Category Archives: Business & Economy

AMU Inaugurates First Student-Built Health-Tech Startup, Aivion Care, Along with Newton AI Ed Tech

Aligarh, UTTAR PRADESH :

Aligarh :

Aligarh Muslim University (AMU) has inaugurated Aivion Care, its first student-developed health-tech startup, along with Newton AI Ed Tech at Ajmal Khan Tibbiya College. The ventures were launched with support from the V-Inspire Research Centre, the Research Innovation and Entrepreneurship Development (RIED) Cell and the AMU Innovation Foundation (AMUIF), under the patronage of Vice-Chancellor Prof. Naima Khatoon.

Held under the theme “Sir Syed Ahmad Khan’s Vision of Scientific Innovation and Entrepreneurship: Bridging Traditional Medicine with Modern Healthcare Technology”, the programme was attended by more than 100 students in person, while over 50 participants joined online.

Aivion Care, a venture of AI Confidence Cure Pvt. Ltd., connects doctors, patients, pathologists and pharmacists through a smart application and device. Its features include online consultations, medication reminders and secure digital healthcare records. The device currently measures ECG, oxygen saturation (SpO2), heart rate and temperature, with blood pressure and glucose measurement capabilities under development.

Founder Saif Malik, Founder and CEO Daniya Parveen, and Chief Technology Officer Ziaul Islam demonstrated the platform and outlined its future plans. Newton AI Ed Tech Pvt. Ltd., founded by Karamveer Singh of Zakir Husain College of Engineering and Technology and Zaid Malik of the Faculty of Medicine, was also formally inaugurated.

The programme was presided over by Prof. Syeda Aamena Naaz, Chairperson, RIED Cell, and Dean, Faculty of Unani Medicine. Dr Abdulwasey Mohammed, Director, Founder and CEO of V-Inspire, joined online as Chief Guest and delivered a presentation on “Innovations to Wealth Creation”. The organisers announced that V-Inspire would soon establish a centre in Aligarh. Prof. Anees Ahmad, Director, V-Inspire and former Chairperson, Department of Industrial Chemistry, AMU, was the Guest of Honour, while AMU alumnus Engr. Mohammad Salman, from the 1973 batch of Mechanical Engineering, attended as Special Guest.

Among those present were Prof. Syed Fahad Anwer, Director, AMUIF; Prof. Sajjad Athar, Director, ICUIC and AMUIF; Dr Syed Javed Rizvi; Prof. Ekram Khan; Prof. Badrudduja Khan, Principal, Ajmal Khan Tibbiya College; Prof. Zamir Ahmad, Coordinator, RIED Cell; and Mohd Shariq Azam, General Manager, DawakhanaTibbiya College, along with faculty members and students.

Dr Abdul Aziz Khan, Faculty of Unani Medicine, convened the programme, which concluded with the presentation of mementoes and a vote of thanks.

source: http://www.indiaeducationdiary.in / India Education Diary / Home> Educational News> University News / by iednewsdesk / October 29th, 2026

Beyond Misconceptions: ‘Women in Islam’ Gallery to Highlight Rights, Dignity and Contributions at Hyderabad Expo

Hyderabad, TELANGANA :

Misconceptions often thrive where understanding is limited. Muslim women, Islamic family values and the rights accorded to women under Islam have long been subjects of public debate, with social media frequently amplifying stereotypes and misinformation. An upcoming exhibition in Hyderabad seeks to challenge these perceptions through facts, historical accounts and Islamic teachings.

The gallery aims to encourage informed dialogue by addressing common misconceptions about Muslim women’s status, rights and role in society, drawing on historical evidence and references from the Qur’an and Hadith.

A special gallery titled ‘Women in Islam’ will be one of the key attractions at Beyond the Divide: Countering Hate Expo. Building Harmony, a three-day public exhibition is being organised by Jamaat-e-Islami Hind, Greater Hyderabad, at the Nampally Exhibition Grounds from October 30 to November 1.

Separating Myths from Facts

One of the central themes of the gallery is women’s economic independence and property rights. Challenging the widespread perception that women have no property rights under Islam, the exhibition highlights their right to own and manage property, inherit wealth and retain control over their personal assets. It also explains that mehr (dower), given to a woman as part of marriage, belongs exclusively to her.

