As part of its ongoing mission to empower women through education and access to essential services, The Women Education & Empowerment Trust (TWEET) took a notable step by organizing a specialized camp at its Mahila Help Desk in Kanchan Kunj here today.
The camp was carefully crafted to help women navigate and understand various welfare schemes provided by both government and non-governmental organizations. This initiative was focused on empowering women by making crucial resources more accessible and ensuring they receive the benefits they deserve. Through this vital support, TWEET aims to positively impact the lives of women in the community, helping them to overcome obstacles and enhance their quality of life.
A total of 15 women, who needed assistance, attended the camp. The participants were guided through the intricacies of several important welfare schemes.
TWEET volunteers, Muskan and Zuhra, played a crucial role in the event, offering personalized guidance and support to each attendee. They were joined by Faizan from Nagarik Vikas Kendra (NVK), who provided additional expertise and assistance.
Among the key schemes discussed were the Delhi Ladli Scheme, which is designed to support the education of girl children, the Widow Pension Scheme, and the Old Age Pension Scheme. These schemes are vital for providing financial support to women in vulnerable situations, and the camp ensured that the attendees understood how to apply for and benefit from them.
In addition to explaining these schemes, the volunteers also addressed common issues related to documentation. Many women face challenges due to incomplete or incorrect documentation, which can hinder their ability to access welfare benefits. The volunteers offered detailed guidance on how to rectify these issues, including where to go and what steps to take to correct their documentation.
source: http:www.radiancenews.com / Radiance News / Home> Focus> Latest News> Social Service / by Radiance News Service / September 11th, 2024
Syeda Reha Khadri has been awarded a gold medal for scoring 8.65 CGPA in MSc Chemistry. She is a student of Dr. G Shankar Government Women’s First Grade College and Post Graduate Study Centre, Udupi. Reha scored high ranks in the post-graduate exams conducted by Mangalore University for the academic year 2022-23.
“I put in my efforts, and Allah gave me the result,” Reha expressed gratefully, emphasizing the importance of dedication, focus, hard work, and prayer.
She conveyed a powerful message to the upcoming generation: “Whatever you do, put in a lot of dedication and effort. It’s not just about the result but about being satisfied with the amount of effort you put into any activity. Be righteous, truthful, and honest and grab every opportunity, despite any hindrances, and excel in it.”
Reha Khadri shared her study routine and the factors contributing to her success. “I always made sure to keep up with my classes and prepare my notes,” she explained. “I would wake up early in the morning to prepare, be attentive in class, and understand every topic thoroughly before attending. Reading a lot of books and the support from my college in providing resources were key. My teachers and parents have always been supportive and ready to help.”
Reha credited the eco-friendly and supportive environment of her college for fostering her academic growth and encouraging her participation in various competitions. Her motivation stemmed from a desire to excel and create good opportunities for her future, especially in her Ph.D. studies at MIT Manipal, where she is focusing on renewable energy under the guidance of Dr. Murti Dharma Pura.
source: http://www.radiancenews.com / Radiance News / Home> Education> Focus> Markers of Excellence / by Mohammed Atherulla Shariff / June 15th, 2024
Asma Gulzar (Left) in Indo-Arabic dress with another model
New Delhi :
“Asma Gulzar isn’t just designing clothes—she’s designing her own path. A mind that refuses limits and a heart that thrives on passion. Keep creating, keep inspiring,” reads a social media post from one of the world’s leading fashion designers.
Today, Asma Gulzar is a prominent name in the Indo-fusion fashion space. Her stores in Delhi showcase a blend of Indo-Western and Indo-Arab designs, reflecting her distinctive aesthetic.
Her latest venture is a signature perfume from her brand, launched in Delhi during her annual Dawat-e-Iftar. The event has become one of the capital’s most talked-about Iftar gatherings, attended by eminent citizens, religious leaders, and fashion icons.
