Ali and Anand Kannan displaying HookoluPay at Advantage Assam conclave
People in India’s northeast can get set for a new UPI (Unified Payment Interface) experience. The new UPI service, HookoluPay, has received a license from the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) and the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) as a digital payment platform using local languages of the Northeast region.
It’s likely to be launched by May or June.
Developed as part of a startup initiative by Assam-based entrepreneur Aziz Ali, HookoluPay is likely to help users with most of the local dialects available in the northeast region apart from English and Hindi.The
Ali, a B.Com graduate and an MBA has also kept the option of offline payment in HookoluPay because most places in the northeast still lack high-speed data.HookoluPay is set to break the existing language barrier with the existing UPI services.
“I have started working on HookoluPay in 2018. We got the license from the RBI and the NPCI in November last year. Once launched, HookoluPay will help users in India’s northeastern states with their own languages and dialects.
“While India is on the path of digital transformation, one must keep in mind that 60 percent of the people are still not included in the financial services. In many places, particularly in the hilly regions of the northeast people still use cash.
Ali and Anand Kannan displaying HookoluPay at Advantage Assam conclave
“Although there are UPI services like the GPay, PhonePe, PayTm, etc, most of them have English or Hindi language options. HookoluPay will have services in most of the dialects that are available in the region,” said Ali while talking to Awaz-The Voice.
Ali, who had set up a stall at the Advantage Assam 2.0 summit to showcase the product, received large-scale encouragement from the visitors. Even Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited the stall put up by Ali and appreciated the initiative.
The Prime Minister reportedly asked Ali to take the new UPI service to every nook and corner of the country, mostly in India’s northeast where there is still a lack of digital payment services.
“Our main focus behind developing this new payment gateway is to bring more financial inclusion in the rural areas,” said Ali who is the founder of HookolyPay. Ali is a native of Jeypore near Naharkatiya in Assam’s Dibrugarh district. HookolyPay is a locally developed Fintech startup based in Assam.
An advertisement of the HookoluPay
m Ali’s partner and Co-founder of HookoluPay, Anand Kannan said that HookolyPay can be used for institutions, small enterprises, businesses for governments, travel, etc.
“Like any other payment gateway like GPay, PhonePe, PayTm, it can be used anywhere and by anyone. We are going to launch it pan India but our focus area will be Assam and Northeastern states as we are a startup from this region,” Kannan said.
“At present, we have the options of Hindi, English, Assamese, Mizo, and some other languages but more languages are being added so that it becomes user-friendly to the people,” said Ali.
This will help digital payments in India’s northeast, said Ali.
“Our stall was visited by the Hon’ble Prime Minister of India during his visit to the Advantage Assam 2.0 summit on February 24 evening. The Prime Minister’s words are very encouraging for us,” said Ali while adding that they are also taking this new UPI service to seven other countries which include Singapore, UAE, Bhutan, etc.
source: http://www.awazthevoice.in / Awaz, The Voice / Home> Story / by Karabi Sharma, Guwahati / March 01st, 2025
First Female’ Truck Driver Of Kashmir Breaks Stereotypes
Pulwama, Kashmir :
In a remarkable display of determination and resilience, 37-year-old Rabiya Yaseen from South Kashmir’s Pulwama district has emerged as the region’s first female truck driver, breaking societal barriers and challenging gender stereotypes in a traditionally male-dominated profession.
A resident of Wakharwan, Rabiya’s journey began with her passion for driving light motor vehicles, which soon led her to obtain a heavy motor vehicle license. Now, she drives her own truck across India, covering long distances and earning her livelihood through her unconventional career choice.
Supported unconditionally by her family, especially her husband Mohammad Imtiyaz and mother-in-law Shehnaza Begum, Rabiya has faced numerous challenges but remained steadfast. “It was tough to step into this profession, but we all stood by her,” Shehnaza stated, emphasizing the importance of family encouragement in breaking societal norms.
For the past three years, Rabiya has been on the road, navigating highways across the country and proving that women can excel in any field when given the right opportunities. Her inspiring journey stands as a testament to the evolving role of women in Kashmir and serves as motivation for others to pursue their dreams fearlessly.
source: http://www.radiancenews.com / Radiance News / Home> Pride of the Nation> Markers of Excellence / by Radiance News Bureau / February 26th, 2025
Mola Village (Suye Taluka) Ahmednagar, MAHARASHTRA :
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Ahmednagar :
In an inspiring tale of determination, faith, and perseverance, three brothers from a modest Muslim family in Suye Taluka, Mola village, Ahmednagar, have defied financial struggles to achieve their dream of becoming doctors.
