Category Archives: Community Involvement / Social Issues

China-based Indian trader Akbar with Rishabh embark on 1500 km cycle journey from Delhi to Mumbai to promote ‘Swachh Bharat, Swasth Bharat’

Amazing Feats, Community Involvement / Social Issues, Sports, , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Udaipur, RAJASTHAN / CHINA :

New Delhi :

Sunday saw an impressive flag-off ceremony for two determined cyclists, Akbar Ali Bandukwala and Rishabh Jain, who set off on an extraordinary journey of 1500 kilometers from India Gate in New Delhi to the Gateway of India in Mumbai, all in the name of promoting cleanliness and health as part of ‘Swachh Bharat, Swasth Bharat’ vision on this Republic day.

The ceremony, hosted at Vasant Kunj, South Delhi, was marked by high enthusiasm as local councillors Jagmohan Mahlawat and Dharamveer Singh waved the Indian tricolour to send the cyclists on their mission.

Sister Falak BK, who organized the ceremony, highlighted the cyclists’ remarkable journey, nicknamed “G2G” (India Gate to Gateway of India), as a symbol of their dedication to spreading awareness on fitness and cleanliness across the country. The cyclists will travel through several cities, raising awareness about health and cleanliness in schools, public spaces, and communities along the way.

On this occasion, a large number of participants, including notably another host Rakesh Kothari and their enthusiastic team of supporters, warmly welcomed both cyclists with great enthusiasm and fervour.

Later on Sunday, Judicial Magistrate Rishabh Tanwar also joined at India Gate, helping to kick-start the journey with the rallying cry: “Let’s pedal towards a cleaner, healthier India!”

On this occasion, Akbar Ali Bandukwala, an iron trader turned fitness enthusiast, shared his inspiring story at the ceremony. Originally from Udaipur, Rajasthan, Akbar’s life took a dramatic turn after a severe spinal injury in 2013, which led doctors to warn him that he would be restricted to only baby steps for the rest of his life. However, driven by his indomitable spirit, Akbar defied the odds. After months of rehabilitation, he began running again. His journey from bedridden to marathon runner became a story of triumph.

By 2015, Akbar completed a half marathon, and soon after, he participated in marathons across India and China. In 2018, he organized the Bandukwala Marathon, inviting his family to run alongside him. The crowning achievement came in June 2023, when Akbar ran an astounding 50 kilometers to celebrate his 50th birthday. The event saw thousands of supporters join him in solidarity, running in cities across the world. According to him, his wife Tasneem Bandukwala is his biggest supporter and motivator.

Akbar has pushed his limits further. In January 2024, Akbar participated in the ‘Fundraiser Ultrathon for Gaza,’ where he achieved yet another milestone. He completed a gruelling 70-kilometer Vertical Trail Run, covering a total distance of 78.14 kilometers in 15 hours and 40 minutes, taking an astounding 101,258 steps in Guangzhou, China. The trail was incredibly challenging, with vertical, uneven, rocky, and steep terrain, making the task extraordinarily difficult. Yet, for Akbar, it was just another feather in his cap.

Earlier last year, Akbar also promoted the ‘Swachh Bharat Abhiyan’ under the Guangzhou Consulate General of India and emerged as a pioneer in strengthening India-China public relations. He was also awarded the Parvasi Bhartiya Award.

Later in 2024, he turned 51, he cycled 151 kilometers non-stop, battling heavy rainfall and completing the feat in just 6 hours and 15 minutes. This remarkable achievement has led him to embark on the G2G journey, spreading Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s message of ‘Swachh Bharat, Swasth Bharat’ with every pedal. Akbar is now strongly committed to inspiring others to follow his path toward better health  with cleanliness drive.

From Iron Trader to Ironman, Akbar Ali Bandukwala is now embarking on the “G to G” journey, covering 1500 kilometres by bike from India Gate to the Gateway of India. In his own words, “Chalo aur kuch toofani karte hai, Delhi to Mumbai ab cycle par chalte hai.”

This Republic Day, Akbar aims to express his love for his nation through the campaign, ‘Swachh Bharat, Swasth Bharat.’”Good health and cleanliness are life’s greatest blessings, and they cannot be bought but can only be earned through enduring,” Akbar shared at the flag-off ceremony.

