Category Archives: Leaders

Lalu Keeps His Promise: Shahabuddin’s Son Osama Fielded from Raghunathpur

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

BIHAR :

Siwan strongman late Shahabuddin’s wife, Hina Shahab, had personally appealed for her son’s electoral debut in Bihar politics

New Delhi / Patna :

Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) chief Lalu Prasad Yadav has fulfilled his long-standing promise to the family of late party strongman Mohammad Shahabuddin. The RJD has announced Osama Shahab, son of the late leader, as its official candidate from Raghunathpur constituency in Siwan district.

The announcement came on Tuesday as part of the RJD’s list of candidates for several key constituencies. Along with Osama Shahab, Awadh Bihari Chaudhary has been fielded from Siwan, while Akhtarul Shaheen has been given the ticket from Samastipur.

Party insiders said that Lalu Yadav had made a personal commitment to Hina Shahab, widow of the late Shahabuddin, to give her son an opportunity in active politics. Hina had met both Lalu Prasad and Tejashwi Yadav earlier this year, urging them to consider Osama for the Raghunathpur seat.

After that meeting, she had told reporters: “Raghunathpur is our traditional seat. My husband served the people here with loyalty and commitment. I want my son Osama to continue his legacy.”

According to party sources, Lalu Yadav had assured her during that meeting that her request would be honoured, a promise now fulfilled.

In a significant show of loyalty to the party leadership, sitting MLA Harishankar Yadav stepped aside to make way for Osama Shahab. Harishankar, who had won the seat twice for RJD, reportedly agreed without hesitation when asked to vacate it for the late leader’s son.

“I have complete faith in Lalu ji’s decision. Osama is young and carries the legacy of a great leader. The people of Raghunathpur will support him,” Harishankar said.

The Raghunathpur seat is considered one of RJD’s strongholds in Siwan, having been dominated by the party for several years. Political observers believe Lalu’s move is both emotional and strategic, aiming to consolidate Muslim-Yadav votes and rekindle Shahabuddin’s once formidable influence in the region.

Mohammad Shahabuddin, once regarded as a powerful figure in Siwan politics and a close aide of Lalu Prasad Yadav, passed away in 2021 due to COVID-19 complications while in prison. His death left a void in the RJD’s local leadership.

Now, with Osama entering the fray, many in Siwan see it as a revival of Shahabuddin’s political legacy.

Local RJD workers gathered outside Hina Shahab’s residence in celebration after the announcement.

“This is not just a political decision; it’s an emotional one. The people of Siwan still remember Shahabuddin Sahab for his service and strength. His son will carry that name forward,” said Mohammad Arif, a local party worker.

Political experts view this development as a calculated move by Lalu Yadav to strengthen RJD’s traditional support base. Prof NK Sinha, a Patna-based political analyst, commented, “The decision to give Osama the ticket is more about legacy politics. The Shahabuddin family still commands strong emotional ties in Siwan.”

Meanwhile, supporters of Osama have started campaigning energetically in the constituency. Posters of Osama with his father’s image have appeared across Raghunathpur, with slogans reading “Waqt aa gaya hai, Shahabuddin ka beta aa gaya hai” (The time has come, Shahabuddin’s son has arrived).

Osama Shahab and his mother Hina Shahab officially joined RJD in October 2024, ending years of speculation about their political future. Hina, who had contested earlier elections as an independent, had repeatedly expressed her faith in Lalu Yadav’s leadership.

Speaking to media persons after the announcement, she said with tears in her eyes, “Lalu ji has honoured his word. My son will serve the people just like his father did. This is a moment of pride for our family.”

The coming election will determine whether Osama Shahab can uphold the legacy of his father, a man both feared and admired in equal measure, and re-establish the Shahabuddin family’s political influence in Siwan.

source: http://www.clarionindia.net / Clarion India / Home> Politics / by Mohammad Bin Ismail / October 16th, 2025

Turning Failures into Success: UP’s Anjum Ara Tops Judicial Service Exam

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Prayagraj, UTTAR PRADESH :

Educated at Allahabad University, the daughter of a State Bank of India officer credits self-study, family support and disciplined preparation to secure first rank

New Delhi :

In a story of determination, faith and steady hard work, Anjum Ara from Prayagraj in Uttar Pradesh has secured first rank in the Chhattisgarh Provincial Judicial Service Examination, becoming a judge and bringing pride to her home state. Her success has been widely celebrated in Prayagraj, where neighbours and well-wishers described her achievement as a moment of honour for the city.

Anjum, who comes from an educated Muslim family, said her journey was shaped by a personal loss that changed the direction of her life. Her uncle, whom she lovingly called Bade Abu, served as an Additional District Judge. His death left a deep impact on her and inspired her to choose the path of judicial service. “I used to call him Bade Abu,” Anjum recalled. “After he passed away, I made up my mind that I would become a judge like him and serve society.”

She completed her early schooling at Central Academy in Jhunsi town in Prayagraj District before pursuing her BA and LLB from the University of Allahabad. Reflecting on her university years, Anjum said the Law Faculty played a major role in shaping her approach towards legal studies. “The Law Faculty taught me to understand the law, not just memorise it,” she said. “Our professors focused on practical learning. That helped me a lot in the judicial exams.” She added that because of the strong academic environment at the university, she did not feel the need to rely on costly coaching institutes. “If your basics are clear, you can prepare on your own,” she said.

