Category Archives: World Opinion

AMU Alumna Saba Ishrat’s Research at Oxford University Brings Her International Recognition

Education - Gold Medallists, Toppers, Merits, Achievers (wef. June 12th, 2023), Women/Girls(since May26-2021), World Opinion, , , , , , , ,

Aligarh, UTTAR PRADESH :

Aligarh:

The Aligarh Muslim University alumna Saba Ishrat led a research at the University of Oxford to study the effects of cannabis use on the brain structure and function in older adults. Saba’s ground-breaking research has gained significant attention and has been covered by various media outlets worldwide, including BMJ Mental Health journal, internationally recognising its findings and highlighting the importance of this work for public policy.

Prior to starting her DPhil in Oxford, Saba Ishrat completed a Bachelor’s and a Master’s degree in Psychology at Aligarh Muslim University (India) and a second Master’s degree in Cognitive Neuroscience at the University of Trento (Italy).

Her teacher, Prof Shah Alam, Chairman, Department of Psychology, and Prof Shafey Kidwai, Dean, Faculty of Social Sciences, Aligarh Muslim University congratulated Ms Saba Ishrat for her commendable research that has brought new dimensions to the fore.

It needs to be mentioned that cannabis use has risen globally following its legalisation for medical and recreational purposes, yet its effects on the brain in older adults remain understudied.

The team led by Saba Ishrat, conducted the largest observational analysis to date on the relationship between cannabis use and brain structure and function. This research is also the first to employ genetic data to assess causality in this context.

The study’s findings indicate that lifetime cannabis use is associated with several measures of brain structure and function in later life, including lower white matter integrity and weaker resting-state functional connectivity in specific brain regions. However, the study’s genetic analyses did not support a causal link between these observed associations.

To read the research findings click here.

Alongside her DPhil studies, Saba is the Junior Dean at St Cross College, a committee member at St Edmund Hall’s Centre for the Creative Brain, and a student associate of the Society for the Study of Addiction.

source: http://www.radiancenews.com / Radiance News / Home> Science & Technology / by Radiance News Bureau / November 21st, 2024

A R Rahman wins ‘Hollywood Music in Media Awards 2024’ (HMMA) for Prithviraj Sukumaran’s ‘Aadujeevitham’

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Chennai, TAMIL NADU :

An adaptation of Benyamin’s 2008 best-selling Malayalam novel, ‘Aadujeevitham: The Goat Life’, starring Prithviraj Sukumaran, follows the real-life story of Najeeb, a Malayali immigrant labourer in Saudi Arabia.

Music composer A R Rahman. | Photo Credit: Velankanni Raj B

A.R Rahman has won the prestigious Hollywood Music in Media Awards 2024 for the background score of Aadujeevitham: The Goat Life in the Independent Film (Foreign Language) category.

Director Blessy who received the award on Rahman’s behalf at the gala ceremony in Los Angeles shared the news with The Hindu.

The HMMA Awards are considered the bellwether award for the Oscars. Earlier this week, Blessy told The Hindu that he was holding screenings in the US to make a bid for the Academy Awards in the general category.

“I truly believe Rahman has woven magic with both the songs and the background score. The BGM alone captures the character’s struggle, the raw emotion of their fight for survival in the desert. In a way, the score itself tells its own story, mirroring the depth of the character’s emotions,” he had said.

In a strong field, Rahman was competing against Segun Akinola for Girl You Know It’s True, Arli Liberman and Tiki Taane for Ka Wahawhai Tonu, Hao-Ting Shih and Tae-Young Yu for Mongrels, Karzan Mahmood for The Seed of the Sacred Fig and Sandro Morales-Santoro for The Shadow of The Sun for the jury’s nod.

An adaptation of Benyamin’s 2008 best-selling Malayalam novel, the Malayalam film follows the real-life story of Najeeb, a Malayali immigrant labourer in Saudi Arabia. The film stars Prithviraj Sukumaran and Jimmy Jean Louis, K.R. Gokul and Amala Paul.

source: http://www.thehindu.com / The Hindu / Home> Entertainment> News / by The Hindu Bureau (headline edited) / November 21st, 2024

Nadeem Ahmed recognised with NSW Government Community Service Award

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Sydney (New South Wales), AUSTRALIA :

Nadeem Ahmed, the dynamic founder of ‘Indians in Sydney’, has been awarded the prestigious NSW Government Community Service Award in recognition of his exceptional contributions to the Indian diaspora and broader community in New South Wales.

The award acknowledges individuals whose work has significantly enhanced the quality of life for members of their community, and Nadeem’s tireless efforts have made a lasting impact on the lives of many.

