Category Archives: Leaders

Army officers Saria Abbasi, Fatima Wasim show women power in Army

Amazing Feats, Defence Services - Army, Air Force, Navy, Coast Guard, CRPF & others (wef. February 21st, 2026), Leaders, Women/Girls(since May26-2021), , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

INDIA :

Captain Saria Abbas and Captain Wasim

New Delhi :

If you thought that the marching of an all-women tri-services contingent in the Republic Day Parade was just a show-off, you need to know about two women in the Indian Army to realise how women are not only joining the Military but also get the toughest assignments by being posted on treachrous terrains and hostile borders of India.

Captain Saria Abbasi and Captain Fatima Wasim are two women army officers whose names surfaced on social media. Abbasi is posted on the post on the Line of Actual Control (LAC) the contentious working boundary with China and Fatima Wasim on a post in Siachen, the world’s highest and coldest battlefield along Pakistan.

Captain Saria Abbasi’s picture surfaced on social media after a visit of the media team to the Tawang border where India had deployed its latest acquisition anti-aircraft gun L70.

Capt Saria Abbasi on duty

Capt. Saria Abbasi briefed the media on the merits of the L-70 anti-aircraft gun with its deployment, which can target all types of unmanned aerial vehicles, helicopters, and drones.

Capt Abbasi hails from Gorakhpur, Uttar Pradesh, and had dreamt of wearing the Army uniform as a child.

This one video and some pictures caught the attention of the entire country as people were awed by a woman in that role and the gender parity in the Indian army.

Abbasi’s unit is one of the first AD regiments in the country, equipped with 70 guns. India has deployed anti-aircraft guns L70 in Tawang, Arunachal Pradesh, amid ongoing tensions on the Indo-China border in eastern Ladakh and Arunachal Pradesh.

Saria Abbasi’s father Dr. Tehseen Abbasi is associated with All India Radio, and her mother Rehana Shamim is a junior high school teacher.

The second woman whose image also captured the imagination of the country’s men is Captain Fatima Wasim of the Siachen Warriors. She created history by becoming the first woman medical officer to be deployed to an operational post on the Siachen Glacier.

Capt Fatima Wasim at Siachen

Her posting was proclaimed by the Indian Army’s Fire and Fury Corps in a post on X.

“She (Captain Fatima Wasim) was inducted to a post at an altitude of 15,200 feet after undergoing rigorous training at Siachen Battle School, which speaks of her indomitable spirit and high motivation,” Fire and Fury Corps posted on X.

The Indian Army’s Fire and Fury Corps also uploaded a video in the post to further highlight Captain Fatima Wasim’s achievement and celebrate it.

Earlier this month, Captain Geetika Koul from the Snow Leopard Brigade became the first woman medical officer of the Indian Army to be deployed at the world’s highest battlefield, Siachen, after completing the induction training at Siachen Battle School.

Siachen Glacier is known as the highest-altitude battle site in the world and is situated near the Indo-Pak Line of Control.

It is the largest glacier in India and the second-largest in the world. It is the highest battleground on earth.

Back to Saria Abbasi’s story: she is a graduate of Genetic Engineering and joined the army four years ago. She said she had no interest in engineering and was always dreaming of becoming an army officer as some of her relatives were. She was attracted to donning the olive green after listening to the stories of valour from her ‘fauji’ relatives.

Capt Abbasi with L70 Gun (released by Army)

She rejected all the job offers from big companies and focused on clearing the Combined Defence Service (CDS) competitive examination conducted by the UPSC for taking in officers for the Military.

