Tag Archives: Indian Muslims

A doughty warrior builds a mosque for women

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

Lucknow, UTTAR PRADESH :

Mosques in Hindi heartland states are an exclusive male preserve. Though Islam doesn’t barentry of women into mosques, they are scrupulously kept away from the holy precincts all across north India. But Amber Mosque in the outskirts of Lucknow challenges this shibboleth. It was founded and built by Ms. Shaista Ambar, a social activist from Lucknow who wouldn’t take such taboos lying down.

Wife of a bureaucrat in Uttar Pradesh, Shaista conceived the idea of a mosque where women could also offer namaz alongside men, in 1995. As a young woman, Shaista would take up social causes during the 1980s and 90s. Construction of a mosque was certainly not on her mental screen. But the rebel in her got awakened when she took a child inside a mosque to introduce him to the collective prayers.

For the imam the sight of woman inside the mosque was no less than a sacrilege. She was ordered out. The outrageous behaviour left a deep imprint on her. Beating a hasty retreat, she vowed to build a mosque where both men and women could pray. She drove straight to Nadwatul Uloom, the world famous centre of Islamic learning in Lucknow seeking an audience with Maulana Ali Miyan, the 7th Chancellor of the seminary and a world re nowned scholar of Islam.

The revered Maulana signalled her to go ahead pledging his full support. Pouring the family’s savings, a 26,000 square feet plot of land was bought in Teli Bagh, 15 kms away from the city centre on the road going to Rae Bareli. She sold away her car and ornaments to raise the required funds. The move gathered support from wider circle of relatives and acquaintances.

Lo and behold! The mosque came up opposite the trauma care centre of the Sanjay Gandhi Post Graduate Institute of Medical Sciences. And it was none other than Maulana Ali Miyan Nadwi who presided over the consecration of the mosque in 1999. (He passed away on December 31, 1999). The mosque can host a congregation of over a thousand persons on a Friday when doughty Shaista Amber ensures her weekly presence.

She presides over the committee taking care of the mosque as the chief mutawalli with several other members of the family. She has resolutely stood against traditional maulvis taking over the management of the mosque. There have been pleas to start a madrassa (Islamic theological school) within the precincts.

She has declined permission and has instead started a dharamshala (stay-homes for wayfarers) within the boundary of the mosque where women attendants of inmates at the Sanjay Gandhi Institute find accommodation at a very reasonable rent. And they could belong to any faith. She says Uttar Pradesh has several thousands of madrassas but no dharamshalas and other such key civic facilities set up by Muslims.

The mosque is open for namaz to Sunnis as well as Shias, the major sects within Muslims. The mosque also runs a counselling centre where family disputes, mainly post-marital, are referred for resolution. Shaista has had differences with the All India Muslim Personal Law Board on several issues pertaining to women’s rights in Islam.

Critical about the rigidity on its outmoded stances, she and several of her supporters set up the All India Muslim Women Personal Law Board nearly a decade ago. The Board has appreciated the law banning the practice of triple talaq at one sitting and has suggested several progressive reforms. One who completed her graduation from the Aligarh Muslim University and later acquired Adib and Kamil certificates, Shaista has willed that her two daughters and son would look after the management of the mosque after her passing away.

Shaista came visiting Bengaluru last May at the invitation of the Azim Premji University for a seminar where this author had a chance meeting as a participant. Log onto www.shaista ambar.com for an overview of her vision and activities. 

source: http://www.newstrailindia.com / News Trail / Home / by M A Siraj / October 19th, 2025

Mohammad Ishaq Honoured for Designer Beard Art

Arts, Culture & Entertainment, , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Shahpura, RAJASTHAN :

Mumbai/ Jaipur :

Dr Mohammad Ishaq, a well-known physician from Shahpura in Rajasthan, has been honoured with the Indian Pride Talent Award 2026 for his unique work in beard and moustache art, promotion of local culture, and dedicated social service. The award was presented during a virtual programme organised recently by Jeevan Jagruti Seva Sansthan, Jaipur.

