Why General Shah Nawaz Khan Deserves to Be Remembered This Independence Day

Amazing Feats, Defence Services - Army, Air Force, Navy, Coast Guard, CRPF & others (wef. February 21st, 2026), First War of Independence 1857 / Naval Mutiny 1946 / Others PreIndependece (wef. July 27th, 2022), Freedom Fighters (under research project), Leaders, , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Punjab (British India) / NEW DELHI :

EVERY year on August 15, India’s Prime Minister addresses the nation from the ramparts of the Red Fort in Delhi. It was at this same fort, in 1945, that Major General Shah Nawaz Khan stood trial for waging war against the British Empire. A Muslim officer in Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose’s Indian National Army, he had led troops into battle against colonial forces across Southeast Asia, been captured, and was sentenced to death. His court-martial, alongside Colonel Prem Kumar Sehgal and Colonel Gurbaksh Singh Dhillon, provoked mass protests across the country and became one of the final catalysts for British withdrawal from India. The slogan that echoed through the streets of Delhi became a rallying cry of the independence movement: “Lal Qile se aayi awaaz, Sehgal, Dhillon aur Shah Nawaz.”

After his release, Shah Nawaz Khan chose the path of non-violence at Mahatma Gandhi’s urging, joined the Indian National Congress, and went on to serve as a Union Minister for over two decades. He represented Meerut in Parliament through four terms, held portfolios ranging from Agriculture to Petroleum, and chaired the commission that investigated the circumstances of Netaji Bose’s death. He was buried near the Red Fort with full state honours in 1983.

Beyond politics, Shah Nawaz Khan was connected to one of India’s most recognizable families. The Bollywood actor Shah Rukh Khan’s father, Mir Taj Mohammed Khan, was his cousin and migrated from Pakistan to India alongside him after Partition.

His story traces an arc from armed resistance to democratic nation-building, from a death sentence in a colonial courtroom to the highest levels of Indian government.

Early Life and Military Career

General Shah Nawaz Khan was born on 24 January 1914 in the village of Matur, in the Rawalpindi District of British India (now in Pakistan). His father, Lieutenant Sardar Tikka Khan, served for nearly three decades in the British Indian Army with the 58th  Vaughan’s Rifles (Frontier Force), instilling in him an early exposure to military life.

After completing his early education, Shah Nawaz Khan went on to study at the Prince of Wales Royal Indian Military College in Dehradun, one of the premier institutions established to train future military leaders in colonial India.

From Prisoner of War to Leader of the Indian National Army

In 1940, Shah Nawaz Khan was commissioned as an officer in the British Indian Army. In December 1941, as part of the Second World War, Japanese forces launched a major offensive against Singapore, and the British deployed nearly 60,000 Indian soldiers, including Captain Shah Nawaz Khan.

The British forces were ultimately defeated, and Khan, along with thousands of other soldiers, was taken prisoner of war. During his captivity, he came into contact with Indian nationalists and revolutionaries aligned with Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose. Deeply influenced by their vision of an independent India, he joined the Azad Hind Fauj, also known as the Indian National Army (INA), and rapidly rose to positions of leadership.

Role in the Freedom Struggle

Recognized for his leadership abilities, Shah Nawaz Khan was inducted into the cabinet of the Indian National Army’s (INA) Provisional Government of Free India. Between 1942 and 1945, the Azad Hind Fauj engaged British forces across Southeast Asia and, for a period, established control over large stretches of territory during its campaign against colonial rule.

In December 1944, he was appointed commander of the INA detachment stationed in Mandalay, Burma (now Myanmar). Owing to the close trust placed in him by Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose, he was later selected to lead the Subhas Brigade—a special unit formed from elite INA soldiers.

During military operations in Burma in 1945, General Shah Nawaz Khan and several of his comrades were arrested by British forces. The INA’s senior leadership at the time included Major General Shah Nawaz Khan, Colonel Prem Kumar Sehgal, and Colonel Gurbaksh Singh Dhillon. In 1946, all three were put on trial for mutiny at the Red Fort in Delhi.

These trials ignited widespread public protests across India and became a turning point in the independence movement, significantly intensifying popular resistance to British rule. Facing overwhelming public pressure, the British government was ultimately compelled to release Shah Nawaz Khan and his associates. During this period, he remained in contact with leading figures of the national movement, including Mahatma Gandhi, and was defended in court by Jawaharlal Nehru.

Gandhi’s Colonel of Non-Violence

General Shah Nawaz Khan was regarded as one of Mahatma Gandhi’s close associates, a relationship reflected in Gandhi’s letters and public speeches, in which he frequently referred to him by name. Their association symbolized the bridge between armed resistance and the philosophy of non-violence that shaped India’s independence movement.