The question of consent in marriage is another major focus. The gallery seeks to dispel the notion that a woman’s opinion carries little weight in matrimonial decisions, highlighting Islamic teachings that require the bride’s consent for marriage.

Education and the pursuit of knowledge form another important theme. Contrary to the perception that Islam discourages women’s education, the exhibition highlights the contributions of women scholars throughout Islamic history. Hazrat Aisha Siddiqah, the wife of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, was a renowned authority on Hadith and Islamic jurisprudence who taught and guided generations of scholars.

The gallery will also explore women’s participation in public life, challenging the stereotype that Muslim women have traditionally been confined to their homes. From business and education to healthcare and social service, women have played active roles in Muslim societies since the early days of Islam. Hazrat Khadija, the Prophet’s wife, is among the prominent historical examples of a woman who independently conducted business.

Family Values, Rights and Responsibilities

The exhibition will also examine the Islamic understanding of family life, placing mutual respect, compassion and responsibility at the centre of marital relationships. In the Islamic perspective, the relationship between husband and wife is not merely a question of individual rights but one built on affection, mercy and shared responsibilities. While the husband is entrusted with financial maintenance of the family, women’s contributions to household management, emotional well-being and the upbringing of children are also acknowledged.

Complex and frequently debated subjects, including divorce and polygyny (a man having more than one wife), will also be addressed. The gallery aims to explain the conditions governing these practices under Islamic law, including the requirement of justice and fair treatment in polygynous marriages and the Qur’anic directive to marry only one if justice cannot be maintained.

Muslim Women Who Helped Shape India

Moving beyond religious principles, the gallery will highlight the contributions of Muslim women to India’s freedom struggle, education, social reform and contemporary public life. Abadi Bano Begum, popularly known as Amma Jaan, will feature among the women remembered for mobilising support for the freedom movement.

The exhibition will also showcase the contributions of Nawab Sultan Jahan Begum, former ruler of Bhopal and the first Chancellor of Aligarh Muslim University, and Rokeya Sakhawat Hossain, the pioneering educationist who established a school for girls in Bengal.

Among contemporary achievers, the gallery will highlight K.V. Rabiya, a Padma Shri awardee recognised for her work in literacy and social service; Dr Syed Sehrish Asgar, an IAS officer; Dr Mariam Afifa Ansari, a neurosurgeon; Dr Mazizia Bhanu, a gold medallist at the Powerlifting World Cup; and Syeda Salwa Fatima, a commercial pilot.

Their journeys, the organisers hope, will demonstrate the diverse ways in which Muslim women have contributed to the country’s social, educational and professional progress.

From Prejudice to Understanding

Built around the message that the distance between communities can be bridged through dialogue, Beyond the Divide Expo seeks to promote mutual understanding and challenge prejudice. The exhibition underscores the idea that appearances alone cannot define a person’s identity, abilities or aspirations, and that meaningful engagement begins with a willingness to understand others beyond stereotypes.

The three-day event at the Nampally Exhibition Grounds from October 30 to November 1 invites people from different backgrounds to explore the exhibits, engage with diverse perspectives and gain a deeper understanding of Islam, women’s rights and the Islamic family system.

By placing historical contributions, religious teachings and contemporary achievements side by side, the ‘Women in Islam’ gallery seeks to replace assumptions with informed understanding and encourage a more inclusive public conversation.

[The writer is JIH Hyderabad City Media In-charge]

source: http://www.radiancenews.com / Radiance News / Home> Features> Focus / by Vaseemunnissa / October 29th, 2026

Islamic Finance Expert Abdul Raqeeb Calls for Wealth Creation and Organised Zakat

NEW DELHI :


Trade and entrepreneurship remain central to Islamic economic thought, says the expert, urging wider discussion on alternative financial models

New Delhi :

Islamic finance expert Abdul Raqeeb has called for greater focus on trade, entrepreneurship, organised zakat and ethical financial systems to improve the economic condition of Muslim communities, saying that wealth creation must come before wealth distribution.

“Until wealth is created, how can it be distributed? There is blessing in trade, and the pursuit of lawful livelihood is itself an act of worship,” Abdul Raqeeb said in a recent podcast Deen Aur Duniya with host Saqib Salim.

Abdul Raqueeb, General Secretary of the Indian Centre for Islamic Finance (ICIF), spoke in detail about Islamic economics, modern financial systems and the economic direction of Muslim societies.

