Tag Archives: Positive Stories of Muslims of India

Mohammed Haris’ journey to Indian skies began from a ticketing office in Kerala

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Kozhikode (formerly Calicut) KERALA :

Mohammed Haris T,. Chairman and Owner of alHind Air

New Delhi :

From a small ticketing office in Calicut, Kerala to entering India’s aviation space, T. Mohammed Haris is taking on one of the most competitive markets as his Al Hind Air is all set to enter the Indian aviation sector, building a full-scale airline empire.

AlHindAir and FlyExpress are set to take to the skies, after receiving their No Objection Certificates from the Civil Aviation Ministry.

Al Hind Air is being promoted by Kerala-based Alhind Group, which was established three decades ago in Calicut. The promoter of Al Hind Air is Mohammed Haris T. 

Mohammed Haris is the promoter of Alhind Group of Companies. His experience in the travel and tourism industry is extensive. Haris also holds the position of founder General Secretary of the Indian Hajj Umrah Association. Born in Calicut, he completed his education with a Bachelor’s degree in Arts (BA History and Economics) and a degree in Pharmacology.

AlHind Air

Alhind Group offers a wide array of travel-related services, making it a one-stop shop for all travel needs. Its global footprint has expanded significantly over the years. With offices and partners in several countries, including the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Oman, Bangladesh and Kuwait, the company has managed to serve a diverse clientele from different parts of the world.

Part of the Alhind Group of Companies, Alhindair is preparing to make its debut in the aviation industry as a regional commuter airline, with operations scheduled to commence later this year. “The airline will begin its journey with a fleet of ATR 72- 600 model aircraft, initially focusing on providing efficient and reliable domestic air travel,” it said.

Alhind Group was established in 1990 and has emerged as a prominent leader in the travel and tour management industry in Asia.

Over the years, the group has built a strong reputation and has a presence in diverse fields such as transportation, software, Umrah travel, mobile application development, education, etc.

T.Mohammad Haris (Left) and others at an public function

Alhind’s global footprint has expanded significantly over the years. With offices and partners in several countries, including the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Oman, Bangladesh and Kuwait, the company has managed to serve a diverse clientele from different parts of the world.

This global presence ensures that Alhind is well-equipped to cater to the needs of international travellers, whether for leisure or business purposes. In a rapidly evolving industry, Alhind has shown its adaptability by embracing technology and innovation. 

Its website claims that “In a rapidly evolving industry, Alhind has shown its adaptability by embracing technology and innovation. Alhind has invested in user-friendly websites and mobile apps, allowing customers to book their travel services conveniently. Additionally, they have integrated various online booking tools and platforms to ensure a seamless booking process. This forward-thinking approach has enabled Alhind to stay competitive and relevant in the digital age.”

source: http://www.awazthevoice.in / Awaz, The Voice / Home> Stories / by Aasha Khosa / December 28th, 2025

Meet Lubna Qazi Who Takes Oath as Administrative Law Judge in New Jersey

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KUWAIT / Raigarh District (MAHARASHTRA) / New Jersey (U.S.A) :

Kokan’s daughter Lubna Qazi Chaudhry took the oath as Administrative Law Judge in New Jersey with her hand placed on The Holy Quran, pledging to uphold constitutional responsibilities.

Mumbai: 

Lubna Qazi, a lawyer originally from Maharashtra’s Raigad district, has created history by taking oath as an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ) in the US state of New Jersey, becoming the first Muslim woman to be appointed to this position in the state. The appointment is being widely regarded as a significant milestone for minority representation in the American judiciary.

The oath-taking ceremony was held recently, where Associate Justice Rachel Wainer Apter of the New Jersey Supreme Court administered the oath. On the occasion, Lubna Qazi placed her hand on the Holy Quran and pledged to faithfully discharge her constitutional duties.

The position of Administrative Law Judge holds considerable importance within the American judicial system. ALJs preside over cases involving decisions of government agencies, administrative disputes and public grievances, delivering rulings based on established legal principles.