On the occasion of the 50th birth anniversary of Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose, Shah Nawaz Khan declared, “While living outside India, we fought for our country’s freedom with arms; now we shall serve India through non-violence.” Mahatma Gandhi echoed this sentiment while addressing members of the Indian National Army in Madras on 22 January 1946 and later reiterated it during his prayer meeting in Mumbai on 18 February 1946.

Contemporary records further document their close interaction. According to a report in the Bombay Chronicle dated 13 March 1946, Shah Nawaz Khan met Gandhi at Birla Bhavan in Delhi on 12 March, where the two held discussions for nearly ninety minutes. On 22 March 1946, Gandhi visited a military camp in Aravalli Kanchan, Maharashtra, and once again mentioned Shah Nawaz Khan while addressing the soldiers. Their engagement continued through personal meetings as well as an exchange of letters, many of which survive as historical evidence of their dialogue.

At Gandhi’s urging, following the dissolution of the Indian National Army in 1946, Shah Nawaz Khan joined the Indian National Congress. Later that year, he worked in Bihar to assist victims of communal violence, alongside Khan Abdul Ghaffar Khan. He remained in the region during this period of unrest, and was present at the funeral of Professor Abdul Bari, who was assassinated in Bihar in March 1947.

Gandhi repeatedly acknowledged and praised Shah Nawaz Khan’s relief and peace-building efforts in Bihar during 1947. He spoke at length about Khan’s work during his prayer meetings on 29 April and 1 May 1947, and earlier, on 15 April 1947, the two were together at Gandhi’s camp in Patna. During one such conversation, Gandhi expressed his faith in him, saying: “I have great hopes for you. I wish to make you a complete soldier of non-violent weapons. You became a colonel under Netaji; in the same way, I want to make you a colonel of non-violence.”

Political Life After Independence

Even after India achieved independence in 1947, Shah Nawaz Khan continued to work in Masurhi, Bihar, focusing on relief and rehabilitation efforts. In a letter dated 7 October 1947, Mahatma Gandhi wrote to him: “Dear General Shah Nawaz, If the work you are doing there does not go to the dogs in your absence, you may leave it to go to the Punjab-Pakistan.” Despite this, Shah Nawaz Khan chose not to return to his ancestral home in what had become Pakistan; instead, his family migrated to India.

Shah Nawaz Khan entered electoral politics in independent India and was elected to the first Lok Sabha (India’s lower house of Parliament) in 1952 from Meerut, representing the Indian National Congress. He went on to win the same constituency in 1957, 1962, and 1971. Over the course of his political career, he served as a Union Minister for a total of 23 years.

Beginning in 1952, he served as Parliamentary Secretary and later as Deputy Minister for Railways. From 1957 to 1964, he held the portfolio of Food and Agriculture. He was again appointed Minister of Agriculture in 1965, followed by his tenure as Minister of Labour, Employment, and Rehabilitation in 1966. Between 1971 and 1975, he served as Minister for Petroleum and Chemicals, as well as Agriculture and Irrigation. From 1975 to 1977, he additionally served as Chairman of the Food Corporation of India while continuing as Union Minister for Agriculture and Irrigation.

In 1956, the Government of India constituted a commission to examine the circumstances surrounding the death of Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose. Shah Nawaz Khan was appointed chairman of this commission, underscoring the trust placed in him by the national leadership. He also authored a memoir on the Indian National Army and Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose, regarded as an important firsthand account of the INA movement.

Representing the Meerut constituency for decades, Shah Nawaz Khan played a stabilizing role in public life, and the city remained free of major communal disturbances during his tenure. From 1977 to 1983, he served as the national in-charge of the Congress Seva Dal, the party’s volunteer organization. He remained associated with the Indian National Congress until the end of his life, continuing his commitment to public service and national unity.

General Shah Nawaz Khan passed away on 9 December 1983 while still serving the Indian National Congress. His life—spanning armed resistance, political leadership, and a steadfast commitment to unity and nation-building—remains a powerful testament to the ideals of freedom, sacrifice, and service. He is remembered not only as a soldier and statesman, but as a figure whose legacy continues to inspire generations in independent India and beyond.