Through his G to G journey, Akbar is dedicated to promoting Swasth Bharat. Along the way, he plans to visit schools, collaborate with NGOs and health organizations, and engage with people from all walks of life. His mission is to educate citizens about the critical connection between physical health and mental well-being, and the importance of living a long, active life without being dependent in old age. In his own words, “Chalo aur kuch toofani karte hai, Delhi to Mumbai ab cycle par chalte hai.”

Rishabh Jain, Akbar’s cycling partner and fellow fitness fanatic, is no stranger to endurance challenges. An Ironman finisher and certified fitness expert, Rishabh has completed numerous grueling cycling and marathon events, including the Manali to Leh ride and a 1450km ride from Udaipur to Mumbai. He runs the Triform Fitness and Adventure Club in Udaipur and has coached many fitness enthusiasts, including Akbar, who was a novice cyclist just a year ago. Under Rishabh’s guidance, Akbar has transformed into a cycling enthusiast.

Sharing details of their epic 1500-kilometer journey, Rishabh Jain on this occasion, disclosed that they are undertaking this ambitious ride from India Gate in Delhi to the Gateway of India in Mumbai. They will cover the entire distance in just 7 days, spreading the message of Swachh Bharat and Swastha Bharat as part of their campaign for cleanliness and health.

According to their cycling itinerary, after departing Delhi, they will reach Jaipur on January 20, Bhilwara in Rajasthan on January 21, and Udaipur’s Kherwara on January 22. From Kherwara, they will head to Godhra, Gujarat on January 23, and embark on their journey to Surat on January 24. They will continue to Manor on January 25, before concluding their ride at the iconic Gateway of India in Mumbai on January 26.

Rishabh shared that along the way, they will participate in various awareness programs in cities and towns, focusing on cleanliness and health. They will also visit schools to raise awareness about fitness, health, and the importance of sports among children, students, and adults alike.

Reflecting on his own experiences, Rishabh noted that he has always enjoyed long cycling adventures and connecting with people. He also shared the story of Akbar, who just a year ago knew little about cycling but approached Rishabh for training. After months of hard work and dedication, Akbar has transformed into an avid cycling enthusiast, proving that with determination, anyone can achieve their fitness goals.

As the cyclists progress on their 7-day journey, they will organize health awareness programmes in schools and collaborating with NGOs to spread the message of fitness and hygiene. The duo’s cycling itinerary spans 1500 kilometers, with the final destination being the iconic Gateway of India on Republic Day, January 26th. Along the way, they will meet communities, educating people about the importance of fitness in maintaining good mental health and a long, healthy life.

In a bid to encourage the younger generation to adopt a healthier lifestyle, Akbar and Rishabh are determined to leave a lasting impact on everyone they encounter, from school children to senior citizens. Their journey is not just about cycling, it’s about motivating people to take small steps towards a healthier and cleaner future of the country.

source: http://www.indiatomorrow.net / India Tomorrow.net / Home> National Interest / by admin indiatomorrow.net / January 20th, 2025

Greening the waste stream

Agriculture (since June 07th, 2021), Community Involvement / Social Issues, Green Products, , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Sadiwara (Anantnag District), JAMMU & KASHMIR :

Farooq Ganai’s approach to recycling food waste is benefitting him and the community too. Fayaz Wani highlights Ganai’s eco-friendly entrepreneurship.

Jammu & Kashmir :

A lawyer by profession and a former sarpanch Farooq Ahmed Ganai, who is also known as a ‘garbage man’, has successfully grown saffron by using compost made from vegetable scraps generated at his home.

His actions have a message that not only can discarded waste contribute to a cleaner and greener environment but it can bring wealth as well.

He is leading a “quiet revolution” of turning waste into wealth and now, wants to educate people about the incredible potential of managing waste.

“I had started the initiative ‘give me garbage, I give you gold coins’ in my village (Sadiwara in Anantnag district) when I was sarpanch of the hamlet. The motive behind the initiative was to attract people and inform them as to how worthy the waste is,” Farooq told The Morning Standard.