Asma Gulzar receiving SMSE award from industrialist Kumarmangalam Birla
“Life is a blessing,” says the celebrity designer, whose journey has been marked by resilience and determination.
Four years ago, Asma was diagnosed with a serious, life-threatening illness. “I was devastated and kept asking, ‘Why me?’ But soon I gathered myself and decided to face the disease with positivity and mindfulness,” she told Anjali Ada in an interview for Awaz-the Voice.
Following surgery, she underwent treatment for nearly two and a half months. “Initially, a family member would accompany me. Then I decided I must fight it alone.”
Asma Gulzar receiving an award from Dharmendra
She began visiting the hospital by herself. “After each session, I would pack the drip bags attached to my body into a plastic bag and hide it under my dress. From the hospital, I would go straight to my store in a nearby mall,” she recalled.
That same indomitable spirit defines how Asma runs her business today.
Her designs have found their way into Bollywood wardrobes, with celebrities such as Malaika Arora, Nushrratt Bharuccha, Pooja Batra, Celina Jaitly, and Shama Sikander, among others, wearing her creations.
Beyond commercial success, she has earned artistic recognition as well. Many in the industry look up to her for guidance. She has collaborated with international production houses, including serving as lead designer for BollyGoods Edition 2. She also played a key role in the Asian Trunk Show in London and has appeared on BBC London.
Asma Gulzar
For Asma, becoming a designer was never just about formal training at the National Institute of Fashion Technology. “Design is in my blood,” she says.
Growing up in Lucknow, she was particular about what she wore. She would brief the neighbourhood tailor—“Masterji”—in detail about her designs. “I even made him promise not to share my designs with anyone, not even my sister,” she recalls with a smile.
She believes creativity is innate. “You can see it in every corner of my home,” she says.
As a designer, her priority has always been to stand out. Interestingly, during her fashion shows, audiences often end up ordering the outfit she herself is wearing, rather than the ones showcased on models.
Asma Gulzar with actor and philanthropist Sonu Sood
Today, Asma runs a full-fledged business and manages a factory. “I started working at 17 and have been in this field for 20 years. It wasn’t easy,” she says.
She interned with Manish Malhotra, a crucial step in her journey. “In our industry, no matter how many degrees you have, unless you’ve worked with established names, it’s difficult to be taken seriously.”
While she acknowledges that today’s designers benefit from social media and artificial intelligence tools, she has clear advice: “Be original. Never copy designs. Step out of your comfort zone to gain exposure.”
Contrary to common perceptions about Muslim women facing barriers in unconventional careers, Asma says she received unwavering support from her family. “Some relatives and members of the community disapproved of a young Muslim girl taking up fashion and even modelling her own designs. But my family never let that overshadow my ambitions.”
She is the recipient of many awards including the one instituted by ther government for Small and Medium Sized Enterprises, and from the bodies which focus of women of substance.
Asma Gulzar with actor Nushrratt Bharuccha
She credits her grandmother for shaping her outlook. “She always told me never to give up. I live by three D’s—Determination, Dedication, and Discipline—and they have guided me throughout.”
Running a factory, she admits, is no easy task for a woman. “I had no prior experience. I started with just a sewing machine in my garage.”
Today, her brand has a global footprint, and she is planning to launch an exclusive menswear line. Her design philosophy remains rooted in her tagline: “Original beauty with elegance and comfort.”
Deeply spiritual, Asma believes her journey has been guided by faith. “God has held my hand through it all,” she says, adding that success is never possible without divine blessings.
See the full Interview:
source: http://www.awazthevoice.in / Awaz, The Voice / Home> Success Story / by Aasha Khosa / April 08th, 2026
In the broad landscape of society, administration, education, and culture in West Bengal, the progress of Muslim women has ushered in a new chapter today. Overcoming long-standing social barriers, superstition, and gender-based discrimination, they are now taking positions of leadership. One of the brightest faces of this transformation is Professor Shabina Nishat Omar, whose life journey stands as a remarkable example of women’s self-empowerment in modern society.
