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AMP’s National Awards for Social Excellence 2024

Mumbai, MAHARASHTRA :

AMP’s National Awards for Social Excellence 2024 Announced at a Grand Event in Chennai!

110 NGOs and 100 Changemakers Honoured at the 4th AMP National NGO Awards 2024!

The Association of Muslim Professionals (AMP) announced the winners of the 4th AMP National Awards for Social Excellence 2024 on Independence Day, 15th August, during a grand event held at the B.S. Abdur Rahman Crescent Institute of Science & Technology (a deemed university) in Chennai, Tamil Nadu. The event was attended by honorable guests and a large gathering of participants from across India.

In a memorable ceremony, 100 inspiring individuals were honored with Changemaker Awards, and 100 state-level NGOs were recognized in the Best and Jury categories. Additionally, 10 organizations were celebrated under prestigious national categories.

Notable national NGO awardees include;

  • ALTNEWS
  • APCR (Association for Protection of Civil Rights)
  • IMRC (Indian Muslim Relief & Charities??)
  • Institute of Objective Studies (IOS),
  • Allana CSR
  • Pataka CSR and
  • Seethakathi Trust

Some of the prominent Changemaker awardees included;

  • Syed Zubair Ahmad (Muslim Mirror)
  • Mohammed Wajihuddin (Times of India)
  • Aslayah Kallakath (Maktoob Media)
  • Abdur Rahman IPS (Retd.)
  • Akramul Jabbar IRS (Retd.)
  • Hammad Rahman
  • Adil Meraj and
  • Dr. Syeda Ruksheda.

The Lifetime Achievement Award was posthumously bestowed upon the Late Moosa Raza, IAS (Retd.), which was received by his family.

The Omar Khatani Memorial Award was presented to the Tarraqi I Foundation, while BSA Crescent Institute of Science & Technology received the Partner of the Year Award.

Mrs. Mariam Habib, Trustee of B.S. Abdur Rahman Crescent Institute of Science & Technology, served as the Chief Guest and commended AMP’s efforts in education, employment, and empowerment. She emphasized the role of NGOs in bringing about significant societal change in collaboration with policymakers, and she noted that the legacy of the late B.S. Abdur Rahman is being continued with great dedication by the current leadership.

Dr. N. Raja Hussain, Registrar of B.S. Abdur Rahman Crescent Institute of Science & Technology and Guest of Honour, praised AMP’s work in recognizing and motivating various organizations and individuals. He highlighted the ongoing collaboration between the university and AMP in developing students and faculty through guest programs. The event was presided over by University Vice-Chancellor Prof. Dr. T. Murugesan.

Motahar Hosain, Chief Executive and Guest of Honour, congratulated AMP for instituting these much-needed awards to acknowledge the contributions of individuals in the development sector. He remarked that despite the sacrifices made by these individuals in service to others, they seldom receive the appreciation they deserve, making these awards a significant recognition of their efforts.

Mr. Farooq Siddiqui, Head of the AMP National Coordination Team and the driving force behind these awards, stated, “AMP believes in collaboration and has been working alongside multiple organizations since its inception. Through the AMP NGO Connect project, we are connected with over 7,000 social organizations across nearly all districts of India, helping them with capacity building and implementing AMP’s social welfare projects in their regions. These awards are our way of appreciating their efforts and motivating them to continue their impactful work.” He also thanked the AMP Chapter and state teams for mobilizing massive nominations and captivated the audience at the packed Crescent Convention Center Hall with his superb and engaging awards announcement.

Ms. Shereen Sultana, State Head – AMP Tamil Nadu, in her address, shared details about AMP’s initiatives and invited everyone to join hands for the betterment of society and nation-building. She expressed her gratitude to the management and staff of B.S. Abdur Rahman Crescent Institute of Science & Technology for their cooperation in hosting the event and mentioned how she took up the challenge of organizing the awards ceremony in Chennai.

AMP Tamil Nadu State Executive Team member Mr. Yahya Rasheed welcomed the guests and successfully hosted the event with the support of Prof. Ansar.