Lubna Qazi’s Life Journey

Lubna Qazi’s life journey spans multiple countries and cultures. She was born in Kuwait, where she spent her early childhood with her parents. In 1990, during a school vacation, she travelled to the United States. However, following the outbreak of the Gulf War, the family decided to settle there permanently.

Lubna later pursued her education in California, completed her graduation from the University of California, and earned her law degree from Western State University College of Law.

After marrying Ahsan Chaudhry in 2005, Lubna moved to New Jersey, where she served in various government legal positions for nearly two decades. Recognising her extensive legal experience and professional competence, the Governor of New Jersey nominated her for the post of Administrative Law Judge in 2025.

Lubna Qazi is also distinguished for her linguistic abilities. In addition to English, she is fluent in Urdu, Hindi and Konkani, and has working knowledge of Arabic. Committed to preserving cultural and linguistic heritage, she is personally teaching Urdu and Arabic to her two children at home.

Family Feels Honoured

Expressing his pride, Lubna’s father Inayatullah Qazi said that the entire family feels honoured by her achievement. He described the appointment not merely as a position, but the result of years of hard work, sacrifice and prayers.

Speaking to the correspondent, Inayatullah Qazi said that his family hails from Tala taluka of Raigad district in the Konkan region. He completed his education up to Class VI at Jamia Millia Islamia School, Delhi, and his high school education at Anjuman Islam, Mumbai.

After obtaining a degree in Mechanical Engineering from Government College of Engineering, Aurangabad, in 1975, he moved to Kuwait for employment, beginning his career with an air-conditioning company. After working there for fifteen years, he migrated to the United States with a single suitcase following Iraq’s invasion of Kuwait after the Gulf War, as his children were already in the US at the time. He later ensured higher education for all four of his children.

Inayatullah Qazi said that the family’s roots are deeply embedded in Islamic tradition and that Urdu is spoken with pride at home. He added that Lubna completed recitation of the Holy Quran at the age of seven.

He further shared that around five to six generations ago, their ancestors were sent to the Konkan region as Qazis (judicial authorities) to administer justice without discrimination based on religion, caste or race. Although the profession discontinued a few generations ago, he expressed happiness that his daughter has now proudly revived the family’s judicial legacy.

Lubna Qazi is also the granddaughter of Dr Rehana Ahmed, a noted educationist and Executive Chairperson of the Girls’ Board of Anjuman Islam, Mumbai. Dr Ahmed expressed joy over Lubna’s achievement, stating that it serves as a shining example for young women across the community and will inspire girls to pursue higher education and professional careers. She is widely recognised for her dedicated efforts toward the promotion of girls’ education, particularly within the Muslim community.

Meanwhile, several social and legal organisations, including the Asian Pacific American Lawyers Association of New Jersey, have congratulated Lubna Qazi on her appointment. Observers believe that this development marks a significant step forward in strengthening Muslim and minority representation within the American judicial system.

source: http://www.ummid.com / Ummid.com / Home> United States / by Mohiyuddin Altamash / January 30th, 2026

Women-Exclusive Exhibition-cum-Sale in Shivamogga Empowers Women Entrepreneurs

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Shivamogga, KARNATAKA :

A one-day Exhibition-cum-Sale was organised by the Women’s Wing of Jamaat-e-Islami Hind, Shivamogga District. The exhibition was inaugurated by the State Secretary of the Women’s Wing, Jamaat-e-Islami Hind, Mohtarma Taskeela Khanum.

The objective of such programmes is to economically strengthen and empower women. In the context of rising inflation, unemployment, and poverty, it was emphasised that addressing these challenges is a shared responsibility, and that women must play an effective role alongside men in the nation’s economic development.

The organisers highlighted that such exhibitions provide women with practical business experience, opportunities to interact with people from diverse backgrounds, and support in developing entrepreneurial ideas. These platforms also enable women to engage in halal business practices within the limits of Shari’ah, while facilitating growth through networking and referrals.

Islam permits women to engage in business, including running enterprises from their homes, as reflected in Islamic history through the example of Khadijah bint Khuwaylid رضی الله عنها, a successful businesswoman. Islam also encourages honest and ethical business practices for both men and women.

