TN chief minister M.K. Stalin with Mohammed Zubair at the awarding ceremony. Photo: Video screengrab.
The government noted that his “work helps prevent the occurrence of violence in society likely to be caused by fake news.”
New Delhi:
Fact-checker and journalist Mohammed Zubair is the recipient of the 2024 Kottai Ameer Communal Harmony Award given by the Tamil Nadu government.
The citation notes that Zubair has been “rendering various services to promote communal harmony.”
It observes that in creating the website Alt News – which he co-founded with Pratik Sinha – Zubair has set up an instrument to analyse the “veracity of the news coming out on social media,” giving primacy to real news.
The government noted that his “work helps prevent the occurrence of violence in society likely to be caused by fake news.”
The citation especially says that in March 2023, when there was a rapid spread on social media of the disinformation that migrant workers were being attacked in Tamil Nadu, Alt News‘s verification of the authenticity of the video was instrumental in proving that the footage was not from Tamil Nadu at all.
It “stopped the spread of rumours against Tamil Nadu and acted to prevent violence caused by caste, religion, race and language in Tamil Nadu,” the government said.
In 2022, Zubair was arrested by the Delhi police for a 2018 tweet in which he shared a screenshot from a 1983 Hindi movie. Six cases were slapped on him during the period of his incarceration until the Supreme Court gave him bail.
Zubair is often attacked online by Hindutva commentators for fact-checking viral claims and disinformation.
source: http://www.thewire.in / The Wire / Home> Media> Government / by The Wire Staff / January 26th, 2024
In a momentous stride towards recognition, Kamran Khan, a distinguished Kashmiri currently based in Chennai, has been honoured with the Australian Government’s prestigious Australia Day Achievement Medallion.
Bestowed on January 26, 2024, this accolade is a recognition for exceptional performance in government projects or core duties, by Australian Government departments and agencies.
Presently Kamran serves as Senior Director for South Asia for Australian Trade and Investment Commission, Australian Government.
He has been a diligent student at the revered Burn Hall School in Srinagar.
In 1992, he left Kashmir to pursue his remaining education and graduated in Automotive Engineering at the University of Madras, where he ranked 3rd across the state of Tamil Nadu, showcasing his academic prowess.
Since 2010, his strategic acumen has been pivotal in shaping the infrastructure industry and fostering foreign direct investment into Australia as part of the Australian Trade and Investment Commission, under the Australian Federal Ministry of Trade and Investment, exemplifying his commitment to economic growth and global collaboration.
As the first Kashmiri to receive the Australia Day Achievement Medallion, Kamran stands as a symbol of pride for Jammu and Kashmir, showcasing the immense talent emerging from the region.
Beyond the accolades and titles, Kamran Khan embodies the spirit of a reformer, committed to ushering in positive change for his community and country.
His recognition by the Australian government not only celebrates Kamran’s achievement but also serves as an inspiration for the entire Jammu and Kashmir community and symbolizes the possibilities that arise when perseverance meets opportunity.
source: http://www.risingkashmir.com / Rising Kashmir / Home / by RK News / February 02nd, 2024
Maj Gen Mohd Amin Naik, a Kashmiri Muslim who started his Indian Army career with his passion for Sports, Mountaineering and Engineering, having performed excellently in every task at hand and making efforts to build a better and a stronger India.
Amin Sir hails from the same village as the infamous militant Burhan Wani, but instead filled with tremendous constructive attitude towards nation building. He is the man with a vision for Kashmir’s well-being.
From winning Asian Games Bronze Medal to leading a successful Nanda Devi Ecological Mountaineering Expedition, to setting up Army Sports Institute from scratch, to nation building services at Corps of Engineers, Gen Amin excelled as a soldier, his efforts in creating Job prospects in Kashmir to fight militancy, to being the chairman at first learners girls school, to inspiring Kashmiri Youths to join Indian Army, this man has excelled as a human being in trying to give back to the society… Gen Amin is a perfect example of how if a person puts his heart at something, can achieve excellence…
This episode is part ‘Undefeated – Soldiers of Courage’, an ambitious Web-Series by Paper Weight Entertainment, inspired by the life that a soldier and their families live. What makes them stand out and what gives them the courage to keep living even after the harsh situations they go through during their service for the country and how they (soldiers) who join the armed forces at a very young age grow and imbibe certain principles in life that sets them apart from the others.
source: http://www.ssbcrack.com / SSB Crack / Home> Videos / by SSC Crack / April 26th, 2017
Captain Sariya Abbasi, a troop commander with an Army Air Defence Regiment deployed near the contested LAC in Tawang sector. Her unit is one of the first AD regiments in the country to be equipped with upgraded L70 guns.