Dr Ishaq, also known as ‘Mr Beard Man’ of Shahpura, is not only recognised for his distinctive designer beard and moustache styles but also for his efforts to take Rajasthani art and culture to national and international platforms. The award, organisers said, was given for his “art, cultural contribution, and service to society”.

The news of the award has created a sense of happiness across Shahpura. Residents, social workers, and youth groups have congratulated Dr Ishaq, calling the honour a matter of pride for the town.

“This award is not just for me, it belongs to Shahpura,” Dr Mohammad Ishaq said. “Whatever I have achieved is because of the love and support of the people.”

Locals say Dr Ishaq’s journey shows how talent rooted in local culture can earn global recognition.

National Fame

Dr Mohammad Ishaq Khan is a medical professional by training, but his identity goes far beyond his clinic. Over the years, his designer beard and moustache styles have become his signature. Through this art form, he has represented Shahpura and Rajasthan across India.

He has won several awards at local, state, and national levels. Recently, he secured first position in a moustache competition held at the internationally known Pushkar Fair, where participants from across the country and abroad took part.

“Pushkar was special,” he said. “Winning there gave me confidence that our traditional styles still have value.”

Dr Ishaq is widely credited as the first person to introduce funky and designer beard styles in India as a separate competitive category.

After his participation, beard and moustache competitions across the country began, including dedicated categories for funky and designer beard styles.

According to organisers of the India Beard Club, this change helped attract new talent and gave a fresh direction to traditional competitions.

“Dr Ishaq changed the way these competitions are seen,” said an organiser associated with the India Beard Club. “He brought creativity and discipline together.”

National Championship

One of the most important achievements in his career came at the India Beard Club National Championship, where around 60 participants from different states competed.

Dr Mohammad Ishaq secured first place in the designer beard category, bringing national attention to Shahpura.

“That moment was unforgettable,” he recalled. “Standing on that stage, I felt I was carrying my city and my culture with me.”

Beyond competitions, Dr Ishaq has worked to promote Rajasthani art, culture, and traditional appearance through his beard and moustache styles.

Last year, he played a small group role in the Bollywood actor Saif Ali Khan’s film Laal Kaptaan. Though brief, the appearance was important for him.

“Cinema reaches people everywhere,” he said. “I wanted our Rajasthani look to be seen by a wider audience.”

Shahpura Beard Club

To support young artists and keep traditional art forms alive, Dr Ishaq established the Shahpura Beard Club last year.

The club aims to guide new artists, organise local events, and provide a platform for those interested in beard and moustache art.

“Many young people have talent but no guidance,” he said. “The club is meant to support them and keep our culture alive.”

Members of the club say Dr Ishaq personally mentors newcomers and encourages discipline and respect for tradition.

Alongside his artistic work, Dr Mohammad Ishaq has also been deeply involved in public life. He has served as a municipal councillor in Shahpura for the last ten years.

During this time, he has taken part in health camps, cleanliness drives, and local welfare programmes.

“Service to society is part of my duty,” he said. “Being a doctor and a councillor gives me a chance to help people in different ways.”

Residents say he is easily approachable and regularly attends to public concerns.

Faith, Culture, and Service

Community leaders say Dr Ishaq’s work challenges stereotypes and presents a positive image of Indian Muslims.

“He represents our culture with dignity,” said a local social worker. “His success shows that Muslims are contributing positively in every field.”

Dr Ishaq himself believes culture and service go hand in hand.

“My beard is not just fashion,” he said. “It reflects identity, tradition, and self-respect.”

The Indian Pride Talent Award is given to individuals who have made meaningful contributions in their respective fields while also serving society.

Organisers said Dr Ishaq was chosen for his rare combination of art, cultural promotion, and social commitment.

“He has turned a traditional art into a modern platform,” said a representative of Jeevan Jagruti Seva Sansthan. “At the same time, he remains connected to social work.”

Celebration Across the City

After the announcement, congratulatory messages poured in from across Rajasthan and beyond. Local traders, youth groups, and cultural organisations welcomed the honour.

“Shahpura feels proud today,” said a shopkeeper. “He has taken our city’s name to places we never imagined.”