Nearly 100 women from across the district set up stalls showcasing clothing, handbags, fancy items, abayas, home-made products, and more. A food court offering a wide variety of food items was another major attraction. Members, associates of Jamaat-e-Islami Hind, and women entrepreneurs from different parts of the district actively participated in the exhibition.

The women-exclusive exhibition attracted around 3000 women visitors, who actively shopped at the stalls. The event was described as highly encouraging, as it highlighted the talents, skills, and entrepreneurial potential of women.

Such exhibitions form part of the organisational plan of Jamaat-e-Islami Hind to promote women’s empowerment. Efforts will be made to strengthen the women entrepreneurs’ network.

Feedback received from participants reflected a high level of satisfaction, with many expressing a desire for similar programmes to be organised regularly. Participants particularly appreciated that the exhibition was organised by women, for women, and exclusively for women, creating a comfortable environment that enabled them to conduct business with confidence.

The organisers were widely appreciated, and participants expressed eagerness to remain connected and take part in future programmes. The total sales from all stalls amounted to approximately ₹3 lakh during the one-day exhibition.

The programme concluded on a positive note, reinforcing the importance of such initiatives in promoting women’s economic empowerment and community development.

[The writer of this report is Member Mashavrati Board Karnataka, and District Organiser of JIH Women’s Wing Shimoga]

source: http://www.radiancenews.com / Radiance News / Home> Entrepreneurship> Focus / by Naseema Begum / February 01st, 2026

Wasifi family brings Tonk’s calligraphy to the global stage

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Tonk, RAJASTHAN :

Qari Mutiullah Wasifi with his prize winning work

Qari Mutiullah Wasifi, a calligrapher from Tonk, a city in Rajasthan, won the second prize in the International Islamic Calligraphy Competition, organised by the Islamic Art Society in New York, USA.

This recognition comes amid the rise of digital fonts and artificial designs globally.

Qari Mutiullah Wasifi competed with more than 4000 artists from around the world. On this occasion, Qari said his success at an international forum is not sudden. Over the past four years, India’s presence in this competition has been consistent, and the Wasifi family has made it to the top every time.

In 2022, Qari Mutiullah Wasifi received the first prize. A year later, his son Haris Wasifi secured second place. In 2024, Haris won the first prize.

This year, the first prize was bagged by Egypt, the second by India, the third by Pakistan, and the fourth by Turkey. The award includes a certificate, a memento, and a cash prize. However, for the Wasifi family, the real honour is the recognition that comes with representing India.

Qari Mutiullah Wasifi at work

Qari Mutiullah Wasifi’s journey didn’t begin at an art college. His first school was his own home. His late father, Qari Salimullah Wasif Furqani, was a renowned calligrapher, reciter of the Quran, and a scholar. He had a command of Arabic, Persian, and Urdu.

His calligraphy of the Quran was his speciality. As a child, Mutiullah watched his father sit for hours, writing. The sharpness of the pen, the curves of the letters, and the measured amount of ink used were not mere play for him, but a matter of discipline.

For formal education, he enrolled at the Maulana Abul Kalam Azad Arabic-Persian Research Institute (APRI) in Tonk. He completed a four-year diploma course, recognised by the National Council for Promotion of Urdu Language (NCPUL), Delhi. This is the same institution that has made Tonk a centre for Arabic and Persian studies.

Tonk is generally known for its madrasas, books, and Islamic education. But this city has also witnessed a well-established tradition of calligraphy. During the Nawab era, calligraphers from Iran and Central Asia taught locals the art.

Institutions like Maulana Abul Kalam Azad Arabic Persian Research Institute (APRI) have preserved this legacy. This institution has trained many calligraphers who have made a name for themselves in India and abroad. Qari Mutiullah Wasifi is an important link in this chain.

Wasifi told Awaz-the Voice that for him, calligraphy is not just a means of decoration, but a part of worship. To date, he has handwritten 27 copies of the Holy Quran. Some of these Qurans are written in extremely fine script, while others are adorned with gold and silver.

Qari Mutiullah Wasifi with a competitor

He has also undertaken unique projects, such as writing the entire Quran on a single large sheet of paper. This work requires years of practice and patience. The placement of each letter is crucial, and even a single mistake can ruin the entire work.

