Nazia Parveen, who secured 670th rank in the UPSC list of the All India Civil Services on her fourth attempt, says it’s wrong to marry women at a young age and deprive them of getting educated up to a higher level.
Nazia Parveen is originally from the Giridih district of Jharkhand.The daughter of a businessman and a homemaker mother, Nazia says she completed her schooling in her native place.
Thereafter she joined the Aligarh Muslim University for her graduation. Dreaming of becoming a civil servant, Nazia joined the residential coaching of Jamia Millia Islamia for civil services.
Nazia says that Jamia RCA played an important role in her success.
Nazia wrote the Jharkhand State Public Service Commission examination twice unsuccessfully. On her experience of failures, Nazia says, one should not feel disappointed and must keep struggling till the goal is achieved.
“In my journey of six years, I failed thrice and experienced both positive and negative emotions and thoughts. I always choose to pursue the positive ideas and kept my focus on clear the Civil services,” she told Awaz-the Voice.
On the educational levels of women, especially among Muslims, Nazia said early marriage of women is at the core of this problem. Even today in our society girls are married early, and they are not given a chance to get higher education, it is important to pay attention to this.”
source: http://www.awazthevoice.in / Awaz, The Voice / Home> Story / by Mohammad Akram, New Delhi / April 30th, 2024
For ex-health commissioner of London Khurshid Alam, education is the only solution for all the problems currently gripping the Muslim community. Saira Aslam talks to Mr Alam for muslimmirror.com about his life struggles, a tragic childhood and his growing up braving it all.
He has several feathers to his cap – from being the health commissioner of London, serving the Indian Army, setting up a vocational training institute in the UK to adopting a school in Nuh near Gurgaon, but Alam feels it is important to continue to learn.
Having lost his mother when he was just three years’ old and then later losing his father at six years’ old meant the end of the world for him. And if this wasn’t enough, he also witnessed the 1964 riots in Jamshedpur in which hundreds of people were killed. But, he says what kept him going and helped him immensely later in life was his education, which he managed to complete despite all the challenges that one could think of.
For over 20 years, Alam has been involved extensively in a variety of roles ranging from being an advisor to leading a wide range of charities and public services in health, education and social care. He has developed and implemented several policies and strategic plans of improving public services and access; and promoting good healthcare and education for community, including working with and giving advice to government bodies and other organisations internationally.
Currently based in London, he has adopted a school in Nuh district, about 45 kilometres (28 mi) from Gurgaon. He has also worked out collaboration between the institution and a school in London, and wants to see his school grow to be the region’s leading school in the next three years. Within six months of its adoption, the school has won two prestigious awards, giving him hopes that the future for the institution looks bright. He points out that the people of the district, who are mostly Muslims, are a marginalised lot and the literacy rate is extremely low.
“Muslims are today lagging so much behind than other communities, not only in India but across the world. And unfortunately, this gap is rising rapidly. Hence, a multi-pronged approach should be undertaken backed by innovative projects on the grass-root level by authorities as well as non-government organisations in coordination and support of each other,” he told MuslimMirror.com during his recent visit to India.
Alam, a Commissioner of the Healthcare Commission who currently holds two other ministerial appointments – Member of Employment Tribunal and Member of Mental Health Review Tribunal, has been running training courses on healthcare and business entrepreneurship skills development programme in the UK and UAE for the past few years but feels “most satisfied” by adopting the school in Nuh, which he describes as “a very deprived area”.
He has set up the AOC International and Academy for Advanced Studies & Training International, an institution specialising in education and training in the UK. He added that he has successfully launched skill development programmes in rural areas as well as initiated women empowerment drives focusing on health, adult education, equality and anti-dowry. He says all such community efforts should focus on the youth, women and other weaker groups.
“My one word answer to all misery of Muslims in India and the world is real and meaningful education. At the same time, the community should strive to become economically and scientifically strong,” he says, adding that all efforts should revolve around the unshaken belief in the Almighty. As part of his long-term plan, he remains passionate about bringing about quality education and value added training courses in different countries.