A leader with compassionate  and vision

Since founding ‘Indians in Sydney’ in 2007, Nadeem has devoted himself to creating a supportive and inclusive community for Indian migrants and residents. What began as a modest initiative has grown into the largest Indian community platform in NSW, now boasting over 135,000 members.

Under his compassionate leadership, ‘Indians in Sydney’ has become a beacon of unity, where cultural heritage is celebrated, newcomers are supported, and vital connections are made across generations.

Upon receiving the award, Nadeem expressed his gratitude, saying, “This recognition is not just for me but for everyone who has been part of Indians in Sydney. We are a collective force of people who care about each other and who are passionate about giving back to the community. I am truly humbled by this award, and it motivates me to continue serving and building stronger connections within our society.”

With a passion for connecting people and promoting Indian culture, Nadeem started organising events and activities that celebrate heritage and address the unique needs of the diaspora community.

Nadeem says his vision was to create a space where people could support one another, share their stories, and find a sense of belonging in a new land. “Little did I know it would grow into something so much bigger than myself,” he reflected.

Nadeem also extended his heartfelt thanks to Nathan Hagarty MP for his endorsement, noting, “I am deeply grateful to Nathan Hagarty MP for his continuous support. His faith in our mission has been an incredible source of encouragement. Together, we aim to create a more inclusive and compassionate community where everyone feels welcome.”

Transformative community initiatives

Nadeem’s vision for ‘Indians in Sydney’ is one that extends beyond social connection—it is about making a tangible difference in the lives of individuals and families.

Several of the group’s key initiatives reflect this mission, including Winter Drive, Meal for Everyone Drive, Samvaad, Journey, Indians in Sydney Gala Event.

Nadeem’s leadership was  instrumental in organising the recent Indians in Sydney Gala Event , which celebrated India’s 78th Independence Day that was a remarkable success, bringing together leaders, dignitaries, and community members to celebrate the achievements of the Indian community and reinforce the group’s ongoing mission to promote inclusivity and cultural exchange.

Looking ahead

With the NSW Government Community Service Award serving as a testament to his exceptional leadership, Nadeem is more determined than ever to continue his journey of service. The recognition highlights not only his personal achievements but also the tireless efforts of the ‘Indians in Sydney’ community to create positive change.

For those inspired by his work, Nadeem’s message is clear: “There is always more we can do, and together, we can make a lasting impact. Our journey is just beginning.”

Indians in Sydney is the largest community group for Indians in New South Wales, dedicated to fostering social connections, cultural pride, and charitable initiatives.

Through a wide range of programs, including meal drives, cultural events, and support services for migrants, the group serves as a vital resource for the not only to Indian diaspora in Australia but to Wider Australian Communities

source: http://www.amust.com.au / AMUST / Home> Community> Featured / by Imtiaz Khan / October 29th, 2024

Artist Ammar Abdi Honored with Honorary Doctorate by WEBBIC University, West Africa

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Sahranpur, UTTAR PRADESH :

New Delhi

At the Constitution Club of India in New Delhi, a convocation ceremony organized by Webbic University, Ghana, West Africa.

During this ceremony, many individuals from the country were honored with Honorary Doctorate Degree for their social work and talents. The degrees were conferred by Chancellor Dr. Felix Ofosu in recognition of their achievements.

In the event, Artist Ammar Abdi from Saharanpur, Uttar Pradesh, was honored with an honorary Doctorate Degree by the International University, Webbic University, Ghana, West Africa, for his talent.

Ammar started his career at a very young age. He has also been honored with many awards in the past, including the Exclusive Talent Award by Exclusive World Records.

His family is happy to receive this honor.

During this time, many other prominent individuals were also awarded honorary doctorates. Among them were Member of Uttar Pradesh Minorities Commission, Haider Abbas Chand; Senior Journalist and JCI President, Anurag Saxena; Operation Head of Exclusive World Records, Pankaj Khatwan; and Assistant Director of MSME, UP, Harish Yadav.

source: http://www.antimvikalp.com / Antim Vikalp News / Home> News / June 14th, 2023

Malayali scholar Mahmood Kooria wins Rs 84 lakh Infosys Science Prize for research excellence

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Perinthalmanna(Malappuram) KERALA / Edinburgh, SCOTLAND :

Malayali scholar Mahmood Kooria has been awarded the prestigious Rs 84 lakh Infosys Science Prize for his groundbreaking research on Islam and the Indian Ocean region. The award recognises his exceptional contribution to the study of history, culture, and Islamic law.