Now, with this latest effort, he has been stressing behavioural changes – segregating waste at source, i.e. dividing waste into multiple categories but mainly organic (food waste) and recyclable (plastic, paper etc.)

“From the last year, I have been working on it. People usually throw the domestic waste in rivers and nallahs, and it leads to choking of drains and unhealthy living conditions during the rainy season,” Farooq said.

“I segregate whatever waste is generated in my home. The onion, potato, banana and orange peels, and egg shells; whatever has to be discarded in the form of domestic waste, I segregate it from non-organic waste,” he said.

The primary objective of this, he said, is to promote source segregation of waste at the household level and use the food waste for composting. Now, this effort has led to the successful cultivation of saffron in his garden.

Saffron, known as red gold, is traditionally grown in Pampore and adjoining areas in south Kashmir’s Pulwama district. It requires specific climatic conditions, and its cultivation has remained confined to some areas of the district.

Recalling how he got the idea of growing saffron in his village, Farooq said when he had to say “no” to a friend who had asked him if saffron is grown in his village.

“It pinched me and also motivated me to grow saffron,” he said. “I got some saffron corn from a farmer from Awantipora in Pulwama. He provided me 60 corns on October 2 this year, and I sowed those corns using the domestic waste and other things,” the lawyer-cum-farmer mentioned, holding back the excitement.

Farooq said what followed was nothing short of miraculous. “Within just 19 days, the first saffron flower bloomed. And I have harvested 85 saffron flowers so far,” Farooq said.

According to him, the result proves two things – with proper management, organic waste can be turned into wealth and traditionally climate-specific crops like saffron can be grown in different parts.

“If we can grow saffron using domestic waste as compost, we can turn all the waste in our surroundings into a resource, which will not only make our environment clean but also help us monetarily,” Farooq said.

He now plans to adopt four households in every village and teach the villagers about source segregation, which he hopes will lead to behavioural change.

Through education, community involvement, and transformative potential of waste, Farooq is hoping to pave the way for a cleaner, greener and wealthier Kashmir.

source: http://www.newindianexpress.com / The New Indian Express / Home> The Sunday Standard / by Fayaz Wani / November 24th, 2024

Recognizing the Roots: Teachers Who Nurtured Kolkata’s Future Felicitated

Community Involvement / Social Issues, Education, , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Kolkata, WEST BENGAL :

Asma Memorial Trust felicitates 80 educators including retired ones and specially-abled who served without recognition.

(Clockwise) Noor alam with Afaf Jameel, Junaid Kamal, Sangita Gurang (red sari) and the felicitated ones

Kolkata:

When the name of Junaid Kamal was announced, a 32-year-old man, with the help of two crutches, tried to stand up from his seat and began moving towards the stage to be felicitated at Asma Memorial Trust’s function. Soon, the fine art teacher was assisted in walking to receive a memento, a plant, and a set of notebooks and pens.

It was the first time in his 13-year teaching career that the art teacher, who is associated with four different organizations in Kolkata and serves the community, was recognized as a specially-abled person (left leg and right paralysed).

“I am thankful for the felicitation. For someone like me, it is not only difficult to study, but getting a respectable job is another challenge. Even when you succeed, it is rare that people appreciate it in this fast-paced life,” the Academy of Fine Arts graduate told eNewsroom.

Junaid was not alone; at least 15 retired educators, from both government and private schools, were also felicitated at the event.

Dr Umar Khyyam (70) of Maulana Azad College, Mobark Ali Mobarak (65) from Bankura district Urdu School, Nurul Hoda (62) of Kankinara Himayatul Ghurba High School (underprivileged), and Ashraf Ahmad Jafri (65) of Karaya School, Kolkata, were among them.

There were also current teachers, such as Afaf Jameel of Frank Anthony Public School, Sangita Gurung of Assembly of God Church School, Michael A Panja of GD Goenka Public School, Dr Khalid Hossain of Monu Memorial Institution (Kolkata), Debashish from Well and Gold, Md. Shahnawaz of Noble Mission School, Mubashshreen Shakil of KS Consultancy & Academy, Shaguta Adnan, who teaches French, and Manwar Sultana of Sir Syed English Medium School, among the total 80 teachers who were felicitated.

