Tag Archives: Positive Stories of Muslims of India

Kerala schoolboy’s bravery brings three back from the brink of death

Amazing Feats, Community Involvement / Social Issues, , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Mankada Village (Malappuram District), KERALA :

Mohammed Shamil C

That Sunday afternoon still lingers in Mohammed Shamil’s mind: the loud cries for help and the rush to save lives. Without hesitation, he dived into a murky village pond and brought three girls back to life from the brink.

One of them needed CPR, and he gave her the breath of life with the little knowledge he learned from school. Now, Shamil is hailed as a hero and showered with felicitations, trophies and mementoes – more than three dozen in less than two weeks.

Schools and clubs invite him to share his story, inspiring others to act in moments of crisis. For the Class 12 boy, it is about saving lives and not seeking praise.

Mohammed Shamil (right) and his younger brother Mohammed Shehin being felicitated with currency garlands at their school. | Photo Credit: SAKEER HUSSAIN

On July 13, around 2 p.m., Shamil’s peaceful afternoon at his Puthanveedu home at Mankada near Manjeri was disrupted. His mother Shahida had just received a distressing alert from ASHA worker Hafsath Palliyalthodi that three girls were drowning in a nearby pond.

Shahida’s frantic cry propelled Shamil into action. He sprinted 200 meters to the pond and plunged into the muddy waters, where two girls were desperately struggling to stay afloat while the third had already slipped underwater.

Muslim Youth League national secretary Najma Thabsheera felicitating Mohammed Shamil. | Photo Credit: SAKEER HUSSAIN

With careful precision, Shamil rescued the two girls. He was mindful of not putting himself in danger. “When one girl raised her hand, I did not grab it,” he said. “Instead, I caught her dress from behind and pulled her to safety.”

Just as Shamil thought it was over, the rescued girls broke down in tears, revealing that one more person was still submerged underwater. “That moment sent shivers down my spine,” Shamil recalled. “Initially, I was unsure what to do, but I took a few deep breaths and dived multiple times in a desperate attempt to rescue the last one.”

Fire and Rescue Services officers felicitating Mohammed Shamil. | Photo Credit: SAKEER HUSSAIN

The pond was over two meters deep, with murky water, making it difficult to locate the missing girl. As more people arrived, Shamil dove in three times before finally pulling out the 12-year-old girl with the help of his younger brother, Mohammed Shehin, who is a class 8 student.

She was not breathing, and her face was pale. Shamil used his school biology knowledge to do chest compressions. When she showed signs of life, he gave her mouth-to-mouth resuscitation. Within minutes, she started breathing again. The girl was then rushed to the hospital.

Shamil’s parents, Shahina and Ashraf, beamed with pride as they looked at the table filled with trophies and mementoes. The recognition came from all corners – the Fire and Rescue Services, local clubs, the MLA, the district, block, and grama panchayats.

Shamil, once just a student, has become a symbol of hope and bravery for the people of Mankada. “I just did what needed to be done,” he humbly said.

source: htttp://www.thehindu.com / The Hindu / Home> News> India> Kerala / by Abdul Latheef Naha / July 25th, 2025

Two Muslim Youth Honoured for Saving Drowning Hindu Man in Ranchi

Amazing Feats, Community Involvement / Social Issues, Uniquely Indian - Inter Faith (wef. February 08th, 2023), , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Ranchi, JHARKHAND :

Ranchi :

In a remarkable demonstration of courage and humanity, two young men from this capital city of Jharkhand, Abul Fazal and Mohammad Naushad, saved the life of Narayan Pandey, who was drowning in Bada Talab. Their swift and fearless action has earned them widespread accolades across the city.

According to eyewitnesses, Narayan Pandey was struggling in the waters of Bada Talab when Abul and Naushad immediately jumped in, pulling him to safety without any hesitation. “I couldn’t believe my eyes,” said one onlooker. “They didn’t think of anything else; their only concern was saving a life.”