Dr. Azharuddin Patel (31), Dr. Mohsin Patel (29), and Dr. Rameez Patel (27) are living examples of how education, resilience, and unwavering belief in Allah’s plans can help overcome even the toughest obstacles. Their father, Rafeeq Patel, worked as a daily-wage laborer at a sugar mill, while their mother, Rehana Patel, managed the household. Despite their meager earnings, the parents remained steadfast in their commitment to educating their children.
What makes their journey truly extraordinary is how they pursued their MBBS degrees using just one set of medical textbooks. When Dr. Azharuddin secured admission to medical school, a local community organization gifted him a set of MBBS books. These very books were then passed down to his younger brothers, Mohsin and Rameez, allowing them to continue their medical studies without the burden of purchasing costly textbooks.
With the grace of Allah and their relentless dedication, all three brothers secured admission through government quota seats, making their achievement even more remarkable. Their story sends a powerful message to the Muslim community—education is the key to empowerment, and no financial obstacle is too great when faith and hard work go hand in hand.
Their success serves as a beacon of hope for underprivileged students across India, proving that financial struggles should never stand in the way of education. It also underscores the vital role of community support in nurturing young talent and fostering success.
As the Patel brothers step into the medical field, they carry with them a legacy of resilience, faith, and an unshakable belief in the transformative power of knowledge. Their achievement is not just a personal victory but a source of immense pride for the entire Muslim community.
source: http://www.radiancenews.com / Radiance News / Home> Pride of the Nation> Markers of Excellence / by Radiance News Bureau / February 26th, 2025
AMP Founder Aamir Edresy being honored by eminent personalities at a function in Islam Gymkhana, Mumbai
AMP Founder Aamir Edresy Honoured by Eminent Personalities in Mumbai
Mumbai’s Islam Gymkhana witnessed a grand event as Aamir Edresy, founder of the Association of Muslim Professionals (AMP), was honoured by distinguished personalities for his organization’s transformative impact on education and employment in India.
AMP, established in 2007, has provided job placements and skill training to over 100,000 youth, trained 30,000+ teachers, and organized career guidance seminars in 50+ cities. It has also registered 300,000 students for the National Talent Search Exam, enabling rural and underprivileged students to access top institutions.
Eminent guests praised AMP’s nationwide network of 200+ city chapters, which connects professionals, educators, and NGOs to uplift marginalized communities.
“AMP has built pathways where none existed,” remarked Padma Shri Prof. Akhtarul Wasey.
A documentary showcased AMP’s journey, highlighting how it has empowered thousands, making it a beacon of hope and progress in India’s socio-economic landscape.
source: http://www.radiancenews.com / Radiance News / Home> Pride of the Nation> Awards> Latest News / by Radiance News Bureau / February 14th, 2025
Chandanpatti Village (Darbhanga District) BIHAR / Hyderabad, TELANGANA :
Hyderabad:
Here is an amazing story of a single mother and her only child who brought tears of joy to her eyes by securing the first rank in the UGC-NET JRF examination.
Anam Zafar, 25, secured the 100 percentile in the examination. Her mother, Rehana Khatoon, lives in Chandanpatti village, Darbhanga district in Bihar. When Rehana Khatoon heard about the feat achieved by her daughter she could not stop tears flowing down her cheeks.
Anam Zafar is in the last leg of her M Ed fourth semester at Maulana Azad National Urdu University.
The Department of Education and Training felicitated Anam Zafar at a special event organised on Wednesday, two days after the news broke out. Faculty members, students, and university officials gathered to celebrate her exceptional accomplishment.
During the ceremony, the faculty members praised Anam Zafar’s dedication, perseverance, and commitment to excellence. Her achievement was highlighted as a role model for aspiring researchers.
Prof Shaheen A Shaik, Head of the Department, commended her hard work and stated, “Anam Zafar’s achievement is a testament to the high academic standards and research culture at MANUU. Her success will inspire many students to aim for excellence.”
Alongside Zafar, the department also felicitated other students who successfully qualified for UGC-NET and JRF. Their accomplishments were celebrated as a collective success of the university’s academic environment and the faculty’s dedicated mentorship.
Anam’s mother was divorced by her husband when the girl was only eight years old. Working as a teacher at a private school for Rs 800 a month, Rehana Khatoon enrolled her child in a school that worked under the Central Board of Education.
According to sources at MANUU, except for Anam’s uncle (her father’s brother), no one checked on her condition during her difficult years. Treading a difficult social and economic path her mother enrolled her in B Ed at the Centre for Teachers’ Education of MANUU in Darbhanga. Her obvious next step was joining M Ed of the University at Hyderabad.
