Facilities)
- Chairman of ICS (Integrated Circuit Manufacturing Facility)
- Member, Board of Directors, Pakistan Steel
- Member, Board of Directors, Engineering Development Board
- Vice President, World Wind Energy Association
In addition to the Nishan-e-Imtiaz, Air Marshal Raja Shahid Hamid was the recipient of several other national honors, including:
- Sitara-e-Imtiaz
- Sitara-e-Basalat
- Tamgha-e-Imtiaz
He also served as the Vice Chairman of Khyber TV Network, contributing to the media sector with his strategic vision and leadership.
Air Marshal Raja Shahid Hamid was not only a visionary leader and a decorated officer but also a patriot who dedicated his life to the service of Pakistan. His legacy is a powerful symbol of integrity, innovation, and national commitment, and he continues to inspire future generations.