The awards process for the NASE was multi-layered, with state, central, and a 9-member distinguished jury led by A.R. Khan, IAS (Retd.), President of A.R. Welfare Foundation, Dr. Syed Zafar Mahmood, Founder & President of Zakat Foundation of India, Dr. Farah Usmani, Founder & Chairperson of Rising Beyond The Ceiling, Prof. Zubair Meenai, Professor & Former Head of the Dept. of Social Work, JMI, Prof. Naseem Ahmed Khan, Chairman of the Dept. of Social Work, AMU, Dr. Shazia Manzoor, Head of DSW, University of Kashmir, Sherin Ali, Global Lead – Corporate Social Responsibility, WNS, Sajid Ali, COO of Tech Mahindra Foundation, and Gulzar Hussain, Head of Government Partnerships, UN World Food Program (India).

The success of the 4th edition of the awards would not have been possible without the cooperation of AMP team members such as Sajjad Parvez, AMP Zonal Head – South India, Dr. B. Raja Hussain, State Secretary, Syed Faheem, Chennai Chapter Head, Syed Deen, Chennai Chapter Secretary, and the back-office team at the Central Office in Mumbai and Vaniyambadi.

source: http://www.ampindia.org / AMP, Association of Muslim Professionals / Home / August 2024

Young boy from Karnataka broke Dele Ali’s World Record of ‘most nutmegs in 30 seconds’

KARNATAKA :

In the world of sports, records are made and broken, and in September 2022, a young football enthusiast from Karnataka, India, left his indelible mark on the global stage. Mohammed Shaleel, at the tender age of 21, accomplished a remarkable feat that not only made him the first-ever Indian to break an international footballer’s Guinness World Record but also brought him recognition and acclaim in the world of football.

Shaleel’s record-breaking journey began with a dream and a burning passion for the beautiful game. A diehard fan of football legends Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi, as well as Indian footballer Sunil Chhetri, he had always been inspired by their skills and determination. This inspiration fueled his desire to achieve something extraordinary in the sport he loved.

The Guinness World Record that Shaleel set his sights on was for the “most nutmegs in 30 seconds.” This is a challenging feat that requires exceptional ball control and agility. Previously held by Dele Ali and Tasha Nicole, the record stood as a testament to the skill and precision needed to achieve such a milestone in football.

Shaleel’s quest to break this record was not an easy one. It required countless hours of practice, dedication, and unwavering support from his family, particularly his elder brother Mohammed Sahil Ibrahim. Shaleel’s family stood by him, providing encouragement and the necessary resources to help him chase his dream.

The stage was set for Shaleel’s moment of glory in Mangaluru on September 25, 2022. With nerves of steel and the determination of a true champion, he embarked on his record-breaking attempt. The clock was ticking, and with each precise flick of the ball, he inched closer to his goal. In a breathtaking display of skill, Shaleel completed a staggering 10 nutmegs in just 30 seconds, surpassing the previous record and etching his name in the annals of football history.

However, Shaleel’s journey was far from over. The road to official recognition from Guinness World Records was long and challenging. Months of verification and scrutiny followed his remarkable performance. It was not until January that Shaleel’s achievement was officially recognized by the Guinness World Records, marking a momentous milestone in his life.

Shaleel’s story is not just about breaking records; it is a testament to the power of passion, determination, and unwavering support. He has become an inspiration to young Indian footballers who dare to dream big. His ambition to meet his football idols, Ronaldo, Messi, and Chhetri, now seems within reach, as he has carved his own path to greatness in the footballing world.

In a world where records are celebrated and champions are born, Mohammed Shaleel has shown that with dedication, talent, and unyielding support, dreams can become reality. His name will forever be associated with breaking barriers and achieving the extraordinary in the world of football, a legacy that will inspire generations of aspiring footballers in India and beyond.

source: http://www.rvcj.com / RVCJ / Home> Extras / by RVCJ Desk / September 13th, 2023

Prof. Dr. UT Iftikhar Ali felicitated by Bearys Chamber of Commerce and Industries

Mangaluru, KARNATAKA :

Mangalore: 

Prof. Dr. UT Iftikhar Ali, who has recently been appointed as the Karnataka State President of the National Commission for Allied and Healthcare, was honored at a felicitation ceremony organized by the Bearys Chamber of Commerce and Industries (BCCI) on Friday at Ocean Pearl Hotel in Mangalore.