One of Qari Mutiullah Wasifi’s lesser-known yet important contributions is related to the preservation of manuscripts — completing the half-done copies of the Holy Quran and rare books in Arabic, Persian, and Urdu. So far, he has completed approximately 500 incomplete Qurans and hundreds of old books.

He has undertaken projects for private collectors, libraries, and research institutions. This effort breathes new life into books that might otherwise have been lost to oblivion.

Wasifi’s art is not limited to paper. He has done calligraphy on cloth, leather, wood, metal, grains of rice, lentils, marble, hair, and even inside bottles. This art is not only a test of manual dexterity but also of concentration and balance.

Wasifi participated in the international calligraphy competition organised by the Islamic institution “Irtika” in Istanbul, Turkey, in 2022. This institution organises a prestigious global calligraphy competition every two years, in which renowned calligraphers from around the world participate.

In 2023, he also participated in the international calligraphy competition organised by Fujairah Company in Dubai (UAE). This competition is known for its distinguished jury and global participation.

Wasifi says that if workshops, exhibitions, and competitions are considered together, his participation in national and international events, both within and outside India, totals approximately 30.

Wasifi thinks it’s not his achievement, but a means of showcasing the Indian calligraphy tradition at the international level.

According to him, such platforms provide artists with opportunities to learn, test themselves, and connect with calligraphers from around the world. He has also received several honours at the national level.

He has also participated in international exhibitions and workshops in places like Bengaluru, Udaipur, Aligarh, Diggi Palace in Jaipur, and the Lalit Kala Akademi in Delhi.

In the Wasifi family, this art has been passed down from one generation to the next. Qari’s eldest son, Haris Wasifi, is an internationally acclaimed calligrapher. The second son, Abbas Wasifi, is a Hafiz and Qari (one who has memorised the entire Quran and recites it with proper pronunciation) and is pursuing his education at Nadwatul Ulama, Lucknow.

The daughter, Sidra Wasifi, is an Alima (a female religious scholar) and teaches calligraphy to young girls. This family is not only preserving art but also discipline and heritage.

Qari Mutiullah Wasifi has established ‘Bazm-e-Wasif‘ in memory of his father. His dream is to create a special library and museum of calligraphy in Tonk, where his and his father’s manuscripts can be safely preserved. He says that despite the lack of resources, his resolve remains unwavering. His goal is to ensure that this calligraphic heritage of Tonk reaches future generations.

source: http://www.awazthevoice.in / Awaz, The Voice / Home> Stories / by Farhan Israeli, Tonk (Rajasthan) / January 29th, 2026

Dr Kashif Ansari Receives Best Assistant Professor Award at JJ Hospital

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MAHARASHTRA :

Mumbai:

Grant Government Medical College and Sir J J Group of Hospitals marked Republic Day with an academic honour for Dr Kashif F Ansari, who received the Best Assistant Professor award from the Dean of the institution. The recognition reflects his teaching record, clinical service, and role in advancing minimally invasive surgery at one of the city’s largest public hospitals.

Dr Ansari serves in the Department of General Surgery and has built a profile in laparoscopic gastrointestinal surgery and laser proctology. Colleagues credit his structured teaching, steady operating room leadership, and work with postgraduate trainees for the award.

The honour follows a major institutional milestone in April 2025, when JJ Hospital performed its first robotic surgeries. Dr Ansari formed part of the core surgical team that completed three complex procedures using robotic systems under senior mentorship and institutional guidance. The operations marked the hospital’s entry into advanced technology based surgery with a focus on affordable public care.

Dr Ansari completed his MS in General Surgery at D Y Patil Medical College, Kolhapur, and later trained in advanced laparoscopic and minimal access surgery. His professional record includes service as Honorary Consultant at Prince Ali Khan Hospital, Masina Hospital, Apollo Hospital, and Noor Hospital. He earlier worked as Senior Resident at Cooper Hospital, Nair Hospital, and Ambedkar Memorial Hospital.

He holds fellowships with national surgical bodies and life memberships with leading professional associations. His research work on difficult laparoscopic cholecystectomy has appeared in a peer reviewed journal.