Dr Mohammad Ishaq says he wants to continue promoting culture and guiding young talent while staying active in social work.

“Awards give encouragement, but the real work continues,” he said. “I want to do more for society and for our culture.”

His journey, supporters say, proves that dedication, creativity, and service can go together.

As Shahpura celebrates its “Mr Beard Man”, Dr Mohammad Ishaq’s story stands as an example of how local identity, when carried with pride and purpose, can earn national and international respect.

source: http://www.clarionindia.net / Clarion India / Home> Editor’s Pick> India / by Team Clarion / February 11th, 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

Amazing Feats, Arts & Crafts / CraftsPersons (wef. January 14th, 2025), Community Involvement / Social Issues, Leaders, NRI's / PIO's, Women/Girls(since May26-2021), World Opinion, , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

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

Energia opens Corporate Service Center in Mangaluru, eyes future renewable projects in India

Business & Economy, Karnataka (under research project), NRI's / PIO's, , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Mangaluru, KARNATAKA :

Mangaluru:

Energia on Sunday inaugurated its Corporate Service Center in Mangaluru, marking a step towards strengthening its global corporate operations and expanding its presence in India.

The new office was inaugurated in the presence of U. T. Khader, Speaker of the Karnataka Legislative Assembly, and NRI Busnessman Dr. Ronald Colaco along with members of Mangaluru’s business and community circles.

The ceremony was led by Shahid Hassan, CEO of Energia, along with Mohin Sheikh, Managing Director, Rajan Mengoth, Operations Director, and Mehboob, Chairman of Energia. Senior officials and team members of the company were also present.

The Mangaluru Corporate Service Center will function as a dedicated support office for Energia’s operations in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The company said the centre will help improve coordination, strengthen back-end support and enhance governance across key corporate functions. It is expected to improve service delivery through structured processes and better operational control.

Energia stated that the new centre will create employment opportunities in Mangaluru, particularly in corporate services and support roles. The company also plans to introduce structured career pathways and skill development programmes for professionals in the region.

While the immediate focus of the centre will be to support overseas operations, Energia said it intends to deepen its long-term engagement in India. The company indicated that it is exploring opportunities in the renewable energy sector in line with India’s expanding clean energy landscape. The Mangaluru office is expected to act as a base for future partnerships and renewable initiatives in the country.

“This Corporate Service Center reflects Energia’s long-term commitment to building strong capability and governance. Mangalore gives us access to high-quality talent, and this office will play a critical role in supporting our Saudi operations while also helping us prepare for future renewable initiatives in India,” said Shahid Hassan, CEO of Energia.

Among those present at the event were Chairman of State Allied and Health Care Council UT Iftikhar Ali, President of New Jumma Masjid Sharif Whitestone, Chairman of Bearys Chamber of Commerce and Industry SM Rasheed Haji, Founder of Team B-Human Asif Deal, Dr Haroon Hussain and others.

Energia is an energy solutions company with operations in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and a growing presence in other markets. The company provides integrated energy solutions across sectors with a focus on reliability and long-term value creation.

source: http://www.english.varthabharati.in / Vartha Bharati / Home> Karavali / February 15th, 2026

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

AMU Remote Sensing and GIS Students Achieve National, Global Recognition

Education - Gold Medallists, Toppers, Merits, Achievers (wef. June 12th, 2023), Science & Technology, Scientists (wef. August 27th,m 2023), World Opinion, , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Aligarh, UTTAR PRADESH :

Aligarh:

Students of the Interdisciplinary Department of Remote Sensing and GIS Applications at Aligarh Muslim University (AMU) have earned prestigious academic admissions and professional placements at leading institutions in India and abroad, underscoring the department’s growing reputation in geospatial sciences.

At the international level, Ms Areena has been selected for a PhD programme at the University of Waikato, New Zealand. Meanwhile, Mr Md Zaid Qamar has secured admission to the International PhD Programme under the UNESCO Chair in Environment, Resource and Sustainable Development at Parthenope University of Naples, Italy.