During the event, Prof. Dr. Iftikhar Ali expressed his gratitude for the recognition and shared details about his new role. He highlighted that 54 healthcare-related courses have been unified under a single council. He mentioned that several candidates were considered for the Chairmanship of the council, but the government ultimately selected him for the position. Prof. Ali revealed that even his brother, Karnataka Assembly Speaker UT Khader, was unaware of his appointment until the official order was released. He assured that he would only use government facilities in Bangalore and expressed his commitment to assist deserving individuals to the best of his ability.

He also emphasized the importance of educational institutions, especially those serving minority communities, in taking advantage of opportunities to introduce new healthcare courses. He noted that nearly 90% of minorities in the Kerala-Karnataka region are receiving education here locally.

Dr. Yenepoya Abdulla Kunhi, Vice Chancellor of Yenepoya University, congratulated Prof. Ali on his appointment. He praised Prof. Ali for his upbringing in a cultured family and his ability to build strong relationships with colleagues. Dr. Kunhi described Prof. Ali as a role model for the youth and credited his success to the support of his wife and family.

BCCI President SM Rasheedd Haji, who presided over the event, expressed confidence in Prof. Ali’s future prospects. He voiced hopes that Prof. Ali’s elder brother, UT Khader, would one day become the Chief Minister of Karnataka and that Prof. Ali would be elected as a Member of Parliament representing the Dakshina Kannada constituency. Haji emphasized the need for a strong leader within the Muslim community and urged Prof. Ali to take on that responsibility.

BCCI officials like Mansoor Ahmed Azad, Shaukat Shourie, BM Mumtaz Ali, Muhammad Harris, Abdul Razzak Goltamzalu, A.H. Muhammad, Abdullah Monu, Badruddin Delta, Muhammad Arabi, Rahim Karnire, Hamid Kuliyar, Altaf Khatib, H. Muhammad, Latif Mulki, P. Hashir, Iqbal Ahmed Bangalore, Dr. Yusuf Dubai, Dr. Kapu Muhammad, Ibrahim Kalak, Ibrahim Kodijal, Haider Parthippadi, K. Ashraf and others were present.

The program began with a recitation of the Qiraat by Hafiz Hasan Ashiq Abdullah. BCCI Organizing Secretary Nissar F. Mohammed welcomed the attendees, General Secretary Muhammad Imthiyaz delivered the vote of thanks, and Rafiq Master served as the program’s narrator.

source: http://www.english.varthabharati.in / Vartha Bharati / Home> India / by Vartha Bharati / August 16th, 2024

Need to urgently address overuse, misuse of antibiotics in humans, livestock: Dr. Haroon Hussain

Mangaluru, KARNATAKA :

Dr. Haroon completes internationally recognized certification in Antimicrobial Stewardship

Mangaluru:

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is emerging as one of the most critical public health challenges of our time, threatening to undo decades of progress in treating infectious diseases. The overuse and misuse of antibiotics, not just in human healthcare but also in the veterinary and livestock industries, have led to a rapid rise in resistant bacteria. This growing crisis demands immediate and concerted action, especially in countries like India, where the situation is particularly alarming.

In India, the high burden of infectious diseases, combined with widespread and often unregulated access to antibiotics, has created a perfect storm for the development and spread of antimicrobial resistance. Antibiotics are frequently prescribed without proper diagnosis, and self-medication is common. Moreover, in the veterinary field, antibiotics are extensively used in the livestock industry, often as growth promoters, further exacerbating the problem. The result is a dangerous increase in drug-resistant infections, which are becoming harder to treat and leading to higher mortality rates.

The World Health Organization (WHO) has identified antimicrobial resistance as one of the top ten global health threats, warning that if no significant action is taken, AMR could cause millions of deaths annually by 2050. The situation in India mirrors this global trend, with resistant infections already leading to prolonged hospital stays, increased medical costs, and higher death rates.

Given the severity of the issue, there is an urgent need to train healthcare professionals in antimicrobial stewardship—a set of coordinated strategies to improve the use of antibiotics, promote responsible prescribing practices, and reduce the spread of resistance. Antimicrobial Stewardship Programs (ASP) are essential in ensuring that antibiotics are used judiciously, with the right drug, at the right dose, for the right duration. These programs play a crucial role in preserving the effectiveness of antibiotics, safeguarding public health, and improving patient outcomes.