He argued that many economic difficulties faced by Muslim communities are not only financial but also intellectual. According to him, while religious practices receive considerable attention, economic activity and business often do not receive the same level of importance despite their place in Islamic teachings.

According to Abdul Raqeeb, this imbalance has contributed to economic weakness in many Muslim societies.

“A society cannot progress only through consumption and distribution. Production and wealth creation are equally important,” he said.

He added that many Muslims have gradually moved away from entrepreneurial activity, resulting in reduced participation in trade and industry.

Responding to questions about Islam’s approach to commerce, Abdul Raqeeb said trade has always occupied an honoured position in Islamic civilisation. He pointed out that Prophet Muhammad was himself a successful trader and that the business activities of Hazrat Khadijah remain an important example in Islamic history.

“Islam did not discourage trade. It provided moral principles such as honesty, trustworthiness and fairness, making commerce a respected and ethical profession,” he said.

He also emphasised that business involves risk and that risk-taking is an essential element of economic growth and innovation.

Referring to a well-known narration often quoted in discussions on trade, he said that a significant portion of livelihood is connected with commerce and business activity.

Abdul Raqeeb highlighted the economic model established in Madinah during the time of the Prophet. He noted that alongside the establishment of the mosque, an independent and transparent marketplace was also created.

According to him, the market operated on principles of fairness, free competition and ethical conduct.

“There was oversight to prevent fraud and exploitation, but there was no monopolistic control. It was a market based on transparency and trust,” he said.

A substantial part of his remarks focused on Islamic banking and financial systems. When asked how Muslims can access financial services while avoiding interest-based transactions, Abdul Raqeeb explained that Islamic finance operates through profit-and-loss sharing mechanisms rather than conventional interest.

He said that Islamic financial institutions are functioning in approximately 75 countries in different forms.

Models such as Musharakah, Mudarabah and Murabaha provide alternatives that are structured around partnership, investment and trade rather than interest-based lending.

“Many people think Islamic finance is only a religious concept, but it is also a practical economic model that is operating successfully in different parts of the world,” he said.

Discussing the Indian context, Abdul Raqeeb observed that although full-scale Islamic banking is not available in the country, alternative arrangements do exist. He referred to cooperative societies and certain non-banking financial institutions that operate with limited or non-interest-based structures.

According to him, these examples demonstrate that alternative financial models can function within existing economic frameworks.

Abdul Raqeeb cited Kerala as an example of how economic cooperation can contribute to social harmony. He said Hindu and Muslim communities in the state often participate in business activities together, creating strong economic interdependence.

According to him, such cooperation helps reduce tensions because prosperity becomes linked to mutual interests.

He also noted that a considerable amount of savings within the Muslim community remains locked in assets such as gold and land rather than being channelled into productive investment.

The discussion also touched upon legal and policy debates surrounding Islamic finance in India. Abdul Raqeeb said that proposals relating to alternative financial systems have faced legal scrutiny in the past.

However, he argued that any financial model that contributes to economic development and social welfare deserves serious consideration rather than outright rejection.

One of the most significant parts of his remarks focused on zakat. Abdul Raqeeb described zakat not merely as a religious obligation but as an economic institution designed to circulate wealth within society.

He expressed concern that zakat today is largely distributed at an individual level, limiting its wider economic impact.

“The issue is not the amount of zakat available. The issue is how it is organised and utilised,” he said.

According to him, much of the zakat collected is used for immediate relief and short-term needs, which certainly helps recipients but often fails to create lasting economic change.

He suggested that organised committees at local mosques could manage zakat funds more effectively and direct resources towards education, skill development and support for small businesses.

“If zakat is managed institutionally and invested in human development and entrepreneurship, it can play a major role in reducing poverty,” he said.

Drawing on his own experience, Abdul Raqeeb said that business success should not be measured only by profits. He explained that every commercial activity carries both opportunities and risks.

“People often see the gains but ignore the losses. Real success comes through patience, balance and long-term thinking,” he said.

Concluding his remarks, Abdul Raqeeb stressed that Islam encourages a balance between spiritual and material well-being. He said hard work, ethical conduct, lawful earnings and social responsibility are all part of the Islamic way of life.

“Religion and worldly affairs are not in conflict. They complement one another when guided by moral principles,” he said.