Indian Army’s Captain Sariya Abbasi briefing about the Upgraded L-70 air defence guns deployed at forward location along the Line of Actual Control near Tawang area in Arunachal Pradesh.
Captain Abbasi has been a part of the Indian Army for four years now and is currently posted in the Tawang region of Arunachal Pradesh, on the Line of Actual Control (LAC). She came in the headlines as she spoke to media outlets about the recently deployed upgraded L-70 air defence guns.
Captain Sariya Abbasi passed out from OTA Chennai in 2017 / pix: ssbcrackexams.com
Sariya Abbasi belongs from Gorakhpur, Uttar Pradesh and she has a B.Tech degree in Biotechnology. Her father, Dr Tehseen Abbasi, is a retired station director from All India Radio while her mother is serving as a principal in a government school in Gorakhpur.
source: http://www.ssbcrack.com / SSB Crack / Home> Personality Development / by SSB Crack / October 22nd, 2021
WNI Media Group organized a conference on Role of Media in Ensuring Social Unity in the memory of great freedom fighters Shaheed Ashfaqullah Khan and Ram Prasad Bismil at the Press Club of India here. A large number of dignitaries as well as renowned journalists, social workers and lawyers participated in the conference.
Senior journalists Rahul Dev, Qamar Agha, TV9 Bharatvarsh anchor Sumera Khan, India Today journalist Milan Sharma jointly honored Delhi Minority Commission Advisory Committee former member and Advocate Raees Ahmed with the ‘Watan Ke Ratan’ Award for 2024 for his social and legal services.
Qamar Agha said Ashfaq and Bismil wanted a non-partisan and democratic country. Journalist Rahul Dev said given the current situation that the disease will have to be talked about only then treatment will be possible.
Milan Sharma said hatred spread in the society will be cured through joint efforts. While, Sumera Khan termed the efforts of the Forum as a commendable step.
Advocate Raees Ahmed said that it is important to maintain our mutual brotherhood and unity strongly. We should try to remove misunderstandings and dispute, for which we need to take the help of mutual dialogue, only then society will be free from hatred.
Senior journalist Mohammad Ahmed convened the program.
Professor Farhat Basir, Dr. Zubaidur Rahman alias Babban Mian, Jamal Ahmed Alig, Firoz Ghazi, Neha Garg, Muhammad Akbar, Syed Muhammad Mujahid Hussain, Muhammad Ramish, Asad Sabri, Advocate Anwar Hussain Saifi, Mirza Anwarulhaq Baig, Hunaiza Khan, Jyoti Yadav, Dr. Syed Muhammad Asdar Ali, Shahid Ansari, Vipul, Muhammad Ali, Arshita, Asrar Ahmed, Iqrar Ahmed, Bhavana Yadav, Vakil Aslam (Supreme Court), Haji Zahoor Ataichi Wale, Nisar Ahmed, Nawab Akhtar, Shahnawaz Badar Qasmi, Dawood Bhai Shaikh, Shadab Ahmed Patrika, Aqeel Salmani, Archana Gaod and others were also honored with the Watan Ke Ratna Award- 2024.
Aslam Ahmed Advocate of Supreme Court on record extended vote of thanks.
source: http://www.radiancenews.com / Radiance News / Home> Pride of the Nation> Awards / by Radiance News Bureau / by Shakilur Rahman / January 15th, 2024
At the Republic Day Camp, Ulfat’s outstanding performance earned her the prestigious title of Best Commander along with the DG Commendation Medal Certificate, highlighting her exemplary leadership qualities.