Faculty members said the award highlights the role of young Muslim medical professionals in public health institutions and their contribution to modern surgical care.

source: http://www.radiancenews.com / Radiance News / Home> Latest News > Report / by Radiance News Bureau / January 27th, 2026

IIT Bombay’s Prof Juzer Vasi Receives Padma Shri for Lifetime Work in Engineering

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Mumbai, MAHARASHTRA :

Mumbai:

IIT Bombay has marked a proud moment with the conferment of the Padma Shri on Prof Juzer M. Vasi, former Deputy Director and senior academic of the institute. The national honour recognises his lifelong contribution to science and engineering, with a strong focus on semiconductors, microelectronics, and solar energy research.

Prof Vasi has served Indian academia for over four decades. He remains associated with IIT Bombay as Professor Emeritus in the Department of Electrical Engineering. His work spans nanoelectronics, solar photovoltaic deployment in India, global solar PV systems, nanocrystal-based solar cells, and the reliability of solar modules. These areas hold strong relevance for sustainable development and energy access.

An alumnus of IIT Bombay, Prof Vasi completed his B.Tech in 1969. He earned his Ph.D. in Electrical Engineering from The Johns Hopkins University in 1973. His academic journey reflects deep commitment to knowledge and public service, values strongly rooted in the Islamic tradition of ilm and community benefit.

Prof Vasi joined IIT Bombay as an Assistant Professor in 1981. He rose through the ranks to serve as Professor, Head of the Electrical Engineering Department, and later as Deputy Director from 2006 to 2009. He also taught at IIT Delhi and served as Visiting Assistant Professor at Johns Hopkins University.

Students and colleagues regard him as a dedicated teacher and institution builder. His leadership strengthened academic standards and research culture at IIT Bombay.

The Padma Shri recognises sustained excellence and service to the nation. For the Muslim community, Prof Vasi’s achievement stands as a reminder of the impact of scholarship, discipline, and ethical pursuit of knowledge in public life.

source: http://www.radiancenews.com / Radiance News / Home> Latest News > Report / by Radiance News Bureau / January 27th, 2026

Havaldar Jhantu Ali Shaikh Honoured With Sena Medal for Supreme Sacrific

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WEST BENGAL :

New Delhi:

The Indian Army has posthumously awarded the Sena Medal to Havaldar Jhantu Ali Shaikh of the elite 6 Para Special Forces, recognising his exceptional courage and sacrifice during a counter terrorism operation in Jammu and Kashmir. The gallantry award was announced on the occasion of Republic Day 2026.

Havaldar Shaikh, a resident of West Bengal, laid down his life during a fierce encounter with terrorists in the Udhampur district on April 24, 2025. He served with the 6 Para Special Forces, one of the Army’s most demanding combat units. During the operation, he faced heavy fire and suffered grave injuries. He continued the mission despite his condition and ensured pressure on the terrorists until his final moments.

Army officials said his conduct reflected discipline, courage, and devotion to duty. His actions helped protect fellow soldiers and upheld the operational objective. The Sena Medal recognises acts of bravery and exceptional service. His name features among 70 gallantry award recipients announced this year, highlighting the continued sacrifices of armed forces personnel.

The White Knight Corps paid tribute to Havaldar Shaikh and acknowledged his role in counter insurgency efforts in the region. Fellow soldiers described him as committed and fearless, with a strong sense of responsibility toward his unit and the nation.

Havaldar Jhantu Ali Shaikh’s sacrifice holds deep meaning for the country. His story reflects service guided by faith, duty, and courage. His legacy stands as a reminder of the price paid by soldiers who protect national security and civilian lives, even at the cost of their own.

source: http://www.radiancenews.com / Radiance News / Home> Latest News> Report / by Radiance News Bureau / January 27th, 2026

Beyond Faith and Flames: The Nampally Heroes Who Defined Humanity

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Hyderabad, TELANGANA :

​Hyderabad:

In a world increasingly fragmented by invisible walls and bitter divides, two young men from Nampally recently proved that the pulse of humanity beats stronger than the fear of death. Mohammad Imtiaz and Habib didn’t just save lives; they offered the world a profound lesson written in soot and sacrifice: “Humanity is the greatest religion of all.”