The felicitated and the felicitetors together after Asma Memorial Trust’s event

Teachers from South Point, East West, Goenka, Albani Hall, Islamia, Mohammed Jan, Flair International, and Izma International schools were also honored.

Noor Alam, the founder of NEET Basket, who also established the Asma Trust in memory of his wife to promote value-based education and encourage those involved in it, told eNewsroom, “We used to celebrate Education Day on the birthday of India’s first education minister, Maulana Abul Kalam Azad. But this year, we started the celebration earlier and began by felicitating educators who have served society but have not received any recognition for it.”

Alam, the Rashtriya Shiksha Ratan Award winner also pointed out that during the felicitation, a plant was given to each honoree to symbolize how educators nurture children. Just as trees benefit society in many ways, a well-nurtured child can positively impact the community.

The chief guest, Indian Revenue Service (IRS) officer Shamsher Ahmad, who took voluntary retirement and started Crescent School in one of Kolkata’s ghettos—Topsia—shared his journey as an educator. “When I started the school in Topsia (in 2002), I decorated the building very well. People asked me why I was doing so. I told them that to build confidence in the Topsia students, they must study in a place that is not inferior to other major schools in the city.”

“In later years, to boost their confidence to appear for the Union Public Service Examinations, I used my contacts and made my school a center for the UPSC exam, which produces IAS and IPS officers. As a result, today our school produces doctors and students who pursue higher education after graduating from Crescent,” Ahmad said to the gathering.

Sangita Gurung of Assembly of God said a one liner for the teachers, “Teach what your preach and preach what you teach, is the motto remained in my career and it should be with every teacher.”

Dr Sarfaraz Adil, founder of Izma International School , reminded attendees of the importance of education in Islam and how it has been emphasized. “Getting an education is one of the fundamentals of Islam. It not only includes religious education but also opens doors to physics, astronomy, and chemistry. Before Islam, there was no scientific temperament in religion. Only the rich could study, but Islam made education accessible to everyone. Prophet Muhammad announced that any slave who learned and became educated would be freed. Later, a slave named Hazrat Barira became educated and declared that she should be freed, according to the Prophet’s word. And she was freed. Although it was difficult because she was married to an uneducated slave, she wanted her freedom and to be separated from her husband, so she was granted it.”

Dr Adil also had a message for today’s teachers: “Information is easily shared among students. So, what is important for teachers is to teach students skills and show them

source: http://www.enewsroom.in / E Newsroom India / Home> Bengal> Education / by Shahnawaz Akhtar / September 16th, 2024

Haji KS Sayeed Karnire Charitable Trust hands over 7 houses, foundation stone for 14 other laid

Amazing Feats, Business & Economy, Community Involvement / Social Issues, Karnataka (under research project), Leaders, , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Padubidri (Udupi District), KARNATAKA :

Padubidri: 

The Haji KS Sayeed Karnire Charitable Trust handed over seven newly constructed houses and laid the foundation stone for fourteen more in Karnire on Sunday.

Assembly Speaker U.T. Khader, who inaugurated the houses, highlighted the significant impact of this initiative, noting that while owning a home is a universal dream, many are unable to realize it.

He commended the project as a model of compassion and inspiration, emphasizing that such achievements go beyond financial capability and reflect a commitment to serving marginalized communities. He expressed hope for more transformative projects from the trust in the future and wished the beneficiaries a life of peace and harmony in their new homes.

Managing Trustee K.S. Sheikh, presiding over the event, detailed the trust’s ambitious project to construct 50 houses on two and a half acres of land. Each house, valued at approximately ₹20 lakh, is fully furnished with modern amenities, including a kitchen, hall, two bedrooms, and a washing machine. Sheikh explained that these homes are provided to deserving families in Karnire who lack proper housing.

He further revealed that with the foundation stone being laid for the construction of 14 more houses. There is a plan to build 50 houses on this land again, on two and a half acres of land.

Kaup MLA Gurme Suresh Shetty lauded the trust for its compassionate service in sheltering the underprivileged.

Former MLA Mohiuddin Bava praised the legacy of Syeed Haji’s hard work, which has turned his family into a beacon of service and harmony. He remarked that the family’s actions have become a model for communal unity.