New Delhi:
Ulfat Khan, a Senior Cadet Captain from Uri District, has created history by becoming the first girl cadet to be command the Parade at the Prime Minister’s Rally (PM Rally) during the Republic Day Celebrations in New Delhi.
This remarkable feat not only brings glory to the JK&L Directorate and the 1 J&K Naval Unit but also showcases the Govt College for Women Gandhinagar Jammu, where Ulfat is pursuing her BA Eng (Hons) despite all odds.
Ulfat’s Challenging Journey
Ulfat was selected from among 2,274 NCC cadets from 28 States and Union Territories and from 17 Directorates across the Nation. Her journey from a remote village on the Line of Control to a national leader is a reflection of her unwavering determination and resilience. She faced many challenges, including geographical barriers, but she never gave up on her pursuit of excellence.
Ulfat was born in Uri, Baramulla District in 2002. She completed her schooling in various Kendriya Vidyalayas across Delhi, Jharkhand and Odisha before joining GCW Gandhinagar for her higher education. She participated in various NCC camps, such as NSC, SNIC, RDC, Mini Sailing, and CATC, where she sharpened her skills and leadership abilities.
Ulfat’s Achievements At Republic Day Camp
At the Republic Day Camp, Ulfat’s outstanding performance earned her the prestigious title of Best Commander along with the DG Commendation Medal Certificate, highlighting her exemplary leadership qualities and dedication to service.
Lieutenant Commander Ankur Kumar, Commanding Officer of 1J&K Naval Unit NCC, praised Ulfat’s dedication and perseverance, saying that she is a role model for cadets across the Nation. He said that her selection as Platoon Commander is a testament to her hard work and commitment. Sub Lieutenant Dr. Neelima, Ulfat’s ANO at GCW Gandhinagar, emphasized that Ulfat’s journey from humble beginnings to national recognition is a reflection of her strength and resilience.
She said that her struggles and triumphs inspire us all. Principal Prof. Minu Mahajan expressed her pride, stating that Ulfat’s achievement is a reflection of the values of discipline and determination instilled in our students. She said that she has brought immense honour to our institution.
Group Commander, Srinagar Group, remarked that Ulfat Khan’s journey from a remote area to becoming the first girl cadet selected as Parade Commander at the PM Rally is truly inspiring. He said that her resilience and determination in overcoming challenges are commendable, setting a new standard for excellence within the NCC.
Maj Gen R.K. Sachdeva, ADG JK&L Directorate, expressed that Ulfat Khan’s remarkable achievement is a reflection of her exceptional leadership and dedication to the NCC. He said that her selection as Parade Commander is a proud moment for the entire Directorate, and she is a shining example for cadets nationwide.
He said that Ulfat Khan’s journey exemplifies the spirit of Nari Shakti and serves as a beacon of inspiration for aspiring cadets across the nation. He said that her historic accomplishment at the Republic Day Camp 2024 reaffirms the power of dedication, perseverance, and the limitless potential of women in the defence forces.
source: http://www.zeenews.india.com / Zee News / Home> News> India / by Syed Khalid Hussain Hussain / edited by Shivam Kumar Mishra / source : Bureau / January 31st, 2024
Chhowsia, Islampur (Uttar Dinajpur District), WEST BENGAL :
Mohammad Masroor Alam during a campaign
Mohammad Masroor Alam’s life took him through a different route in Gujarat in 2001 when he was enrolled for a computer course and the horrific Bhuj Earthquake shook the state on 26 January at 08:46 in the morning killing 20,023 people, injuring about 167,000 while bringing about 340,000 buildings down to rubble.
As a young man, he was shaken by the massive devastation. Stirred by the voluminous urgent need for assisting hands, he rose out of compassion and got involved with a team of people to help the people ravaged by the wreckage. The victims were people from all communities – Hindus, Muslims, Christians, etc. living in makeshift tents.
They all received food, utensils, clothes, blankets, and many other provisions through the efforts of Masroor Alam and all the others in the busy team.
A group wedding organised by Masroor Alam’s group
In a turbulent world of survival of the fittest where each looks for their own, it’s hard to find people like Masroor Alam.