— IAMC

source: http://www.clarionindia.net / Clarion India / Home> Editor’s Pick> Opinion / by Afroz Alam Sahil / August 08th, 2026

Alam Badi Azmi: People’s leader and a family man

Books (incl.Biographies - w.e.f.01 jan 2018 ), Community Involvement / Social Issues, Leaders, Women/Girls(since May26-2021), , , , , , ,

Bindaval (Azamgarh District) / Lucknow, UTTAR PRADESH :

Baare duniyā meñ raho ġham-zada yā shaad raho aisā kuchh kar ke chalo yaañ ki bahut yaad raho (It does not matter whether you are happy or sad, but do something so that you are remembered for long)

— Mir Taqi Mir

This isn’t an obituary. Nor an elegy. For how do you write an obituary for someone so grand in stature and yet so humble in living, that it defies the usual human qualities. These are just pourings of the heart — from a niece to her ‘bade abba’ (uncle) who ever lovingly called her beti (daughter).

Alam Badi Azmi, the oldest serving member of the Uttar Pradesh Legislative Assembly and a five-time Samajwadi Party (SP) MLA from the Nizamabad constituency in Azamgarh district, died on July 22, 2026, at the age of 90. He was one of the longest-serving legislators from the region.

The ‘people’s leader’ breathed his last at his residence, bringing to an end a political career remembered as much for his simplicity as for his honesty and service to the people. Leaders from across parties, even the chief minister of the state, expressed profound grief over his death. Thousands of young and old supporters bid him farewell with tearful eyes, knowing well that a leader like him was a rarity.

Born on 16 March 1936, much before India’s independence, Alam Badi Azmi lived through every phase of the country’s political journey. He was a trained mechanical engineer and briefly worked in his profession before dedicating himself to public life.

He was fondly called ‘Chacha’ (uncle) by all. People across parties described him as a soft-spoken, compassionate, and honest leader whose values and personal integrity earned him widespread respect. He led a humble life, choosing modesty over political spectacle.

Stories abound of his high moral principles and values. He declined a ministerial position, when SP formed government in UP in 2012, saying he preferred to remain among his people and continue serving them directly. He never believed in political showmanship. During elections, he would refuse to put up posters or banners or indulge in spending money on publicity. He believed people would vote if one worked genuinely and hoenstly. His politics was never that of power and rhetoric, it was only about social service.

He was known for personally inspecting development work in his constituency, ensuring that public money was spent fairly. On his death, a leading national daily reported, “Unlike many public representatives, he lived without security or luxury. Visitors to his home were served black tea in small cups, while his son and grandson personally attended to guests as there were no domestic staff. He met visitors under a tin-shed outside his modest house and was known to travel on foot to interact with people. His clothes were simple – made from fabric costing Rs 30 a metre. He worked for social welfare, founded the Qaumi Ekta Manch in Azamgarh and authored a book focusing on communal harmony and national integration.

On the personal front, he was a committed family man. A loving and doting father to all, including his younger siblings. My memories of childhood and our much awaited summer vacations are majorly about how ‘Bade papa’ made our stay fun-filled ensuring we were served with the tastiest food and our favourite desserts every day.

Those were the times when vacations and outings were not about foreign trips and visits to exotic tourist locales. Vacations, for our generation, was the time to be spent at grandparents’ house, for which we waited year-long, bursting with excitement as the time drew near. Those stays were not just holidays. They were workshops of humanness, giving lessons along a spectrum of emotional vulnerabilities – to learn to live with extended families, cherish bonds, co-exist through highs and lows, lend helping hands, share experiences, and most importantly remain rooted to one’s traditions.

We lost our grandparents early, so the void was filled by bade abba, whose presence as the eldest in the family was that of a permanent guardian angel. When he came back home after his day-long work, he would never withdraw to his room to rest. Instead, he would spend his time talking and eating with all. Being the youngest in our family, I had the unique privilege of getting the best treats from bade abba, who would often silently hand over a candy or cookie pack exclusively meant for me. I distinctly remember the flavour of a peanut mix, which he often got for me, humorously called by him as ‘lighting of the tongue’ because of its very spicy taste.

Sleeping on roof-top with the family through summer nights, waking up unwillingly as the Sun shone on our faces and waiting to eat the most savoury of parathas which our badi ammi (his wife) made, are memories we can never forget. Bade abba’s earnings were meagre but his heart was one of gold. Lingering around him most of the time as his favourite child, I discreetly listened to many of his conversations with badi ammi about how personal finances were to be managed with a houseful of relatives. He never made anyone realise even if it was sometimes difficult catering to everyone. Our plates were always full, our hearts always brimming with joy. Bade abba knew his art. He knew how to keep things rolling and badi ammi supported him through her immaculate household management. He was the pillar which kept the family together – uncles, aunts, cousins everyone.

