Date: 20 August 2026
Location: Karachi, Pakistan

NOWCommunities hosted a Tribute Ceremony in honour of Mr. Athar Shah on the occasion of his retirement, in recognition of his dedicated and distinguished services to the Labour Department and his longstanding commitment to workers’ rights and welfare.

The ceremony was attended by Mr. Nazir Somroo, Director General, Labour Department, Government of Sindh, along with a distinguished gathering of labour leaders, journalists, social activists, and representatives of workers’ organizations.

Among the notable participants were Mr. Habibuddin Junaidi, President, Peoples Labour Bureau Sindh; Ms. Mehnaz Rahman, renowned journalist and social worker; Ms. Shehnaz Ahad, journalist, writer and social activist; Mr. Hussain Badshah, labour leader and General Secretary, Peoples Labour Bureau Karachi Division; Mr. Mirza Maqsood Ahmed, labour leader and President, Mazdoor Mahaz Amal; Ms. Bushra Arain, Chairperson, All Lady Health Workers Programme Union; Ms. Farhat Sultana, General Secretary, All Lady Health Workers Programme Union; Ms. Noor Fatima, President, All Lady Health Workers Programme Union; Mr. Muhammad Shafi, labour and social activist; and Mr. Shahid Nazir, labour and social activist.

The event was hosted by Ms. Farhat Parveen, Executive Director, NOWCommunities, who welcomed the distinguished guests and paid tribute to Mr. Athar Shah for his valuable contribution to the labour sector.

During the ceremony, participants shared their experiences of working with Mr. Athar Shah and highlighted his integrity, sincerity, professionalism, and unwavering commitment to his responsibilities throughout his career. They appreciated his services to the Labour Department and expressed the hope that he would continue to contribute to the welfare and rights of workers even after his retirement.

Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Athar Shah recalled memorable experiences from his professional career and shared the story of his journey from his early life to serving as Joint Labour Director. Reflecting on his humble background, he said that he was himself the son of a hari (agricultural worker) and emphasized that his commitment to workers would continue throughout his life.

He expressed his determination to remain engaged in efforts for the rights, dignity and welfare of workers even after retirement.

“On the occasion, the distinguished guests were presented with Ajraks as a token of appreciation, symbolizing the rich cultural heritage of Sindh.”

The ceremony concluded with a formal luncheon hosted by NOWCommunities for the distinguished guests and participants.

NOWCommunities extends its heartfelt appreciation to Mr. Athar Shah for his dedicated service and wishes him a fulfilling, healthy and meaningful life after retirement.