Residents have praised the two youths, emphasising that their bravery is not only heroic but also a strong message against communal prejudice. “The courageous act by Abul and Naushad is like a slap on the face of those who try to divide people on religious lines,” said a local community leader.

Recognising their selfless act, Shamsher Alam, Vice President of the Minority Commission, formally honoured the youths by presenting them with a memento and incentive money. “This work is an example of true humanity,” Alam said. “They did not see religion or caste; they saved a life for the sake of humanity alone. I urge the district administration and government to provide them employment for their brave efforts.”

The Mahavir Mandal has also appealed to local authorities to encourage and reward such acts of heroism. Jai Singh Yadav, President of Mahavir Mandal, said, “Youth like Abul and Naushad should be recognised and provided small employment opportunities as a token of appreciation for their dedication to human life.”

This incident has highlighted the spirit of communal harmony and the exemplary bravery of young Muslims in the country. Social media users have shared their admiration widely, calling Abul Fazal and Mohammad Naushad role models for all.

In the current climate, where communal tensions often make headlines, the actions of these two youths remind the nation of the enduring values of courage, humanity, and unity. “We must celebrate people who rise above divisions to protect life,” said one resident. “Abul and Naushad have shown the true meaning of bravery.”

As the city hails their heroism, calls for formal employment and recognition reflect a broader desire to encourage selfless acts and reinforce inter-community respect. Their story now serves as an inspiring example for young Indians everywhere.

source: http://www.clarionindia.net / Clarion India / Home> Editor’s Pick> India> Indian Muslims / by Team Clarion (headline edited) / September 05th, 2025

Muslim scrap-dealer sets an exemplary precedent of honesty, returns jewellery worth Rs 15 lakh to owner Sharmaji

Amazing Feats, Business & Economy, Community Involvement / Social Issues, Uniquely Indian - Inter Faith (wef. February 08th, 2023), , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Ballabgarh (Faridabad), HARYANA / Delhi NCR :

New Delhi:

In a period marked by suspicion and sharp communal divides, a quiet act of integrity by a Muslim scrap dealer in Faridabad has drawn attention for its moral clarity.

Haji Akhtar Khan, a kabadi trader in Ballabhgarh, returned gold jewellery worth around Rs 15 lakh to its Hindu owner nearly four months after unknowingly buying it as scrap. The jewellery, weighing close to 100 grams, had been accidentally mixed with household waste during a Diwali clean up and sold along with other discarded items.

The ornaments belonged to Ashok Sharma, a resident of Ballabhgarh. Weeks after selling the scrap, the Sharma family realised that a small packet containing gold jewellery was missing. The loss caused distress, since the ornaments represented years of savings and family memory. By then, the scrap had already passed into the informal recycling chain.

Khan had purchased the scrap in bulk, a routine practice in the trade. Months later, while sorting stored material in his warehouse, he noticed a packet hidden among old items. On opening it, he discovered gold jewellery. The find came at a time when Muslims in several regions face frequent suspicion in public life and trade.

Instead of treating the discovery as an unexpected gain, Khan chose a different path. When Sharma later approached him with inquiries, Khan admitted finding the jewellery and promised to return it without delay.

To maintain transparency, the handover took place at the office of ACP Ballabhgarh Jitesh Malhotra, in the presence of police officials. The moment carried visible emotion for the Sharma family, who received back their belongings intact. Police officers present described the act as rare and worthy of recognition.

Those familiar with Khan describe him as a practising Muslim who has performed Hajj and regards honesty as central to faith and livelihood. In Islamic teaching, amanah or trust holds deep importance, especially in trade and public dealings. Khan reportedly said the discovery felt like a trust placed upon him and returning it remained a duty before God.

The episode unfolded against a broader backdrop of heightened communal tension, economic boycotts, and stereotyping directed at Muslims in public discourse. In such an environment, everyday acts often receive communal labels. Khan’s decision challenged such narratives through conduct rather than argument.