In the meantime, she was married to Johar Ali, a technocrat working with a private firm in Hyderabad. The couple lives in the Lingampally area, close to the MANUU campus.
Anam says she could not have trodden the difficult road so far if her mother had not encouraged her at every step. “Now my husband has joined my mother and wishes me to complete PhD,” she said.
Anam, as a research fellow is expected to get about Rs 45,000 per month.
She expressed gratitude to her mother, mentors, faculty members, and family for their continuous support and encouragement and credited the university’s academic environment and guidance from her professors as key factors behind her success.
source: http://www.siasat.com / The Siasat Daily / Home> News> Hyderabad / by Mir Ayoob Ali Khan / February 26th, 2025
Heart Lamp is one among the 13 books chosen by the 2025 International Booker Prize judging panel, headed by Max Porter.
Banu Mushtaq. File | Photo Credit: The Hindu
“It is an honour for Kannada that a work written in our language is getting this recognition,” said Hassan-based Kannada writer, advocate and activist Banu Mushtaq, whose collection of stories Heart Lamp, translated by Deepa Bhasthi, has found a place in the long list for the International Booker Prize 2025.
Heart Lamp is one among the 13 books chosen by the 2025 judging panel, headed by Max Porter. The judges made their selection from 154 books submitted by publishers. The shortlist of books will be announced on April 8 and the winner will be announced on May 20.
Heart Lamp, is a collection of 11 short stories written by Banu Mushtaq between 1990 and 2023. “So far I have brought out six collections of short stories in Kannada. Among them, 11 were chosen for the collection Heart Lamp,” said Ms. Mushtaq.
What judges said
The judge panel, in its comment on the collection, stated, “Written in a style at once witty, vivid, colloquial, moving and excoriating, it’s in her characters – the sparky children, the audacious grandmothers, the buffoonish maulvis and thug brothers, the off-hapless husbands, and the mothers above all, surviving their feelings at great cost – that Musthaq emerges as an astonishing writer and observer of human nature, building disconcerting emotional heights out of a rich spoken style.”
Earlier, an English translation of a collection of her short stories Haseena and Other Stories won English PEN translation award for the year 2024. That was also translated by Deepa Bhasthi.
Early years
Ms. Mushtaq began writing in the progressive literary movement in Karnataka in the 1970s and 1980s, which gave voice to several people from dalit and minority communities, including strong women’s voices in Ms. Mushtaq.
Some of her early writings were published in Lankesh Patrike, for whom she also worked as a correspondent for some years. The writer remains a committed voice in the progressive circles, and remained critical of forces that divide people among lines of caste, class, gender and religion.
Among her important works are Hejje Moodida Haadi, Benki-Male, Edeya Hanate, Badavara Magalu Hennalla (short stories), Kubra (novel) Odde Kannina Baagina (poetry), Ibbaniya Kaavu (essays) and Kautumbika Daurjanya Kayide (on Domestic Violence Act). Haseena has also been made into a film, directed by Girish Kasaravalli.
The late Kannada writer and Jnanpith awardee U.R. Ananthamurthy was also nominated for Man Booker International Prize in 2013, but did not win it.
source: http://www.thehindu.com / The Hindu / Home> Books> Author / by The Hindu Bureau / February 26th, 2025
Dr Saman Zehra, a researcher at the Aligarh Muslim University (AMU), has been awarded the prestigious Young Scientist Award at ICC 2025.
Aligarh Muslim University:
Dr Saman Zehra, a researcher at the Aligarh Muslim University (AMU), has been awarded the prestigious Young Scientist Award at ICC 2025.
Dr Saman Zehra won the award at the second edition of International Conference in Chemistry 2025 held at Maulana Azad National Urdu University (MANUU) Hyderabad.
Dr Saman’s research was on “Smart Multi-Functional Coatings for Controlled Corrosion Protection,” contributing to sustainable materials.
Dr. Saman Zehra is a researcher under the Women Scientist Program (WOS-A) of the Department of Science and Technology (DST) at the Department of Applied Chemistry, Faculty of Engineering and Technology, Aligarh Muslim University (AMU).
Dr Saman, who completed her Ph.D. under Professor Mohammad Mobin at AMU, presented her research under the mentorship of Prof. Rais Ahmad.