Active in the academic world for more than 25 years, Prof Omar is not only an educator but also a skilled administrator, inspiring speaker, and fluent multilingual presenter.
She is currently serving as Officer on Special Duty (OSD) in the Directorate of Higher Education under the Government of West Bengal.
Professor Shabina Nishat Omar – the woman of substance
At the same time, her academic leadership as Head of the English Department at Acharya Jagadish Chandra Bose College is equally commendable.
An important chapter of her professional career was her 19 years of teaching at Milli Al-Ameen College for Women, as Principal-in-Charge for 15 years.
During this time, she played a major role in transforming the institution into a modern, well-organized, and student-friendly campus.
Beyond administrative excellence, Professor Omar’s multidimensional activities have given her a distinct identity. She is a skilled debater, eloquent speaker, and outstanding reciter, through which she has expressed her views on various national and international platforms.
Professor Shabina Nishat Omar (Third from left) at a College function
Her active involvement in promoting women’s empowerment, digital education, gender studies, and inclusive education has established her as an influential thinker in contemporary society.
Her presence in seminars, workshops, and academic platforms carries a powerful message for the younger generation—that education is not merely a profession, but one of the strongest tools for social transformation. As a speaker and trainer, she emphasizes leadership development, women’s self-reliance, language proficiency, and strategies to address modern social challenges.
In recognition of her contributions, she has received several honours, including the Damini SHE Award and the Disrupt Women’s Leadership Award.
Her nomination to the International Visitor Leadership Program of the United States Department of State further strengthened the international recognition of her work.
At present, she is also actively involved in several administrative and academic responsibilities associated with University of Calcutta.
Professor Shabina Nishat Omar
As Bursar and Internship Nodal Officer at the college level, her initiatives in connecting students with practical education are especially noteworthy.
The journey of Professor Shabina Nishat Omar is not merely a story of personal success; it is a blueprint of women’s self-establishment in modern society. Personalities like her prove that with the right vision, dedication to education, and commitment to society, a woman not only creates her own place but also opens the path for others.
Her presence on seminar stages is not just participation as a speaker—it is a source of inspiration, where a woman firmly establishes her position in modern society through knowledge, experience, and leadership.
source: http://www.awazthevoice.in / Awaz, The Voice / Home> Success Story / by Shompi Chakraborty Purkayas / June 09th , 2026
Dr. Shakila Banu N, a stalwart in the field of education, boasting over three decades of experience, is not only shaping young minds but also uplifting the marginalized through her altruistic endeavors. In her role as Principal at Malnad English School in Rajivnagar, Bengaluru, she exemplifies the essence of compassionate leadership.
Partnering with Major Bari’s team, Dr. Shakila Banu extends a lifeline to orphaned children, ensuring they not only receive an education but also have the necessary resources for their holistic development. From covering school fees to providing basic essentials like school bags, water bottles, uniforms, shoes, and even mattresses, she leaves no stone unturned in her mission to provide a nurturing environment for these vulnerable youths. Her commitment extends beyond the classroom, as she also extends support to widows and their families, offering monthly groceries and special provisions for festive occasions like Eid.
Dr. Banu’s compassion extends further to elderly widows, whom she ensures receive regular access to vital medications, underscoring her holistic approach to community welfare. Her tireless efforts serve as a beacon of hope, inspiring others to join in the noble pursuit of serving the less fortunate. Through her selfless dedication, Dr. Banu sets a shining example of empathy and altruism, enriching the lives of those she touches and leaving an indelible mark on her community.
source: http://www.radiancenews.com / Radiance News / Home> Focus> Social Service / by Muarrah Nisar / May 09th, 2024
In an exclusive interview, with Sajida A Zubair , an educator, counselor, script-writer, voice-over artist and Radiance Correspondent for Andaman and Nicobar Islands, we delve into the inspiring journey of Zohra Banu, who recently achieved the remarkable feat of securing the 469th All India Rank (AIR) in the UPSC examinations.