The 34-year-old social activist is the son of Md Rakimuddin and Najrun Nisha of Chhowsia, in the Uttar Dinajpur district in Islampur, West Bengal. He has five brothers and one sister and his parent’s deep values on humanity instilled an indelible root of compassion in him.
He held degrees of M.A. and LLB at the time of being in Gujarat to study computers at the time of the earthquake.
Md Masroor Alam shared, “It felt good not only to give and relieve them from their sufferings but also add a blanket of warmth to our hearts, and we also felt better and happier when we did good deeds for them.”
Victims of cylinder blast
The urge to start a proper Non-Government Organization to help the needy started churning in his heart. He said, “I saw people using NGOs for their benefits, just to meet their own needs without really helping the deprived people, I saw it as a sort of corruption in one way. I wanted to help the people desperately crying for help because I noticed they were overlooked many times. I also believe we must help all people equally, not looking at religion, caste, or race.”
In 2007, Md Masroor Alam became the President of the All India Raza Committee. They held a massive Blood Donation Camp in 2007 during April with a total of 152 blood donation camps and the work involved was stupendous.
During the time of the floods that engulfed the Kishanganj district, he and the team reached out to 26 villages serving them cooked hot khichdi (rice and lentils porridge) as well as giving them lentils, rice salt, wheat flour, sugar, tea leaves and other commodities.
Md Masroor Alam with members of his group at a health camp
It was a tenuous hard labour pushing through swarming waterlogged regions which threatened to sweep away anyone at a moment. The grateful victims called them messengers of good tidings. In another instance, during a gas cylinder blast in the Islampur area, where 37 families were burnt and two men were struggling to live, Masroor Alam and the crew gave them all the help and provided their requirements during that difficult time.
One particular defining time for Md Masroor Alam was working with politicians and understanding how much help they too give during times of disaster. At that time, they helped people to get their ration cards and gifted warm blankets and food to members of some caste communities.
Sometimes, a village would suddenly catch on fire either due to dry twigs or some sudden accident and the group would rush to those areas to help with food, plates, utensils, glasses, and even pressure cookers as some families had their entire homes burnt to ashes.
Masroor Alam (In white Kurta-Pajyama) with a volunteer
The time of COVID-19 pandemic heightened food insecurity in India, leading to a hunger crisis affecting extensive rural regions and certain urban areas with job losses and reduced incomes. Activists monitoring coronavirus-related fatalities have reported that over 300 individuals have lost their lives due to starvation, exhaustion, and accidents apart from dying from the pandemic.
During this time, Md Masroor Alam and the team visited the people in the village and advised them to stay indoors, taught them about masking and sanitation, and gave food to over 8000 families, mostly labourers and truck drivers.
Another help they rendered in 2014 was organising and funding ten poor Muslim girls’ mass weddings and in 2015, they assisted six girls, which was a big financial relief for their parents.
Masroor Alam expressed that ever since he was a child, he was deeply concerned about the suffering of others and always wanted to do something significant to make a difference.
While he was studying computers in Gujarat, after the Bhuj Earthquake, his life was steered in a new direction and he started to get more deeply involved in helping all people of all communities during times of distress giving dal, rice, atta, tea leaves, sugar and many such food commodities during famines and earthquakes as well.
Feeding those in need
The beautiful aspect of Md Masroor Alam’s life and help is his along with the team’s outreach to all people of all communities without ever thinking of the differences of religion or caste. This is the language of humanity.
All India Raza Committee runs an old people’s home where the very poor beggars, sick, and old people can live in dignity. Most of them are rescued from the grips of begging out on pavements, streets, and near garbage dumps.
He says that Islampur is still an impoverished region, underdeveloped and there are many poor people there. During the winter, it is very cold and the NGO started to give warm clothes and blankets to the poor families.
Masroor Alam (in the center) holding a meeting with his volunteers
As the president of All India Raza Committee which is a Sunni Muslim Islamist group based in Maharashtra, India formed in 1978 by Alhaj Mohammed Saeed Noori. Md Masroor has reached out to help people in all parts of India such as Gujarat, Maharashtra, Karnataka, West Bengal, and many other states.