A noble soul who stood with the common people in their joys and sorrows, he remained steadfast in his values and continued serving people with unflinching dedication. His humility, kindness, and commitment to public concerns earned him respect throughout the region.

He remained an active worker till his last days. Truth and simplicity were the hallmark of his personality. His grassroot politics and connect with the local public made him an extremely popular leader.

With his passing, India has lost a sincere and hardworking people’s leader, the like of whom are so rate these days. He leaves behind a legacy of selfless public service. His life and ideals will continue to inspire generations. The fact that thousands of people of all communities gathered to pay their last respects on his death, speaks volumes about his character. His admirers believe the void left by him can never be filled. His death marks the end of an era.

For me, bade abba will always remain an example of warmth and love. I can still feel his hand on my head – his unique way of blessing his children.

Hazāroñ saal nargis apnī be-nūrī pe rotī hai Badī mushkil se hotā hai chaman meñ dīda-var paidā For thousands of years, the narcissus weeps over its lack of insight, it is with great difficulty that a true visionary is born

— The author is Professor at Faculty of Management Studies & Research, Aligarh Muslim University, Aligarh. She is author of “Strategic Human Resource Management,” published by Cambridge University Press, UK.

source: http://www.milligazette.com / The Milli Gazette / Home> News> Community News / by The Milli Gazette Online / by Feza Tabassum Azmi / August 08th, 2026

‘A Hole in the Boat’ released at Iqra Arabic School, Mangaluru

Books (incl.Biographies - w.e.f.01 jan 2018 ), Education, Karnataka (under research project), , , , , , , , , , ,

Karavali , KARNATAKA :

Mangaluru:

A book release programme was held at Iqra Arabic School for Girls, Melinamogeru, Mangaluru, on Saturday, August 8, marking the release of A Hole in the Boat, authored by Dr. Abdul Hameed Athar Nadwi and published by Iqra Academy of Research & Publication (IARP).

The programme was attended by Ulama, teachers, parents, students and well-wishers.

Addressing the gathering, the keynote speaker highlighted the importance of books in shaping individuals and society, observing that “a book is not only paper, not only ink, not only colour or design; it nourishes the soul.” The speaker emphasized that beneficial books play a vital role in nurturing minds, strengthening character and leaving a lasting impact on readers.

Speaking on the occasion, translator Zainab reflected on her fourteen-year educational journey at Iqra Arabic School, describing it as a period of learning, character formation and spiritual growth. She expressed gratitude to Allah and acknowledged the significant role of her parents and teachers in cultivating her interest in reading and pursuit of knowledge.

Recalling her early years, Zainab said that her father encouraged her to develop the habit of reading and introduced her to literature on Islamic morals, history, Seerah and character building. She emphasized that knowledge becomes truly beneficial when acquired under the guidance of righteous teachers and Ulama.

She also highlighted the importance of translating authentic Islamic literature into languages including English, Kannada, Malayalam, Tamil and Hindi. She noted that language barriers often prevent readers from accessing valuable works and described translation as a means of carrying beneficial knowledge from one heart to another.

Encouraging the students, Zainab urged them to aspire to become translators, authors, researchers, publishers and ambassadors of Islamic knowledge. She also called upon young people to reduce unnecessary use of mobile phones and social media and to devote at least twenty minutes each day to beneficial reading.

The programme concluded with prayers for the success of A Hole in the Boat and for Iqra Academy of Research & Publication and Iqra Arabic School to continue their efforts towards promoting beneficial knowledge, strong character and Islamic values.

Iqra Principal Maulana Salim Nadwi, Vice Principal Maulana Dawood Nadwi, Head of the Arabic Department Maulana Abdur Rafi Nadwi, Mohammed Farhan Nadwi, and Abdul Hameed Khalifa were present.

source: http://www.english.varthabharati.in / Vartha Bharati / Home> Karavali / by Vartha Bharti / August 10th, 2026

AMU JNMC Residents Win Two Session Best Awards at International Public Health Conference

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

Aligarh, UTTAR PRADESH :

Aligarh:

Two residents of the Department of Community Medicine, Jawaharlal Nehru Medical College (JNMC), Aligarh Muslim University (AMU), received Session Best Awards at the 12th International Conference on Public Health (ICOPH) 2026, held in Bali, Indonesia. The residents participated in the conference virtually.

Dr. Syed Sohaib Hashmi, Senior Resident, received the award for his presentation, Immune Status and Its Clinico-Epidemiological Correlates Among Adults Living with HIV, conducted under the guidance of Prof. Mohammad Athar Ansari. The study examined immune status among adults living with HIV and factors influencing immune recovery.