Hailing from the remote Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Zohra’s story is one of determination, courage, and unwavering commitment to service. From her humble beginnings at Ummat Public School to her pursuit of Engineering in computer science at Andhra University, her educational background has molded her into the resilient and driven individual she is today. Transitioning from a successful corporate career to civil services, Zohra’s decision reflects her deep-seated desire to make a meaningful contribution to society. Let’s uncover the motivations, challenges, and aspirations of this inspiring young woman on her journey to serve the nation.
SZ: Could you share with us how your educational background and experiences have influenced your personality and career choices?
ZB: Certainly. My educational journey has played a significant role in shaping who I am today. The patience and work ethic instilled by my teachers during my school years, coupled with the resilience learned during my university days, have been instrumental in my career choices. Additionally, my corporate experience highlighted the importance of values, ultimately leading me to pursue a career dedicated to serving society.
SZ: Moving from the Andaman and Nicobar Islands to a more competitive environment must have been quite a challenge. How did this transition affect you and your approach to academics?
ZB: Indeed, it was a significant transition. Initially, I felt lost and experienced a dip in self-confidence. However, I embraced the challenge and realized that hard work was the key to success. This experience taught me the importance of consistent effort and resilience in the face of adversity.
SZ: What motivated you to pursue the UPSC exams, considering the shift from a successful corporate career?
ZB: Interestingly, UPSC was not a childhood dream for me. It was witnessing my roommate’s dedication to the exams that sparked my curiosity. My primary motivation has always been to contribute to society, and I saw the UPSC exams as an opportunity to do just that, aligning more closely with my values and aspirations.
SZ: It’s inspiring to hear about your dedication to service. As a Muslim woman from Calicut in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, did you face any challenges in pursuing your dreams, and how did your parents’ support help you overcome them?
ZB: While challenges certainly existed, I am grateful for the unwavering support of my parents. Despite societal pressures and stereotypes, my parents encouraged me to pursue my aspirations, emphasizing that the sky was the limit. Their support and belief in me were invaluable in overcoming any obstacles I encountered along the way.
SZ: Faith often plays a significant role in navigating challenges. How has your relationship with your faith helped you during your journey?
ZB: Faith has been a pillar of strength for me throughout my journey. Connecting with a Higher Power provided me with solace during challenging times, enabling me to face setbacks with hopefulness and perseverance. It has been a source of comfort and guidance, guiding me through both the highs and lows of my academic and UPSC journey.
SZ: Your commitment to serving society is truly commendable. How do you plan to advocate for the rights and interests of marginalized communities, especially in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands?
ZB: I am deeply committed to advocating for the rights of marginalized communities, particularly children, women, and tribals. If given the opportunity, I would work tirelessly to address their grievances and ensure their voices are heard. Additionally, I aim to enhance the visibility of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands on the global stage, shedding light on the unique challenges faced by its diverse communities.
SZ: Finally, what message would you like to convey to our readers?
ZB: I would like to express my gratitude to my parents for their unwavering support and encouragement. Their belief in me has been my driving force throughout my journey. To all the parents out there, I urge you to recognize and nurture the potential of your children, regardless of societal pressures or expectations. Believe in them, support them, and watch them soar.
source: http://www.radiancenews.com / Radiance News / Home> Focus> Markers of Excellence / by Sajida A Zubair / May 03rd, 2024
Ummeed Foundation organized a Muslim Samaj Pratibha Samman Samaroh (Talent Recognition Ceremony) at Hillview Hotel here Sunday. The ceremony felicitated 90 meritorious students, government employees, new Huffaz (Quran memorizers), Ulama and other achievers from the Muslim community.