There were only 12 seats for women and Saria cleared her examination in her second attempt. After passing the ongoing interviews held over several tours, she was selected for the training that is considered to be the toughest of all.

source: http://www.awazthevoice.in / Awaz, The Voice / Home> Stories / by ATV / posted by Aasha Khosa / January 30th, 2024

Felicitation Ceremony Held on the 158th Birth Anniversary of Hakim Ajmal Khan

Amazing Feats, Leaders, Science & Technology, , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

DELHI :

Tribute Paid to Hakim Ajmal Khan’s Medical Services; Awards Presented to Doctors

New Delhi:

On the occasion of the 158th birth anniversary of the eminent medical personality Hakim Ajmal Khan, a dignified felicitation ceremony was organised by the Integrated Medical Association (IMA–AYUSH) at the Ghalib Institute, Mata Sundri Lane, New Delhi. A large number of distinguished physicians and practitioners from across Delhi attended the event and paid rich tribute to Hakim Ajmal Khan’s outstanding contributions to Unani medicine.

Addressing the gathering, former Head of the Unani Department at Safdarjung Hospital, Syed Ahmad Khan, stated that Hakim Ajmal Khan elevated Unani medicine to new heights and introduced innovative treatment methods in line with modern medical requirements. He further said that Hakim Ajmal Khan’s intellectual insight and research contributions continue to serve as a guiding light for practitioners, and his medical philosophy will remain a source of inspiration for future generations.

During the ceremony, doctors associated with various medical institutions in Delhi were honoured with awards and certificates in recognition of their remarkable services. Speakers on the occasion reaffirmed their commitment to making collective efforts for the promotion of Unani medicine and for providing effective and safe treatment to the public.

At the conclusion of the programme, the organisers from the Integrated Medical Association announced that scientific and literary programmes would continue to be organised in the future to promote the ideas and medical legacy of Hakim Ajmal Khan, so that the younger generation may become acquainted with the services of this great medical leader.

On this occasion, Dr. R.S. Chauhan, in his address, said that Unani medicine is in fact a complete way of life and a balanced therapeutic system, to which Masih-ul-Mulk Hakim Ajmal Khan gave renewed vitality. He remarked that Hakim Ajmal Khan’s medical vision, research, and humanitarian approach continue to guide practitioners around the world. According to him, Hakim Ajmal Khan’s ideas hold fundamental importance in the promotion of the AYUSH system of medicine, the growing inclination toward natural healing, and the strengthening of public health. Dr. Chauhan further emphasised that introducing the younger generation to Hakim Ajmal Khan’s intellectual legacy and spirit of service to humanity is the need of the hour, so that this great treasure of Eastern medicine may be passed on to future generations.

Among those present on the occasion were Professor (Dr.) Kashinath Samagandi, Dr. Arif Zaidi, Dr. Raghu Ram Ayyagari, Professor (Dr.) Mohammad Idris, Hakim Imamuddin Zakaai, Professor (Dr.) Naseem Akhtar Khan, Dr. Syed Ahmad Khan, Dr. R.S. Chauhan, Dr. O.P. Vashisht, Dr. Naresh Kumar Chhwania, Dr. Raman Khanna, Dr. Mohammad Usman, Dr. Mohammad Asad, Dr. Arun Kataria, and Dr. Krishan Kumar Singhal.

source: http://www.radiancenews.com / Radiance News / Home> Latest News> Report / by Radiance News Bureau / February 19th, 2026

Masjid-e-Kausar & Human Welfare Centre Inaugurated Grandly in Vijayawada

Community Involvement / Social Issues, Leaders, , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Vijayawada, ANDHRA PRADESH :

The Masjid-e-Kausar & Human Welfare Centre was inaugurated grandly in Vijayawada, Andhra Pradesh. The inauguration was formally carried out by Jamaat-e-Islami Hind National Vice President Malik Moatasim Khan.

A large public meeting was organized on the occasion, attended by prominent personalities, religious scholars, and social leaders.

The event was convened by Jamaat-e-Islami Hind State Secretary Muh. Akbar Basha. The program commenced with the recitation of the Holy Qur’an by 11-year-old Fateh Muhammad Khan, whose melodious tilawat created a spiritually uplifting atmosphere.

Addressing the gathering, Malik Moatasim Khan emphasized that a Masjid should not remain merely a place of worship but should serve as a center for promoting harmony, brotherhood, and strong human relations. He called upon the Human Welfare Centre to work towards empowering weaker sections in education, healthcare, and economic development.