Dr. Mohammad Bilal, Junior Resident-3, received the second Session Best Award for his presentation, Weight Gain and MUAC Recovery Following Nutrition Education of Primary Caregivers in Moderately Malnourished Children Aged 6–59 Months: A Community-Based Quasi-Experimental Study from North India, under the guidance of Dr. Ali Jafar Abedi. The study evaluated the impact of nutrition education of primary caregivers on weight gain and mid-upper arm circumference (MUAC) recovery among moderately malnourished children.

Prof. Uzma Eram, Chairperson, Department of Community Medicine, along with Prof. Saira Mehnaz and other senior faculty members, congratulated the residents and appreciated their contribution to public health research and academic excellence.

source: http://www.radiancenews.com / Radiance News / Home> Pride of the Nation> Awards> Latest News / by Radiance News Bureau / August 12th, 2026

Dr Rakhshanda Hani Becomes First Woman In-Charge Principal of Maharashtra College

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

Mumbai, MAHARASHTRA :

Prof Hani, who has taught economics at the college since 2000, plans technology-focused courses, ethical finance and new facilities for female students, alongside measures for their health and safety.

Mumbai :

Professor Dr Rakhshanda Hani has become the first woman to be appointed in-charge principal of Maharashtra College of Arts, Science and Commerce in Mumbai. She took charge on August 1.

Hani, who heads the college’s Department of Economics, has been associated with the institution since 2000, when she joined as an assistant professor. She has remained with the economics department throughout her teaching career and was appointed its head in 2015.

Located on Jehangir Boman Behram Marg near Mumbai Central, Maharashtra College is affiliated with the University of Mumbai and managed by the Khairul Islam Higher Education Society. The college’s 2025-26 prospectus lists Hani as head of the Department of Economics.

Speaking about her priorities as in-charge principal, Hani said she would focus on helping students make better use of technology and introducing courses that could support their future careers.

“The present age is the age of technology. Every student has a smartphone, and through its positive use, students can improve their educational abilities. Therefore, we have to explain to them how such devices should be used properly,” she said.

“Along with this, students also need to be introduced to AI and other modern courses that are useful for career-building so that they can move forward with the times,” she added.

Hani began her teaching career at Maharashtra College in 2000, when Professor Ishaq Hawaldar was the principal. According to Hani, Hawaldar interviewed her for the post.

With encouragement and support from her family, she continued her higher studies while working at the college. She also appeared for several competitive examinations and eventually completed a PhD in economics.

Her academic experience and qualifications led to her appointment as head of the economics department in 2015. Over the years, she has also held several other positions at the college.

Focus on Female Students

After taking charge, Hani said she had decided to expand facilities for female students, including making the college gymkhana accessible to them. The facility had previously been used by boys.

“First of all, I decided that facilities should be provided in the college gymkhana for girls as well as boys so that they too can benefit from them,” she said.

She added that measures were also being taken with the health, safety and other needs of female students in mind.

The college prospectus states that the institution places particular emphasis on facilities for female students and aims to create opportunities for higher education, especially for girls from the Muslim community. Its facilities include a college gymkhana, scholarships, a students’ aid fund and campus interviews.

New Courses Planned

Hani said the college was also planning to introduce several new courses, including one in ethical finance. She said the college had entered into an agreement with a British educational institution for the course.

Established in 1968, Maharashtra College offers undergraduate programmes in arts, science and commerce. Hani’s appointment marks a new chapter in the institution’s history, making her its first woman in-charge principal.

source: http://www.clarionindia.net / Clarion India / Home> Editor’s Pick> India> Indian Muslims / by Team Clarion / August 22nd, 2026

UMEED Portal Records 7.99 Lakh Waqf Properties, UP Tops the List With 1.52 Lakh

Business & Economy, Community Involvement / Social Issues,

NEW DELHI :

Data shows West Bengal has the second-highest number of registered properties, while Kerala, Maharashtra, Telangana and Karnataka also recorded large numbers

New Delhi :

The UMEED portal had recorded details of 7.99 lakh Waqf properties across India by August 7, with Uttar Pradesh accounting for the highest number at 1.52 lakh, according to data from the Ministry of Minority Affairs.

West Bengal ranked second with 1.31 lakh Waqf properties registered on the portal, followed by Kerala with 79,929 properties. Maharashtra had 71,947 properties, Telangana 63,982 and Karnataka 58,846.

The figures are part of the government’s effort to digitise Waqf property records and bring information relating to such properties onto a centralised platform.

