Prof. Orus Ilyas of the Department of Wildlife Sciences, Aligarh Muslim University (AMU), and research scholar Umrah Viqar presented their research at the 36th European Mustelid Colloquium, held alongside the Białowieża Ecology Conference in Białowieża, Poland.
Prof. Ilyas presented a paper titled “The Underappreciated Apex: Reviewing the Ecological Role and Conservation Status of the Yellow-throated Marten (Martes flavigula) Across the Himalayan and East Asian Bioregions”, examining the species’ ecological significance and conservation status across the Himalayan and East Asian regions.
Umrah Viqar presented her research on “Ecological Insight into the Yellow-throated Martens, Martes flavigula: Habitat Use and Dietary Pattern in the Reserved Forest of Ranikhet Kumaon, Himalayas”, focusing on the species’ habitat use and dietary patterns in the Himalayan region.
The presentations highlighted the ecological importance of the yellow-throated marten and the need for a better understanding of its ecology, distribution and conservation challenges.
Prof. Ilyas received financial assistance from the Anusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF), Government of India, and the Indian National Science Academy (INSA) to participate in the conference, while Umrah Viqar received support from the organisers.
source: http://www.indiaeducationdiary.in / India Education Diary / Home> Educational News> University News / by iednewsdesk /October 16th, 2026
Bushra Bano defies four surgeries, responsibility of two kids to become IPS
Aligarh :
Its very rare in the history of Indian civil services that women candidates face interviews when they are more than eight months pregnant and have undergone multiple surgeries.
Dr Bushra Bano, a resident of Sork Qaswa in Kannauj district, uttar Pradesh, and Sub Divisional Magistrate (SDM) of Firozabad (Sadar tehsil), has faced this odd meritoriously. She has secured 234th rank in the latest UPSC list of successful candidates. She was allotted the Indian Police Service (IPS).
Bushra is mother of two children, both born through caesarean surgeries. Besides, she had to endure two more major surgeries. Yet her resolve to continue her education and later pursue competitive exams for various Indian services remained unaffected.
“I was a gifted child since childhood. At least this is what my parents feel proud of and all my acquaintances admit. I started my primary education at the age of four in Class 2. All through my academic life, I have been a topper. After completing my B. Sc in Mathematics (usually rare for girls in India), I decided to go for an MBA and I completed that before I turned 20.
“Just after that I joined PhD in Management at Aligarh Muslim University (AMU). The very next year, I qualified for the Junior Research Fellowship (JRF) that gave me confidence to make my education self-reliant and a passion to earn on my own. I finished my PhD in a short time of two years and few months,” Bano told this correspondent in a candid chat from Firozabad.
She said that while she was still pursuing her research at AMU, she started teaching at Hindustan and Anand Institute in Agra.
“Then I got married to Asmer Hussain, an assistant professor in Jazan University, Saudi Arabia. Perhaps as a marital boon, I was also selected as an assistant professor at the same university and both of us taught together,” said Bano.
However, the Saudi sojourn was not suiting her heart.
“I was working there, but my heart always stayed in India. The only memorable thing for us was to perform a pilgrimage to Mecca. After four years, it became impossible for me to defy the pangs of homesickness. I consulted my husband and resigned. He stayed back,” said Bano, insisting that it was the most difficult decision of her life.
After arriving in India, Bano didn’t sit idle. She was now a mother of a son. She joined a post-doctoral programme in AMU and at the same time started preparing for various competitive exams.
“My first attempt at the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) was not successful. However, I managed to join a reputed Coal India company as assistant manager. My posting was in Sonbhadra. Next year, I got through the prelims of both the Public Service Commission (PCS) of UP state and UPSC.
“In June 2018, I cleared the Mains of both the exams. I was pregnant with my second child then and when interviews were conducted, I was in the last stage of my pregnancy. The UPSC first declared its list. I had secured 277th rank and was allotted the Indian Railway Traffic Service (IRTS). Later, when the PCS result was announced, my rank was 6th and that meant I was eligible to become Deputy Collector or Sub Divisional Magistrate (SDM). Thus, I joined as SDM of Firozabad Sadar in 2020,” said Bano.