Federation of World Bunts Vice President Karnire Vishwanath Shetty said, “Even though I have added Karnire to my name, the credit for taking the small village of Karnire to the world level belongs to the Syeed Haji family. Karnire is a town where everyone lives in harmony, regardless of caste, religion or difference. While Hindus have helped in the reconstruction of the mosque here, the Muslim community has also joined hands in the construction of the Hindu temple.”

Speaking in the opening remarks, K.S. Ashraf recalled the guidance of his late parents, expressed his gratitude for their teachings of kindness and service, which continue to inspire the family’s charitable efforts. He said, “We should do good to people. Our father used to preach to wish others well. Seeing his preaching and service, we have continued it. It is a great loss that our father and mother are not with us today. If they were here, they would have been happy now.”

On this occasion, U.T. Khader honored K.S. Sheikh on behalf of Karnire Juma Masjid and Karnire Khidma Young Men’s Association.

Abdul Jalil MH of Design Plus Architects, contractor H.N.G.C. Hussain, and supervisor Ramesh Kotian were also recognized for their contributions.

Karnire Juma Masjid Qatheeb Umarul Farooq Saquafi performed the dua. Family elders M.K. Abdul Hamid Mulki, K.S. Aboobacker were present.

Also present during the program were Balkunje Grama Panchayat President Mamata D. Poonja, Harishchandra Shetty, Karnire Juma Masjid President Muhammad Ali, Adv. Bhaskar Shetty, Kote Shekhabba Kannangar, T.K. Muhammad Kote Palimaru, Karnire Harishchandra Shetty, Khidma Youngmen’s President Khidma B.N, Ismail, K.S. Ashfak.

K.S. Ashraf delivered the welcome address, K.S. Abdul Rahim offered a vote of thanks, and Muhammad Ali Kammaradi moderated the event.

source: http://www.english.varthabharati.in / Vartha Bharati / Home> Karavali / by Vartha Bharati / January 05th, 2025

Bearys Institute of Technology hosts BSSF Scholarship Distribution Program

Community Involvement / Social Issues, Education, Karnataka (under research project), Leaders, SCHOLARSHIPS, Useful / SCHOLARSHIPS, , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Mangaluru, KARNATAKA :

Mangaluru:

The Bearys Shiksha Suraksha Foundation (BSSF) Scholarship Distribution Program was held on January 11, 2025, at the Seminar Hall of Bearys Institute of Technology (BIT). The event aimed to support the education of the children of BIT’s staff members and contribute to community development.

The program commenced with a prayer song, followed by a welcome address from Principal Dr. S.I. Manjur Basha, who emphasized the importance of the BSSF initiative in fostering educational growth. A total of Rs. 4,79,000 was awarded in scholarships, reflecting the institution’s commitment to empowering future generations through education.

Chairman Syed Mohamed Beary delivered a motivational speech, highlighting the transformative impact of collective efforts in advancing community welfare through education. Distinguished guests also commended the Bearys team for their consistent dedication to education and social initiatives.

The event concluded with a vote of thanks by Heena Kausar P A, who expressed gratitude to the management, staff, and attendees for their support.

source: http://www.english.varthabharati.in / Vartha Bharati / Home> Karavali / by Vartha Bharati / January 13th, 2025

Maharashtra: Ex-officials body starts residential coaching for Muslims

Community Involvement / Social Issues, Education, SCHOLARSHIPS, , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

MAHARASHTRA :

MRAAKA officials felicitating Mushtaq Antule, President, Maulana Economic Development Corporation, Maharashtra

Many students dream of clearing the civil services examinations but those with small means, a majority of whom are from the Muslim community, can’t afford coaching and guidance from experts for it.

To address this, the Maharashtra State Minority Officers and Employees Association (MRAAKA) has announced its residential coaching classes for students from minority communities who are preparing for competitive examinations for jobs of admissions in higher learning institutes.

For several years, MRAAKA which is registred as Maharashtra Rajya Alpaksankhyak Adhikari – Karmachari Association. has been undertaking social work and spreading awareness among minorities. In its latest initiative, the organization said its classes will be held in Pune for the academic year 2024–25.