On the national front, Mr Ahsan Sayeed has gained admission to the PhD programme in Geomatics at IIT Guwahati. Additionally, Ms Mantasha, Mr Tauheed Ahmad Ansari and Mr Zuhail Abdullah have been selected as Junior Resource Persons at the National Institute of Hydrology, Roorkee.

The department’s students have also made notable strides in the corporate sector. Ms Shaista Perween has been appointed Assistant Manager at Tata Steel Limited in Jamshedpur, while Ms Juveriya Aqeel has secured a position with WSP in Bengaluru with an attractive remuneration package.

Congratulating the students on their accomplishments, Dr Haris Hasan Khan, Chairman of the department, said the achievements reflect both the students’ dedication and the department’s strong academic and research ecosystem in remote sensing and geospatial sciences.

source: http://www.radiancenews.com / Radiance News / Home> Education> Latest News / by Radiance News Bureau / February 12th, 2026

Srinagar’s Arouba Kabir bags International Business Award

Business & Economy, Karnataka (under research project), Women/Girls(since May26-2021), , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Srinagar, JAMMU & KASHMIR :

Srinagar :

Enso Wellness – A Platform for Mental and Emotional Health of Bangalore has been awarded the best online platform by International Business Awards 2022-2023.

Mental and emotional health needs and deserves more and more recognition in today’s era to remove the stigma attached to it, says Arouba Kabir Founder, Enso Wellness.

Born in Kashmir, Arouba Kabir setup her organisation in Gurgaon in 2015 with an aim to spread more awareness and become a one-stop solution for those who have been struggling with the issues and challenges of emotional and mental health.

“Pandemic changed the definition and made it globally possible for people to ask for help by using online platforms keeping their identity anonymous as reaching out to a mental health professional is still a stigma,” Arouba said.

Her organization is known for hosting many online series- like Stand up to Stigma, One-minute Mental Health, Ask the Doctor with eminent personalities from across the globe and conducts various online and offline workshops for Kashmiris in the last five years.

“Mental health is as important as physical health-one definitely impacts the other. We need to start talking about mental health as we do talk about physical health and make it normal for people to reach out for help when they need it.”

“And if you want to see the change, we have to be the change, so talking about your emotions, challenges, struggles and visiting a professional definitely does help make it normal,” she said.

source: http://www.awazthevoice.in / Awaz, The Voice / Home> Stories / by ATV, posted by Nakul Shivani / December 13th, 2022

HRM Forum, Roshni Alumni association organises seminar on Human Resources

Business & Economy, Karnataka (under research project), Leaders, , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Mangaluru, KARNATAKA :

Mangaluru: 

The HRM Forum, in association with the Roshni Alumni Association, organised a seminar titled “HR Unplugged: From Classroom to Corporate Reality” at the School of Social Work, Roshni Nilaya (Autonomous), Mangaluru, on 16th February 2026.

Sujah Mohammed, CEO of Marhaba Group, Mangaluru, delivered the inaugural address, sharing insights from his personal and professional journey. He spoke about the challenges he faced and the determination required to succeed.

Emphasising the importance of communication and interpersonal skills, he urged students to continuously upgrade their knowledge to remain relevant in a fast-changing corporate environment.

Sujah also highlighted professional ethics, leadership qualities, teamwork, and practical exposure through internships as key factors in bridging the gap between theory and practice. He advised aspiring HR professionals to stay confident, adaptable, solution-oriented, and committed to their long-term career goals.

Anand D’Silva encouraged students to make the most of every session, reminding them that life experiences often teach lessons beyond textbooks. He emphasised the value of hard work, genuine knowledge, and dedication, urging students to uphold the values and reputation of Roshni Nilaya in their professional journey. He also advised them to focus on their unique growth paths, remain patient, consistent, and positive, and avoid comparing themselves with others.

Adv. Ganesh Poojary, Partner at KG Pai & Co. and Director at Coreimpact Corporate Services Ltd., conducted an interactive session on labour laws. He started with an activity that required students to categorise various labour laws under the four Labour Codes, promoting critical thinking and engagement. He then explained the codes in detail, especially the Code on Wages, and discussed its implications for employees, employers, and organisational compliance.