Abdul Raqeeb maintained that Islamic economics, trade, zakat and ethical finance are interconnected elements of a broader economic vision. He argued that if these principles are implemented collectively and effectively, they can contribute not only to economic growth but also to greater social justice, poverty reduction and community development.

source: http://www.clarionindia.net / Clarion India / Home> Big Story> Economy> India / by Team Clarion India / June 01st, 2026

Hidhaaya Islamic College for Girls Honours Academic Excellence, Celebrates Three Milestones

TAMIL NADU :

Chennai:

Hidhaaya Islamic College for Girls organised a grand Felicitation Ceremony to honour outstanding achievers in the Class X and Class XII State Board and CBSE examinations while celebrating three significant milestones in the institution’s journey.

The programme brought together students, parents, educators, community leaders, and distinguished guests in a memorable celebration of academic excellence and educational achievement.

A distinctive feature of the event was Hidhaaya’s commitment to recognising academic merit beyond its own campus.

Unlike conventional felicitation programmes that honour only their own students, Hidhaaya Islamic College for Girls has, for the past four years, recognised Chennai-based students from different schools who secured 90% and above in the State Board and CBSE examinations. This unique initiative reflects the institution’s vision of encouraging excellence, inspiring young achievers, and fostering a culture of academic aspiration within the community.

The response to this year’s programme was overwhelming, with more than 180 meritorious students from over 40 schools registering for the felicitation ceremony. The event witnessed the participation of more than 500 students, parents, teachers, and well-wishers, demonstrating the growing importance of recognising academic excellence and motivating young achievers.

Addressing the gathering, Dr. Rabia Basri, Principal and Correspondent of Hidhaaya Islamic College for Girls, congratulated the award recipients and emphasised that talented, disciplined, and hardworking students form the foundation of a progressive nation. She encouraged the students to continue striving for excellence with sincerity and integrity and prayed that Allah bless them with beneficial knowledge, continued success, and opportunities to contribute positively to society.

She also highlighted the institution’s educational philosophy of providing holistic education by integrating Islamic Studies, the Arabic language, and contemporary education. Hidhaaya aims to nurture young women who are intellectually capable, spiritually enriched, morally upright, and socially responsible, preparing them to become confident leaders and valuable contributors to society.

The programme also marked two important milestones in the college’s development. The first was the warm welcome extended to the new batch of students, who officially joined the Hidhaaya family and commenced their educational journey.

The second was the celebration of a historic achievement – the successful graduation of Hidhaaya’s first batch of Alimah students. These students completed the 3-year Alimah programme while simultaneously pursuing their Class XII education through the National Institute of Open Schooling (NIOS). Having successfully completed both streams of education, they have secured admission to various colleges in different academic disciplines, exemplifying Hidhaaya’s vision of integrating Islamic education with mainstream higher education.

Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Nazeer Ataullah, Chairman of Hidhaaya Islamic College for Girls, described this achievement as a proud milestone in the institution’s journey. He reaffirmed the college’s commitment to empowering young Muslim women through quality education rooted in Islamic values while preparing them for higher education, professional excellence, and meaningful contributions to society. He reminded the students to always remember the two people behind their success – their parents and their teachers – whose sacrifices, guidance, and encouragement made their achievements possible. He also advised the students to continuously develop their skills, emphasising that in today’s competitive world, skills are essential for becoming unique, capable, and successful.

The felicitation ceremony was graced by several distinguished personalities from the fields of education, business, law, and community service, including:

  • Anis Khan, Chairman, Zara Global School, Salem; Managing Director, JMS Group of Companies, Tokyo, Japan.
  • S. M. Poongodi, Administrative Director, Good Word Public School.
  • M. Gulzar Begum, Assistant Professor, Department of Arabic, B.S. Abdur Rahman Crescent Institute of Science and Technology.
  • Ajmal Dastagir, Managing Director, Silk Trail Global Exports Pvt. Ltd.; Advisor to the Ministry of MSME, Government of India; Chairman (India), Sustainable Development Council under consultative status with UN-ECOSOC.
  • S.M. Azizunnisaa Begum, Assistant Professor and Research Supervisor, Department of Legal Studies, School of Law, VISTAS.
  • H. Sameen Fathima, Principal, Fathima Basheer Matriculation Higher Secondary School for Girls.

In addition to honouring meritorious students from across Chennai, the college recognised its own students for their outstanding achievements in academics, literary activities, cultural events, and co-curricular activities throughout the academic year. Members of the teaching faculty were also felicitated for receiving awards and recognition from prestigious organisations in appreciation of their outstanding contributions to education and society.