JIH AP State President Hafiz Shaukat Faheem stated that mosques must go beyond the five daily prayers and actively engage in educational initiatives, moral instruction, youth guidance, medical services, and distribution of Ramadan ration kits. He urged other mosque committees to undertake similar welfare programs.

JIH AP Vice President N.S. Mohiuddin highlighted that historically, mosques functioned as centers for resolving property and financial disputes. He recalled that Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) taught that offering five daily prayers keeps individuals away from sins. He stressed the urgent need for model mosques to ensure social peace and moral values.

Committee Member and JIH State Advisory Council Member Maulana Mujahid Khan Umri explained the importance of Masjid in Islam and detailed the welfare initiatives already undertaken under the Masjid-e-Kausar & Human Welfare Centre, including moral education, youth mentoring, medical services, and Ramadan ration distribution. He added that more service initiatives would be launched in the coming days.

Religious scholars, academicians, and public representatives participated and acknowledged the contributions made towards the construction of the Masjid and the Human Welfare Centre.

Masjid Committee President Shahbaz stated that the construction became possible through collective efforts. He mentioned that the Masjid & Human Welfare Centre was the dream of his late father Marhoom Eqbal and founding committee member Marhoom Abul Latif, who dedicated their time, wealth, and efforts, especially in securing the land for the mosque.

During the felicitation ceremony, dignitaries were honored. Retired IAS Officer Sri Velagapalli Varaprasad Rao, who provided key support during the initial phase of construction, was felicitated with a shawl and memento by Jamaat-e-Islami Hind Vijayawada North President Muhammad Zaharuddin. The masons and designers who contributed to the mosque’s construction and architectural beauty were also honored with shawls and mementos.

JIH State General Secretary Muhammad Karimuddin and Vijayawada City President Muhammad Khalilullah were also present at the event. The program concluded with a du’a by Maulana Mufti Yusuf.

source: http://www.radiancenews.com / Radiance News / Home> Latest News> Report / by Radiance News Bureau / February 19th, 2026

English daily ‘News Trail’ launches Mangaluru edition

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

Bengaluru, KARNATAKA :

Mangaluru:

English daily News Trail has launched its Mangaluru edition. The launch function was held on Friday at The Ocean Pearl in the city.

The new edition will cater to readers in coastal and Malenadu regions of Karnataka. The publication is already being brought out from Bengaluru, Qatar and Hubballi.

Among those present at the event were Dr. U.T. Ifthikar Fareed, Chairman, Karnataka State Allied and Healthcare Council; Ivan D’Souza, MLC; Fr Sudeep Paul, Director, Sandesha Foundation; Sister Vishweshwari of Brahmakumari International Centre, Mangaluru; M.A. Gafoor, Chairman, Coastal Development Board; T.M. Shahid Thekkil, Chairman, Minimum Wage Advisory Board; Adoor Ibrahim, former Deputy Commissioner of Mangaluru; S.M. Arshad, Managing Director, Mohtisham Complexes Pvt. Ltd.; and S.M. Rasheed Haji, President, Bearys Chamber of Commerce and Industry.

K.M. Siddique, Director, News Trail; Ashraf Ali Basheer Ahmed, Associate Director; M.A. Siraj, Associate Editor; and Aftab H. Kola, Regional Business Head for the Mangaluru edition, were also present.

source: http://www.english.varthabharati.in / Vartha Bharati / Home> Karavali / February 14th, 2026

Celebrating Unsung Heroes: Indian Muslim Changemakers

Amazing Feats, Arts & Crafts / CraftsPersons (wef. January 14th, 2025), Community Involvement / Social Issues, Leaders, NRI's / PIO's, Women/Girls(since May26-2021), World Opinion, , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

INDIA :

AI generated image

Amid our fast-paced lives, there exists a remarkable group of individuals who believe in slow, steady, and consistent efforts to create meaningful change.