Dr mahmood kooria (file image)

Professor Mahmood Kooria, a distinguished academic from Kerala, has been awarded the prestigious Infosys Science Prize 2024 for his groundbreaking contributions to the study of Muslims in the Indian Ocean region, including Kerala. The award, which recognises excellence in scientific and social research, honours Kooria’s work in humanities and social sciences.

A landmark achievement for Kerala

Kooria, a native of Perinthalmanna in Malappuram, is currently a professor at the University of Edinburgh. At just 36 years old, he is the youngest recipient of the Infosys Science Prize.

The award acknowledges his extensive research on the history of sailing across the Indian Ocean and his unique approach to studying the history of Kerala from a global perspective.

In a statement to Mathrubhumi, Kooria expressed joy and surprise, saying, “this is totally unexpected, and I am very happy. This award is a recognition for ocean studies and Kerala studies.”

Prize details and award ceremony

The Infosys Science Prize includes a gold medal, a citation, and a cash award of USD 1 lakh (approximately Rs 84 lakh). The award will be presented to Kooria at a special ceremony in Bengaluru on January 11, 2025.

Focus on Indian Ocean history and Kerala’s role

Kooria’s work offers fresh insights into the history of the Indian Ocean region, particularly focusing on Kerala’s crucial role in global trade, cultural exchanges, and the development of Islamic law. His research delves into how the legal traditions of various religious communities shaped the political, cultural, and economic transformations across the Indian Ocean coast.

Professor Kooria’s research also explores the historical role of animals such as elephants, horses, and donkeys in shaping key events, including the Malabar Rebellion. His innovative approach to integrating animals into historical narratives is a notable contribution to contemporary academic thought.

Kooria’s work on this subject was published in Mathrubhumi Weekly and later compiled into a book by Mathrubhumi Books.

A leading scholar of Islamic Studies in the Indian Ocean

Kooria is widely regarded as one of the leading scholars of Islamic discourse in the Indian Ocean region. His research highlights the critical role of Islamic law in influencing the region’s political, cultural and economic exchanges. His work also covers the broader impact of Islamic legal traditions on the development of diverse communities along the Indian Ocean littoral, including the cultural and commercial interactions between different religious groups.

Earlier, Kooria was awarded the National Research Fellowship by the Dutch government, worth Rs 2 crore.

Recognition from Infosys Science Foundation

The Infosys Science Foundation, which recognises exceptional contributions in science and research, announced the winners in a statement led by President Kris Gopalakrishnan and Trustees N. R. Narayana Murthy, K. Dinesh, Dr. Pratima Murthy, Mohandas Pai, S. D. Shibulal, and others.

source: http://www.english.mathrubhumi.com / Mathrubhumi.com / Home> News> Kerala / November 15th, 2024

Tiger, Tyger: A Tipu Sultan birthday story

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Srirangapatna, KARNATAKA :

On November 10, the 274th (or 273rd) birthday of Tipu Sultan was celebrated peacefully in his erstwhile capital, Srirangapatna, amid heavy security.

The date of his birth is disputed – there is little agreement on whether it is November 10, November 20, or December 1, or whether that event happened in 1750 or 1751. (File photo)

This past Sunday, November 10, the 274th (or 273rd) birthday of Tipu Sultan was celebrated peacefully in his erstwhile capital, Srirangapatna, amid heavy security. The security was necessary because Tipu has become, in recent years, a polarizing and politicised figure, with successive state governments casting him alternately as monster and Messiah. Even the date of his birth is disputed – there is little agreement on whether it is November 10, November 20, or December 1, or whether that event happened in 1750 or 1751.

Be that as it may, one well-documented fact about Tipu is that he commissioned, around 1795, the famous Tipu’s Tiger, a mechanical automaton built by local craftsmen using local materials, possibly with inputs from French engineers. It featured a painted wooden tiger mauling a man who, judging from his costume, was decidedly European. The hollow toy housed various mechanisms that were worked by the turning of a crank handle. Each time it was turned, one of the man’s arms moved up, seemingly in a (futile) bid for self-defence, while the bellows inside pushed air out of the man’s throat and several openings in the tiger’s head, producing what sounded like a wail of distress from the man alongside a growl from the tiger. Symbolic of the self-styled Tiger of Mysore, the tiger was as large as life; the hapless European just a little smaller.

Tipu’s Tiger may well have been a product of Tipu’s fancy, meant to inspire him after his defeat in the Third Anglo-Mysore War in 1792, following which he not only lost half his kingdom but was obliged to give up two of his sons as hostages to Lord Cornwallis. But there is a popular theory that the visual of the tiger attacking the soldier was based on a real incident that happened later the same year.