Faridabad, part of the National Capital Region, mirrors many of north India’s social complexities. It hosts factories, migrant labour, and small traders from diverse communities. In this setting, an ordinary scrap transaction turned into a moment of shared trust between neighbours of different faiths.

For Ashok Sharma and Haji Akhtar Khan, the exchange rested on honesty rather than identity. The story has since circulated locally as an example of lived communal harmony. It offered a reminder that ethical choices remain possible even amid strained social conditions.

What began as a Diwali mistake ended with restored faith in human conscience. The return of the jewellery did more than correct a loss. It affirmed dignity, trust, and coexistence through a simple decision guided by principle.

source: http://www.radiancenews.com / Radiance News / Home> Latest News> Report / by Radiance News Bureau / February 23rd, 2026

Mumtaza Begum’s sheep farm is inspiring women in Kashmir

Agriculture (since June 07th, 2021), Business & Economy, Women/Girls(since May26-2021), , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Watrina Village (Bandipora District, North Kashmir), JAMMU & KASHMIR :

Mumtaza Begum, Sheep farm owner

Mumtaza Begum, a 33-year-old homemaker from Watrina village in Bandipora district, North Kashmir, has changed her life through sheep farming. Despite limited resources, social challenges, and the compulsion to drop out of college early, Mumtaza refused to give up and is today recognised as a successful female entrepreneur in the area.

Mumtaza’s story is one of struggle and the spirit of fighting out adversity. Financial difficulties forced her to drop out of college, but she never gave up on her dreams. Her matrimonial family had 10 to 15 sheep, which were reared using traditional methods. This sparked the idea of ​​pursuing sheep farming on a larger scale.

Mumtaza’s dream wasn’t limited to mere subsistence; she wanted to turn it into a systematic and successful business.

With this thought in mind, she approached the Animal Husbandry Department in Bandipora. With the department’s guidance, she applied under the state-sponsored subsidy scheme, “Mini Sheep Farm.” In February 2019, she was selected and allotted a unit of 50 sheep.

Sheep rearing requires hard work and patience. Besides, for Mumtaza, the lack of experience was also a major challenge. But Mumtaza didn’t give up. Through persistent hard work, a passion for learning, and a strong will, she gradually expanded her business. Over time, her experience grew, and her farm expanded.

Mumtaza credits her family, especially her husband, for her success. She says that her husband stood by her every step of the way. “He is always there for me, offering emotional support and actual help with work,” she says.

Mumtaza believes that family support is crucial for women entrepreneurs, especially when they have to juggle both home and work responsibilities.

Mumtaza also praises the officials of the Animal Husbandry Department for her success. Proper guidance, technical advice, and knowledge of government schemes helped her overcome many challenges. With the department’s support, she could manage her farm efficiently and increase production.

Today, Mumtaza Begum owns a successful farm with over 210 sheep. She earns a net income of over 5 lakh rupees annually. Most of her sheep are sold during Eid al-Adha, providing her with a substantial income. This work has not only improved her financial situation but also boosted her confidence and self-worth.

Mumtaza no longer considers herself merely a sheep herder; She wants to inspire other women to opt for entrepreneurship.

She shares her experiences with women and encourages them to move forward. She says that if women utilise the opportunities available to them, they can certainly improve their social and economic status.

Mumtaza says that the true rewards of hard work come when one proves oneself. For her, sheep farming is not just a means of earning money, but a path to self-reliance and respect.

This woman from Bandipora has proven that with the right mindset, hard work, and support, any dream can become a reality.

source: http://www.awazthevoice.in / Awaz, The Voice / Home> Stories / by Arsla Khan, New Delhi / February 11th, 2026

Sahill Zaheer awarded Indo Arab Social Icon Award in Saudi Arabia

Arts, Culture & Entertainment, Business & Economy, Community Involvement / Social Issues, Karnataka (under research project), NRI's / PIO's, , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Mangaluru, KARNATAKA / Al Khobar, SAUDI ARABIA :

Al Khobar, Saudi Arabia:

International host Sahill Zaheer was honoured with the Indo Arab Social Icon Award at an international gathering held in Al Khobar on February 7, where the Saudi Arabia Chapter of SIBEC – SYPA International Business & Entrepreneurs Chamber was officially launched.