Bano also shared an interesting episode of her married life.
“In families with kids, it is usually women who sacrifice. But in my case, my husband sacrificed his Saudi job for me. Since it became clear that I would work in India and our children would also be with me, he decided to resign from his job and join us in India. Now, he works as a businessman,” said Bano.
She added that her husband, who was teaching without a PhD, is now also pursuing a PhD.
As an SDM, Bano has been famous for her stand on illegal mining in Firozabad. She has also been strict in ensuring law and order and devising ways to bring relief to weaker sections of society.
She wears a hijab and it raised some eyebrows in her office. “Some people thought I was a ‘kattar’ (hardliner) Muslim. But, when they began to understand me, their doubts melted and now I am their favourite madam,” said Bano.
One of the most joyous moments in her life came when her another attempt at UPSC brought her 234th rank and she was allotted IPS.
“But I have decided that I will join it only when I am offered my home cadre. Otherwise, I am happy as SDM in UP,” she said.
Bano’s advice to young Muslims, especially girls and their parents, is that youth should be given the choice to pursue their passion at whatever stage in their lives.
“I chose to quit my Saudi job, come to India and opt for these services and my family supported me. Such cooperation from your dear ones makes a lot of impact in your life,” said Bano. -IANS
source: http://www.muslimmirror.com / Muslim Mirror / Home> Indian Muslim> Women / by Muslim Mirror / January 04th, 2022
A young Muslim girl from a poor family in Badaun district of Uttar Pradesh has created history with a remarkable display of talent and determination. Noor Jahan painted portraits of 15 Indian freedom fighters simultaneously, holding multiple pens in her mouth at one time, and completed all 15 portraits in a single frame.
The feat left many stunned, including industrialist Anand Mahindra, who called it nothing short of a miracle. Mahindra was so moved by Noor Jahan’s extraordinary skill that he announced a scholarship to support her education in painting and the arts.
Noor Jahan grew up in a poor household in Badaun, a district in western Uttar Pradesh. Despite limited resources, she developed a rare artistic ability. Her technique of holding multiple pens simultaneously in her mouth to draw detailed portraits of historical figures is entirely her own.
The portraits she painted feature 15 freedom fighters who played a role in India’s independence movement. Completing all 15 in a single frame, using only her mouth, drew wide attention across the country.
Anand Mahindra, who regularly highlights exceptional talent on social media, described Noor Jahan’s work as astonishing and pledged to fund her further studies in the field. His support has brought significant national attention to the young artist from Badaun.
Noor Jahan’s achievement carries a clear message: poverty places obstacles in a person’s path, but hard work and genuine skill remove those obstacles. Her story also challenges stereotypes about Muslim communities in India, proving that talent and ambition exist across every background and economic condition.
She has shown that a Muslim girl from a struggling family in rural Uttar Pradesh can write history through skill and effort alone.
source: http://www.radiancenews.com / Radiance News / Home> Arts & Culture> Latest News> Markers of Excellence> Report / by Radiance News Bureau / September 07th, 2026
Eight women from Assam, Jharkhand, Gujarat and Punjab were honoured at the third Dr Rama Saharia Memorial Awards Ceremony, organised by the MBKM Foundation at the NEA Auditorium here on Sunday. The Foundation is headed by Prof Pradeep Mathur, an author and a veteran journalist.
The awards recognised outstanding contributions in journalism, higher education, social service, performing arts, disability empowerment and other fields. A notable feature of this year’s ceremony was the diversity of the recipients, who came from Hindu, Sikh, Christian and Muslim communities.
The awardees had overcome social and economic hardships, as well as family-related challenges, to establish themselves in their respective professions. Their achievements serve as an inspiration to women from disadvantaged backgrounds.
The Dr Rama Saharia Memorial Media Award was presented to Naina Gautam, a journalist and sustainability communicator, for her work in raising awareness about climate change, the environment and health.
Prof. Manjinder Kaur received the Dr Rama Saharia Memorial Award for Higher Education in recognition of her long-standing contribution to education and teaching.