MRAAKA President Haji Jatkar said on the initiative, “The organization was founded by a group of Muslim government employees to contribute to the welfare of the minority community. Initially, we collaborated with Anjuman Islam to organize coaching classes. Since 2021, we have partnered with the Haj Committee for this purpose. Our organization is the first government-recognized institution in the country dedicated to working for the upliftment of the minority community.”

He further added, “Students from minority communities, particularly Muslims, face challenges in pursuing higher education. We provide them with hostel facilities, study centers, and financial assistance through scholarships.”

Highlighting the purpose of the initiative, Haji Jatkar said, “While other communities have access to competitive exam academies, there isn’t a single academy of this kind for minority communities in the state. If students from minority communities are given access to quality institutions and proper guidance, they can significantly contribute to the development of society and the nation. It is fulfilling to see our organization providing a platform for minority students to claim their rightful opportunities.”

Asir Sheikh, Assistant State Tax Commissioner and a member of MRAAKA, said, “The challenges faced by minority communities are often discussed, but concrete actions to address them are rare. Bringing minority students into administrative roles is essential for the community’s growth. That’s why our organization has launched this residential coaching program to guide students and help them enter the administrative system,” he said.

He noted, “So far, we have completed two batches of residential coaching classes. Only a limited number of students are selected through a rigorous admission process. Of these, 13 students have successfully cleared competitive exams and secured postings.”

At present applications for the 2024–25 residential coaching classes in Pune are being accepted by MRAAKA. The last date for submission is January 9, 2025. Applicants’ records related to state service exams will be reviewed. Following the scrutiny, 100 students will be shortlisted for interviews, and 25 will be selected.

Preference will be given to candidates who have cleared the preliminary or main state service exams in the past. Additionally, applicants will need to provide caste verification certificates as per government reservation policies.

Any graduate from a minority community who has appeared for the state service preliminary exam and demonstrates potential to succeed can apply. The program is open to motivated students from all branches of study.

The organization works for the welfare of minority employees and aims to increase the literacy rate and overall development of minority communities. It also plans to establish separate libraries for Hindi and Marathi to promote the development of these languages.

Additionally, with the support of central and state governments, MRAAKA encourages sports by providing scholarships and other incentives to athletes from minority communities.

source: http://www.awazthevoice.in / Awaz, The Voice / Home> Stories / by Fazal Pathan / January 05th, 2025

Five From Karnataka Among ‘100 Indian Muslim Achievers’ Recognized by Muslim Mirror

Amazing Feats, Arts, Culture & Entertainment, Business & Economy, Community Involvement / Social Issues, Education, Education- Excellence, Coaching, Training, Tutorials (wef. Feb 09th, 2024), Karnataka (under research project), Leaders, Science & Technology, World Opinion, , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

KARNATAKA / NEW DELHI :

Muslim Mirror’s list of 100 Indian Muslim achievers features four notable personalities from Karnataka, recognized for their contributions to education, business, journalism, and community development.

Bidar’s Abdul Qadeer – Educator and Visionary Leader
Abdul Qadeer, a renowned educationist and founder of the Shaheen Group of Institutions in Bidar, has dedicated his life to empowering marginalized communities through education.

Under his leadership, Shaheen Institutions have grown into a network providing quality education, emphasizing academic excellence and holistic development. His commitment to integrating modern and traditional education has enabled numerous students to excel in competitive examinations and achieve higher educational aspirations.

Mangaluru’s Dr. Abdullah Kunhi – Entrepreneur and Educationist
Dr. Yenepoya Abdullah Kunhi, the founder of Yenepoya University in Mangalore, has transformed education and healthcare in Karnataka.

Known for his vision and humanitarian spirit, Dr. Kunhi established Yenepoya University as a multidisciplinary institution offering innovative programs across various fields.

He also expanded healthcare access through advanced medical facilities and initiated programs to uplift marginalized communities, including scholarships and community health initiatives.

Azim Hashim Premji – Business Tycoon and Philanthropist
Azim Premji, former chairman of Wipro Limited, revolutionized India’s IT industry and emerged as one of the country’s most influential business leaders.

A recipient of the Padma Bhushan and Padma Vibhushan, Premji is also one of the world’s leading philanthropists. Through the Azim Premji Foundation, he has donated over $21 billion, primarily to improve education and healthcare in India, leaving an indelible mark on society.