The ceremony concluded with prayers for the continued success of all students and reaffirmed Hidhaaya Islamic College for Girls’ unwavering commitment to promoting academic excellence, character development, leadership, and holistic education. The event served as an inspiring reminder that educational institutions play a vital role in nurturing not only academic excellence but also values, confidence, and a lifelong commitment to serving society.

source: http://www.radiancenews.com / Radiance News / Home> Education> Latest News> Report / by Radiance News Bureau / July 13th, 2026

Saif Ali Khan’s sister Saba opens up about managing the family’s Rs 10 billion legacy

Bhopal, MADHYA PRADESH :

Saba recalled her father’s lessons in composure, fairness and thoughtful speech.

Saif Ali Khan and Saba share a bond rooted in family and memories. IANS

Dubai:

Saba Pataudi, sister of Bollywood actor Saif Ali Khan, has opened up about her responsibility for managing the Pataudi family’s legacy, revealing that her late father, former Indian cricket captain Mansoor Ali Khan Pataudi, entrusted her with the role.

Saba, the daughter of actor Sharmila Tagore and the late Mansoor Ali Khan Pataudi, oversees responsibilities connected to the family’s Bhopal estate and the Auqaf-e-Shahi trust. The family’s legacy has been estimated at more than Rs 10 billion.

In an interview, Saba explained that her father played a defining role in preparing her for the responsibility.

“Abba left that to me,” she said, reflecting on the trust her father placed in her and the lessons she continues to draw from him.

Lessons from her father

Saba recalled how her father taught her to remain composed, treat people fairly and choose her words carefully. She said those principles continue to guide her approach to managing the family’s affairs.

She also described her father as someone she continues to turn to spiritually, even after his death. His guidance, she said, helped her understand the responsibilities associated with the family’s heritage.

Mansoor Ali Khan Pataudi, popularly known as Tiger Pataudi, was one of India’s prominent cricketers and captained the national team. His marriage to Sharmila Tagore brought together two well-known families from Indian sport and cinema.

What does the family legacy involve?

Saba’s responsibilities extend beyond the management of a family estate. As the mutawalli of the Auqaf-e-Shahi trust, she oversees the trust’s properties and charitable responsibilities.

These include mosques and other properties linked to the family’s historical ties to Bhopal, as well as facilities for pilgrims visiting Makkah and Medina.

The reported valuation of more than Rs 10 billion relates to the wider family legacy and should not be interpreted as Saba’s personal wealth. Her role involves stewardship and management of the trust’s assets and responsibilities.

Saba has also discussed plans for initiatives benefiting women and girls, including a girls’ school and a hospital for women, subject to the resolution of pending legal matters involving family property.

A responsibility entrusted by her father

Saba’s reflections offer a glimpse into a side of the Pataudi family that extends beyond celebrity and cricket. While Saif Ali Khan and Soha Ali Khan are widely recognised for their careers in the entertainment industry, Saba has taken on responsibilities associated with preserving the family’s historical and charitable legacy.

For her, the role is closely tied to her father’s confidence in her abilities and the values he instilled in her. She continues to regard those lessons as central to carrying forward the responsibilities he entrusted to her.

source: http://www.gulfnews.com / Gulf News / Home> Entertainment> Bollywood / by Devadasan K P, Chief Visual Editor / October 14th, 2026

From Grief to Grit: Odisha’s Israt Jahan Unites 26 Women Through Jute Craft

Kendrapara District, ODISHA :

Kendrapara:

In a workspace near the Budhi Jagulai temple in Odisha’s Kendrapara district, 26 women divide tasks with quiet efficiency. One stitches the body of a shopping bag, another attaches the handles and a third applies the finishing touches. Bringing them all together is Israt Jahan, a 50-year-old woman whose path into earning a livelihood began with loss.

After the death of her husband Zakir Hussain Khan, a well-known local sportsman and journalist, Israt stepped outside her home to support her family. She drew on sewing skills that dated back to 1985, took up wool craft, embroidery and stitching, and eventually built something larger than she had imagined.

In 2019, she formed the Swadhin Producer Group. The COVID-19 pandemic halted work for two years, but when the women decided to resume, they pooled their personal savings and collected Rs 18,000 to restart without any initial government assistance. They shifted to jute work in 2022, drawn to the material’s biodegradable nature and the growing demand for plastic-free alternatives in a district already known for jute cultivation.