During the panel discussion on “Who is HR?”, Ganesh Poojary, Ranjit Christopher Picardo, Associate Director, HR and Global Shared Services Leader, Brady Company India Pvt. Ltd., and Dolfred Norbert D’Souza, Director – Human Resources and Site Leader, APAC, Flexera Software India LLP, highlighted HR as a strategic partner that bridges management and employees. They stressed the role of HR in ethical decision-making, legal compliance, talent development, and shaping organisational culture.

Ranjit Christopher Picardo also led a session on “The Effective Interviewer”, focusing on structured interviews as a tool for effective talent acquisition. He demonstrated a practical framework for interviews and conducted an interactive mock interview with students. He emphasised the high cost of poor hiring and the need for discipline, consistency, and professionalism in recruitment.

The event was attended by over 100 HR students and professionals. Dr. Meena Monteiro, Dean – PG Studies; Dr. Sebastin K V, Dean – Research; Prof. Jinsa Joseph; Prof. Deepika Sanil; Dr. Anuradha Shetty; and Prof. Ramya were present. The session was compered by Saifana Sheik, the welcome address was given by Nagashree, and Prof. Deepika Sanil proposed the vote of thanks.

source: http://www.english.varthabharati.in / Vartha Bharati / Home> Karavali / February 16th, 2026

Zakat Conference in Patna Advocates for Institutionalized Charity to Combat Poverty

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

Patna, BIHAR :

Patna:

The Zakat Centre India (ZCI), Patna, hosted a high-profile conference at the A.N. Sinha Institute of Social Science, bringing together community leaders, scholars, and financial experts to discuss the transformative potential of organized Zakat. The event highlighted a shift from individual giving to a structured “social security” model aimed at empowering marginalized sections through transparency and professional management.

Chief guest Amir Subhani, retired IAS officer and former Bihar Home Secretary, said Zakat is a core element of the Islamic economic system and a guarantee of social security for the weak and poor. He observed that economic inequality exists in every society and cannot be erased by force, noting that the collapse of communism proved such models unsustainable. A degree of inequality, he suggested, can foster mutual dependence, gratitude, cooperation, and empathy among social groups.

Subhani compared faith-based welfare with state-led systems in Europe, Canada, Australia, and the Netherlands, where governments provide extensive social security through taxes. While India has welfare schemes, he said they remain inadequate given widespread poverty. He noted that the estimated Zakat pool forms a significant “corpus”, yet is largely distributed informally, often without verification.

An institutionalized system, he stressed, ensures proper assessment of eligibility, scale of need, and appropriate assistance. Students, aspiring entrepreneurs, and destitute individuals such as widows and the elderly all require tailored support. Organized networks can investigate cases effectively, making collective Zakat more impactful than isolated charity.

Reflecting on ZCI’s work, Subhani said many of his initial concerns about fund allocation and beneficiaries were addressed during the program. He expressed confidence in the Centre’s transparency, especially as it is led by a Chartered Accountant, and suggested issuing payment receipts to strengthen donor trust.

He emphasized coupling financial aid with mentorship. Many poor recipients, he noted, spend business funds on urgent consumption needs and lack entrepreneurial skills. Recalling government Entrepreneurship Training programs for street vendors—where he observed strong Muslim participation—he highlighted practical guidance such as customer interaction, negotiation, body language, repeat business strategies, and digital payments. Financial assistance, he concluded, should be paired with structured guidance.

Keynote speaker Maulana Rizwan Ahmad Islahi described Zakat as central to maintaining social balance in Muslim society. Dr. Rizwan Ahmad Rafiqui of ZCI Delhi stressed organized collection and distribution to maximize impact. CA SS Quadri outlined management protocols and transparency measures, while Advocate Mohammad Naushad presented the annual report. The program opened with Quran recitation and concluded with a vote of thanks by Quamar Warsi.

source: http://www.radiancenews.com / Radiance News / Home> Latest News> Report / by Sami Ahmad / February 16th, 2026