Recognizing the importance of antimicrobial stewardship, Dr. Haroon H, a consultant in internal medicine at KMC Hospital, Mangalore, has recently completed the Certification of Antimicrobial Stewardship for Healthcare Professionals. This certification, endorsed by the Infectious Diseases Society of America (IDSA) and the Clinical Infectious Disease Society of India (CIDS), equips healthcare professionals with the knowledge and skills needed to implement effective ASPs in their institutions.

In a statement, Dr. Haroon expressed his concern about the rising threat of antimicrobial resistance, emphasizing the need for healthcare workers to lead the fight against this global health crisis. “The misuse and overuse of antibiotics in both human healthcare and the veterinary sector are driving the alarming rise of drug-resistant infections. It’s essential that we, as healthcare professionals, take urgent action to address this issue,” he said.

Dr. Haroon also highlighted the importance of educating both patients and healthcare providers about the dangers of antibiotic misuse and the need for responsible prescribing practices. He believes that by promoting awareness and implementing robust antimicrobial stewardship programs, healthcare institutions can play a pivotal role in curbing the spread of resistance.

Throughout his training, Dr. Haroon had the opportunity to learn from some of the leading experts in the field, including Dr. Priscilla Rupali and Dr. Balaji Veeraraghavan from Christian Medical College (CMC), Vellore, and Dr. Priya Nori from the United States. These interactions, according to Dr. Haroon, greatly enriched his understanding of how to effectively implement antimicrobial stewardship practices in a clinical setting.

In recognition of his achievement, KMC Hospital took to its official X (formerly Twitter) handle to congratulate Dr. Haroon. The hospital wrote, “Congratulations to Dr. Haroon H., Asst Prof in the Dept of Medicine, for successfully completing the Certification in Antimicrobial Stewardship for Healthcare Professionals, endorsed by the Infectious Diseases Society of America and @CidsIndia.”

Dr. Haroon, who also serves as the Editor of the Indian Journal of Geriatric Care and is a national executive committee member of the Geriatric Society of India, reiterated the importance of collective efforts in addressing the AMR crisis. He urged all healthcare professionals to embrace their roles as stewards of antimicrobials to protect patients, preserve the effectiveness of antibiotics for future generations, and mitigate the impact of this global health challenge.

“The fight against antimicrobial resistance is not just about one person’s achievement but about the collective responsibility we all share as healthcare providers. By working together, we can safeguard public health and ensure that antibiotics remain a powerful tool in our medical arsenal for years to come,” Dr. Haroon concluded.

source: http://www.english.varthabharati.in / Vartha Bharati / Home> India / by Vartha Bharati / August 19th, 2024

Renowned Scholar, Social Activist Abdul Rashid Agwan Passes Away

NEW DELHI :

New Delhi-based intellectual, writer, and servant of Tehreek-e-Islami leaves behind a legacy of knowledge and social service

New Delhi :

In a tragic loss to the intellectual and social community, renowned thinker, writer, and social activist Abdul Rashid Agwan breathed his last in his Rajasthan hometown of Nimbahera in Chittorgarh District on Saturday.

Known for his unwavering commitment to youth empowerment, education, and social reform, Agwan had a profound impact on countless lives across the country. His death has left a significant void in the spheres of intellectual discourse and social advocacy.

Agwan, 68, was critically injured in an accident in Rajasthan recently.

Agwan made New Delhi his home for many years, dedicating his life to promoting education, environmental awareness, and inter-religious harmony. As a prolific author, Agwan’s contributions include over a dozen books, numerous research papers, and articles, with a focus on education and the environment. His first novel, Shaka, was released just last week in Delhi, marking one of his final achievements in a long and impactful career.

Agwan held numerous positions of influence within the academic and social sectors. He was the president of the Institute of Policy Studies and Advocacy (IPSA) and also served as the secretary of the All India Educational Movement. Additionally, he was a trustee of the Foundation for Social Care, where his efforts were directed toward uplifting society’s most vulnerable.

Agwan’s burial is scheduled for Sunday morning in his ancestral Nimbahera town, his son Musab Rafiq said.

The news of Agwan’s death has saddened the community. Prominent figures from various walks of life expressed their condolences. Naved Hamid, former president of the All India Muslim Majlis-e-Mushawarat, said his departure was an immense loss to the community. “He was a dedicated servant of Tehreek-e-Islami, and we pray that Allah grants him the highest place in heaven,” Hamid said.