According to documents from the Ministry of Minority Affairs, the process of entering details of Waqf properties on the portal began last year. The UMEED portal-2025 is intended to bring information about Waqf properties onto a single platform and improve transparency in their management.

Delhi Waqf Board had completed the entry of details of 3,233 Waqf properties by August 7.

At the other end of the list, the Union Territory of Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu had recorded details of two Waqf properties by the same date.

The state-wise figures show wide differences in the number of Waqf properties recorded on the portal. Uttar Pradesh had the highest number, followed by West Bengal, Kerala, Maharashtra, Telangana and Karnataka.

The government data also contains details of Waqf properties that were returned to the mutawalli or the person who had dedicated the property as Waqf.

Maharashtra recorded the highest number, with 9,292 properties returned to the Waqif, or the person who had dedicated the property as Waqf.

Kerala recorded 4,418 such properties, while 3,198 Waqf properties were returned in Gujarat, according to the ministry’s documents.

The data on returned properties is separate from the total number of properties whose details have been entered on the UMEED portal.

Minority Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju had earlier explained the purpose of the UMEED portal in a written reply in the Lok Sabha.

According to the information provided by the minister, the Central UMEED Portal-2025 was developed following changes made to the Waqf law and was launched on June 6, 2025.

The portal was designed to record details of Waqf properties, facilitate registration of new Waqfs and improve transparency in the management and monitoring of Waqf properties.

Under the new provisions, details of all existing Waqf properties registered before the provisions came into force are required to be entered on the portal.

The government documents also state that technical problems were found in the portal during the initial phase of registration.

source: http://www.clarionindia.net / Clarion India / Home> Editor’s Pick> India / by Team Clarion / August 16th, 2026

Islamic Women’s Organisation Launches Month-Long ‘Embracing Femininity’ Campaign

Community Involvement / Social Issues, Karnataka (under research project), Leaders, Women/Girls(since May26-2021)

Bengaluru, KARNATAKA :

Bengaluru :

The National Federation of Girls Islamic Organisation (NFGIO) on Friday(July 31) announced the launch of its nationwide “Embracing Femininity” campaign, a month-long initiative aimed at encouraging young women to embrace their innate nature while fostering dignity, balance and holistic well-being.

The announcement was made at a press conference held at the Bangalore Islamic Foundation Trust (BIFT) Auditorium on Queens Road. The campaign will be observed throughout August across GIO units, educational institutions and campuses nationwide.

Introducing the campaign, Sameen Momin, National Campaign Convener, said a wide range of activities, including seminars, workshops, campus interactions, online sessions and public awareness programmes, have been planned to engage young women in discussions on identity, empowerment and well-being.

Speaking on the campaign theme, Afeefa Tahniyath, Vice President of NFGIO, said contemporary society often places women between two opposing pressures—restrictive social attitudes on one side and the expectation to reject femininity in the name of empowerment on the other. She said the campaign presents an alternative approach rooted in Islamic values, recognising femininity as a source of confidence, resilience and inner balance rather than a limitation. 

Delivering the Kannada address, Basira Banu, Zonal Advisory Council member of GIO Karnataka, urged students and young women to actively participate in the campaign and benefit from its programmes.

In her presidential address, Adv. Sumaiya Roshan, President of NFGIO, said the initiative seeks to reaffirm women’s dignity, rights and meaningful participation in every sphere of society. She observed that a culture which evaluates women primarily through productivity and performance often overlooks their emotional and psychological well-being. The campaign, she said, advocates a balanced path that values women’s strengths without expecting them to compromise their femininity. She also stressed that families, educational institutions, workplaces and society at large share the responsibility of creating an environment where women can thrive with dignity and authenticity.

Replying to a question during the interaction, Adv. Roshan said the campaign would be conducted in 18 states where GIO has an organisational presence. She added that the initiative seeks to educate girls about femininity as an integral part of their ‘fitrah’—the innate nature with which every human being is created.

The press conference concluded with an interactive question-and-answer session. The campaign will be formally inaugurated on Sunday, August 2, at the Agricultural Institute Auditorium, Bengaluru, marking the beginning of a nationwide series of programmes throughout the month.

source: http://www.indiatomorrow.net / India Tomorrow / Home> News> Society / by Mohammed Talha Siddi Bapa /August 01st, 2026

Dr. Thumbay Moideen announces ₹1.5 crore scholarship for MD education to deserving student

Karnataka (under research project), Leaders, NRI's / PIO's, SCHOLARSHIPS, World Opinion, ,

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

Thumbay Group Founder President receives Global Leadership Award

Mangaluru :

Thumbay Group Founder President Dr. Thumbay Moideen has offered a scholarship of ₹1.5 crore to a deserving and meritorious student to pursue an MD degree under the Thumbay International Pathway Programme (TIPP).