AMU’s Department of Applied Sciences was established in 1958 in the Faculty of Engineering and Technology, which was subsequently split into 3 sections namely, Chemistry, Physics and Mathematics. In 1988, the Chemistry section was upgraded to a full-fledged Department of Applied Chemistry.
source: http://www.ummid.com / Ummid.com / Home> Science & Technology / by ummid.com, science desk / February 26th, 2025
Majid Hussain of Burhanpur tops JEE Mains with 99.99 Percentile
Seventeen-year-old Majid Mujahid Hussain from Burhanpur, Madhya Pradesh, has brought immense pride to his community by emerging as the state’s top scorer in the Joint Entrance Examination (JEE) Mains 2025. Securing an impressive 99.99 percentile, his remarkable achievement has sparked celebrations among his family, teachers, and well-wishers.
Majid’s journey to success began in Year 11 when he started preparing rigorously for the highly competitive exam. Enrolling in a coaching institute, he dedicated himself entirely to his studies, making significant sacrifices along the way.
Reflecting on his preparation, Majid shared, “For two years, I focused solely on my goal. I even refrained from attending weddings and festivals to make the best use of my time.” His unwavering dedication and discipline played a crucial role in his outstanding performance.
Expressing his gratitude, Majid acknowledged the support of his family, particularly his father, who provided him with invaluable guidance, and his teachers, whose unwavering encouragement helped him stay motivated. Speaking to news agency INS, he said, “My family has played a crucial role in my success.
He said, my father provided me with the best possible guidance, and my teachers offered their unwavering support. Now, my aim is to achieve a high rank in JEE Advanced and pursue engineering at a premier institute.”
Majid’s mother, Sakina Hussain, was overwhelmed with joy upon hearing about her son’s remarkable accomplishment. “I am extremely proud that my son has topped Madhya Pradesh with 99.99 percentile. His hard work has paid off, and this is just the beginning of his journey,” she said. Encouraging other students, she advised them to stay motivated and not lose hope despite challenges.
His success has been widely celebrated, not just by his family but also by his teachers and the local community. Many have lauded his commitment and perseverance, with his school principal calling him a “brilliant and dedicated student who always had his eyes set on his goals.”
The National Testing Agency (NTA) recently announced the JEE Mains 2025 results, and Majid’s achievement has set a new benchmark for students across Madhya Pradesh. His story serves as an inspiration to aspiring engineers, demonstrating that with perseverance, dedication, and a strong support system, success is within reach.
As Majid now sets his sights on JEE Advanced, his journey continues to motivate young minds striving to excel in engineering. His achievement is not just a personal triumph but a moment of collective pride for his family, teachers, and the entire Burhanpur community.
With Agencies Inputs
source: http://www.muslimmirror.com / Muslim Mirror / Home> Indian Muslim> Positive Story / by Muslim Mirror / February 14th, 2025
Dr Mohammed Abdul Saleem, a distinguished Hyderabadi NRI and dental surgeon, has been appointed as the chairman of the Indian International School in Jeddah (IISJ), one of the largest Indian community schools in Saudi Arabia.
Dr Saleem formally assumed charge on Monday in the presence of school officials and management committee members. He succeeds Dr Hemalatha Mahalingan, who completed her tenure and made history as the first woman to head a community-run Indian school in the Kingdom.
A prominent figure in the expatriate Indian community in Jeddah, Dr Saleem has been actively involved in the school’s management. IISJ, established in 1969, serves the academic needs of the Indian expatriate community and is affiliated with the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE). The school, which has over 10,000 students, is recognized for its academic excellence and was among the first to introduce Telugu as an optional language for students.
Dr Saleem’s appointment is expected to bring further advancements to the institution, strengthening its commitment to quality education and community service.
source: http://www.radiancenews.com / Radiance News / Home> Education> Latest News / by Radiance News Bureau / February 26th, 2025
“The Book SangTrash: Shamim Ahmed’s account of the fight for human rights and Urduh” penned by Nurullah Jawaid is an immersive and powerful exploration of the life and activism of Shamim Ahmed, one of India’s most distinguished human rights advocates. As a pioneer of the Urdu movement, Shamim Ahmed’s story is one of unwavering dedication to social justice, human rights, and the preservation of cultural identity in the face of systemic injustice and political turbulence. This book, rich in historical and cultural context, offers an in-depth look at the life of a man who was not only a visionary leader but also a symbol of courage and resilience in the fight for equality and dignity.
The book delves into Shamim Ahmed’s lifelong struggle to address some of the most pressing socio-political issues of his time. Set against the backdrop of India’s dynamic and ever-evolving socio-political landscape, “SangTrash” chronicles Shamim Ahmed’s tireless efforts to combat the deeply ingrained inequalities that plagued the country, particularly the discrimination faced by marginalized communities. These efforts were not limited to his work as a human rights advocate but extended to his role as a cultural leader, educator, and innovator. Through the lens of his activism, the book paints a vivid picture of the complexities of Indian society during times of immense political and social upheaval.