Journalist Ashraf Bastavi also shared his grief on social media. “Sad news! It is truly a great loss for us. May Allah have mercy on him and grant him a high place in heaven. His absence will be felt deeply by many.”

Dr. Khawaja M. Shahid, President of All India Education Movement, said Agwan’s death has saddened him. “Just last week we all attended the launch of his book and met him,” he reminisced.

“He was a very good and practical person with clear thinking. All our programs were greatly assisted by his research and knowledge. They will be sorely missed now,” he said.

Despite the accident which had taken a toll on his health, Agwan remained dedicated to his work, continuing to contribute to the intellectual and social fabric of the country until his final days.

source: http://www.clarionindia.net / Clarion India / Home> Editor’s Pick> Personalities> Indian Muslim / by Mohammad Alamullah, Clarion India / August 17th, 2024

Neha Parveen of Gaya Fights the Odds to Become a Police Official

Chandpur Village (Gaya District), BIHAR :

Minority Welfare Department’s support instrumental in her success

Gaya :

Neha Parveen from Chandpur village in the Banke Bazar block of Bihar’s Gaya district, has achieved a significant milestone by becoming a sub-inspector. Parveen cleared the Bihar Police Service Commission (BPSSC) exam for the post, a result that brought joy to many candidates in Gaya district. The Minority Welfare Department played a crucial role in her success, providing her with education and accommodation at the Minority Girls’ Hostel in Gaya city.

Parveen, who did graduation and  post-graduation while staying in the hostel, was warmly welcomed at the Minority Welfare Office in the Collectorate. District Assistant Director Rahul Kumar and Minority Girls Hostel Superintendent and Block Minority Welfare Officer Anujya felicitated her with saplings and sweets.

Expressing her gratitude, Parveen said, “After my family, the Minority Welfare Department has had a major contribution in my success. When my father Ghiyasuddin Ansari passed away in 2021, I faced many challenges. Losing a parent during one’s studies can disrupt education, but the support from the hostel kept me going.”

Neha Parveen, the youngest of her siblings with two married sisters and a younger brother, completed her graduation from Mirza Ghalib College and post-graduation from IGNOU. Despite initially not planning a career in the police force, Parveen sought independence and stability for her family. “I needed a job, not just for myself but also for my family. Government service was my goal, and though I faced several setbacks, I persevered,” she said.

The Minority Girls’ Hostel provided a conducive environment to her to continue her studies. “It was easier to prepare in the hostel compared to at home. The environment here was supportive, and the facilities offered by the Minority Welfare Department were excellent. The stipend I received helped me buy books and other needed things,” Parveen said.

Her dedication was further demonstrated through her physical training at Gaya Gandhi Maidan, where she prepared for the physical requirements for the sub-inspector post. She suggested that the hostel could benefit from online connections to Haj Bhawan classes to further enhance preparation for competitive exams.

The Minority Welfare Department, through initiatives like the Shaheed Abdul Hameed Boys and Girls Hostel in Shanti Bagh Seva Nagar, has been pivotal in supporting students from minority communities. These hostels provide essential resources, such as libraries with important books and computers, creating a favourable environment for academic and competitive exam preparations.

Neha Parveen’s journey is an inspiring story of resilience and determination. Despite losing her father, she did not lose hope and has now made her family and community proud by becoming a sub-inspector. “If a person desires in earnest, anything is possible. I hope to inspire other girls to pursue their dreams, no matter the obstacles,” Parveen concluded.

source: http://www.clarionindia.net / Clarion India / Home> Clarion Special> Indian Muslim / by Clarion India Team / July 15th, 2024

Mewat’s Rising Star: Shifa Ahmed Shines in National Science Exam

Mewat, RAJASTHAN :

Her success is seen as a testament to the potential of Mewat’s daughters, who are now making their mark in various fields. 

New Delhi :

Mewat, once considered a backward and uneducated region, is now witnessing its sons and daughters making significant strides in India and abroad. A remarkable example of this transformation is Shifa Ahmed, who has achieved an extraordinary feat by securing 1147th rank in the National General Category and 31st rank in the OBC category in the 2024 National Institute of Science Education and Research (NISER) examination.

Shifa, the daughter of Mushtaq Ahmed from Rahna village in Haryana’s Nuh district, has consistently proven her academic prowess. She scored an impressive 93.4% in her 12th CBSE board exams and achieved 669 marks in her first attempt at the NEET 2024 examination.