SIBEC is a global business and economic collaboration platform that brings together entrepreneurs, investors and professionals to strengthen cross-border partnerships. The Saudi chapter launch was organised in association with Enerfac Solutions.

Enerfac Solutions, led by CEO Nazurudin Ahamed and Director Sivaprakash Umapathy along with its board members and team, describes itself as a company focused on ethical business practices and inclusive growth. The organisation has been supporting entrepreneurs, small and emerging businesses as part of its CSR initiatives, while encouraging partnerships and industry development. Company representatives said its approach centres on responsible business and ensuring that growth benefits the wider community.

Sahill Zaheer, who works as a host and event manager, has earlier been associated with Namma TV as a VJ and with Radio Mirchi 98.3 FM as an RJ. Over the years, he has hosted national and international shows, corporate events and award functions. He has shared stage space with singers such as Sonu Nigam, Udit Narayan and Shreya Ghoshal. He has also anchored events connected to cricket tournaments, including T10 and T20 formats and IPL-related programmes.

Recently, he hosted the Festival of Cricket – Women’s Edition in Al Khobar, described as the first women’s cricket celebration of its kind in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

The award was presented in recognition of his contributions as a host and his involvement in international events connecting Indian and Arab audiences.

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

Muslim Man Keeps Century Old Jewish Store Alive in Kochi

Amazing Feats, Uniquely Indian - Inter Faith (wef. February 08th, 2023), , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Kochi, KERALA :

Kochi:

A video by American author Aija Mayrock has drawn global attention to a small embroidery shop in Jew Town, Mattancherry. The store stands as one of the last working links to the once thriving Cochin Jewish community of Kerala.

The shop belonged to Sarah Cohen, born in 1925. She was among the last Jews who lived permanently in Jew Town. Her store sold hand embroidery and souvenirs and became a known landmark in the area. After large scale emigration in the mid twentieth century, many Jewish homes and businesses shut down. This shop stayed open.

Thaha Ibrahim, a Muslim man, now runs the store. As a child, he sold goods on the street near Cohen’s shop. She later hired him and taught him embroidery and shop management. He assisted her for decades, handling customers, production, and daily operations.

Before her death in 2019, Cohen asked Ibrahim to continue the shop and preserve its character. He agreed. Today, the store functions under the same name and layout. It closes on Saturdays in respect of the Jewish Sabbath. Candles are lit on Friday evenings. Cohen’s photographs and belongings remain displayed inside.

Ibrahim has stated he remains Muslim. He sees his role as protecting the legacy entrusted to him.

Historians note that Jews lived in Kerala for over two thousand years. Although the community declined sharply after 1948, synagogues and heritage sites in Kochi still reflect that history. This small embroidery shop now stands as a living record of shared trust and continuity.

source: http://www.radiancenews.com / Radiance News / Home> Latest News> Report / by Radiance News Bureau / February 21st, 2026

Paradise team clinches BCC Premier League 2026 title

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

Belvai (Moodabidri Taluk, Dakshina Kannada District), KARNATAKA :

Belvai:

The two-day BCC Premier League 2026 (Season 3), an underarm cricket tournament organised by the Belvai Community Center (BCC), concluded successfully on February 1 at the SMP High School Ground. The tournament was held on January 31 and February 1 and witnessed enthusiastic participation and community support.

The inaugural function took place on January 31 and was chaired by BCC President Anwar Hussain Ismail. The programme was hosted by BCC Secretary Shaikh Fahad.