Inspired by the Holy Quran which says in Surah 17:70, “Because everyone is created by God Almighty, the Maker of all, humans must treat one another with full honour, respect, and loving-kindness.” In another ayat, it is written, “Help one another in acts of piety and righteousness.”
Md Masroor Alam is inspired by this one line, “Be certain that you do not die without having done something wonderful for humanity.”— Maya Angelou. This is the philosophy by which he lives and those waves resound loudly wherever he goes sending out a good message.
Rita Farhat Mukand is an independent writer in West Bengal
source: http://www.awazthevoice.in / Awaz, The Voice / Home> Stories / by Rita Farhat Mukund / February 01st, 2024
Havildar Majid Hussain, a local hero hailing from Poonch, exemplified the true spirit of a commando through his unwavering commitment to defending his homeland.
The Army said on Friday. “In the challenging terrain of Poonch and Rajauri, he stood as a formidable force against terror, displaying unparalleled courage and determination in the highest traditions of the Indian Army. His supreme sacrifice in the pursuit of peace resonates deeply with the hearts of the people in Poonch and Rajouri,” PRO Defence said in a statement issued here.
The GOC 25 Infantry Division, representing GOC-in-C, NC and GOC 16 Corps, expressed profound gratitude to Havildar Majid Hussain’s family. “In a heartfelt tribute to a local son who went above and beyond in the line of duty, the family of the Braveheart was visited by his seniors and colleagues bestowing the spirit of care for their fallen brother,” the statement said.
The awarding of the Kirti Chakra is a symbol of conspicuous bravery of Havildar Majid Hussain’s selfless sacrifice, the Army said, adding, “Poonch, Rajauri, and the entire population of UT of J&K, stand indebted to this courageous commando. His actions go beyond a single moment in time; they serve as a perpetual source of inspiration for future generations.”
The PRO Defence added, “As the Hero of Poonch, Havildar Majid Hussain’s legacy lives on, becoming an enduring beacon of selflessness and dedication. His story will continue to resonate in the hearts of those from his hometown and across the nation.
The gallantry award bestowed upon him is not just a medal; it is a symbol of honour, bravery, and a reminder of the sacrifices made in the relentless pursuit of peace and security.”
source: http://www.risingkashmir.com / Rising Kashmir / Home / by RK News / January 27th, 2024
UPSC aspirants preparing at Shibli Residential Coaching Academy, Azamgarh.
Nestled in the historic city of Azamgarh, Uttar Pradesh, Shibli Residential Coaching Academy stands as a beacon of hope for UPSC aspirants across the nation.
Established with a vision to empower and guide students towards a bright future in civil services, the academy offers a holistic approach to UPSC preparation, combining academic excellence with personalized mentorship and a conducive residential environment.
Setting the Stage:
As dawn breaks over the serene campus of Shibli Residential Coaching Academy, aspiring civil servants begin their day with a sense of purpose and determination. The tranquil surroundings provide the perfect backdrop for intense study sessions and thoughtful contemplation, setting the stage for a transformative journey ahead.
Academic Excellence:
Led by a team of seasoned educators and subject matter experts, the academy’s curriculum is meticulously crafted to cover the vast syllabus of the UPSC examination. From comprehensive study materials to interactive classroom sessions and regular mock tests, every aspect of the learning experience is designed to instill confidence and competence in aspirants.
Personalized Mentorship:
At Shibli Residential Coaching Academy, every student is more than just a name on a roster – they are individuals with unique strengths, weaknesses, and aspirations. That’s why the academy takes pride in its personalized mentorship program, where experienced faculty members offer one-on-one guidance, constructive feedback, and strategic advice tailored to each student’s needs.
Beyond the Classroom:
Recognizing that success in the UPSC examination requires more than just academic prowess, Shibli Residential Coaching Academy places a strong emphasis on holistic development. From personality development workshops and communication skills training to extracurricular activities and community engagement initiatives, students are encouraged to cultivate a well-rounded skill set that extends beyond the confines of the classroom.
A Supportive Community:
More than just an educational institution, Shibli Residential Coaching Academy is a close-knit community of like-minded individuals bound by a shared goal – to crack the UPSC examination and serve the nation with distinction. Whether it’s late-night study sessions in the library, spirited debates in the common room, or impromptu brainstorming sessions over chai, the camaraderie among students fosters a supportive and collaborative learning environment.