The Dr Rama Saharia Memorial Social Service Award was conferred on Urmal Munjwani for her contribution to yoga, wellness and holistic health.
Garima Joshi was honoured with the Dr Rama Saharia Memorial Award for Performing Arts and Standout Skills for her contribution to the performing arts.
The Dr Rama Saharia Lifetime Achievement Award was presented to Sukhdeep Kaur for her selfless service towards the empowerment of persons with disabilities. Her work spans education, sports, rights advocacy and the creation of inclusive opportunities.
Atlanta Mahanta received an award for her contribution to multimedia journalism, academic communication and visual storytelling.
Aayushi Karanwal was honoured for establishing her identity in body positivity, modelling, public relations and image management while overcoming personal and professional challenges.
The Chairman’s Special Award for Social Service was presented to Tabassum Khan for more than two decades of work in women’s and children’s welfare, maternal health, nutrition, sanitation and health awareness.
Former Union Minister of State for Home Subodh Kant Sahay was the chief guest. Eminent politicians Harkesh Bahadur and Anil Shastri were also present. The function was presided over by former Secretary-General of the Rajya Sabha Dr Yogendra Narayan.
Organised in memory of Dr Rama Saharia, the awards aim to recognise individuals who have made noteworthy contributions to society and nation-building. The ceremony celebrated the achievements of women working across diverse fields and highlighted the importance of inclusive opportunities for all.
source: http://www.indiatomorrow.net / India Tomorrow / Home> Education / by India Tomorrow / September 08th, 2026
Dr. Fahmeeda Zeenat, Department of Niswan wa Qabalat, Faculty of Unani Medicine, Aligarh Muslim University
Aligarh:
Dr. Fahmeeda Zeenat, Department of Niswan wa Qabalat, Faculty of Unani Medicine, Aligarh Muslim University (AMU), has been recognised for her significant contributions to the development of a competency-based postgraduate curriculum in Gynaecology and Obstetrics under the Unani system of medicine.
Dr. Zeenat was recently selected as an expert for the framing, reviewing, and finalisation of the curriculum. She participated in a three-day national workshop organised at the All India Institute of Ayurveda, Goa, held from June 11 to 13, 2025. This event marked a key milestone in the ongoing effort to align Unani medical education with outcome-driven academic standards.
Earlier, she played a pivotal role in the final curriculum framing workshop held at the National Institute for Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (Ni-MSME), Hyderabad, from November 14 to 16, 2024.
She also actively participated in the two-day curriculum review workshop conducted by the National Commission for Indian System of Medicine (NCISM) in New Delhi on April 4 and 5, 2025.
source: http://www.radiancenews.com / Radiance News / Home> Latest News> Markers of Excellence / by Radiance News Bureau / June 17th, 2025
The name of Abeer Asad, daughter of Maulana Muhammad Asad Al-Qasimi Al-Azmi, has featured in the supplementary list of candidates for the 2023 exam released by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC). Abeer cleared the challenging exam independently, relying on her self-study and determination, making her accomplishment a story of hard work, resilience, and vision, reports the Times of India.
Abeer’s journey to the Civil Services highlights her dedication to serving the nation. Her success came without formal coaching, showcasing the impact of her year-long self-directed study, combined with an unwavering commitment to her goal. From her school days, Abeer was a diligent student, achieving 92.8% in her 10th exams and 97.5% in her 12th, and later graduating with distinction in Economics from Hansraj College, Delhi.
Abeer’s preferred career path includes joining the Indian Administrative Service (IAS) as her top choice, followed by the Indian Revenue Service (IRS) and the Indian Railway Management Service (IRMS). Her position in the supplementary list ranks her at 35th, where she is joined by another successful Muslim candidate, Muhammad Nayab Anjam.
Abeer’s family stands as her pillar of strength. Her brother, Muhammad Basil, is a software engineer, while her mother a homemaker. Their lineage traces back to the well-regarded town of Kirthi Jafar in Mayo district, and they are proud of Abeer’s achievement, which she credits to her parents’ encouragement.