Mohammed Zubair – Journalist and Fact-Checker
Mohammed Zubair, co-founder of the fact-checking website Alt News, is a pivotal figure in combating misinformation in India.

Transitioning from an engineering background to journalism, Zubair has exposed numerous instances of fake news and disinformation, fostering accountability and promoting responsible journalism. Despite facing harassment and legal challenges, his dedication to truth and transparency remains unwavering.

Irfan Razack – Real Estate Mogul and Community Advocate
Irfan Razack, Chairman and Managing Director of Prestige Group, is one of India’s leading real estate entrepreneurs.


Based in Bengaluru, he has played a pivotal role in shaping India’s real estate landscape, making Prestige Group one of the most prominent property developers in the country.

Razack is also the co-founder of Inventure Academy in Bengaluru and has held esteemed positions, including Honorary Secretary of the Al-Ameen Educational Society and Chairman of CREDAI.

His community contributions through the Kutchi Memon Jamat and philanthropic initiatives have earned him numerous awards, including the Real Estate Excellence Award (2008) and Entrepreneur Extraordinaire Award (2010).

According to the 2024 Forbes list of India’s 100 richest tycoons, Irfan Razack and his siblings are ranked 49th, with a net worth of $6 billion.

These five distinguished individuals from Karnataka exemplify excellence, resilience, and a commitment to societal progress, earning them well-deserved recognition on this prestigious list.

source: http://www.thehindustangazette.com / The Hindustan Gazette / Home> News> Education / by The Hindustan Gazette / January 06th, 2024

Muslim Gaddi Samaj Honours Talent

Community Involvement / Social Issues

Sawai Madhopur, RAJASTHAN :

Sawai Madhopur:

The Muslim Gaddi Samaj Educational and Welfare Society organised a talent appreciation ceremony on the occasion of Muslim Gaddi Samaj Day at the Muslim Gaddi Samaj Hostel campus near New Truck Union here.

The event was graced by former MLA Alauddin Azad as the chief guest, with Maulana Noman Qasmi, the society’s president, presiding over the function. Special guests included Dr. Mumtaz Ahmed, president of Gaddi Samaj, and Fazruddin, vice-president of Malarna Dungar.

According to Nabisher Khan, secretary of Welfare Society, 300 talented individuals from various districts were honoured for their achievements in academics and professional fields, including 10th and 12th-grade exams, B.A., M.A., NEET, MBBS, and more.

Prominent speakers such as Dr. Professor Ghulam Rasool, Dr. Azizuddin Azad, and Dr. Mumtaz Ahmed addressed the gathering, highlighting the transformative power of education and calling for the eradication of social evils like child marriage. They emphasised that education is crucial for societal progress and development.

The event also featured speeches from Panchayat Samiti member Azizuddin, Maulana Afsar Nadvi, Maulana Noman Qasmi, Alimuddin, Murad Ali, ADEO Ajaz Ali, Baleegh Ahmed, Saghir Khan, Salam Khan, former Sarpanch Liaquat Ali, and Kalam Khan.

In a special recognition, the society conferred the prestigious Gaddi Ratna award to five individuals for their exemplary contributions to education and social service.

source: http://www.radiancenews.com / Radiance News / Home> Education / by Raheem Khan / Radiance News Bureau / January 02nd, 2025

M.A. Maula elected as new President of Udupi District Muslim Okkuta

Community Involvement / Social Issues, Karnataka (under research project), Leaders, , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Udupi, KARNATAKA :

M.A. Maula

Udupi: 

Popular businessman Muhammad Maula has been elected as the new president of the Udupi District Muslim Okkuta for the next two years. The decision was made during the 2025-26 general meeting held at the UBMC hall in Udupi.

M.A. Maula, known for his various social, educational and community activities, has previously served as the general secretary of the Okkuta twice and as the vice-president once.

Additionally, Yaseen Malpe, Idris Hoode, Iqbal Katapady, Rafiq Gangolli and Maulana Zamir Ahmed Rashadi Kandlur were elected as district committee members at the central level.