The scholarship was announced at the BCF Scholarship Distribution and Global Leadership Award 2026 ceremony held at Town Hall, Mangaluru, on Sunday. Dr. Moideen handed over the scholarship sanction letter for the Thumbay International Pathway Programme to a student.

The programme was held under the presidency of Dr. B.K. Yusuf, President of BCF UAE. Karnataka Health and Family Welfare Minister U.T. Khader inaugurated the programme and presented the Global Leadership Award for Quality and Innovation 2026 to Dr. Thumbay Moideen.

The event was jointly organised by the Bearys Cultural Forum (BCF), Dubai, and the Bearys Cultural Forum Trust, Mangaluru. Scholarships were distributed to students who had performed exceptionally well in the SSLC and PUC examinations. Free sewing machines were also distributed to women from economically weaker sections to support self-employment. An entrepreneurship seminar was also held as part of the programme.

The Global Leadership Award for Quality and Innovation is an honour presented to individuals who have achieved excellence at the global level through their vision and leadership. After receiving the award, Dr. Thumbay Moideen announced his decision to make the substantial contribution towards the MD education of a student.

Under the Thumbay International Pathway Programme, selected students will complete the first three years of their medical education at Gulf Medical University in Ajman. They will then complete the remaining three years at a partner medical university in Uzbekistan and obtain an MD degree.

Thumbay Group has launched the scholarship initiative with the aim of making medical education accessible to talented students facing financial difficulties.

source: http://www.english.varthabharati.in / Vartha Bharati / Home> Karavali / by Vartha Bharati / August 17th, 2026

‘I Am a Daughter of Urdu, Hindi Raised Me’: Minorities Commission’s Munawari Begum

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

TAMIL NADU / NEW DELHI :

At a Jamia seminar on freedom, responsibility and shared nationhood, the National Commission for Minorities vice-chairperson stressed education, skills, women’s advancement and linguistic unity

New Delhi :

National Commission for Minorities Vice-Chairperson S Munawari Begum called on students at Jamia Millia Islamia to focus on education, skills, women’s advancement and social unity, while sharing her own experience of growing up with Urdu and Hindi.

She was speaking as the chief guest at a one-day seminar titled “Freedom, Responsibility & Shared Nationhood”, organised by the Department of Sociology at Jamia Millia Islamia on August 18.

The seminar brought together students, teachers and members of the academic community to discuss freedom, civic responsibility and the idea of a shared nationhood. According to the department’s programme information, the event was intended to provide a forum for discussion on these issues.

Begum, who took charge as vice-chairperson of the National Commission for Minorities last month, was joined at the event by Jamia Registrar Prof Mehtab Alam Rizvi and other faculty members and guests.

Padma Shri Prof Akhtarul Wasey was the main speaker, while the programme was chaired by Prof Zubair Minai, Dean of the Faculty of Social Sciences. Prof Azra Abidi, head of the Department of Sociology, coordinated the seminar.

Language and communication were among the main themes of Begum’s address.

“I am a daughter of Urdu; Hindi raised me,” she said, while speaking about her experience with different Indian languages.

She also spoke about learning languages including Tamil, Malayalam, Kannada and Telugu. According to Begum, learning another language is not limited to acquiring linguistic knowledge but can help people communicate and build connections with one another.

She also spoke about her experience as an interpreter during Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visits to Tamil Nadu and said she had helped facilitate communication when leaders from northern India visited the state.

Her remarks came at a time when language has remained a subject of public and political debate in India, but her message to students focused on communication and learning rather than linguistic divisions.

Education and Skills

Begum placed particular emphasis on education, telling students that young people have an important role in shaping the country’s future.

She said education and practical skills could help young people improve their own prospects while contributing to their families, communities and the country.

She also spoke about the need for students to acquire skills linked to employment alongside religious or traditional education.

Referring to the financial difficulties faced by students preparing for competitive examinations such as the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) examinations, she spoke about her efforts to help students who cannot afford such preparation.

She also stressed the need to encourage women and girls to pursue education and opportunities, saying women should move forward alongside men and take part in the country’s development.

Urdu and Computer Training

Begum also recalled her earlier work providing Urdu education alongside computer training.

She said centres had been run to teach Urdu and computers to young people between the ages of 15 and 35. Referring to an initiative in Puducherry, she said a Hindu youth’s NGO had also been associated with one such centre.

The example, as presented in her address, reflected her view that education and skills should not be restricted by religious identity.