These individuals are known as changemakers—people who quietly dedicate themselves to bettering society, far from the spotlight and the noise of daily routine.

They don’t seek fame or recognition. Instead, they focus on making a positive impact in their communities. Often unheard of, these changemakers influence others through their actions, values, and vision for a better world.

Awaz–The Voice is proud to launch a special series starting this Sunday, spotlighting Indian Muslim changemakers of India.

Through their inspiring stories, we aim to shine a light on individuals whose work exemplifies compassion, dedication, and innovation.

Our editorial team has carefully selected these changemakers based on several parameters, including the authenticity of their efforts and the tangible impact they have made.

These are everyday heroes who are addressing pressing social, environmental, and economic challenges—often with limited resources but unwavering commitment.

They are improving access to education, healthcare, and sanitation; they are empowering women, protecting the environment, and uplifting their communities—all without expecting any rewards or recognition. For them, the satisfaction of doing good is reward enough.

Their actions may seem small, but their impact is profound. As the saying goes, “Every drop counts in making an ocean.” Each changemaker is a vital part of the wave of progress that is quietly transforming India.

One of our key criteria in identifying these individuals was whether they are creating tangible change or inspiring others to become changemakers themselves. For us, a changemaker is someone who brings positivity into the world through innovative solutions, leadership, and a commitment to improving lives and systems.

In a world that often celebrates loud success, we believe it’s important to pause and acknowledge those who uphold the highest ideals of humanity. These changemakers serve as a moral compass, reminding us of our own responsibilities to society and to one another.

We begin our series with changemakers from Uttar Pradesh, featuring stories like that of Capt. Saria Abbasi, who dreamt of joining the Indian Armed Forces from a young age. After earning her engineering degree and receiving multiple job offers, she chose instead to follow her dream and joined the Indian Army—becoming a role model for countless Muslim women aspiring to serve the nation. She has done challenging missions like serving at Indo-China border post at Tawang in October 2021.

Rubina Rashid Ali, who lives in Aligarh Muslim University’s campus has become a champion for women earning their livelihood out of applique (ornamental needlework in which pieces of fabric are sewn or stuck). She has stood up for them to ensure that these women from poor backgrounds get the wages they deserve.

The changemakers of India

Dr Farha Usmani, a medical practitioner who hails from Aligarh, went to US to pursue her career in the United Nations Population Fund in 2007. Leaving behind her family was a tough call for her. She is the only Muslim woman to have risen to the position of director in the UNFPA. Today, she is making world policies for women’s health and rights. She is the Vice President of SAFAR, an organization that is responsible for the overall advancement and rights of minority and marginalized women and girls in India. 

Another inspiring figure is Babban Mian, a businessman who runs a large gaushala (cow shelter) in Bulandshahar, caring for hundreds of cows. Inspired by his late mother’s deep affection for animals, Babban Mian’s work also challenges stereotypes and promotes harmony by offering a different perspective on the Muslim community’s relationship with animal care.

Some of the changemakers will remind you of characters straight from Indian folklore and vernacular literature. People who have been nurtured by Indian civilizational values of compassion and selflessness.

Through these stories and many more, we hope to inspire our readers and celebrate the quiet revolution being led by changemakers who are shaping a better, more inclusive India.

We’d love to hear your thoughts on this series. Write to us at input@awazthevoice.in or engage with us on our social media platforms.

The author is the Editor-in-Chief of Awaz-the Voice portal

source: http://www.awazthevoice.in / Awaz, The Voice / Home> Stories / by Atir Khan, Editor-in-Chief, Awaz-the Voice portal / May 22nd, 2025

Corporator Ghafoor Pathan pledges to work on ideals of Shivaji Maharaj

Community Involvement / Social Issues, Leaders, , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Pune, MAHARASHTRA :

Corporator Haji Ghafoor Pathan

Corporator Haji Ghafoor Pathan, elected from the Muslim-majority Kondhwa Khurd-Kausarbaug ward of the Pune Municipal Corporation, invoked the legacy of Shivaji Maharaj in his very inaugural speech.