Hafiz Umair, a Divyang, Qualified NEET exam, Now Pursuing MBBS from Govt Medical College Kota, being felicitated
Presiding over the program, former College Principal Professor Dr. ID Khan shared his experiences, saying that after becoming a Hafiz-e-Quran, he became a Chemistry Professor. “No matter what the circumstances, we should not lose courage. We have to achieve our goals with determination,” he emphasized.
Earlier, the program commenced with Quran recitation by Hafiz Shakir.
President Yasin Khan and member Syed Khizar Ali said the event was organized to encourage and motivate the talented people of the community.
Chief Guest Saeed Ahmed felicitates Atif Hussain, who got admission in a Veterinary College
Chief guest Saeed Ahmed (Retd. RAS) said, “We should focus on the education of children from nursery onwards, not after 10th or 12th.”
He said unless we strengthen the foundation of children from the very beginning, our children will not be able to reach high positions. He emphasized the need to pay special attention to science and mathematics from the very beginning.
Tehsildar Manzoor Ali Diwan, Guest of Honor, called upon the audience to send their children to administrative services as much as possible. He motivated children to get more and more education and contribute to society.
Naib Tehsildar Mohammad Sadiq, Special Guest, said even if we have to go to China to get education, we should send our children. “Today’s era is of higher education; we should give our children quality education.”
Shahar Qazi Molana Izhar Hussain addressing the program
Shahar Qazi Maulana Izhar Hussain, another Special Guest, said, “We should focus on making our children good human beings along with making them doctors and engineers. No matter what position we get, we should remain honest and do our work honestly. Always keep in mind that Allah is watching us whether anyone sees us or not, and we will have to account for all our deeds on the Day of Judgment.”
Ataur Rahman (RSEB), yet another Special Guest, said, “We should focus on giving our children religious education along with modern education.”
Only Muslim Sanskrit Teacher in Chhabra Tehsil Shameem Bano, MA (Sanskrit) Gold Medalist, NET Qualified, being felicitated
At the end of the program, Maulana Arif Nadwi extended a vote of thanks while Professor Raheem Khan conducted the program.
Former District Congress President Nizamuddin Khan, Municipal Vice President Abrar Ahmed Siddiqui, and other dignitaries were also present at the program.
Ummeed Foundation members Shafiq Khan, Wasim Khan, Rizwan Khan, Shadab Mansoori, and Irfan Khan, along with other members, played a key role in making the program a success.
source: http://www.radiancenews.com / Radiance News / Home> Latest News> Markers of Excellence / by Raheem Khan / March 12th, 2024
IPS Sultana in Spotlight Again After Viral Video at Bengal CM Swearing-In. She attracted national attention in February 2024 when she was part of the team constituted to investigate allegations of atrocities against women in Sandeshkhali.
Kolkata:
The 2015 batch IPS officer Papiya Sultana, the Superintendent of Police (SP) of Paschim Medinipur, is once again in the spotlight after a viral video from the swearing-in ceremony of Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari sparked intense discussion on social media.
The senior police officer, who previously drew attention during the Sandeshkhali controversy, is widely recognized as West Bengal’s first Muslim woman IPS officer and has built a distinguished career marked by academic excellence and trailblazing achievements.
Why Papiya Sultana Is in the News
Papiya Sultana has come under scrutiny after a video from the recent swearing-in ceremony appeared to show her remaining seated when Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived at the venue.
The footage has generated debate online, with critics questioning her conduct during the high-profile event. The incident has added to earlier controversies surrounding her role in the Sandeshkhali investigation.
Role in the Sandeshkhali Case
Papiya Sultana attracted national attention in February 2024 when she was part of the team constituted to investigate allegations of atrocities against women in Sandeshkhali.
During the inquiry, she faced criticism after reportedly asking complainants for documentary and medical evidence related to the allegations. Her handling of the case became a subject of political debate in West Bengal.
West Bengal’s First Muslim Woman IPS Officer
Papiya Sultana is regarded as the first Muslim woman from West Bengal to join the Indian Police Service.
She began her policing career by clearing the state police examination and later earned promotion to the IPS through the State Police Service quota.