The tournament was managed by Events Manager Zahid Hussain, assisted by Mohammed Siraj, while the inauguration was formally carried out by Hasdulla Ismail.

Several prominent community members attended the inaugural ceremony, including Mohammed Saheb Usman, Nasir Shaikh Gulam Hussain, Anwar A. Karim, Shawkath Ali, Ameer Gause, Hussain Saheb, Nasir New Master, Munir Yousuf, Nasir A. Kareem, Abdul Qayyum and Azeem Jafar Saheb.

In the final match, Paradise Team emerged victorious and was crowned Champion of the BCC Premier League 2026 (Season 3). Team Belvai Friends finished as the runners-up after a competitive tournament.

Speaking at the closing ceremony, President Anwar Hussain Ismail said that such sporting events help promote harmony, discipline and team spirit within the community. He expressed gratitude to the main sponsors, ALS Borderless Logistics, Expertise, AR Arabian Logistics and Team Ten Racing. He also thanked all donors, well-wishers, BCC members, volunteers, team owners, players and members of the organising committee for their contributions to the success of the tournament.

source: http://www.english.varthabharati.in / Vartha Bharati / Home> Karavali / February 03rd, 2026

How Imam Hussain’s Blessed Cap reached Jaipur’s historic mansion

Amazing Feats, Arts, Culture & Entertainment, Community Involvement / Social Issues, Museums, Libraries (wef. April 16th, 2022), Travel & Tourism, World Opinion, , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Jaipur, RAJASTHAN:

Inside the Salim Manzil, Jaipur

In the bustling streets of Jaipur at Haldio Ka Rasta, Johari Bazar, time suddenly seems to stand still. Amidst ancient stone walls, arched doorways and the stillness of history, stands the Salim Manzil, a majestic building which is a living legacy of more than two centuries.

The mansion houses a relic – a cap of Imam Hussain, the grandson and son-in-law of the Prophet Muhammad; it adds to its importance.

The story behind the ‘blessed cap’ reaching the haveli is interesting and part of its rich history.

The entrance to Salim Manzil

In the early 17th century, an ancestor of today’s inmates of Salim Manzil treated an Iranian king. The King wanted to reward him with gold, silver and valuable gifts, but he declined the offer and instead requested the cap of Hazrat Imam Hussain.

The King presented the relic and a certificate with the royal seal to him as a reward.

Since 1876, this blessed hat has been preserved in Saleem Manzil in a special glass-framed box kept in a hall called “Kala-e-Mubaraq”.

Every year on the 9th and 10th of Muharram, it is opened to the public. In those days, Salim Manzil is turned into a pilgrimage centre, and its air filled with spirituality.

People viewing the Blessed Cap of Hazrat Imam Ali

Today, Moinuddin Khan, 33 and his younger brother, Hussamuddin Khan, 27, are living in the mansion. The two brothers are not only maintaining this legacy, but also modernising its upkeep and display of artefacts.

Moinuddin Khan says that his ancestors came to Jaipur from Delhi around 1812 AD. At that time, Maharaja Jagat Singh of Jaipur State granted them a fiefdom and honour to his elder brother, Hakim Wasil Ali Khan.

This honour was for Wasil Ali Khan’s academic and medical expertise, and he was admitted to the Royal Court.  One of the ancestors was the head of the intelligence department of Jaipur State, a sensitive position. He was responsible for the State’s security, political activities and gathering information needed for administration.

Bharion Singh Shekhawat with the inmates of Salim Manzil

Later, his son, Salim Ali Khan, worked in the same position.

The construction of Saleem Manzil began in 1867, and it was completed within three years. Spread over an area of ​​about a bigha, the building was gifted by the Maharaja of Jaipur. Even today, the haveli’s traditional Rajasthani carvings, arches, high ceilings and lattice windows are a testimony to the architectural craftsmanship of that era.

Over time, many havelis were converted into commercial hotels, but Saleem Manzil retained its original identity. The family also received offers to convert it into a hotel, but they preferred to preserve the spirit of the heritage rather than market it. 