When asked about the skill development areas Muslims should focus on, Alam says innovative and unique skills that are industry-focused and those that will provide early employment or sources of earnings to themselves and the dependents are important. For example, handicraft, stitching and sewing would be helpful for women, and so will be the basic level training for healthcare nursing assistants, primary teachers, nannies, cleaners, cooks and others.
It is also important for the youth (men) to focus on the skills required for plumbing, plastering, tiling, crane operation, taxi or auto driving, guarding, refrigeration, mechanical work, electronics repair. A society with trained primary teachers, healthcare assistants, chefs, etc is extremely important, he points out, adding that entrepreneurship should be encouraged.
Small NGO groups should reach out to more remote areas under schemes like anganwadi with result-oriented programmes. The divisions and prejudices either based on caste or class systems have proved to be huge obstacles and barriers for a progressive society. Islamic learning or other forms of learning and awareness programmes must be undertaken, particularly in rural areas, says Alam.
Teaching the basic tenets of Islam on equality should be encouraged through awareness camps alongside tackling and working with the religious institutions, bringing all stakeholders under one umbrella tactfully and avoiding differences. However, this work must be undertaken with the sole purpose of helping the Muslim community progress on all fronts, he adds.
He says the positive thing is that “awareness is increasing and we must work relentlessly to make use of every window of opportunity presented to us but remaining focused to our goals through teamwork and equality”. “In fact, in my view it is more important for women to seek complete education and acquire necessary skills,” says Alam the father of two successful daughters (one is law graduate from LSE and another doing MBBS) in his parting reply.
source: http://www.muslimmirror.com / Muslim Mirror / Home> Indian Muslim> Interviews / by Saira Aslam / January 14th, 2018
With a resolute commitment to saving lives, Excise Commissioner Faiz AQ Ahmed Mumtaz embarks on a mission to bridge the gap between life and death CPR interventions, reports Mukesh Ranjan.
Mumtaz, spurred by a conversation with his wife, Dr. Hena Shadiyah, embarked on a mission to bridge the gap between life and death by ensuring timely CPR interventions. (Photo | Express)
Jharkhand :
In a bold and unprecedented move, the Excise Department of Jharkhand has launched a groundbreaking initiative aimed at equipping individuals across various sectors with the life-saving skills of Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR).
Spearheaded by the visionary Excise Commissioner, Faiz AQ Ahmed Mumtaz, this initiative has birthed an army of over 10,000 first responders, poised to become beacons of hope in times of crisis across the state.
CPR, a vital technique employed during emergencies such as cardiac arrests or instances of respiratory distress, has long been recognition for its potential to double or even triple the chances of survival when administered promptly by trained individuals. The significance of CPR was recently underscored by a remarkable incident involving an elderly woman in Chhattisgarh, who defied death’s grip and regained consciousness upon her arrival in Bihar after a journey fraught with peril.
Mumtaz, spurred by a conversation with his wife, Dr. Hena Shadiyah, embarked on a mission to bridge the gap between life and death by ensuring timely CPR interventions. Recognizing the dire need for widespread awareness, Mumtaz initiated CPR sessions within the Excise Department, igniting a flame that spread rapidly across district offices, bars, and clubs. This initiative operates on a shoestring budget, requiring only minimal resources and a mere 1-1.5 hours per training session .
Mumtaz’s vision extends beyond mere training; he envisions a ripple effect where trained individuals become instructors, multiplying the impact of CPR expertise exponentially. Transitioning to his new role as Horticulture Director, Mumtaz is determined to ingrain CPR education into the fabric of Jharkhand’s society.
Medical professionals echo Mumtaz’s sentiment, acknowledging CPR as a fundamental aspect of health awareness. Dr. DP Singh, a general physician, commends Mumtaz’s initiative, recognising its potential to salvage countless lives lost to ignorance and apathy. Dr. Danish Ejaz, another medical expert, emphasises the critical role of CPR in augmenting survival chances during cardiac emergencies.
Testimonials from establishments like The Ruin House and Swarnrekha Bar and Restaurant in Ranchi attest to the transformative power of CPR training, empowering employees to act decisively in the face of adversity.