Speaking in the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Hall, he chanted the name of Shivaji Maharaj and delivered a message of inclusive politics. The video of his speech is currently going viral on social media.

Haji Ghafoor Pathan won the mandate from the Muslim-majority populace due to his years of campaigning for Shivaji’s ideals and his progressive stance.

Haji Ghafoor Pathan caught the attention of the house by invoking the name of the Maratha warrior. He congratulated the new office bearers on behalf of all Punekars and his ward. “This house belongs to Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. The Honourable Mayor and Deputy Mayor should take progressive thoughts forward like an ideal King and give justice to all. Opinions, justice, equality, and brotherhood were the main principles of Shivraya’s Swarajya, and I express my wish that the same should be implemented in this house.”

He introduced himself as ‘Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj’s Muslim Mavala’ (Muslim soldier/Loyalist of Shivaji Maharaj).

He said, “We always consider welfare for people of all castes and religions in this house. I will always fight for the development of the Kondhwa area. Just as Mavalas of all religions worked in Shivraya’s army, we will continue to serve the city with the same loyalty.”

Ghafoor Pathan has been celebrating Shivjayanti with great pomp in his Muslim-majority Kondhwa area for many years.

The day is celebrated with a statue of the King, a traditional palanquin, a chariot decorated with flowers, and the beats of Dhol-Tasha and Tutari.

Corporator Ghafoor Pathan

This all-faith ceremony is organised on behalf of the ‘Muslim Mavala Foundation’ led by Ghafoor Pathan. Women and school students participate enthusiastically in this. Notably, naming the flyover in Kondhwa after Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj was also part of his initiative. Recalling old memories, Corporator Pathan commented on the struggle for development. He said, “Earlier, we all used to be adamant about work in our ward. We have struggled for that. Now conflict must not come in the way of development.”

He requested the administration and group leaders to cooperate for the interest of Punekars and the holistic development of the city. He was particularly insistent that pending works in Kondhwa and the surrounding areas should be accelerated.

Haji Ghafoor Pathan also mentioned his mentor in politics, Ajit Pawar. “We will follow the ideals and precedents set by Respected Dada for five years. We will try to conduct ourselves in this house with Ajit Dada’s thoughts,” he promised the house.

Ghafoor Pathan’s speech in the historic hall of the Pune Municipal Corporation has set a new direction for social harmony and development. By invoking the name and ideals of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, he has started his journey as a public representative, on an inclusive note.

source: http://www.awazthevoice.in / Awaz, The Voice / Home> Stories / by Bhakti Chalak, Pune / February 16th, 2026

HRM Forum, Roshni Alumni association organises seminar on Human Resources

Business & Economy, Karnataka (under research project), Leaders, , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Mangaluru, KARNATAKA :

Mangaluru: 

The HRM Forum, in association with the Roshni Alumni Association, organised a seminar titled “HR Unplugged: From Classroom to Corporate Reality” at the School of Social Work, Roshni Nilaya (Autonomous), Mangaluru, on 16th February 2026.

Sujah Mohammed, CEO of Marhaba Group, Mangaluru, delivered the inaugural address, sharing insights from his personal and professional journey. He spoke about the challenges he faced and the determination required to succeed.

Emphasising the importance of communication and interpersonal skills, he urged students to continuously upgrade their knowledge to remain relevant in a fast-changing corporate environment.

Sujah also highlighted professional ethics, leadership qualities, teamwork, and practical exposure through internships as key factors in bridging the gap between theory and practice. He advised aspiring HR professionals to stay confident, adaptable, solution-oriented, and committed to their long-term career goals.

Anand D’Silva encouraged students to make the most of every session, reminding them that life experiences often teach lessons beyond textbooks. He emphasised the value of hard work, genuine knowledge, and dedication, urging students to uphold the values and reputation of Roshni Nilaya in their professional journey. He also advised them to focus on their unique growth paths, remain patient, consistent, and positive, and avoid comparing themselves with others.

