Category Archives: Amazing Feats

Yakoob Mansuri saves infants in Jhansi hospital fire, loses his own twin daughters

Jhansi, UTTAR PRADESH :

Image Credit: PTI

Jhansi:

Yakoob Mansuri, a young man in his 20s, became a hero for several children on Friday night. However, he couldn’t save his own newborn twin daughters from a fire at the hospital.

Originally from Hamirpur, Yakoob, a food vendor, had been sleeping outside the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) of Maharani Laxmi Bai Medical College. His two newborn daughters were admitted there for treatment. With his wife Nazma, Yakoob stayed at the hospital, taking turns to watch over their babies.

When the fire broke out on Friday night, Yakoob broke the glass window and rushed into the NICU to rescue as many infants as he could. Unfortunately, his twin daughters were not among those he managed to save. Their bodies were found on Saturday. Yakoob and Nazma waited outside the hospital all day, their faces reflecting deep sorrow.

Similarly, Sanjana Kumari, who had recently given birth to her first child, found her joy turn into grief. “My baby was burned to death before my eyes, and I could only watch helplessly. The hospital’s negligence destroyed my dreams. I couldn’t even hold my child,” she said, wiping away her tears.

Santoshi Devi from Jalaun, who had brought her baby to the hospital due to delivery complications, also lost her child in the chaos of the fire. She identified her baby’s body on Saturday. “I heard loud screams, but my baby was gone,” she said, overwhelmed with grief.

Just 11 days ago, she had given birth to a baby who is no longer with her. “I heard loud noises and rushed to the scene, but how could I save my child? Nobody told us what was happening,” she lamented.

Sonu and Sanjana, who had admitted their baby due to respiratory issues, also lost their child in the fire. “We were told not to feed him, so we stepped away for a while. By the time we returned, the NICU had been ravaged by the fire,” said Sanjana. “We did everything we could, but in the end, he was taken from us,” said Sonu, while his brother Parsuram recounted their struggles: “We sold everything and took loans, all in the hope that he would survive.”

Niranjan Maharaj from Lalitpur identified his grandchild’s charred body by its name tag. “The hospital staff didn’t act in time,” he alleged.

Families of the victims have accused the hospital of negligence, claiming that timely intervention could have saved lives. Authorities have launched an investigation to determine the cause of the fire and lapses in safety protocols.

source: http://www.english.varthabharati.in / Vartha Bharati / Home> India / November 17th, 2024

Asif Ahmed’s food ATM in Kolkata is set for expansion

Kolkata, WEST BENGAL :

Asif Ahmed and his group of Volunteers of the Kolkata We Care group

A 320-litre refrigerator laden with food – the leftovers from the restaurant and at homes of citizens – placed at a busy crossing of Kolkata is ensuring that the poor and needy do not go hungry in the City of Joy.

Thanks to the initiative launched by Asif Ahmed, co-owner of Sanjha Chulha restaurant, whose concern for food wastage and food insecurity many around him had led to his initiative on the first Food ATM of the city.

The initiative has recently expanded with more civil society groups including the Kolkata We Care group NGO led by Imran Zaki.

“It broke my heart to see good, edible food being discarded at the end of the day, knowing it could nourish someone in need. As a restaurateur, I was often faced with the dilemma of what to do with the surplus food. The idea of redistributing it to the hungry was not just a solution – it was a responsibility,” Asif Ahmed said.

Asif Ahmed’s idea emerged from his concern for thousands around him facing food insecurity. He placed a big refrigerator with a transparent door at the roadside with neatly packed food donated by those visiting the restaurant, the restaurant itself, and the citizens inside. People can pick up the food. The volunteers even distribute food by visiting various vulnerable communities in the city.

The feeding the needy programme has since been relaunched through collaboration among Asif Ahmed’s outlet, the Kolkata We Care group, the Rotary, Round Table, and JITO (The Jain International Trade Organisation).

The initiative feeds almost 50 people daily and Asif plans to involve the Kolkata Police in it.

“The initiative has since become a beacon of hope and plans are underway to involve Kolkata Police to further strengthen its reach and impact in the community,” he said.

 The Food ATM is crafted with care to meet safety standards while overcoming the logistical challenges of food distribution. Like cash in an ATM, food is now available to anyone who needs it, stored in a transparent refrigerator placed in a public space.

Asif Ahmed said, “We wanted to ensure that those who come to the Food ATM feel a sense of dignity. No one should feel ashamed for needing help; everyone deserves respect and compassion.”

The We Care group comprises people from various backgrounds who took charge and came together for the movement. Pilot projects also started in schools like Birla Bharti School in Taratala and BDM High School in Narendrapur which aims to raise awareness through students.