Sikandar Rajwar, owner of Swarnrekha Bar and Restaurant, praises Mumtaz’s efforts, affirming that his staff are now equipped to handle any cardiac emergency with aplomb.
Ripple effect
Recognizing the urgent need for widespread awareness, Mumtaz initiated CPR sessions within the Excise Department. This initiative operates on a shoestring budget, requiring only minimal resources and a mere 1-1.5 hours per training session. He envisions a ripple effect where trained individuals become instructors, multiplying the impact of CPR expertise.
source:h http://www.newindianexpress.com / The New Indian Express / Home> Good News / by Mukesh Ranjan / March 24th, 2024
In a remarkable ceremony held on Tuesday, TWEET (The Women Education & Empowerment Trust) honored 30 dedicated volunteers in the state of Jharkhand for their exceptional commitment to eradicating illiteracy.
The event, marking the culmination of a yearlong campaign titled “Freedom from Illiteracy, Each One Teach Ten,” saw the volunteers being presented with certificates in recognition of their significant contributions.
Ms. Shabnam Parween, a distinguished Member of the Jharkhand Food Commission, graced the occasion with her presence and extended heartfelt appreciation to the volunteers for their unwavering dedication to the cause of education, particularly in empowering women. In her address, Ms. Parween underscored the profound impact of women’s education on the socio-economic fabric of society, emphasizing its pivotal role in shaping future generations.
Dr. Hena Tabassum, a prominent figure in the field of education, shared her insightful perspectives on the crucial role that educated women play in fostering societal development. Her remarks resonated deeply with the audience, highlighting the transformative potential of education in uplifting communities.
Dr. Naaz Aafreen, the esteemed State Coordinator of TWEET in Jharkhand, took the opportunity to provide an overview of TWEET’s mission and initiatives, underscoring the organization’s steadfast commitment to promoting literacy and education across the region. Dr. Aafreen also presented a comprehensive account of the organization’s achievements, reaffirming TWEET’s unwavering dedication to its noble cause.
The felicitation ceremony not only celebrated the exemplary efforts of the volunteers but also served as a poignant reminder of the collective responsibility towards fostering a literate and enlightened society. As the applause reverberated through the venue, it was evident that the spirit of altruism and service embodied by the volunteers continues to inspire and ignite hope for a brighter, more educated future in Jharkhand.
source: http://www.radiancenews.com / Radiance News / Home> Education> Focus / by Radiance News Bureau / February 24th, 2024
Nusrat Noor from Jamshedpur not only cleared the Jharkhand Public Service Commission (JPSC) examination but also secured the highest rank in the list of successful candidates
Ranchi:
Nusrat Noor has become the first Muslim woman to top the Jharkhand Public Service Commission examination 2022 securing the first rank. She not only cleared the Jharkhand Public Service Commission (JPSC) examination but also secured the highest rank in the list of successful candidates who cleared the coveted examination the result of which was declared two days ago.
Nusrat Noor, 27, applied for the examination a year ago under the medical category soon after application forms were made available on the website. She prepared for the exams with due diligence, appeared for an interview last month, performed brilliantly in the exam and eventually came out with flying colours to become the first Muslim woman to ever top the JPSC examination.
On the empowerment of Muslim women, Nusrat Noor said, “Participation and initiative are key to increasing women’s representation. It doesn’t matter what the result might be, Muslim women should come forward to get into civil services. This is how we can increase our representation and benefit our community and the nation at large.”
The Jharkhand Public Service Commission conducts the state-level civil services examinations to make recruitment for top governmental posts in various departments, including teaching, medical, and healthcare, in the state. It is also responsible to conduct written and verbal examinations to appoint candidates for these prestigious government positions.
On being asked what motivated her to go for civil services, she said, “I noticed that the representation of Muslim women in the government workforce is negligible. It’s high time Muslims got highly educated. Especially our women should be in the forefront when it comes to grabbing the opportunities that come our way from every sector.”
Born and brought up in the Jamshedpur city of Jharkhand, Noor, a mother of one is a medical practitioner with a specialisation in neurology.
After completing her primary education at Sacred Heart Convent School in Jamshedpur, she moved to Ranchi to pursue her degree in medical sciences from the Rajendra Institute of Medical Science.