Adv. Ganesh Poojary, Partner at KG Pai & Co. and Director at Coreimpact Corporate Services Ltd., conducted an interactive session on labour laws. He started with an activity that required students to categorise various labour laws under the four Labour Codes, promoting critical thinking and engagement. He then explained the codes in detail, especially the Code on Wages, and discussed its implications for employees, employers, and organisational compliance.

During the panel discussion on “Who is HR?”, Ganesh Poojary, Ranjit Christopher Picardo, Associate Director, HR and Global Shared Services Leader, Brady Company India Pvt. Ltd., and Dolfred Norbert D’Souza, Director – Human Resources and Site Leader, APAC, Flexera Software India LLP, highlighted HR as a strategic partner that bridges management and employees. They stressed the role of HR in ethical decision-making, legal compliance, talent development, and shaping organisational culture.

Ranjit Christopher Picardo also led a session on “The Effective Interviewer”, focusing on structured interviews as a tool for effective talent acquisition. He demonstrated a practical framework for interviews and conducted an interactive mock interview with students. He emphasised the high cost of poor hiring and the need for discipline, consistency, and professionalism in recruitment.

The event was attended by over 100 HR students and professionals. Dr. Meena Monteiro, Dean – PG Studies; Dr. Sebastin K V, Dean – Research; Prof. Jinsa Joseph; Prof. Deepika Sanil; Dr. Anuradha Shetty; and Prof. Ramya were present. The session was compered by Saifana Sheik, the welcome address was given by Nagashree, and Prof. Deepika Sanil proposed the vote of thanks.

source: http://www.english.varthabharati.in / Vartha Bharati / Home> Karavali / February 16th, 2026

Winds of change: Stories of quiet revolution in Jammu & Kashmir

Amazing Feats, Arts, Culture & Entertainment, Community Involvement / Social Issues, Education, Education- Excellence, Coaching, Training, Tutorials (wef. Feb 09th, 2024), Leaders, Sports, Women/Girls(since May26-2021), , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

JAMMU & KASHMIR :

Changemakers of Jammu and Kashmir

Srinagar :

In a land shaped by upheaval—where countless dreams were long overshadowed in remote corners—a silent revolution is underway. Far from the spotlight, a group of remarkable individuals is reshaping the social fabric of Kashmir. They are quietly overcoming obstacles, challenging norms, and inspiring countless others with their unwavering commitment to progress.

Sakeena Akhtar

Sakeena Akhtar is a trailblazer who has shattered deep-rooted gender norms in Kashmir, where women in sports—particularly cricket—have historically faced stigma and exclusion. From being the only girl playing cricket in the narrow lanes of Munawarabad to becoming India’s first female National Cricket Coach from Jammu and Kashmir, her journey is a powerful testament to resilience, courage, and transformation.

Seerat Tariq

At just 19, Seerat Tariq has turned her personal journey of artistic expression into a movement for empowerment and cultural revival. With national records and international accolades to her name, she uses her platform to amplify the voices of others—especially young women in conflict zones—helping them discover their strength and creativity through art.

Shabnam Kausar

In a conflict-ridden region, Shabnam Kausar stands as a beacon of purpose-driven leadership. Starting with just four students and no infrastructure, she transformed the Army Goodwill School in Bandipora into a nationally recognized educational institution. Her story exemplifies the transformative power of education, vision, and resilience.

Suhail Saeed Lone

Born in Bandipora and scarred by the violence of militancy, Suhail Saeed Lone could have succumbed to disillusionment. Instead, he channeled his trauma into storytelling through cinema. Now working in Mumbai’s film industry, he uses the medium to share narratives of courage, sacrifice, and patriotism, turning pain into powerful, purposeful expression.