The movement has bloomed well in local organisations and volunteers joined hands in educating donors to inculcate a culture of giving. It has set up one Food ATM at the busy Park street and is planning more.

Sana Ahmed, who works in an NGO, said, “We teachers can instill the right values in children by making them more cautious of food, its usage and recycling. Students’ involvement will deeply impact their growth during formative years and raise a generation when they quickly absorb and value food and the act of giving.

Asif Ahmed says, “The system could be easily replicated and the viability and success inspired further expansion in multiple locations in Kolkata. Although it started at CIT Road but I felt its impact was restricted to that area only. It was later centralized and expanded to serve a broader range of people within a feasible 5 to 10 km radius. We have plans to come up with one in Park Street and the location of another is not decided yet.”

The first Food ATM operates during restaurant hours, from 12 noon till 11:30 PM, with volunteers distributing food in slum areas close by as it is easier to manage.

Asif Ahmed shared a touching story of a lowly paid security guard who struggled with a wage of Rs. 10000- 12,000. He would get his meal from the ATM and it helped him sustain his family and meet ends.

“The Food ATM was a crucial support for him and others like him, making it easier to access meals without compromising their self-respect”, added Ahmed.

Another goosebump scene that Asif remembers is that of a small girl, who approached the Food ATM apprehensively and picked up the food packet before vanishing in the thin air.

Imran Khan, a resident of Park Circus Area, said, “It was a poignant experience to see a child, hungry finding comfort in the food provided. The gratitude and relief in these moments highlight the significant impact of the initiative in bridging the gap for those in need.”

The initial investment includes purchasing freezer units, building secure structures, and installing security measures. The recurring costs involve electricity, regular maintenance, and staffing. Asif Ahmed says he is open to adopting new means and technologies for the initiative.

source: http://www.awazthevoice.in / Awaz, The Voice / Home>Story / by Hena Ahmed, Kolkata / August 13th, 2024

Waris Khan is Rajgarh’s first Good Samaritan for saving 7 lives

 Biaora(Beawar) (Rajgarh District) MADHYA PRADESH : 

Waris Khan (with garlands) being honoured by citizens

The saga of Waris Khan of the Biaora city in Rajgarh district of Madhya Pradesh has reached Chief Minister Mohan Yadav in Bhopal earning him the first “Good Samaritan” award in the district.

A plumber by profession, Waris Khan, lives in the Tal Mohalla of Beawar and supports his family of five members. He worked as a plumber against a temporary vacancy in the municipality 12 years ago, was fired from his job. He had to face a lot of hardships in life following loss of his job.

He however, continued to support his family through his plumbing job and also other jobs of cleaner, and a daily wage labourer.

However, his life took an unexpected turn on the morning of 13 November 2024 and he became a celebrity overnight.

Waris Khan revceving the Good Samaritan award from DM Dr. Girish Kumar Mishra

On that day Waris Khan was on his way from Biaora to Binaganj on his motorbicycle. He saw a car meet with an accident on Highway due to a technical snag. There were 7 people of a family from Shivpuri in the car. There were two small children and women among them.

After the car overturned, all its doors got locked. Seeing the horrific scene, Waris parked his bike aside without delay and reached the car. He broke the glass of the car with his hands and started taking out the people trapped inside.

He took care to first extricate the children followed by women and finally the men trapped in the car.

Waris carried out his deed without expectations of publicity or fame. In fact he doesn’t have a smartphone nor is he connected to social media.

Chief Minister Dr. Mohan Yadav speaking to Waris Khan on video call

Despite this, the news of his bravery reached the media and the administration.

According to officials, Chief Minister Dr. Mohan Yadav spoke to Waris Khan through video call and inquired about his well-being. He told him, “You are the pride of Madhya Pradesh.”

Giving information about the incident, Waris said that he was going to Binaganj on a bike, when the car coming from the opposite side accidentally fell into the ditch.

Chief Minister Yadavs aid, “Waris, you have done a very good job. Helping each other in times of trouble is true humanity. Your work will inspire everyone.”

The Chief Minister promised him a reward of Rs 1 lakh. However, Waris Khan asked Chief Minister to appoint him on his previous job in the municipality. Reports say the Chief Minister agreed to fulfill his demand.

Waris Khan briefing DM Dr Girish Kumar Mishra on his reScue operation

Waris Khan was awarded the first award “Good Samaritan” award by the district adminitration. Rajgarh Collector Dr. Girish Kumar Mishra presented him a cheque of Rs 5,000 as token of appreciation for his act of bravery.