“We chose jute because it is environment-friendly,” said group secretary Rajida Khanam.

The group’s product range now includes handbags, shopping bags, bottle carriers, office and laptop bags, lunch bags, files, folders, sitting mats and letter holders. Fabric is sourced from Cuttack and, when demand rises, from Kolkata. Priced from Rs 150 per bag, each piece takes a skilled member around 10 to 15 minutes to complete.

Members earn between Rs 3,000 and Rs 5,000 a month. The group’s annual income stands at Rs 5 lakh to Rs 7 lakh. A one-time government startup grant of Rs 2.04 lakh helped them purchase eight machines, including an embroidery machine and electronic sewing units. No further financial grant has followed.

The group also receives bulk orders for files and folders used in agriculture, horticulture and block-level training programmes, sometimes running into thousands of pieces. Most retail sales take place at fairs.

For member Subhasini Swain, the venture offers something beyond income. “Besides learning and earning happening together, the Hindu-Muslim companionship here is the best part,” she said.

Kendrapara Collector Raghuram R. Iyer said the administration would ask Mission Shakti’s district programme manager to examine the group’s marketing needs and arrange additional credit support if required.

Israt’s own hope is straightforward. “The women want to contribute to their children’s education and support their families. If our message reaches the government, we would like some additional help,” she said.

source: http://www.radiancenews.com / Radiance News / Home> Latest News> Markers of Excellence> Social Service> Personality / by Radiance News Bureau / October 06th, 2026

From 140 Kilograms to Coach: Shabana Opens Women-Only Gym in Coimbatore’s Muslim Neighbourhood

Coimbatore, TAMIL NADU :

Representative image

Coimbatore:

In a Muslim-majority neighbourhood of Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu, a women-only gym run by trainer and weightlifter Shabana is drawing women from across the area. The facility offers them a rare space to exercise, learn about nutrition and focus on their health.

Shabana said the idea for the gym came from her own struggle with obesity and the absence of fitness centres exclusively for women. “I weighed more than 140 kilograms. We looked for a gym in our area but could not find one exclusively for women. So I found a gym for myself and later became a trainer there,” she said.

Her path was far from simple. She studied only up to Class VII and faced serious health complications at 19, undergoing six or seven operations, including the removal of her gallbladder. “I became isolated from everyone. I stayed at home. My husband supported me throughout,” she recalled.

Although the gym welcomes women from all backgrounds, it has grown especially popular among Muslim women owing to the area’s large Muslim population. The facility operates throughout the day and is staffed exclusively by women.

Members say the gym goes well beyond physical fitness. “When I come here, it is not only about fitness. It is also a way for me to relieve stress. This place feels like a second home,” said one homemaker.

Women also receive guidance on nutrition. “We take care of our husbands and families but rarely take care of our own health. After coming here, we realised there was so much to learn about nutrition,” said another member.

One member lost 13 kilograms after three Caesarean sections, training under careful supervision. She initially kept her gym visits secret from her family, telling them she was going for a walk. After winning first prize in a skipping competition held at the gym, she revealed the truth. “They were all very happy,” she said.

The women exercise wearing hijabs and, in some cases, burqas. Members said the clothing does not prevent them from working out effectively.

Unlike many commercial fitness centres, the gym relies largely on floor-based workouts rather than expensive machines. “Everyone thinks you need machines to lose weight. That is not true. Most exercises can be done through floor workouts,” Shabana said.

Shabana also competes in weightlifting and has participated in the sport for five years. She faced strong opposition when she launched the facility. “People asked me how I could stand here alone from morning until night. But I ignored what they said. We had to move forward and prove ourselves,” she said.

source: http://www.radiancenews.com / Radiance News / Home> Latest News> Markers of Excellence> Personality> Report / by Radiance News Bureau / September 26th, 2026

Kashish Aziz: The woman behind quality control in Unicure India

DELHI :

Dr Kashish Aziz

The global recognition of the Indian pharmaceutical industry is not limited to its biggest companies. Numerous manufacturers across the country have built successful businesses while contributing to India’s reputation as the “pharmacy of the world.” Unicure India Ltd. is one such company, with Dr. Kashish Aziz playing a key role in operations and quality assurance.