Sarwar Bulbul

Sarwar Bulbul is preserving and redefining Kashmir’s spiritual and cultural legacy through the timeless medium of music. As a celebrated Naat Khwan and founder of the Bulbul Academy of Performing Arts (BAPA) in rural Rafabad, he mentors underprivileged youth in Kashmiri classical, Sufi, and devotional music—ensuring that age-old traditions are passed on with reverence and relevance.

Irtiqa Ayoub

Irtiqa Ayoub is changing the game—literally—for women in Kashmir. As the region’s youngest Rugby Development Officer, she challenges patriarchal norms in a male-dominated sport. Her work promotes empowerment, equality, and confidence among young women, showing that sports can be a powerful platform for social change.

Anissa Nabi

Anissa Nabi seamlessly fuses public service with personal passion. As a JKAS officer and Chief Sports Officer, she champions grassroots sports development across Jammu and Kashmir. A marathoner and fitness advocate, she founded the Wondrous Women community and serves as an ambassador for the Fit India Movement—proving that leadership thrives on action, inclusivity, and inspiration.

Ghulam Nabi Tantray

Ghulam has launched educational institutions such as a B.Ed. college in Bandipora and the Doon International School in Jammu to mentoring rising sports stars like Tajamul Islam, Ghulam Nabi Tantray has made community empowerment his life’s mission. In times of crisis, he has stepped up with compassion and aid. Despite accolades at the national and international levels, he remains deeply rooted in his community—proving that true leadership begins with purpose, not position.

Mohammad Hafeez Furqanabadi

Mohammad Hafeez Furqanabadi has dedicated his life to transforming society through education and compassion. In an environment where girls’ education was often discouraged, he visited homes personally to shift mindsets and advocate for equality. As a teacher and founder of a charitable trust, he has provided free education and resources to countless underprivileged children—regardless of religion or background—promoting communal harmony and opportunity.

Wajahat Farooq Bhat

Once a stone-pelting teenager driven by rage and radical ideologies, Wajahat Farooq Bhat’s life took a transformative turn after an unexpected encounter with SSP Imtiyaz Hussain in Baramulla in 2018. As a young man from Sheeri village near Baramulla, Wajahat grew up amid narratives of jihad, revenge, and martyrdom, reinforced by mosque sermons and community glorification of violence. However, a deeply personal moment, witnessing the hypocrisy of a local cleric, and later, a heart-to-heart with the soft-spoken SSP during his NCC stint, triggered his awakening. Imtiyaz’s message. Today, he leads Jammu and Kashmir Save Youth Save Future, a grassroots organisation that has helped deradicalise over 3,000 Kashmiri youth. Wajahat aspires to take his mission global, to inspire hope where despair once reigned.

These changemakers may not often make headlines, but their impact is undeniable. Through courage, creativity, and conviction, they are not only rewriting narratives in Kashmir but also illuminating a path for others to follow. Their stories are a reminder that even in the most challenging environments, transformation is possible—quietly, steadily, and powerfully. In the days to come Awaz-The Voice will bring their detailed stories for our readers.

source: http://www.awazthevoice.in / Awaz, The Voice / Home> Stories / by ATV, posted by Aasha Khosa / June 22nd, 2025

Zakat Conference in Patna Advocates for Institutionalized Charity to Combat Poverty

Community Involvement / Social Issues, Leaders, , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Patna, BIHAR :

Patna:

The Zakat Centre India (ZCI), Patna, hosted a high-profile conference at the A.N. Sinha Institute of Social Science, bringing together community leaders, scholars, and financial experts to discuss the transformative potential of organized Zakat. The event highlighted a shift from individual giving to a structured “social security” model aimed at empowering marginalized sections through transparency and professional management.

Chief guest Amir Subhani, retired IAS officer and former Bihar Home Secretary, said Zakat is a core element of the Islamic economic system and a guarantee of social security for the weak and poor. He observed that economic inequality exists in every society and cannot be erased by force, noting that the collapse of communism proved such models unsustainable. A degree of inequality, he suggested, can foster mutual dependence, gratitude, cooperation, and empathy among social groups.