The broader theme of the Jamia seminar was the relationship between freedom and responsibility. The discussions focused on the idea that rights also carry responsibilities towards society.

Begum urged young people to maintain a positive outlook and contribute to the country’s progress. She said that progress at the national level would also benefit families, villages and communities.

The August 18 seminar brought academic discussion on freedom, civic responsibility and shared nationhood together with Begum’s focus on education, language, women’s advancement and the role of young people in society.

source: http://www.clarionindia.net / Clarion India / Home> Culture> Editor’s Pick> India / by Clarion India / August 21st, 2026

VISION FOUNDATION Launched in Kozhikode to Strengthen NGOs and Social Development Initiatives Across India

Community Involvement / Social Issues

Kozhikode, KERALA :

Kozhikode:

The VISION FOUNDATION (Voluntary Initiative for Social Inclusion and Open Network Foundation), a new initiative aimed at strengthening the capacity and reach of non-governmental organisations and social institutions across India, was formally launched in Kozhikode on Thursday, August 13.

The launch ceremony, held in the presence of prominent personalities from the social, educational, business and community sectors, marked another significant milestone in the institutional expansion of Vision 2026.

VISION FOUNDATION is the 10th NGO established under the umbrella of Vision 2026. The organisation has been envisioned as a platform to empower NGOs and institutions working in the northern, eastern and western regions of the country. Its primary objective is to enable such organisations to strengthen their institutional capacities, expand their outreach and improve their effectiveness and impact in the field of social development.

Jb. T. Arif Ali Sahib, Chairman of Vision 2026, formally declared the foundation’s launch. The logo of VISION FOUNDATION was jointly unveiled by several distinguished dignitaries attending the ceremony.

The launch brought together a wide cross-section of social workers, academics, entrepreneurs, community leaders and representatives of civil society organisations, reflecting the broad collaborative approach envisaged by the new organisation.

Among those present and felicitated at the event were Er. Mohammad Koya, General Secretary of the Muslim Service Society; M. A. Mehabub, Vice President, CREDAI South Zone; Mohammad Shafi, Managing Director, Minar Steels; Jb. Karadan Sulaiman, CMD, Karadan Lands; Dr. Aysha Swapna, Principal, Farook College; Z. A. Ashraf, General Secretary, CIGI; Dr. P. C. Anver, Executive Director, Iqraa International Hospital; Jb. K. Sajjad, Treasurer, Wisdom Islamic Organisation; Adv. Mohamed Haneefa, Vice President, Kerala Nadwatul Mujahideen Markazudawa; Jb. Razak Paleri, State President, Welfare Party of India; Jb. P. I. Noushad, Chairman, Peoples Foundation; Ms. Rajeena Beegum, General Secretary, JIH Women’s Wing, Kerala; Dr. Ausaf Ahsan; Dr. Azeez Tharuvana; M. M. Zubair; and Haneefa Haji.

Mr. M. Sajid, Director of Vision 2026, welcomed the guests and audience. The concluding address was delivered by Jb. P. Mujeeb Rahman Sahib, Ameer of JIH Kerala.

The formal launch was preceded by the inauguration of the newly established VISION FOUNDATION office at Dalenest Building in Kozhikode. Jb. T. Arif Ali Sahib inaugurated the office, marking the commencement of the organisation’s activities and providing it with an institutional base for its future programmes.

The establishment of VISION FOUNDATION is being viewed as an important step towards building stronger networks among civil society organisations and social institutions operating in different parts of India. By focusing on capacity building, networking and institutional development, the foundation seeks to help organisations overcome operational limitations and enhance the scale and sustainability of their social interventions.

The organisation’s proposed geographical focus on the northern, eastern and western regions also reflects an effort to extend institutional support beyond existing networks and create greater opportunities for collaboration among organisations working on social development issues.

The launch further expands the institutional network of Vision 2026, which has been working towards promoting social development through a network of organisations and initiatives. With VISION FOUNDATION becoming the 10th NGO under its umbrella, the initiative has added another institutional platform to its growing network.

The event concluded with an emphasis on cooperation, institutional strengthening and social transformation. The launch of VISION FOUNDATION is expected to create new avenues for collaboration between NGOs, educational institutions, businesses and community organisations, while supporting initiatives aimed at addressing social and developmental challenges in different parts of the country.

The new organisation will now begin its activities from its Kozhikode office, with its broader vision centred on creating stronger, more capable and better-connected civil society institutions capable of contributing more effectively to social development.

source: http://www.radiancenews.com / Radiance News / Home> Latest News / by Radiance News Bureau / August 15th, 2026