Hilal-i-Imtiaz

The Hilal-i-Imtiaz (English: Crescent of Excellence; Urdu: ہلال امتیاز‎, Hilāl-i Imtiyāz) is the second highest civilian award and honour given to both civilians and military officers of the Pakistan armed forces by the Government of Pakistan. It recognises individuals who have made an "especially meritorious contribution to the security or national interests of Pakistan, world peace, cultural or other significant public endeavors". It is a civilian award, and not limited to the citizens of Pakistan.

The honour is restricted to individuals who have made outstanding contributions in their fields that led to international recognition to the State. It is awarded in the fields of literature, arts, sports, medicine, and science for civilians. It is announced every year on Independence Day, August 14, and given on Pakistan Day, March 23, by the President of Pakistan. For officers in the military, it is given for distinguished service, and is also the highest medal awarded to those at the rank of Major General or Lieutenant General (Army), Air Vice-Marshals or Air Marshals (Air Force) and Rear-Admiral or Vice-Admiral (Navy, Coast Guard, and Marines). Parliament's committee for Award and Recognition Services for State of Pakistan selects the names of individuals and sends their report to the Prime Minister; on his advice, the President makes the award in a ceremony that is broadcast by the PTV. The award is usually given to individuals, not groups, because the purpose of the award is to recognise the recipients' individual contributions.