IPS Batch and Current Posting
Name: Papiya Sultana
IPS Batch: 2015 (promoted from State Police Service)
Cadre: West Bengal
Current Posting: Superintendent of Police, Paschim Medinipur
Date of Birth: July 5, 1980
Early Life and Family Background
Born in Bauria in Howrah, Papiya Sultana grew up in a middle-class family that strongly supported education.
Father: Arjahan Haldar, an engineer
Mother: Salema Jehan, a teacher at a madrasa
Her parents encouraged her academic ambitions and career aspirations from an early age.
Impressive Academic Qualifications
Papiya Sultana is known for her exceptional educational achievements. Her qualifications reportedly include:
MBA
Master’s in Gender Development
LLB
LLM
Diplomas in Spanish and French
She has also pursued doctoral research in Women’s Studies at Jadavpur University.
Career Journey: From State Police (WBPS) to IPS
Papiya first joined the West Bengal Police Service in 2008 after clearing the examination on her first attempt. She began her career as a Deputy Superintendent of Police (DySP) in the West Bengal Police.
Her consistent performance led to her induction into the Indian Police Service as part of the 2015 select list.
Over the years, she has served in several important roles, including:
SP, Home Guard Organisation
Additional charge of Barrackpore 1st Battalion
Superintendent of Police, Paschim Medinipur
Personal Life
Papiya Sultana married software engineer Badrul Alam in 2006. She is a mother and has often spoken about drawing inspiration from Kiran Bedi, one of India’s most prominent police officers.
Her journey continues to inspire many young women, especially those aspiring to join the civil services.
Why Her Story Matters
From a small town in Howrah to becoming a pioneering IPS officer, Papiya Sultana’s journey reflects determination, academic excellence, and resilience. However, the criticism and controversies surrounding some of her actions have also kept her in the news for reasons that sparked public debate and dissatisfaction among sections of people.
Whether praised for her achievements or criticized for her handling of sensitive issues, she remains one of the most talked-about and influential women police officers in West Bengal.
source: http://www.indianmasterminds.com / Indian Masterminds / Home> Bureaucracy News> IPS> News / by Indian Masterminds Bureau / May 11th, 2026
Safna Nazarudeen, youngest Muslim woman from Kerala to crack UPSC with All India Rank 45, now serves as Labour Commissioner. Her journey from a Kendriya Vidyalaya student to an IAS officer reveals the power of early focus, disciplined routines and a desire to serve.
Growing up in Valiyavila, Thiruvananthapuram, Safna Nazarudeen was surrounded by the world of public service. Her father rose from the ranks of the Kerala Police, eventually retiring as an inspector. Her mother worked as a typist in the state employment exchange. From an early age, Safna watched the values of discipline, dedication, and community service take shape in her household.
It was around class 8 when she first entertained the idea of joining the civil services, not because she knew the mechanics of the exam, but because she sensed that an IAS officer could do a lot for society.
She attended Kendriya Vidyalaya, excelling academically and choosing the social sciences stream, against her father’s wish for science. Undeterred, she pursued a BA in Economics at Mar Ivanios College, topping the Kerala University in her batch.
CRACKING THE UPSC IN HER FIRST ATTEMPT
In 2020, at the age of 23, Safna cleared the Union Public Service Commission exam in her first attempt, securing All India Rank 45. She became the youngest Muslim woman from Kerala to enter the IAS.
Her preparation followed a rigorous pattern: she turned off social media, spent two hours daily on newspapers, attended coaching classes, and devoted 7-10 hours to self-study every day. She also kept a dedicated notebook to jot down what she studied for weekend revision.
Public speaking was a challenge at first, so she practised by speaking on selected topics daily in front of a mirror, a method suggested by her mentors.