In her message to aspiring youth, especially young Muslim women, Abeer encouraged them to believe in their potential and to pursue their ambitions with passion and focus. “If girls are given freedom, encouragement, and equal opportunities, there’s no limit to what they can achieve,” she stated, urging young Muslims to prioritise their education over distractions.
Her father shared his pride in Abeer’s success and emphasised the importance of education within the Muslim community. “Only education can change the fate of a nation,” he remarked, calling on Muslim families to support their children in following their dreams.
source: http://www.radiancenews.com / Radiance News / Home> Latest News> Markers of Excellence / by Radiance News Bureau / November 01st, 2024
Adiba, a research scholar from the Department of Physics, AMU, receiving the Best Poster Award at the Emerging Science, Technology and Innovation Conclave (ESTIC) 2025
Aligarh:
Adiba, a research scholar from the Department of Physics, Aligarh Muslim University (AMU), has brought laurels to the University by winning the Best Poster Award at the Emerging Science, Technology and Innovation Conclave (ESTIC) 2025, organised by the Department of Science & Technology (DST), Government of India. The prestigious event was held at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi.
The conclave, inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, was supported by thirteen ministries and departments of the Government of India, showcasing the nation’s growing emphasis on innovation and scientific advancement.
Adiba received the award from Dr. Jitendra Singh, Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science & Technology, and Prof. Abhay Karandikar, Secretary, DST, in the presence of Prof. Ajay Kumar Sood, Principal Scientific Adviser to the Government of India, along with several eminent scientists and leaders of India’s science and technology ecosystem.
Out of over 1,000 entries received from across the country, 100 were shortlisted for presentation at the conclave. From these, only five participants were selected for the top honours.
Adiba’s award-winning poster, titled “Bipolar Resistive Switching in Forming-Free, Flexible, and Transparent ReRAM Devices”, showcased her pioneering research on resistive switching mechanisms for neuromorphic and in-memory computing applications – a key area in next-generation electronic devices.
Expressing her gratitude, Adiba said, “It’s an honour to be recognised for my research on such a prestigious platform graced by leading scientists. I am deeply thankful to my supervisor, Prof. Tufail Ahmad, for his constant guidance and support.”
The achievement marks another proud moment for AMU, underscoring the university’s strong contribution to cutting-edge scientific research and innovation.
source: http://www.radiancenews.com / Radiance News / Home> Pride of the Nation> Awards>Latest News / by Radiance News Bureau / November 11th, 2025
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
Students of Women’s College, Aligarh Muslim University, brought laurels to the institution as Nabeela Khan (B.Sc. Biochemistry) and Ashfia Khan (B.A. Psychology) secured a silver medal at the Indiaskate National Championship 2026 held from April 23 to 28.
Leading the Uttar Pradesh team, captain Nabeela Khan displayed strong leadership and determination throughout the tournament. In the final against Tamil Nadu, the team delivered a spirited performance, finishing 16–8 to clinch the silver medal.
Both players played a key role in guiding the team to the finals, showcasing excellent coordination, resilience and competitive spirit at the national level.
source: http://www.indiaeducationdiary.in / India Education Diary / Home> National News> University News / by India Education Bureau / May 02nd, 2026
Amima Jauhar, daughter of Mohammad Afaque Jauhar, has emerged as the top scorer of Prestigious Al Barkat Public School, Aligarh, securing an outstanding 96.6% in her CBSE 10th board examinations. Interestingly another student Aleena Akhter also made the school proud by getting the same excellent result.
Amima’s result stood out with a perfect 100 marks in both Urdu and Information Technology, reflecting her exceptional command over languages as well as technical subjects. Her consistent hard work, disciplined study routine, and academic focus have been widely appreciated by teachers and school authorities.
A student of Al Barkat Public School, Amima also received guidance from Image Classes, Aligarh, which played a supportive role in her preparation. Her achievement has brought pride to her family, school, and the Aligarh academic community.
source: http://www.theindianawaaz.com / The Indian Awaaz / Home> Campus / by Indian Awaaz / April 18th, 2026