​The Dance of Death

​The day began like any other, but it quickly turned into a nightmare as a ferocious fire broke out in the narrow lanes of Nampally. As the sky turned black with smoke and the screams of trapped children pierced the air, a crowd gathered. Many watched in horror, paralysed by the spectacle of the “dance of death.”

​But Imtiaz and Habib did not hesitate. They didn’t stop to ask the names of the children or the faith of their parents. To them, they weren’t “someone else’s children”; they were simply young lives on the verge of being extinguished.

​A Sacrifice for the “Tender Buds”

​Driven by a singular, frantic urge to protect the innocent, the duo plunged into the inferno. Witnesses describe a scene of pure heroism: two shadows moving through the orange glow, determined to pluck “tender buds” from the jaws of a fiery end.

​They succeeded in their mission – the children were brought to safety. But in a cruel twist of fate, the fire that failed to claim the little ones took the lives of their saviours. Imtiaz and Habib breathed their last, leaving behind grieving families and a city in mourning.

​The Message in the Blood

​These were young men with dreams, parents waiting at home, and a future ahead of them. Yet, in that defining moment, they chose “the other” over themselves. Their sacrifice sends a stinging rebuke to a society often blinded by communal friction. Through their actions, they declared that their faith was one that gives life, not one that takes it.

​As the saying goes, “It is better to light a candle than to curse the darkness.” Imtiaz and Habib became those candles. They burned out, but in doing so, they ignited a flame of empathy in thousands of hearts.

​Our Debt to the Martyrs

​The question now remains: How do we honour such a colossal sacrifice?

​State Recognition: It is imperative that the government supports their families and recognises their bravery with posthumous gallantry awards.

​A Living Tribute: The truest monument we can build for them is not made of marble, but of mindsets. To truly salute Imtiaz and Habib, we must purge the religious prejudice from our hearts and learn to see the human before the creed.

​In the ashes of Nampally, a grim tragedy occurred. But from those same ashes, a story of immortal love has risen – one that Hyderabad, and the nation, must never forget.

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

AIMIM Backs Sahar Sheikh, Alleges Selective Action Over ‘Green Mumbra’ Row

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Mumbra, MAHARASHTRA :

Mumbai:

The All India Majlis e Ittehadul Muslimeen has defended newly elected Mumbra corporator Sahar Sheikh amid controversy over remarks described by critics as communal. Party leaders said her words targeted no community and called the backlash an example of selective scrutiny faced by Muslim representatives.

At a press conference, AIMIM state president and former MP Imtiaz Jalil said Sahar Sheikh made no remark against Hindus and issued no call for removal of any group from Mumbra. He said pressure continues for police action despite absence of any offensive content. He said the party stands with its corporator and treats her position as the party position.

The controversy followed remarks made after her election from Panel No. 30 B in Mumbra. AIMIM leaders said sections presented the remarks out of context to create a national level dispute soon after a Muslim woman secured an electoral win.

Jalil said the party will challenge the police notice served on Sahar Sheikh. He said the matter will reach the Supreme Court if required. He also questioned demands for an apology raised by BJP leader Kirit Somaiya. Jalil asked under which authority such demands were made while similar or harsher remarks by ruling party figures drew no response.

He referred to public statements by leaders speaking about entering mosques or issuing threats against Muslims. He asked why police action failed to follow in such cases. He said swift notices appear when Muslim women speak, while silence follows other instances.

Jalil pointed to the presence of Mayur Sarang, a Hindu supporter, at the press conference alongside AIMIM’s five elected corporators from Mumbra. He said such presence reflected the inclusive nature of the party stand.

Sahar Sheikh sat with party leaders and maintained her statement. AIMIM said it will pursue legal remedies and urged calm, asking authorities to address the issue within constitutional limits.

source: http://www.radiancenews.com / Radiance News / Home> Latest News> Report / by Radiance News Bureau / January 29th, 2026

Tania Parveen’s journey from village transformer to special invitee to R-Day Parade

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Siswa Purvi Panchayat (East Champaran District), BIHAR :

Tania Parveen, Sarpanch of Siswa Purvi Panchayat in Bihar

Tania Parveen, head of the Siswa Purvi Panchayat in East Champaran district of Bihar, will be seated among the special invitees of the President of India to witness the ceremonial Republic Day Parade in Delhi on Monday.