FROM ASSISTANT COLLECTOR TO LABOUR COMMISSIONER
Once she entered the Kerala cadre of the IAS (Batch 2020), Safna was posted in Malappuram district as Deputy or Assistant Collector. Over time, she rose to become the Labour Commissioner, heading the Labour Commissionerate, Government of Kerala (Thozhil Bhavan, Thiruvananthapuram).
Her role now involves dealing with migrant labour issues, irregular employment, unemployment and implementation of labour laws across multiple industries.
In a recent government order, she was also given an additional charge as Director of the Fisheries Department.
VALUES, APPROACH AND LEADERSHIP STYLE
While the public often assumes that bureaucrats are always under strong political pressure, Safna says the reality is more complex. Multiple stakeholders need to be consulted and aligned before solutions that benefit all can be implemented. She says that while busy days are inevitable, there are also comparatively lighter days and that the job offers a mix of responsibility and reasonable balance.
Her early life, seeing a working‐class household, understanding privilege and the importance of service, shaped her commitment. She has spoken of recognising during her school days that she was more privileged than many, and that propelled her to aspire to serve people who were less advantaged.
WHAT HER STORY OFFERS TO ASPIRANTS
Start early with your goal: Safna’s idea of joining IAS surfaced as a teenager, even without full clarity of the exam system.
Make your dream your own: It wasn’t family pressure; it was her personal choice, and she owned it.
Structure matters: A disciplined routine, self-study and regular revision helped build momentum.
Complement knowledge with skills: She recognised the importance of speaking and presentation early.
Service mindset: Her ambition was not just personal status but to bring change and fairness for others.
LOOKING FORWARD
At a still young age in her bureaucratic career, Safna’s journey is already remarkable. But there is room ahead for deeper policy initiatives, sectoral reforms in labour, and perhaps district- or state-wide programmes that shape livelihoods and rights. Her trajectory suggests that when the aspiration aligns with preparation and execution, leadership roles in public service open up, and they carry the potential to impact lives.
source: http://www.indianmasterminds.com / Indian Masterminds / Home> Features> UPSC Stories / by Bhakti Kothari / November 05th, 2025
Across India’s administrative corridors, diplomatic missions, universities, welfare departments, and heritage institutions, a generation of Muslim women is redefining leadership through intellect, perseverance, and public service. Their journeys are rooted in struggle, shaped by education, and driven by a deep commitment to society.
Under the Parvaz series, Awaz-the Voice brings you the stories of ten such Muslim women, whose lives and work should become an inspiration for all women in India.
Adeeba Anam Ashfaq Ahmed Shaikh
Adeeba Anam Ashfaq Ahmed Shaikh
Adeeba Anam Ashfaq Ahmed Shaikh’s journey from a modest home in Yavatmal to becoming Maharashtra’s first Muslim woman IAS officer is a story of determination overcoming adversity.
The daughter of an auto-rickshaw driver, she rose above financial hardship, repeated failures, and social prejudice to secure All India Rank 142 in UPSC 2024. Her success stands as a beacon of hope for countless girls from rural and marginalised communities who dream of changing their destinies through education and hard work.
Dr Adeela Abdulla
Dr Adeela Abdulla
Dr Adeela Abdulla represents a compassionate and thoughtful face of governance in Kerala. One of the early Muslim women from Malabar to join the IAS, she has played a vital role in strengthening social welfare systems and urban governance.
Whether through her work in Kerala’s Solid Waste Management Project or as Special Secretary in the Social Justice Department, her leadership reflects empathy, accountability, and a deep commitment to human dignity, particularly for vulnerable sections of society.
Dr Chabina Hassan
Dr Chabina Hassan
In Assam, Dr Chabina Hassan has emerged as a powerful force in heritage conservation and archaeology. As Deputy Director at the Directorate of Archaeology, Assam, she played a key role in securing UNESCO World Heritage recognition for Charaideo Maidam and made groundbreaking discoveries in Dima Hasao.
Balancing motherhood, academics, and fieldwork, she has transformed archaeology into a bridge connecting communities with their cultural roots while inspiring younger generations to value history and preservation.