Visitors inside the Salim Manzil

The mansion has been used as a set by many filmmakers for movies and web series. Moinuddin says he acted for the role of Sri Krishna in one of the web series. “We have a strong foundation in religion, but we also remain connected with art and dialogue.”

A large hall is decorated, the rooms are filled with the fragrance of perfume and roses, and the pilgrimage begins with Milad Sharif.

Devotees from Gujarat, Maharashtra and other parts of the country also arrive here. In those days, Shia Muslims read prayers and distribute Tabarak.

Moinuddin says that we consider it more of a trust than an inheritance. It is both an honour and a responsibility for us.

Many important persons have visited Salim Manzil. They include President Giani Zail Singh, Chief Ministers Haridev Joshi and Shiv Charan Mathur, Bhairav ​​Singh Shekhawat (Vice President), Natwar Singh (Minister), Najma Haibabullah (Rajya Sabha Chairperson), and Supreme Court Justice Gyan Sudha Mishra.

Head of the family, late Naseemuddin Khan, popularly known as Pyare Mian, founded the All-India Hakeem Ajmal Khan Memorial Society to perpetuate his family’s legacy of Unani medicine and social service.

Today, Moinuddin and Husamuddin Khan are trying to connect this heritage with modern dialogue. They are planning to build a new hall for better management of the pilgrimage during Muharram.

They are sharing information about this heritage with the world through social media and digital means for transparency.

Amid myriad historic monuments of Jaipur, Salim Manzil is unique since it not only preserves the relics of history but is also a pilgrimage centre.

source: http://www.awazthevoice.in / Awaz, The Voice / Home> Stories / by Farhan Israeli, Jaipur / February 21st, 2026

The kernel of rice conservation

Agriculture (since June 07th, 2021), Amazing Feats, Business & Economy, Community Involvement / Social Issues, Environment Initiatives / Green Heroes (wef. June 10th, 2025), Green Products, Karnataka (under research project), , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Kirugavalu Village (Malvadi Taluk, Mandya District), KARNATAKA :

Passionate efforts

Farmer Syed Ghani Khan has brought back the use of traditional varieties even as farmers are lured into buying unsustainable varieties.

Some farmers have been the victims of forceful marketing and have opted for commercial varieties of rice and other crops promoted by seed firms.

In effect, they have switched from native varieties — which suit the soil and climatic conditions — to the ones that consume more water and fertilisers, and are easy prey for insects and pests. But it does not take farmers long to realise that the yield comes down after a few years, leaving the soil toxic.

Remedy lies in returning to traditional grains. But wooing farmers away from commercially promoted seeds, fertilisers and insecticides is a task.

Syed Ghani Khan, a farmer from Kirugavalu, a village in Mandya district, has been pursuing that task as a lifetime passion.

He has set up a museum in his village home by setting apart two rooms for the purpose.

He has conserved over 700 varieties across 15 and more acres of land. These crops are harvested carefully, and the panicles laden with grain are bunched, marked with names and numbers, and arranged systematically on the walls of the two-room museum.

Some of them are even stored in bottles to be given away to farmers around the village to experiment with the heritage crops they lost in the race to boost harvest with new varieties.

Khan is a graduate from Mysore University with a degree in Archaeology and Museology. After completing his studies in Mysuru, Khan joined his father in tending to his farm.

He was pained at the sight of farmers getting addicted to industrial products and giving up the traditional varieties and practices.

He took up the task of preserving traditional seeds in packets and supplying them to those who were converts to his cause. Yet, he was not satisfied with what he did. He thought he needed more systematic efforts to create awareness about the usefulness of the old varieties and the supply of seeds.

According to Khan, continuous onslaught of publicity for industrial farm products has misled farmers into switching over to newer seeds — be it cereals, lentils, vegetables or fruits. This has led to enmasse shift to high-yielding varieties like MTU-1001, IR-64, Jaya etc.