Taufiq Abdullah Navunda, Dr. Abdul Azeez Manipal, Abdurrahman Kannangar and Khalid Manipura were appointed as representatives of various organizations.

Abdul Aziz Udyawara, Yaseen Bengre, Syed Farid, Iqbal Manna, Shabbir Malpe, Irshad Nejar, V.S. Umar and Adil Hoode were elected as district committee members from Udupi taluk.

From Kundapura, Riyaz Kodi, Dastagir Kandloor, Shaban Hanglur, Mushtaq Hennabailu, and Hanif Gulwadi were elected.

Shabhi Ahmed Qazi, Nasir Ahmed Sharfuddin, Anwar Ali, Muhammad Azam Sheikh, and Muhammad Iqbal from Kaup taluk; Muhammad Ghouse, Ashfaq Ahmed, Nasir Sheikh, Muhammad Sharif Banglegudde, and Muhammad Sharif Renjala from Karkala taluk; Tajuddin Ibrahim, Ibrahim Kota, Asif Baikady, Aslam Haikadi, and Haroon Rashid Sastana from Brahmavar; and Shams Tabrez, Sheikh Fayyaz Ali, Amin Golihole, and Aftab Kiri Manjeshwara from Byndoor taluk, along with Tufail Shahabuddin, were elected.

In the subsequent district committee meeting, Ismail Hussain Katapady, Mustafa Saadi Mulur, T. M. Zafrullah Hoode, Khatib Rashid Malpe, Buaji Muhsin Byndoor, Sheikh Abdullatif Madani, Raihan Trasi, Abu Muhammad Mujawar Kundapur, Peer Saheb Adi Udupi, and B. Muhyuddin Katapady were co-opted as members of the district committee.

Maulana Abdur Raqib Nadvi, the General Secretary of Majlis-e-Islah wa Tanzeem, Bhatkal, oversaw the election process.

The general assembly commenced with the recitation of the Quran by Maulana Zamir Ahmed Rashadi, the vice-president of Udupi district Muslim Okkuta. General Secretary Muhammad Idris Hoode delivered the introductory remarks, followed by Secretary Ismail Hussain, who presented the biennial report. Treasurer Syed Farid then presented the biennial accounts to the assembly. The session concluded with the presidential address delivered by Muhammad Yasin Malpe.

source: http://www.english.varthabharati.in / Vartha Bharati / Home> Karavali / by Vartha Bharati / January 01st, 2025

Scholar, Writer Prof. Muzaffar Assadi passes away at 63

Amazing Feats, Books (incl.Biographies - w.e.f.01 jan 2018 ), Community Involvement / Social Issues, Education, Karnataka (under research project), Leaders, , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Shirva, UDUPI District / Mysuru / KARNATAKA :

Prof. Muzaffar Assadi

Bengaluru:

Senior scholar, thinker, and writer, Prof. Muzaffar Hussain Assadi, who served as the Acting Vice-Chancellor and Dean of the Political Science Department at Mysore University, passed away late Friday night at a private hospital in Bengaluru. He was 63 years old.

Prof. Muzaffar Assadi conducted extensive studies on the lives and lifestyles of tribal communities.

He served as the chairperson of a committee appointed to address the displacement of tribal populations. His research and contributions spanned areas such as agricultural studies, globalization, Gandhian philosophy, political sociology, democratic theories, social movements, comparative governance, Indian politics, human rights, and global political theories, earning him significant recognition.

Hailing from Shirva in Udupi district, Dr. Muzaffar Assadi completed his postgraduate degree from Mangalore University, followed by an M.Phil. and Ph.D. from Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU), New Delhi.

He later pursued a Rockefeller Fellowship and Post-Doctoral studies at the University of Chicago.

He authored 11 books during his illustrious career.

As the chairperson of the High Court Committee on Tribal Displacement, he submitted an impactful report.

His notable works include Multifaceted Feminist Narratives and Movements in Karnataka, Asmita, among others.

Previously, he served as the Special Officer of the newly established Raichur University.

Prof. Assadi received numerous honors, including the Karnataka Sahitya Academy Award.

source: http://www.english.varthabharati.in / Vartha Bharati / Home> Karnataka / by Vartha Bharati / January 04th, 2025