As the sun sets on another productive day at Shibli Residential Coaching Academy, UPSC aspirants retire to their dormitories with a sense of accomplishment and purpose. With unwavering dedication, personalized mentorship, and a supportive community by their side, they are well-equipped to embark on the challenging yet rewarding journey towards realizing their dreams of serving the nation through the civil services.
source: http://www.muslimmirror.com / Muslim Mirror / Home> Positive Story / by Muslim Mirror Network / February 01st, 2024
A week after the incident, Wakeel Hasan, the Delhi-based head of the rat-hole miners, got a call to head to Silkyara with his men.
Gabbar Singh Negi and Wakeel Hassan. ( Sourav Roy)
They are a part of a tribe that always sees light at the end of the tunnel — literally and figuratively. Optimism and a belief in new beginnings define their work profile. Whether it is laying a narrow sewer line or a virtual cul-de-sac, they see a “passage to a possibility” — as Gabbar Singh Negi, a foreman among the 41 miners trapped in the Silkyara tunnel, would describe the 16-day ordeal of life in death-like situation.
Here’s a quick recall of what happened on the morning of November 12 at Silkyara in Uttarakhand’s Uttarkashi, nearly 425 km from Delhi: The under-construction Silkyara Bend-Barkot tunnel suddenly caved in. Trapped inside were low-wage construction workers in a 4.5km space underground.
The tunnel is part of PM Narendra Modi’s ambitious Rs 12,000 crore Char Dham project, which aims to link four Hindu pilgrimage sites. The region is prone to landslides, earthquakes and floods.
Insured for Rs 5 lakh for the hazardous work of tunnelling through hard rocks, the trapped miners led by Negi knew little about what lay ahead that morning. “Life overground for us is already tough, we earn hardly enough for our families; most of us are barely literate,” said a rescued miner.
A week after the incident, Wakeel Hasan, the Delhi-based head of the rat-hole miners, got a call to head to Silkyara with his men. “Our expertise is laying and cleaning sewer lines through small tunnels. I didn’t know how I and my men would do this task of rescuing so many people,” says Wakeel.
On the 14th day, when American Auger machines, used in vertical drilling and blasting, went bust due to overheating a few metres before reaching the trapped miners, Wakeel got his head around the situation: his time to chip in had arrived.
Rat-hole mining is a dangerous and controversial method used extensively in Meghalaya to extract thin layers of coal. An environment court in 2014 banned the hazardous practice.
Back in the netherworld of darkness and despair, Negi was trying to keep the fading hopes alive. “We were sad. I told my fellow miners we must accept our fate,” Negi recalls. “For the whole fortnight, I tried to joke around, and told them about miracles in the lives of people. And despite their sullenness, I tried to gather them together for a prayer. After all, that was all I could do, they could do,” says Negi.
Outside the mine, faith was all that prevailed. Even as engineers, geologists, relief teams and tunnel experts went over their plans again and again, the elders living in the sparsely populated hamlet advised them, citing mythological beliefs, to set up a temple at the entrance of the tunnel. Finally, everyone took refuge in the local deity Baba Baukhnag.
Wakeel, who has refused to accept the relief amount announced by the Uttarakahnd CM, said, “The pressure to rescue the workers strengthened our resolve. We had to be glued to our work, and stay focused.”
They worked round the clock in two teams of three each, with one person digging manually, the other collecting debris, and the third pushing it out of the pipe.
“As soon as we removed the last chunk of debris, the trapped miners were overjoyed. They hugged us like family members meeting each other after long,” says Nasir Hussain, one of the six rat-hole miners.
“None of the rescuers could have done this alone, and this is the message I want to convey: we should live and work in harmony,” said Wakeel after the last of the trapped miners was brought out.
The bigger question is as rescued miners say quietly: why did it take so long? And the question that rat-hole miners ask: when and who will come to their rescue and recognise their value?
source: http://www.newindianexpress.com / The New Indian Express / Home> The Sunday Standard / by Narendra Sethi / December 03rd, 2023
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