Shamim Ahmed was not merely a passive observer of the struggles faced by the oppressed and underprivileged. He was a relentless force working to bring about tangible change. From his early days as a young idealist, Shamim Ahmed was deeply moved by the plight of the marginalized—those whose voices were suppressed by both society and the political elite. His passion for human rights led him to establish the Human Rights Protection Association (HRPA), an organization dedicated to addressing human rights violations across India. Through this platform, Shamim Ahmed sought to mobilize citizens to stand up for justice, regardless of their background, religion, or ethnicity.
In addition to his advocacy for human rights, Shamim Ahmed is best known for his work with the Urdu Movement. At a time when the Urdu language was facing marginalization and disintegration due to political pressures, Shamim Ahmed took it upon himself to revitalize and protect the language as an integral part of India’s cultural and literary heritage. His campaigns to promote Urdu literacy and its inclusion in educational institutions were not just about language preservation; they were about the empowerment of communities who saw Urdu as an essential part of their identity. Through this movement, Shamim Ahmed demonstrated that language is not merely a means of communication but also a symbol of cultural resistance and resilience.
As the narrative unfolds, “SangTrash” brings into focus the challenges Shamim Ahmed faced along the way. His activism was not without its detractors. Political opposition, societal resistance, and personal sacrifices were all part of the price Shamim Ahmed paid for his unwavering commitment to justice. The book sheds light on the obstacles he encountered, from the government’s attempts to suppress his initiatives to the skepticism and hostility from those who feared change. Yet, despite these challenges, Shamim Ahmed’s resolve remained unshaken. His determination to bring about social change and protect the rights of the disenfranchised never faltered, even when his own safety was threatened.
Shamim Ahmed’s legacy is further immortalized through his initiatives such as the “Food for All” campaign, which aimed to address hunger and poverty in India’s rural and urban areas. The campaign sought to ensure that food was available to every citizen, regardless of their social status, and to promote sustainable agricultural practices that would reduce reliance on outside aid. Through his leadership, the campaign brought together communities, activists, and policymakers, resulting in significant strides towards alleviating food insecurity in many regions.
Nurullah Jawaid’s writing not only brings Shamim Ahmed’s efforts to life but also contextualizes them within the broader historical and cultural milieu of India. By delving into the political, social, and economic landscape of Shamim Ahmed’s era, the book offers readers a nuanced understanding of the obstacles that activists and marginalized groups faced during this turbulent period.
“SangTrash” is a deeply informative and educational work that highlights the interconnectedness of human rights, cultural preservation, and social justice. It challenges readers to reflect on the ways in which systemic inequalities continue to shape society and the moral responsibility that each individual bears in addressing them.
The book also pays tribute to the human rights defenders who, like Shamim Ahmed, dedicate their lives to advocating for justice in an often hostile environment.
In telling Shamim Ahmed’s story, Nurullah Jawaid brings to the forefront the importance of collective action. The struggles faced by Shamim Ahmed were not his alone; they were shared by countless others who, inspired by his work, joined in the fight for a more equitable and just society. This collective action is central to the book’s message—individual activism can spark movements, but only through solidarity and collective efforts can lasting change be achieved.
“SangTrash” is not merely a biography of a prominent figure in Indian history. It is a call to action. By recounting Shamim Ahmed’s life and the impact of his work, the book challenges readers to engage with the pressing social issues of today, particularly those related to human rights, inequality, and cultural identity. The lessons of Shamim Ahmed’s life are timeless, and the values he fought for—equality, dignity, and mutual respect—remain as relevant as ever.
This book is also a reminder that activism is not always glamorous or celebrated in its time. Often, it is the courage of individuals like Shamim Ahmed, whose actions go against the grain of societal norms that change the world for the better. “SangTrash” is, therefore, more than just the story of one man; it is an inspiration for anyone who believes in the power of activism to bring about positive, meaningful change. It challenges readers to question the status quo and to take responsibility for shaping the future in a way that is more inclusive and just for all.
In conclusion, “SangTrash” is a tribute to Shamim Ahmed’s life and legacy. It is a book that encourages readers to consider the ways in which activism, grounded in human rights and social justice, can transform society. By examining the key moments in Shamim Ahmed’s life and the challenges he overcame, the book underscores the enduring importance of standing up for what is right, even in the face of adversity. Through this compelling narrative, “SangTrash” becomes not just a biography but a powerful call for activism in today’s world.
source: http://www.muslimmirror.com / Muslim Mirror / Home> Books> Positive Story / Reviewed by Kulsum Farooque / February 14th, 2025