This year, Shifa has once again brought immense pride to Mewat and her family. The competition was fierce, with about two lakh students from across the country participating in the NISER exams, but Shifa’s hard work and determination paid off. With only 200 students being selected for NISER, Shifa’s ranking ensures her selection from both the OBC and General categories, making her the first potential female scientist from Mewat.

Shifa’s father expressed his pride, saying, “She has always been a promising student. Scoring about 95% in her 12th exams and passing challenging exams like IISER and NISER is a significant achievement. Shifa has brought glory to our family and our region.”

Shifa’s success is seen as a testament to the potential of Mewat’s daughters, who are now making their mark in various fields. Mushtaq Ahmed also extended special thanks to Shifa’s teachers for their pivotal role in her accomplishments.

In her own words, Shifa credits her success to her teachers and parents, saying, “Thank God, I have succeeded in some of the country’s toughest exams. I want to bring glory to Mewat and the country, much like former President APJ Abdul Kalam.”

Social worker Abid Dani Bas, also Shifa’s uncle, shared his pride in her achievements. “Shifa is an up-and-coming girl with a calm nature and strong educational background. Her success as the first female scientist from Mewat is a monumental achievement, and I wish her a bright future.”

Shifa Ahmed’s remarkable achievements not only bring pride to her family and Mewat but also serve as an inspiration for many young girls in the region. Her story is a powerful reminder of the potential that lies within the youth of Mewat, ready to shine given the right opportunities and support.

source: http://www.clarionindia.net / Clarion India / Home> Editors Pick> Indian Muslim / by Clarion India Team / July 22nd, 2024

Tamil Nadu nurse Sabina honored with Kalpana Chawla award for service in Wayanad rescue

TAMIL NADU :

Chennai:

A. Sabina, a nurse from the Nilgiris district of Tamil Nadu, has been awarded this year’s prestigious ‘Kalpana Chawla Award’ in recognition of her outstanding bravery and service during the recent natural disaster in Wayanad, Kerala.

The disaster occurred when a landslide caused the connecting bridge between Mundakai and Suralmalai to collapse, leaving many residents stranded and in urgent need of assistance.

With relief operations facing significant challenges, a zip line was quickly set up to reach the affected area.

Sabina, who has been working with an NGO in the Nilgiris for the past three years, immediately volunteered to participate in the rescue efforts.

“When my boss informed me about the landslide, he suggested we should assist since it happened nearby. Upon arrival, most people were fleeing in fear, but we stayed to provide first aid. Looking back, it’s terrifying to recall the scene, but in the moment, our sole focus was on the patients,” she shared.

source: http://www.english.varthabharati.in / Vartha Bharati / Home> India / by Vartha Bharati / August 16th, 2024

We Wish To Make India the “Land Of Peace” through 1000 Sadbhavana Manchs: Professor Salim Engineer

 Sawai Madhopur District, RAJASTHAN / NEW DELHI :

JIH vice-president Prof Salim Engineer (left).

Jamaat-e-Islami Hind vice-president PROF SALIM ENGINEER is an interfaith leader promoting communal harmony and mutual understanding among members of different faith groups. He is also General Secretary of the Forum for Democracy and Communal Amity (FDCA) and national convenor of the Kendriya Dharmik Jan Morcha, a joint national forum of religious leaders.

In an interview with MOHD NAUSHAD KHAN, he talks about Sadbhavana Manchs floated at the local level across India to promote communal harmony and to create an India where there is peace and communal harmony. Here are the excerpts from the interview.

Question: To inform our readers, please let us know what is Sadbhavna Manch and what are its objectives. And why was it necessary to launch Sabhavna Manches all over the country?

Answer: India is a land of diversity and plurality. People follow different religions and speak different languages. In the last 10 years, communal harmony, unity, brotherhood, and fraternity have become the worst victims in India. Hate and divisive politics have dominated the political discourse. Political parties with vested interests promote their ideology, aiming to shape India into a nation dominated by a single culture and belief system. Discrimination has become their identity; they suppress one community and patronize others who support their ideology. They blatantly try to impose their culture and ideology on all others. All these efforts have badly hit communal harmony, togetherness, and fraternity.