The Good Samaritan Award Scheme is a program by the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) that provides cash awards and certificates of appreciation to people who help road accident victims.

Introduced in 2015, the award is given to a person who has provided immediate assistance to a road accident victim and rushed them to a hospital or trauma care center within the Golden Hour of the accident.

This scheme was introduced to cut down the road accident rates in India.

Kumar said, “What Waris Khan did is an example of true humanity. He saved people’s lives without any selfishness. His work is an inspiration for the entire society. Such people will be encouraged in the future too.”

Yadav also directed all collectors to honour courageous people like Waris on the occasion of 15 August.

After the CM House and the Public Relations Department praised Waris Khan, he is continuously receiving praise. Many private organizations are ready to honor him. With his courage and humanity, Waris Khan proved that even an ordinary person can become a hero in times of trouble.

source: http://www.awazthevoice.in / Awaz, The Voice / Home>Story / by Abdul Wasim Ansari / November 16th, 2024

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

Perinthalmanna(Malappuram) KERALA / Edinburgh, SCOTLAND :

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

Dr mahmood kooria (file image)

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

A landmark achievement for Kerala

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

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

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

Prize details and award ceremony

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

Focus on Indian Ocean history and Kerala’s role

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

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

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

A leading scholar of Islamic Studies in the Indian Ocean

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

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

Recognition from Infosys Science Foundation

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

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

Tiger, Tyger: A Tipu Sultan birthday story

Srirangapatna, KARNATAKA :

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Falkia Khan, the youngest District Rajyotsava awardee

Mysuru, KARNATAKA :

Mysuru:

Falkia Khan, the Brand Ambassador of Mysuru City Corporation’s (MCC) Swachh Bharat Abhiyan and the Chairperson of Karnataka Junior Jaycees Wing, has been honoured with the District Kannada Rajyotsava Award this year, thus becoming the youngest to receive the award.

A 2nd PU student, Falkia has created multiple Records including in HI VIBE Book of World Records and India Book of Records, besides bagging Prerana Award- 2022 and Iconic Speaker of the Year-2024 award.

As a sports person, Falkia has bagged gold medals in District, State and National Muay Thai Championships. She has also demonstrated exceptional public speaking skills, winning numerous competitions and has been recognised as the youngest teen to deliver maximum public speeches.

Her philanthropic efforts, leadership and motivational endeavours have earned her recognition from esteemed organisations. She aspires to become an Indian Foreign Service Officer.

source: http://www.starofmysore.com / Star of Mysore / Home> News / November 10th, 2024

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

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

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

Ghaziabad :

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Maulana Syed Kifayat Ali Kafi: A Forgotten Freedom Fighter

Bijnor District / executed in Moradabad, UTTAR PRADESH :

Koi gul baqi rahega na chaman reh jaayega

Par Rasoolullah ka deen-e-hasan reh jayega

(No flower will be left, nor will any garden remain; but the beautiful religion of Muhammad (pbuh) will forever endure.)

Maulana Syed Kifayat Ali Kafi, a prominent Islamic scholar, poet, and freedom fighter, was executed by the British on May 6, 1858, at the crossroads of Moradabad. His execution marks a significant, yet often overlooked, chapter in India’s struggle for independence.

Early Life and Education

Born in Bijnor district, Maulana Kafi hailed from a respectable Sadat family. He pursued his education in Moradabad, Bareilly, and Badaun, gaining expertise in religious studies, traditional medicine (Hikmat), and poetry. His teachers included Sheikh Abu Saeed Rampuri in religious knowledge, Sher Ali in medicine, and Maulvi Mehdi Ali Khan and Zaki Moradabadi in poetry. Maulana Kafi was not just a scholar but also an accomplished poet, with works such as Diwan-e-Kafi, Diwan-e-Tanha, Kamalat-e-Azizi, and Naseem-e-Jannat to his name.

A Patriot’s Call to Arms

As British rule continued to oppress India, Maulana Kafi’s determination to see a free Hindustan grew stronger. When the First War of Independence erupted in 1857, Maulana Kafi actively participated in the struggle. His fatwa of Jihad against British rule, posted on the walls of the Jama Masjid in Moradabad, was a rallying cry for Muslims to rise against the oppressors.

Joining General Bakht Khan Rohilla’s forces, Maulana Kafi fought bravely from Delhi to Bareilly and Allahabad. After liberating Moradabad, he helped establish a local government under Nawab Majiduddin Khan, also known as Nawab Majju Khan. Maulana Kafi was appointed Sadar-e-Shariat, where he oversaw judicial matters according to the Sharia law.