Unicure India has manufacturing facilities in Noida, Greater Noida and Roorkee across Uttar Pradesh and Uttarakhand. According to CRISIL, the company is a WHO-GMP-approved and ISO-certified pharmaceutical manufacturer.

Dr Kashish Aziz at an event

A significant portion of its business comes from government entities and contract manufacturing for major pharmaceutical brands. Based on CRISIL’s assessment from March 2025, around 60 per cent of the company’s revenue came from government entities, 30–35 per cent from contract manufacturing, and the remainder from exports. GST-based business data for 2025-26 places the company in the annual turnover bracket of ₹100 crore to ₹500 crore.

Born in Delhi in 1987, Dr. Kashish Aziz currently serves as Vice President of Quality at Unicure India Ltd. Her professional journey has been shaped by both academic excellence and personal challenges.

Passionate about science from childhood, Aziz aspired to become a doctor. She completed her schooling at Delhi Public School in 2004 before joining Jamia Hamdard in Delhi, where she earned bachelor’s and master’s degrees in pharmacy. She received a gold medal from then President Dr APJ Abdul Kalam for her academic performance.

Dr Kashish Aziz at an event

She received her early education at Delhi Public School, completing her schooling in 2004. She then pursued a Bachelor of Pharmacy (B.Pharm) from Jamia Hamdard University. Later, she completed a Master’s in Pharmaceutics with specialisation in Quality Assurance.

For her outstanding performance, she was awarded a gold medal by the then President of India, the late Dr APJ Abdul Kalam.

She subsequently completed her PhD in Pharmaceutics and received the “INSPIRE Fellowship” from the Department of Science and Technology. She is regarded as a specialist in Quality Assurance and is also recognised as a technologist.

She is currently pursuing an MBA from IIM Lucknow. She is also a member and secretary of the FOPIE Youth Wing and a member of the Indian Drug Manufacturers Association (IDMA).

Dr Kashish Aziz with her father Abdul Mateen

She later completed a PhD in Pharmaceutics after receiving the Inspire Fellowship from the Department of Science and Technology. She also specialises in quality assurance.

Her journey was not without difficulties. Married at the age of 20 in 2007, Aziz gave birth to her first child at 21, around the same time she began her master’s course in Pharmaceutics with a specialisation in quality assurance.

“I was married in 2007 at the age of 20. I gave birth to my first child but at the age of 21, the same time I joined my course of Masters (Master in Pharmaceutics with specialisation in QA),” she said.

Dr Kashish Aziz being honoured

On her husband’s advice, she initially kept her studies hidden from her in-laws. When they eventually learned about it, she faced strong opposition. Determined to build a career, she later joined her father, Abdul Mateen, at Unicure India’s Noida unit.

For Aziz, quality in pharmaceutical manufacturing is not merely a regulatory requirement but the foundation of business credibility. Her responsibilities include quality assurance, monitoring production processes, validation and ensuring compliance with regulatory standards.

“Quality is never accidental; it is always the result of high intention, conscientious effort, intelligent direction, and skillful execution,” she says.

Dr Kashish Aziz speaking at a public function

She has a simple message for her team: “Only a healthy horse can pull a strong cart. So my consistent message to the UniQure team is either stick to quality or quit.”

The emphasis on quality is particularly important in pharmaceutical manufacturing, where the quality of every batch is directly linked to patient safety. Raw materials and finished products therefore undergo testing and monitoring at multiple stages. Unicure also highlights a safe manufacturing environment, contamination-prevention infrastructure and dedicated storage facilities for sensitive and toxic substances.

According to the company’s website, Unicure employs more than 600 professionals, including around 100 people in highly skilled technical roles. Its business spans manufacturing, supply and exports of pharmaceutical products.

Dr Kashish Aziz at an event

The company operates in a highly competitive market where manufacturers must control costs without compromising quality. Raw material prices, supply-chain management, regulatory compliance and production capacity all influence performance.

Aziz believes that cost control should never come at the expense of quality. Lean manufacturing, automation and improved systems, she argues, can help increase efficiency and production capacity while maintaining standards.

Unicure also has a presence in international markets. Available global trade data records 703 export shipments to 39 buyers and 24 import shipments from nine suppliers. Pharmaceutical products under HSN codes 3004 and 3003 have been the primary drivers of its export activity.

Dr Kashish Aziz

The company’s imports also highlight the importance of raw materials and Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients (APIs) to pharmaceutical manufacturing. Fluctuations in global supply chains, raw material prices and logistics costs can significantly affect production expenses, making efficient inventory management, automation and quality control increasingly important.