Tania, an engineering graduate, is among the guests of honour at the 77th Republic Day Parade due to her work in transforming her village through her vision and work as an elected head of the Panchayat.

Today, the Siswa Purvi Panchayat is a model for the rest of the country and a living proof that villages too can have amenities enjoyed by people in cities.

Tania Parveen left her government job to take up the leadership of her village. She contested the Panchayat election with a clear idea that this position could help her in changing the poor living conditions of her village.

Her trigger for giving up a well-paying and stable government job was the air pollution caused by sugar mills. Taniya has been the head of the village Panchayat since 2016.

Panchatay Office of Siswa Purvi, Bihar 

The Panchayat has about 48 per cent of the Muslim population. She recalls that earlier, girls in the village showed little interest in education. Today, the situation has changed, with girls eagerly preparing to go to school.

When Taniya took charge, she had a lot of problems to tackle. Child labour, the trend of early marriages and the violence against women were immediate issues demanding her attention.

During the COVID period, she had to dispel rumours and misconceptions about the disease and its treatment. People were afraid of taking vaccines and tried to avoid quarantine. Through her strong leadership, Tania Parveen created awareness, and gradually, villagers began following the protocols.

The invite to Taniya is under the Central Government’s Panchayat Empowerment Scheme, which honours the outstanding panchayat representatives from across the country.

Tania Parveen became Mukhiya at the age of just 32 and, within the last three years, has transformed Siswa Purvi from a backward area into a model gram panchayat. Even former sarpanch Faizal Rahman, 50, openly praises her work and leadership.

Girls attending school in Siswa Purvi village

Her focus is on health, employment, education and empowerment of women in the panchayat.

Her efforts showed significant improvements in the health sector. Regular health check-ups are conducted for the elderly, pregnant women, and girls. ASHA workers go door to door to fulfil their responsibilities. Women are encouraged to join schemes such as MGNREGA, PM Vishwakarma Yojana, and Jeevika to make them earn.

Tania introduced smart classes and computers in schools, and paid attention to high dropouts among girls. After the Beti Bachao Beti Padhao campaign, girls developed a strong interest in education. With the installation of streetlights, women feel safer even at night.

Tania Parveen says that when she became Mukhiya in 2016, the condition of the panchayat was poor. Roads had potholes, drains were clogged, and sanitation systems were weak.

Today, Siswa has better roads, organised drainage, proper water disposal, and improved cleanliness.

She injected transparency in the spending and ended a culture of bribery and commissions in public works. She says her vision was to bring the basic amenities in her village to the level of a city.

An RTPS counter has now been set up at the Siswa Panchayat Sarkar Bhavan, where birth certificates, death certificates, pensions, residence certificates, caste and income documents are issued. Every day, 20 to 35 people come to get their work done without needing to visit the block office. Led by Tania, all employees attend regularly.

Tania Parveen is now working towards setting up a women-friendly panchayat. She believes that women will become strong only when they have self-employment opportunities. She has plans for conducting tailoring, computer training, and martial arts classes to make women and girls self-reliant and confident.

Asking her peers across the country to adopt honesty as the best policy, Tania says, when a panchayat changes, society will change. Then cities will change, and eventually, Bihar will change. Panchayat development, she says, is true national development.

She also notes that women’s participation has increased significantly in social security schemes such as pension schemes, ration schemes, housing schemes, and the “toilet in every home” initiative.

The construction of the Panchayat Sarkar Bhavan has also been completed in her village.

Tania Parveen is not ready to sit on her laurels. She is working towards creating newer employment opportunities, strengthening women’s education, and digitising the panchayat system. “If panchayats are to be made dignified and strong, it is essential to provide women with equal opportunities and full respect,” she says.

source: http://www.awazthevoice.in / Awaz, The Voice / Home> Stories / by Mansooruddin Faridi, New Delhi / January 25th, 2026