Betrayal and Capture

Despite the initial successes, the freedom movement in Moradabad faced significant setbacks due to betrayals by local traitors and the Nawab of Rampur who had aligned with the British. As a result, the British recaptured Moradabad, and on April 30, 1858, Maulana Kafi was arrested, following a tip-off by a local informer named Fakhruddin Kalal.

Martyrdom

Maulana Kafi’s trial was swift and brutal. On May 6, 1858, after enduring severe torture and refusing to renounce his faith and commitment for his motherland, he was hanged by the British. His final moments were marked by an extraordinary sense of calm and composure.

Maulana Syed Kifayat Ali Kafi’s sacrifice remains a poignant reminder of the countless unsung heroes who fought and gave their lives for India’s freedom. His legacy, though forgotten by many, continues to inspire those who remember the courage and conviction of one of the nation’s noble martyrs.

source: http://www.themilligazette.com / The Milli Gazette Online / Home> News> Special Reports / by Sahil Rizvi / August 18th, 2024

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

Aligarh, UTTAR PRADESH :

Aligarh :

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

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

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

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

Meet the Kashmiri houseboat owner hailed by PM Modi for designing floating ambulance service for COVID-19 patients in Dal Lake

Dal Lake ,Srinagar, JAMMU & KASHMIR :

Tariq Ahmad Patloo, 51, says he is grateful to the PM for appreciating his efforts, yet, he remains unmoved by the fame because successive governments have done nothing for the Hanjis- the dwellers of waters in the Dal and other lakes of Kashmir Valley.

The floating ambulance by Tariq Ahmad Patloo on Dal Lake in Srinagar (Image: ANI)

Houseboat owner Tariq Ahmad Patloo, who converted his boat  into a floating ambulance to ferry COVID-19 patients on the Dal Lake in Jammu and Kashmir, found mention in Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s monthly radio address ‘Mann Ki Baat’ on June 27.

Fifty-one-year -old Patloo, who lives with his mother, wife and daughter, along with thousands of others in the houseboats stationed in the world-famous Lake of Srinagar, had designed the free floating ambulance service after he recovered from COVID-19 during the first wave of the pandemic in August last year.

Tariq Ahmad Patloo

Patloo, who owns the house boat named ‘Sea Palace’, apart from the ambulance, is grateful to the Prime Minister for appreciating his efforts. But, he is unmoved by the fame because of the grudge that successive governments have not done anything for the Hanjis- the ethnic community who are dwellers of waters in the Dal and other lakes of Kashmir Valley.”I can’t thank the Prime Minister enough for mentioning me in his address. But I would have been happier if the Centre, or the state, may have done something for the progress of our community.” Patloo told MoneyControl.

Hanjis living in about 900 houseboats, Patloo said, have been living in misery for years. “No one care for us.  They talked about rehabilitation, nothing happened. They said they will relocate us, nothing happened. We do not have even a dispensary here. No one has been ever given a government job. We have had enough promises,” he said.

Patloo is not the only member from his family to catch Prime Minister Modi’s attention. In 2018, the PM praised his eight-year-old daughter Jannat’s efforts for cleaning Dal Lake.

“We don’t need money. We need to live a respectful life, like any other community,” he said.

During his ‘Mann Ki Baat’ programme the PM appreciated Patloo’s novel idea of a boat ambulance.

“Here a boat ambulance service was started at Dal Lake. This service was started by Tariq Ahmad Patloo ji of Srinagar, who is a houseboat 0wner. He himself has also fought the battle with COVID-19 and this inspired him to start the ambulance service,” the Prime Minister said in the 78th edition of the address.

Patloo said he thought of setting up the ambulance out of his personal experience. He had faced difficulties to reach the hospital from Dal waters when he contracted the disease. He was in home isolation for the first few days but had to be hospitalised at downtown Srinagar’s Shri Maharaja Hari Singh (SMHS) hospital after his health deteriorated.

“I had a difficult time in reaching the shore of the Dal Lake. I cannot even tell you how my family managed to take me to the hospital,” said Patloo.

The ambulance comes equipped with PPE kits, stretchers, wheelchair and other healthcare amenities. It also provides oxygen cylinders to the needy besides generating awareness regarding COVID-19 appropriate behavior.

Jammu and Kashmir reported 415 new COVID-19 cases and eight deaths in the last 24 hours. As many as 46,148 fresh COVID-19 cases and 979 deaths were recorded across the country in the last 24 hours, the Union Health Ministry said.

source: http://www.moneycontrol.com / Money Control / Home> News> India> Trending Topics / by Gulam Jeelani / June 28th, 2021