Khan says traditional varieties hold the key to sustainable farming that is less expensive, does not erode the fertility of the soil. “In our pursuit of bumper harvest, we have damaged the soil and have made paddy an aquatic crop, which it is not,” he laments.

He began collecting varieties like Rajmudi, Ghamgadale, Doddibatta, Parimala Sanna, Basmati, Ratnachudi, Gandhasale, Mysore Mallige, Jeerige Sanna, Burma Black, Rasakdam, Thai Jasmine etc in earnest. Several of these varieties harbour medicinal properties while others emit aroma while being cooked.

According to Khan, varieties such as Doddibatta, Ghamgadale and Biddi Doddi can be grown in farms that receive just one or two spells of shower.

Ratnachudi, HMT, NMS-II are high-yielding traditional varieties while Jeerige Sanna, Rasakdam, Gandha Sale, Parimala Sanna and Mugadh Sugandh turn aromatic while being cooked.

He says most of the seeds of paddy varieties collected by him have a shelf life of 18 months. In contrast to the practice of preserving seeds in freezers, he applied on-field conservation methods where no synthetic chemicals were used.

Propagator

Farmers from all over South India have been approaching him for seeds of the native varieties.

Shiv Prasad, who has a farm in the outskirts of Hyderabad, took seeds of nearly 200 varieties from him. He has since been a promoter of the cause in his region.

Khan maintains a meticulous record of all those who have procured seeds from him. During the last two decades, nearly 10,000 farmers have accessed supplies from him.

Krishna, a farmer from a village in Maddur taluk, is a regular visitor to his farms. Rachanna, from Hosamalangi village in T Narsipura taluk, successfully grows around 25 varieties in his farm. He had visited him a decade ago.

A corner of his museum displays several medals, certificates and awards. He was conferred with Krishi Pandit Prashasti by the Govt of Karnataka (2008). National Genome Seed-saver Recognition Award was conferred on him a year later by Plant Protection Variety Forum. Govt of Karnataka chose him for ‘Biodiversity Award’ in 2010, while Directorate of Rice Research in Hyderabad presented him ‘Rice Innovative Farmer Award’ for the year 2011-12.

Ghani Khan says one should not be surprised to find one variety being replaced by another after every 40 km as India is home to thousands of varieties of rice.

He says several of them carry medicinal properties.

He says while Karigajivili and Ambe Mohur from Karnataka are said to be good for lactating mothers, Navara of Kerala is good for those who have joint pain. While Mappillai Samba from Tamil Nadu improves virility, Mehdi is held to be good for healing of bone fracture. Khaima provides relief for those suffering from piles.

Mangoes, too

Ghani Khan has taken up the conservation of native varieties of mango, too. He has registered himself with the National Bureau for Plant Genetics, New Delhi.

He has trees that have been there in the family farm for the last six to seven generations. These trees yield native varieties like mosambi ka aam (tastes like sweet lime); seb ka aam (tastes like apple); pheeka aam (bland mango) for those with diabetes; kaale malghoba, bada gola; mangamari; manji bi pasand and mittmia pasand.

His family has been supportive of his efforts and to this day help him in maintaining their farms and marketing the produce.

Womenfolk of his family use paddy in making decorative art.

Syed Ghani Khan can be reached on 9901713351 or muhinuha786@gmail.com

source: http://www.deccanherald.com / Deccan Herala / Home> India> Karnataka / by M A Siraj / October 12th, 2019

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

Amazing Feats, Defence Services - Army, Air Force, Navy, Coast Guard, CRPF & others (wef. February 21st, 2026), Leaders, Women/Girls(since May26-2021), , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

INDIA :

Captain Saria Abbas and Captain Wasim

New Delhi :

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

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

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

Capt Saria Abbasi on duty

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

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

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

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

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

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

Capt Fatima Wasim at Siachen

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Capt Abbasi with L70 Gun (released by Army)

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

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

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