The Government of Azad Jammu and Kashmir has declared a public holiday on Monday, February 16, 2026, and released an official notification to confirm the decision.
As per the statement, the holiday has been announced in connection with the Overseas Kashmir Conference, which will take place in the capital city of Muzaffarabad.
A significant number of overseas Kashmiris and Pakistanis are expected to participate in the conference. In view of the large turnout, authorities decided to observe a holiday to ensure smooth security and administrative arrangements.
According to the notification, all public and semi-government offices, along with private commercial centers in Muzaffarabad, will remain closed on February 16.
Officials stated that the purpose of the conference is to brief overseas Kashmiris and Pakistani investors on investment prospects and the facilities available in Azad Kashmir. The event also seeks to strengthen relations with the overseas Kashmiri community and encourage their involvement in the region’s economic growth and development.