Her father, Shamim Ahmed, works as an assistant manager at the State Bank of India, while her mother, Akhtari Begum, is a homemaker. Anjum described her parents as her biggest support system. She said her preparation was entirely self-driven and disciplined. “I studied five to six hours every day with full focus,” she explained. 

For the mains examination, she focused strongly on judgment writing. She regularly practised answer writing and carefully studied judgments delivered by local courts in Chhattisgarh to understand how decisions are framed. “I practised writing answers regularly. I also studied judgments from local courts in Chhattisgarh to understand how decisions are structured,” she said. She also credited her habit of reading newspapers daily for helping her during the interview stage. “Current affairs helped me respond confidently,” she added.

At home, her family ensured that her studies were never disturbed. “They made sure there was no noise while I studied. They always encouraged me, especially when I failed in the Rajasthan and Delhi judicial exams,” Anjum said. Her father said the family never allowed disappointment to take over. “We always believed in her ability. Failure is part of life. We told her not to lose hope,” he said. Her mother added, “She worked very hard day and night. We only tried to give her a calm environment.”

Before achieving success in Chhattisgarh, Anjum faced setbacks in other states. She admitted that those failures were painful but also important lessons. “Failures taught me where I was lacking,” she said. “Instead of getting upset, I improved my answer writing and strengthened my understanding of the law.” Her perseverance paid off when the results were declared and she secured the top rank in the state.

Residents in Prayagraj expressed pride in her achievement. A neighbour said, “This is a proud moment for the entire area. She has shown that with hard work, anything is possible.” A former teacher from the University of Allahabad said, “Anjum was always sincere and focused. Her success proves that strong academic grounding and discipline make a real difference.”

Now appointed as a judge, Anjum says her goal is to carry out her duties with honesty and integrity. “I want to fulfil my responsibilities towards society through the judiciary with sensitivity,” she said. “Justice should be fair and humane.” Her achievement is being seen as an inspiration, particularly for young women from minority communities who dream of entering the judiciary.

Anjum also shared advice for aspirants preparing for judicial services. She urged students to build a strong grasp of the basic language of law. She advised regular answer writing practice for the mains examination and stressed the importance of understanding how court judgments are read and written. She encouraged students to maintain a routine of five to six hours of focused study daily and not to lose heart in the face of failure. “There is no easy way,” she said. “You have to stay focused and believe in yourself.”

From the classrooms of Prayagraj to securing the top rank in Chhattisgarh, Anjum Ara’s journey reflects discipline, patience and family support. As she prepares to take her place on the bench, many young aspirants now look to her story as proof that steady effort and belief in one’s goal can turn a dream into reality.

source: http://www.clarionindia.net / Clarion India / Home> Editor’s Pick> Indian Muslims / by Mohammad Bin Ismail / February 23rd, 2026

Khan Sir’s affordable hospital in Patna becomes lifeline for poor

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Patna, BIHAR :

Khan Sir Hospital, Patna

In an era where escalating medical explosive costs are making healthcare inaccessible to millions, Khan Sir has given India a reason to take pride. Patna is set to experience a significant enhancement in healthcare access with the launch of the hospital for those who can’t afford the highend treatments and diagnosis of the diseases.

The hospital, established by Faizal Khan—founder of the world’s largest and most affordable online education platform—known as Khan Sir, provides low-cost diagnostic and treatment services for the poor. Khan Sir’s initiative is inspired by his mother’s vision of making healthcare affordable and removing financial barriers to medical care. 

Speaking to the media, Khan Sir said. “I have started this initiative for the ease of the residents of my nation. It was my mother’s dream to build a hospital that gives affordable medical treatments to everyone. Building upon that, I am trying to create a situation where women of my country, whom I consider family, don’t have to mortgage their jewellery for any medical treatment. My further motive is not to earn out of this initiative; I would rather curb the brokerage that is involved in the medical facilities of Bharat.”

The hospital is located on Ashok Rajpath in Patna, Bihar, and has been designed to serve low income families, daily wage earners, senior citizens, and economically underprivileged patients who struggle with high healthcare costs. Khan Sir has stated on multiple occasions that the facility’s mission is to provide quality care at costs much lower than even government hospitals. 

Khan Sir Hospital, Patna (Bihar)

From the start, the hospital has focused on keeping diagnostic and treatment costs extremely affordable. For example, a blood test is charged at only Rs 7, while an ECG (electrocardiogram) costs Rs 25 figures that have caught public attention for being significantly lower than typical lab charges. Initial pricing also includes minimal fees for X rays and kidney tests designed to ensure that essential diagnostics are accessible to all. 

According to the hospital’s official information, even more services are priced affordably: Digital X rays at Rs 30, CT scans from Rs 150, ultrasound for Rs 100, blood tests around Rs 50, and consultations at just Rs 20. These rates make basic medical care much less burdensome for patients who previously had to choose between health and household expenses. 