As India strengthens its position in the global pharmaceutical supply chain, companies such as Unicure will need to balance government business, contract manufacturing and exports while maintaining stringent quality standards.

For Aziz, that balance is central to the future of pharmaceutical manufacturing—and to the credibility of the industry itself.

source: http://www.awazthevoice.in / Awaz, The Voice / Home> Stories> Muslim Women in Corporate / by Onika Maheshwari, New Delhi / August 24th, 2026

Kanara Industries Association elects new office-bearers for 2026-27

Baikampady (Mangaluru), KARNATAKA :

Mangaluru:

The Kanara Industries Association (KIA) elected its new office-bearers for 2026-27 at its 46th Annual General Body Meeting held at the C. N. Shetty Convention Hall, Baikampady, on September 30.

B. A. Iqbal was elected as the President, while Ramachandra was elected Vice President.

Roshan Baliga B. will serve as the Secretary, with Suresh B. Karkera as Joint Secretary and Sundar B. as Treasurer.

The meeting was attended by members of the association.

source: http://www.english.varthabharati.in / Vartha Bharati / Home> Karavali / by Vartha Bharati / October 01st, 2026

Hyderabad’s Mehrunissa Begum wins silver for India at WorldSkills Shanghai 2026

Hyderabad, TELANGANA :

Hyderabad’s Mehrunissa Begum won a silver medal for India in the Logistics and Freight Forwarding category at the 48th WorldSkills Competition held in Shanghai. A BBA Logistics graduate and logistics professional, she showcased excellence in freight forwarding and international logistics.

Hyderabad: 

Mehrunissa Begum, a young talent from the city, won a silver medal for India in the Logistics and Freight Forwarding category at the 48th WorldSkills Competition Shanghai 2026, one of the world’s most prestigious international skills competitions.

WorldSkills, one of the world’s largest platforms for vocational and professional skills, is often described as the global championship for skilled professions.

Competing against some of the world’s best talent, Mehrunissa Begum demonstrated excellence in logistics and freight forwarding, excelling in documentation, routing, commercial decision-making, and customer handling.

She completed her Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) in Logistics from Begumpet Degree College, Hyderabad, and is currently employed with Cargomen Logistics India Pvt. Ltd.

At Cargomen, she manages the Thermo Fisher Scientific account, gaining hands-on experience in international logistics operations, customer coordination, documentation, and freight management.

She underwent intensive training under Kamal Jain and his team, covering key aspects of international freight forwarding, including air and sea cargo, multimodal transport, freight calculations, Incoterms, customs procedures, documentation, dangerous goods handling, customer communication, and practical problem-solving.

The Logistics Sector Skill Council (LSC) provided training and institutional support throughout Mehrunissa Begum’s WorldSkills journey. The council plays a key role in promoting skill development and industry-aligned competencies within India’s logistics sector.

The 48th WorldSkills Competition was held in Shanghai, China, from September 22 to 27, 2026. Nearly 1,400 young professionals from around 70 countries and regions competed in 64 skills, covering sectors such as manufacturing, technology, services, transportation, construction, and logistics.

The competition provides young professionals with an opportunity to benchmark their knowledge and practical skills against international occupational standards.

Logistics and Freight Forwarding is a critical professional discipline that supports international trade and global supply chains.

Competitors are assessed on a range of areas, including freight planning, international transportation, documentation, customs compliance, cargo handling, costing, route planning, Incoterms, customer service, and operational problem-solving.

Mehrunissa Begum’s achievement reflects the growing competence of young Indian logistics professionals and their ability to compete successfully on the global stage.

The Government of India, through the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship, has been actively promoting vocational and professional skills development under the Skill India initiative.

The National Skill Development Corporation (NSDC) plays a pivotal role in coordinating India’s participation in WorldSkills competitions and strengthening the country’s skill development ecosystem.

Through initiatives such as IndiaSkills and WorldSkills, young professionals are provided opportunities to develop industry-relevant skills and represent India on global platforms.

Mehrunissa Begum’s achievement is expected to inspire more young people to pursue careers in logistics and supply chain management, a sector offering significant global opportunities.

source: http://www.telanganatoday.com / Telangana Today / Home> Hyderabad / by Telangana Today / September 29th, 2026