On 21 December 1792, so the story goes, the goodly ship Shaw Ardaseer, bound for Madras, stopped to take on cargo at Sagar Island, situated at the mouth of the Hooghly in Calcutta, at the point where the Ganga meets the Bay of Bengal. On the ship was 17-year-old Hector Sutherland Munro, a ‘cadet for Madras’ who had only arrived in India on the 8th of November. Along with his fellow cadets, young Hector went ashore to try his luck at hunting deer, but was unsuccessful. The party had just sat down at the edge of the jungle to eat a meal when they heard, in the words of eyewitness Capt Henry Conran, ‘a roar like thunder,’ and saw ‘an immense royal tiger spring on the unfortunate Munro.’ In a moment, continues Conran, Munro’s head ‘was in the beast’s mouth,’ and it had raced into the jungle, carrying Munro with it. Conran and the others shot at the tiger and killed it, but Munro could not be saved.

Conran’s sensational prose, and the fact that young Munro was the son of the celebrated General Sir Hector Munro, the hero of the Battle of Buxar (1764) and the capture of Pondicherry (1778), and one of the main players in the Second Anglo-Mysore War (1780) against Tipu‘s father Hyder Ali, ensured that the story went viral in England, perhaps even inspiring William Blake’s famous 1793 poem ‘The Tyger.’ Given that his sons were being held in Calcutta at the time, the story almost certainly also reached Tipu. In the aftermath of the Fourth Anglo-Mysore War, in which Tipu was killed, Tipu’s Tiger, which had little intrinsic but much emblematic value, was carried back to England in triumph, and installed, in July 1808, in East India House on Leadenhall Street.

Today, Tipu’s Tiger sits behind glass at the Victoria & Albert Museum (V&A) in London, where it has long been, according to the museum’s website, ‘one of the V&A’s most popular exhibits.’

(Roopa Pai is a writer who has carried on a longtime love affair with her hometown Bengaluru)

source: http://www.hindustantimes.com / Hindustan Times / Home / by Roopa Pai / November 12th, 2024

AMU Alumna Saba Haider Triumphs in US Poll; Parents Celebrate in UP

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Ghaziabad, UTTAR PRADESH / Chicago, U.S.A :

Saba did her MSc in Wildlife Sciences at AMU, earning a gold medal. She moved to the United States with her husband, who is a computer engineer

Ghaziabad :

Saba Haider, a former student of Aligarh Muslim University (AMU) and a native of Ghaziabad in Uttar Pradesh, has achieved a significant victory in the recent DuPage County Board election in the United States. Standing as a Democratic Party candidate, she won by a margin of over 8,000 votes against Republican candidate Patricia Petty Goston, sparking celebrations in her hometown. Friends, family, and well-wishers are visiting her parents’ home here to congratulate them on this remarkable achievement.

In an exclusive conversation, Saba’s father, Ali Haider, shared insights into her background. Originally from Aurangabad in Bulandshahr, he moved to Ghaziabad for work, where he raised his family. Saba, known for her academic prowess from a young age, completed her intermediate from Holy Child School in Ghaziabad and earned a BSc from Ram Chameli Chadha College. Later, she pursued an MSc in Wildlife Sciences at AMU, earning a gold medal for her outstanding performance. After her marriage, Saba moved to the United States with her husband, who is a computer engineer.

Ali Haider emphasised that Saba’s interest in social service and politics began early in life. In the US, she initially taught yoga and soon became actively involved in community services. Her engagement in local governance led her to run for a school board position, although she narrowly missed victory in that earlier attempt. Despite setbacks, she remained determined, embodying the family’s philosophy of resilience and perseverance.

Saba’s mother, Meh Jabin Haider, expressed her pride in Saba’s determination. “We always taught her that one should never give up,” she said. “When faced with setbacks, it’s important to continue pushing forward.” Reflecting on her previous loss in a close race, Meh Jabin emphasised that Saba’s unwavering dedication and perseverance finally led to success in this election.

In a competitive race with a total of 70,109 votes cast in DuPage County, Saba Haider garnered 39,365 votes, while her opponent received 30,844 votes. Saba’s victory margin of 8,541 votes stands as a testament to her popularity and commitment to the community she now serves.