She completed her degree of MBBS in the year 2020, and consequent to this, she was posted in the same medical college to practice what she refers to as a junior residentship.
During her residentship, she got married. But her marriage has not come in the way of her studies and her dedication to pursue her goals. She lives in a joint family where, she says, everyone is very supportive. Her in-laws never discouraged her from pursuing her dream and goals.
During an outing with her in-laws
She says, “My husband and in-laws are very encouraging and supportive, I am lucky in a way, but this is how it should be in every household. I would say my family is a role model for every other family which treats its daughter-in-law as someone who is no more than a person whose job it is to do all the household chores.”
She looks at her family of more than 10 members as her strength and backbone. “I have a very big family, but it never has been a setback in doing whatever I wanted to do”.
Her husband, Mohammad Umar, is also a doctor and a consultant surgeon. He has always been by her side during her entire journey.
“My husband has always motivated me; he switched roles and helped me in my household chores. He did everything possible to make me achieve my goal, from setting up the timetable for me to study to taking care of our two-year-old child,” she recounts with a sense of gratitude.
With husband Dr. Mohd Umar and son Mohd Saad
Noor’s father, Md. Noor Alam, is in a managerial post at Tata Steel, Jamshedpur while mother Seerat Fatima is a homemaker. She is the youngest in her family. The news of her becoming the first Muslim woman in the entire state to top the JPSC examination makes them proud.
Her elder brother, Mohammad Faisal Noor, is pursuing his research in industrial engineering at the National Institute of Technology, Jamshedpur.
He says, “We were quite confident about her selection, but the news of that she got the first rank was, Alhamdulillah, a pleasant surprise.”
With her elder siblings
The one thing that she will never forget about in her entire journey, right from her school days to becoming a doctor to now cracking the JPSC, is that people and society even in the 21st century don’t consider a woman’s approach to her career as a personal achievement. Society still believes that a woman’s well-being lies in her traditional role as a homemaker.
She recalled the moment she got married, she was told by a friend that getting married ‘on time is an achievement in life and she has achieved it.
She said, “Personal life can be an aspect to achieve the ‘progress’, but there is much more to it. For me, apart from my personal life, achieving goals set by myself counts as progress. Society still needs to evolve to address the needs of today’s generation. My husband’s family, which is mine too, present an example of a ‘just’ and ‘progressive’ society which looks at the woman more than someone whose responsibility is confined to looking after the household.”
Nusrat now aims to start preparing for her post-graduation while taking charge as a medical officer in one of the government hospitals as appointed by the administration. She also looks forward to encouraging and facilitating other women to take up professional and administrative positions.
Proud mother of a two-year-old Mohd Saad
“Women should participate more to come into the mainstream. I also make an appeal to families to encourage their daughters to educate themselves as much as possible, as this is the only way to make them economically independent and socially self-sufficient.”
source: http://www.clarionindia.net / Clarion India / Home / by Ghazala Ahmad, Clarion India / December 11th, 2022
Salima Tete’s goal gave India the lead and they led 1-0 at halftime, paving the way for an entertaining second half.
Birmingham:
The Indian women’s hockey team beat defending champions New Zealand 2-1 in a shootout to win the bronze medal and finish its campaign at the Commonwealth Games on a high note here on Sunday.
Leading 1-0, India conceded a penalty corner with less than 30 seconds to go for the final hooter, as the match went into a shootout after Olivia Merry’s equaliser.
India though held their nerves in the shootout to emerge winners.
Coming off their heartbreaking loss to Australia in a controversial semifinal, India showed the intent to wrap up their campaign with a win and earn a podium finish.
Salima Tete’s goal gave the Indian women’s hockey team the lead and they led 1-0 at halftime, paving the way for an entertaining second half.
Neha Goyal almost doubled the lead after the break, but good defending by New Zealand prevented the Indians from consolidating their position.
New Zealand has had to do a lot of defending and they’ve done quite well to remain disciplined until that Tete’s goal.
source: http://www.eastmojo.com / East Mojo / Home> News / by Press Trust of India / August 07th, 2022