Subhani compared faith-based welfare with state-led systems in Europe, Canada, Australia, and the Netherlands, where governments provide extensive social security through taxes. While India has welfare schemes, he said they remain inadequate given widespread poverty. He noted that the estimated Zakat pool forms a significant “corpus”, yet is largely distributed informally, often without verification.

An institutionalized system, he stressed, ensures proper assessment of eligibility, scale of need, and appropriate assistance. Students, aspiring entrepreneurs, and destitute individuals such as widows and the elderly all require tailored support. Organized networks can investigate cases effectively, making collective Zakat more impactful than isolated charity.

Reflecting on ZCI’s work, Subhani said many of his initial concerns about fund allocation and beneficiaries were addressed during the program. He expressed confidence in the Centre’s transparency, especially as it is led by a Chartered Accountant, and suggested issuing payment receipts to strengthen donor trust.

He emphasized coupling financial aid with mentorship. Many poor recipients, he noted, spend business funds on urgent consumption needs and lack entrepreneurial skills. Recalling government Entrepreneurship Training programs for street vendors—where he observed strong Muslim participation—he highlighted practical guidance such as customer interaction, negotiation, body language, repeat business strategies, and digital payments. Financial assistance, he concluded, should be paired with structured guidance.

Keynote speaker Maulana Rizwan Ahmad Islahi described Zakat as central to maintaining social balance in Muslim society. Dr. Rizwan Ahmad Rafiqui of ZCI Delhi stressed organized collection and distribution to maximize impact. CA SS Quadri outlined management protocols and transparency measures, while Advocate Mohammad Naushad presented the annual report. The program opened with Quran recitation and concluded with a vote of thanks by Quamar Warsi.

source: http://www.radiancenews.com / Radiance News / Home> Latest News> Report / by Sami Ahmad / February 16th, 2026

Bahmani Kings Wanted the Welfare of All: Muhammad Naseemuddin Faris

Karnataka (under research project), Leaders, Royal Families, PreIndependence -Descendants (wef. Jan 02nd,2022), , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Bidar, KARNATAKA :

Bidar:

Scholars at a historical symposium in Bidar highlighted the inclusive governance, educational focus, and cultural contributions of the Bahmani kings. The event examined political, social, literary, educational, and developmental aspects of the Bahmani era.

Speaking at the symposium, Muhammad Naseemuddin Faris, retired dean of Maulana Azad Urdu University, Hyderabad, said the Bahmani rulers worked for the welfare of all sections of society. He said the kings governed by building trust across religions and social groups. He added that they maintained cordial relations with neighbouring states and ensured peace and stability.

Faris said the Bahmani rulers established several educational institutions and promoted learning. He noted their encouragement of the Urdu language and literature. He also said the rulers supported spiritual growth by inviting Islamic scholars from Iran, Iraq, and Syria. He highlighted the implementation of the Kharej system, which helped strengthen water conservation practices.

Jamaat e Islami Hind State Secretary Labid Shafi said knowledge of history remained essential for shaping society. He said certain communal groups were misusing history to spread hatred and distort facts. He described the symposium as an important step toward informed understanding of the Bahmani legacy.

Several scholars delivered thematic lectures. Muhammad Fahimuddin spoke on religion and Sufism. Dr Rais Fatima discussed economic prosperity. Dr Manzoor Ahmed traced the development of Urdu literature. Dr Abdul Majeed addressed architecture. Dr Muhammad Samiuddin focused on education. Dr Maimuna Begum examined coinage. Dr Muhammad Majeed spoke on the decline of the kingdom. Dr Ismail Khan discussed Mahmud Gavan. Dr Mushtaq Ahmed analysed political conditions.

Shamshuddin delivered the introductory address. Muhammad Mauazzam presided over the inaugural session. Hafiz Syed Atiqullah recited the Quran. Muhammad Arifuddin proposed the vote of thanks.

source: http://www.radiancenews.com / Radiance News / Home> Latest News> Report / by Radiance News Bureau / February 07th, 2026