Saba’s win brings a sense of pride not only to her family and Ghaziabad but also to Aligarh Muslim University, where she built the academic foundation that has supported her remarkable journey. Her parents are hopeful that her success will inspire more young women to pursue their aspirations and make a positive impact both at home and abroad.

source: http://www.clarionindia.net / Clarion India / Home> Indian Muslim> Women> World / by Clarion India / November 08th, 2024

AMU Prof. Dr. Farhan Ahmad Khan’s proposed device which enables ‘early diagnosis of rare genetic disorders in children’ gets patent from IPO, UK

Amazing Feats, Business & Economy, Inventions, Innovations (wef. Nov 30th, 2021), Leaders, Science & Technology, Scientists (wef. August 27th,m 2023), World Opinion, , , , , , , , , ,

Aligarh, UTTAR PRADESH :

Aligarh :

Prof Farhan Ahmad Khan, Department of Pharmacology, JN Medical College, Aligarh Muslim University has been granted a certificate of registration by the UK Intellectual Property Office for a novel design of an innovative device that enables early diagnosis of rare genetic disorders in children.

He said that the design paves the way for understanding and solving some of the difficult challenges in medical science today. The device, when ready to use, will help in the management of rare pediatric genetic disorders.

Prof. Syed Ziaur Rahman, Chairman, Department of Pharmacology, congratulated Prof. Khan on the registration of the design of his device, adding that it is a proud moment for the department and the university.

source: http://www.amu.ac.in / Aligarh Muslim University / Home> AMU News / by Public Relations Office (headline edited) / October 25th, 2024

Jamia Faculty Gets Swiss Award For ‘Smart Solar Inverter’ Model

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NEW DELHI :

The research group has won an award worth Rs 20 lakh from Switzerland based world reputed company Typhoon HIL.

Jamia faculty receives award from Swiss company for smart solar inverter model

New Delhi:

In-charge of the Advance Power Electronics Research Laboratory, Department of Electrical Engineering, Jamia Millia Islamia (JMI), Dr. Ahteshamul Haque and his research group has won an award worth Rs. 20 Lakhs from Switzerland based world reputed company Typhoon HIL. 

The research group comprising of students from B.Tech, M.Tech and PhD headed by Dr. Ahteshamul Haque has developed a model for Smart Solar Inverters with its control and submitted it for evaluation in a competition organised by Typhoon HIL. 

Teams from various continents participated in this world level competition named ’10 for 10 Programme’.

Prof. Z. A. Jaffery, Head of Department, Department of Electrical Engineering, JMI encouraged the research group to take part in this world level competition, said a statement from Jamia. 

In award, Dr. Haque and his research group got a powerful machine for research worth Rs.20 lakh. 

Name of the machine is HIL-402 real time simulator, which is used in power electronics, microgrid and renewable energy applications. 

Jamia Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Najma Akhtar, expressed her happiness on this achievement and congratulated Prof. Z. A. Jaffery, Dr. Haque and his team for taking university to new heights in the field of research and recognition by world reputed organizations. 

Recently, Dr. Haque has also received R&D project grant under Ministry of Human Resource Development’s SPARC scheme.

source: http://www.ndtv.com / NDTV / Home> Education> Delhi / by NDTV Education Team / April 22nd, 2019

Karnataka Rajyotsava Award announced for Dr. Thumbay Moideen

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Karavali, KARNATAKA / Dubai, U.A.E :

Bengaluru:

The Karnataka Government on Wednesday named Dr. Thumbay Moideen, son of prominent community leader late B. Ahmed Haji Mohiudeen, among the recipients of this year’s Karnataka State Rajyotsava Award. A prominent alumnus of St. Aloysius College, Mangaluru, Dr. Moideen has earned widespread recognition in the UAE and beyond for his contributions to higher education and healthcare.

Dr. Moideen founded the THUMBAY Group in 1997, a diversified international conglomerate that has since expanded into health education, healthcare services, and medical research. In 1998, he became the first Indian invited by the rulers of Ajman to establish a medical college in the UAE. This institution has now grown into a university with its own network of hospitals, clinics, medical centers, and pharmacies throughout the country.

Dr. Moideen has been featured in respected publications, including Forbes Middle East and Arabian Business. His achievements have also been recognized with an Honorary Fellowship from the International Medical Sciences Academy (IMSA) and an honorary doctorate from Amity University.

The Karnataka Rajyotsava Award, also known as the Rajyotsava Prashasti, is the second highest civilian honor in Karnataka, India. The award is given annually to recognize citizens of Karnataka and others who have contributed to the state in various fields: Arts, Education, Industry, Literature, Science, Sports, Medicine, Social Service, and Public Affairs.

The award is presented on November 1, the day of the state’s establishment, which is celebrated as Kannada Rajyotsava. 

source: http://www.english.varthabharati.in / Vartha Bharati / Home> Karnataka / by Vartha Bharati / October 30th, 2024