In such a scenario, Jamaat-e-Islami Hind (JIH) felt the need to make people aware of the challenges before the nation. It, therefore, decided to set up Sadbhavna Manches, or what could be called Goodwill Forums in the English language. The objective of the establishment of the Manch was to promote community amity and brotherhood, with representation from different faiths to make India a land of peace in the real sense. The response has been very encouraging and we are moving fast toward achieving our aims. We wish to make India into a “land of peace” through Sadbhavna Manchs across the country.

Question: What should the Sadbhavna Mach do under the current political atmosphere to achieve its basic objectives?

Answer: The Constitution is the foundation of our country. Constitutional values of freedom, liberty, equality, and fraternity should be our guiding principle. The State should not treat any community as superior or inferior, nor should there be any discrimination towards anyone. There must be justice for all. In the present atmosphere, promoting fraternity and brotherhood is highly significant. important. As hate and politics of polarisation have become the core agenda of some political outfits, the role of Sadbhavana Manch has become even more important. We need to politically weaken the divisive forces. At the same time, we also need to work for social transformation through Sadbhjavna Manchs to instill a sense of fraternity, togetherness, mutual trust, and respect to achieve the goal of communal harmony. Without peace and communal harmony,, India’s growth story will remain incomplete; therefore, such forums become very important.

Question: What do you think are the challenges before people or organizations working towards promoting peace and communal harmony?

Answer: During the process of formation of Sadbhavana Manch in different parts of India, we have also formed platforms for religious leaders under the banner of Dharmik Jan Morcha. There is a perception, and baseless propaganda is made, that religion is the root cause of many problems like division in society, hate, and violence. To me, it is a false belief and has no basis. These problems are not because of religion but because of the misuse of religion. The idea behind the formation of Dahrmik Jan Morcha is to dispel the myth against religion and religious leaders. Every religion talks of unity and therefore religion unites and never divides. To keep these challenges in mind, Jamaat-e-Islami Hind has established Dharmik Jan Morcha at the state and central levels comprising notable and respected religious figures from different religions to serve the purpose. Dharmik Jan Morcha is active in a dozen states while Sadbhavana Manch is at the local level and in the coming years around 1000 Sadbhavana Manch will be established across India. We have also decided to have Sadbhavana Manch for women and youth.

With these platforms, we wish to create an atmosphere of peace and communal harmony in the entire society across the nation as a nationwide campaign. At a time when there is an aggressive campaign for hate going on we wish to counter it through love and peace.

Question: In India, more than 85 percent of people want to live in peace. They believe in togetherness, mutual respect, and mutual co-existence. They are tolerant. Yet, the biggest threat India faces is communal harmony. What do you think is the reason?

Answer: Yes, it is true. Those who are trying to spread negativity in society, disturb the peace, and propagate hate and intolerance are few but they are organized and receive political patronage. They believe that they can do anything and get away; they think themselves above the law. They are being praised and even garlanded for their act of crime and violence. Those who want peace are no doubt in large numbers but they are not organized. Most of them are mute spectators, they are not vocal and they don’t raise their voice as and when required. We are trying to make our society proactive through these Sadbhavana Manch and Dharmik Jan Morcha. Unless and until the majority of the people rise and raise their voices against violence, injustice, atrocities, and discrimination, it will be difficult to achieve communal harmony as desired. We are trying to create awareness among those 85 percent to ensure peace and communal harmony. The silence of the vast majority will be tantamount to crime and detrimental to society and the nation at large. We can see that our efforts have a positive impact on society gradually.

Question: After the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, it was believed that the new government will not be as aggressive as before but there is no respite in hate and divisive agenda. How would you like to respond?

Answer: Yes, it is true to some extent but the message of the verdict from the people was loud and clear. It was a verdict against communalism, hate, and divisive politics. The people by and large rejected hate and divisive politics. People voted against where there was hate speech, efforts were made to polarize the people and divide them along communal lines. The message was clear that people won’t tolerate the divisive agenda and hate polity. People want peace and desire to live in mutual co-existence. But there has indeed been no change in the governance despite the clear message of the people against hate and divisive politics. The poison of hate has penetrated deep into the society and it will take years to fade out. It is the duty and responsibility of the government to ensure that the perpetrators of hate and violence are not encouraged but punished. Things will change if we continuously work to promote communal harmony.