खान सर का हॉस्पिटल इस दिन से होगा चालू, 35 रु में X-Ray से लेकर काफी सस्ता ईलाज! पटना में कुल 5 बड़े Ai जेनरेटेड हॉस्पिटल खोलेंगे! Khan Sir Hospital Patna pic.twitter.com/TTxoq3Jy7R

— छपरा जिला 🇮🇳 (@ChapraZila) January 4, 2026

Beyond basic diagnostics, Khan Sir Hospital offers a 24/7 blood bank and dialysis centre, with trained nephrology teams and modern equipment. A dedicated emergency department and general OPD services ensure continuous care for various health needs. The hospital also runs community health programmes and patient education initiatives to encourage preventive care.

In line with his charitable mission, Khan Sir plans to expand services across Bihar by establishing dialysis centres and blood banks in other districts with advanced machines imported from Germany and Japan aiming to provide affordable care where it is most critical. 

The hospital’s community outreach has included blood donation drives, where more than 150 units were collected, helping save lives in emergencies. Such efforts demonstrate the institution’s commitment to community health, not just commerce. 

The initiative has inspired strong emotional support from followers. In one notable example, a young fan from Uttar Pradesh drew attention by creating and gifting paintings made with her own blood to Khan Sir in Patna, a symbolic tribute to his work in healthcare and education. 

With this combination of ultra-low fees, modern treatment facilities, community outreach programmes, and a mission rooted in service, Khan Sir Hospital is positioning itself as a lifeline for affordable healthcare in Bihar. It represents a growing model of healthcare that prioritises accessibility and compassion at its core.

source: http://www.awazthevoice.in / Awaz, The Voice / Home> Stories / by Asshhar Alam / February 09th, 2026 

From Balaghat to bureaucracy: Farkhanda Qureshi’s inspiring rise to UPSC Rank 67

Community Involvement / Social Issues, Leaders, Women/Girls(since May26-2021)

Balaghat, MADHYA PRADESH:

Balaghat (Madhya Pradesh):

When she was in Class 8, a young girl in Balaghat sat watching television as district collector B Chandrasekharan appeared on a local channel. For many, it was just another news segment. For Farkhanda Qureshi, it was a turning point. In that moment, a dream quietly took root — she would one day become a civil servant.

Years later, that dream has turned into reality.

Farkhanda Qureshi, a determined young woman from the small town of Balaghat in Madhya Pradesh, has secured an impressive 67th rank in the UPSC Civil Services Examination 2024. She will soon begin her training at the Lal Bahadur Shastri National Academy of Administration in Dehradun, stepping into the journey she once only imagined.

“I had decided that one day I would become a collector and work for society,” she recalls — a promise she made to herself as a schoolgirl.

Her success did not come easily. Farkhanda began preparing for the UPSC in 2021. The road was marked by setbacks and disappointments. Yet, she chose persistence over defeat. It was her fourth attempt that finally brought her success.

Through every failure, her parents stood firmly beside her. “My parents never let me break down. They kept telling me that I would succeed one day. Without their support, I might have given up after my first or second attempt,” she shared with media persons.

Farkhanda’s preparation strategy challenges common myths about the UPSC. She believes that marathon study sessions are not the key. “Studying 18 hours a day is not necessary. What matters is consistency and the right strategy,” she says. She dedicated 6 to 8 focused hours daily, ensuring that she studied every single day. Previous years’ question papers, standard reference books, newspapers, and current affairs formed the backbone of her preparation.

An alumna of St Mary’s School for her 10th standard and Methodist Mission for her 12th, Farkhanda believes that coming from a small town was never a disadvantage. “Balaghat has never been my weakness. If young people here get the right guidance and resources, they too can achieve national success,” she asserts.

She calls her father, Abdul Malik Qureshi, a lawyer, and her mother, Nikhat Anjum Qureshi, a homemaker, her true heroes. Their faith in her, she says, is the foundation of her achievement.

Farkhanda Qureshi’s journey is more than a rank on a list. It is a reminder that dreams born in small towns can reach the highest corridors of power — with courage, consistency, and unwavering support.

source: http://www.daijiworld.com / DaijiWorld.com / Home> Top Stories / by Daijiworld Media Network – Balaghat / February 26th, 2026

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

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INDIA :

Captain Saria Abbas and Captain Wasim

New Delhi :

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

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

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

Capt Saria Abbasi on duty

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

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

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

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

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

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

Capt Fatima Wasim at Siachen

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Capt Abbasi with L70 Gun (released by Army)

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

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

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

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

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DELHI :

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

New Delhi:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Vijayawada, ANDHRA PRADESH :

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

English daily ‘News Trail’ launches Mangaluru edition

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

Bengaluru, KARNATAKA :

Mangaluru:

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

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

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

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

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

Celebrating Unsung Heroes: Indian Muslim Changemakers

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INDIA :

AI generated image

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The changemakers of India

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Corporator Ghafoor Pathan pledges to work on ideals of Shivaji Maharaj

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

Pune, MAHARASHTRA :

Corporator Haji Ghafoor Pathan

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Corporator Ghafoor Pathan

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

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

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

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

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