Dr Syed Sehrish Asgar
Dr Syed Sehrish Asgar
Dr Syed Sehrish Asgar’s career reflects excellence, resilience, and transformative public service. A doctor by training, she topped the J&K Administrative Services examination in 2010 and later secured AIR 118 in UPSC.
From becoming Budgam’s first woman Deputy Commissioner to spearheading initiatives like the SAATH programme that empowered over five lakh rural women through Self Help Groups, her administrative journey has been marked by innovation and social impact.
Her recognition with the Prime Minister’s Award for Excellence in Civil Services further highlights her contributions to governance and public welfare.
Naghath Tabassum Abroo
Naghath Tabassum Abroo
Naghath Tabassum Abroo’s life story is deeply rooted in the strength of family values, education, and perseverance. After a decade-long break from academics due to marriage and motherhood, she returned to secure third rank in the KPSC examination and later rose to become one of Karnataka’s pioneering Muslim women IAS officers
Through initiatives in women’s welfare, sanitation, healthcare, and e-governance, including Bengaluru One and Khajane II, she demonstrated how compassionate leadership and administrative innovation can improve public systems and people’s lives.
Nagma Mohammad Mallick
Nagma Mohammad Mallick
Nagma Mohammad Mallick carved history as India’s first Muslim woman IFS officer and built a distinguished diplomatic career through quiet yet impactful service. Currently serving as India’s Ambassador to Japan and the Marshall Islands, she has represented India in several countries while strengthening international partnerships in diplomacy, technology, and economic cooperation.
Through her thoughtful articulation of democracy, dialogue, and non-violence, Mallick has projected India’s values on the global stage with dignity and restraint.
Nahida Zam Zam
Nahida Zam Zam
Nahida Zam Zam has become known as a fearless and people-centric administrator in Karnataka. Through her public speeches and grassroots engagement, she consistently advocates for women’s empowerment, education, and freedom of thought.Her dedicated fieldwork during the COVID-19 pandemic, even while pregnant, earned her admiration as a compassionate officer deeply connected with ordinary people.
Whether speaking to students, women, or marginalised communities, she challenges restrictive social norms and encourages self-reliance and awareness.
Syeda Saiyidain Hameed
Syeda Saiyidain Hameed
Syeda Saiyidain Hameed stands as one of the most influential voices for women’s rights, peace, and social justice in India. An acclaimed author, educationist, former member of the Planning Commission, and member of the National Commission for Women, she has devoted her life to defending human rights and promoting dialogue across communities.
As a founder of the Muslim Women’s Forum and Women’s Initiative for Peace in South Asia, she worked tirelessly for peace-building efforts between India and Pakistan, proving that courage and compassion can coexist in public life.
Professor Shabina Nishat Omar
Professor Shabina Nishat Omar
Professor Shabina Nishat Omarhas emerged as a dynamic symbol of academic leadership and women’s empowerment in West Bengal. With over twenty-five years in education and administration, she has transformed institutions through her leadership while advocating inclusive education, digital literacy, and gender awareness.
As an educator, speaker, and administrator, she continues to inspire young people to view education not merely as a profession, but as a powerful tool for social transformation and self-reliance.
Zaynab Syed
Zaynab Syed
Zaynab Syed’s journey reflects perseverance, discipline, and dedication to public service. From overcoming repeated failures in the civil services examination to securing an All India Rank 107, she proved the power of resilience and self-belief. Today, through her role at TRIFED, she works to strengthen tribal livelihoods and expand economic opportunities for artisans and self-help groups across eastern India.
Her story demonstrates how determination and commitment can turn setbacks into opportunities to serve society meaningfully.
By breaking barriers and creating spaces for future generations, they are not only shaping institutions but also redefining what leadership looks like in contemporary India.
source: http://www.awazthevoice.in / Awaz, The Voice / Home> The Changemakers / by Vidushi Gaur /May 30th, 2026