Question: Recently, efforts were made in Karnataka to strengthen Sadbhavana Manch and to make it more effective and meaningful. Could you elaborate on it?

Answer: Promoting communal harmony is a core policy of the Jamaat, and efforts were made in the previous term as well. In this term, we are focusing on further strengthening these initiatives. I have travelled across several states to establish new Sadbhavana Manch units and to strengthen the existing ones.

The presidents and secretaries of JIH in various states are actively working toward similar goals. Recently, during my two-week visit to Karnataka, I travelled extensively across more than 20 districts and over 10 cities. We engaged with the local communities, held programmes where Sadbhavana Manch was already established, and created new units. The atmosphere in Karnataka was very positive, and people were eager to embrace and spread the message of Sadbhavana Manch to promote communal harmony.

The Lingayat community, which holds significant influence in Karnataka, was a key focus during our visit. We visited several of their mutts, including the mutt of Basava, the founder of the Lingayat community. In many places, religious leaders themselves organized programs within their mutts, demonstrating a strong commitment to bringing different communities together to foster peace.

source: http://www.indiatomorrow.net / India Tomorrow / Home> News> Society / by Mohd Naushad Khan / August 17th, 2024

Dr Mateen ul Jabbar Skill Centre: A blessing for flood-hit Osman Nagar residents

Hyderabad, TELANGANA :

The center was established in February 2021 by Faiz Aam Trust and Siasat Millat Fund with the aim to provide assistance to the residents of Osman Nagar.

Dr Mateen ul Jabbar Skill Centre

Hyderabad:

The convocation ceremony of Dr. Mateen ul Jabbar Computer and Skill Development Center located in Osman Nagar held at the office of Faiz-e-Aam Trust.

The center was established in February 2021 by Faiz Aam Trust and Siasat Millat Fund with the aim to provide assistance to the residents of Osman Nagar in Shaheen Nagar locality, which were severely affected by floods. In response to the devastating situation, the Faiz-e-Aam and Siasat Millat Fund initiated relief efforts, and under the guidance of Editor Siasat Mr. Zahid Ali Khan, Secretary, Faiz-e-Aam Mr. Iftikhar Hussain, and Managing Editor Siasat Mr. Zaheeruddin Ali Khan, various courses were taught to boys and girls to help rehabilitate and empower them.

Through this initiative, kits containing essential items such as masonry, bedding, medicines, and food were distributed to flood victims. Later, the Dr. Mateen Al Jabbar Computer and Skill Development Center was established, providing training opportunities for local students and individuals. Seven batches have already completed their training at the center and are now employed in Amazon, schools, colleges, supermarkets, and shopping centers, contributing to their families and society.

source: youtube.com

Mr. Iftikhar Hussain, Secretary of Faiz Aam Trust, praised the efforts of Zahid Ali Khan and Zaheeruddin Ali Khan in their vision to empower the youth and residents of Osman Nagar. The Skill Development Center has been instrumental in providing training and employment opportunities to numerous girls, a majority of the center’s beneficiaries.

During his address, News Editor, The Siasat Daily, Mr. Amer Ali Khan emphasized the importance of discipline, time management, for a bright future. He said “in the pursuit of success and development, discipline, time management, and hard work play crucial roles in shaping the younger generation of any community. Time management is a concept that has been emphasized in various organizations. However, this concept is not new; Islam introduced it 1445 years ago through the five daily prayers, serving as a prime example of time management and discipline.

He stated that Indians and Muslims in particular possess inherent abilities, and what they need is proper guidance. He compared children to diamonds that need shaping and polishing to shine. Khan highlighted the success stories of thousands of Muslim boys and girls who now serve in multinational companies.

He encouraged the youth to develop artistic skills and acquire practical knowledge, inspiring them to collaborate and establish start-ups.

Certificates were awarded to 66 students during the ceremony, and the efforts of Ms. Ayesha Samad, who provides diligent training to the students, were highly commended. Syed Abdul Sattar, Manager of Faiz Aam Trust, expressed gratitude to everyone involved and extended a vote of thanks to conclude the event. The Dr. Mateen ul Jabbar Computer and Skill Development Center stands as a testament to the power of education and empowerment in uplifting communities.

source: http://www.siasat.com / The Siasat Daily / Home> News> Hyderabad / by Zahed Farooqui / July 30th, 2023