Former Deputy Mayor of the Mangaluru City Corporation (MCC) Mohammed Kunjathbail, known for his contributions as social activist, died following a heart attack on Saturday morning. He was 60.
His body is kept at his house in Kunjathbail for people to pay respects.
Kunjathbail, who was a bachelor, had been elected to the Corporation three times and was an active member of the Dakshina Kannada District Congress Committee. He had also contributed to the works of the All India Beary Sahitya Parishat.
Muneer Katipalla, social activist and convener of the Toll Gate Virodhi Horata Samithi, expressed shock and sorrow at the demise of Kunjathbail. “The Samiti has lost a prominent leader with the untimely death of Kunjathbail, who always worked for the welfare of the people. He also remained untainted till the end, given that he never faced any corruption charges,” Katipalla said.
source: http://www.english.varthabharati.in / Vartha Bharati / Home> Karavali / by Vartha Bharati / March 08th, 2025
Prof. Tamkin Khan delivering the lecture at the programme on Roundtable on Stillbirth Bereavement Care at Colombo, Sri Lanka
Aligarh:
Prof. Tamkin Khan, faculty member at the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, J.N. Medical College, Aligarh Muslim University, and Founder Secretary of the Stillbirth Society of India, attended the Parent Roundtable Session at the 19th Annual Conference of the International Stillbirth Alliance (ISA) in Colombo.
The session, organised by the International Stillbirth Alliance and supported by the World Health Organisation (WHO), brought together experts from India, Indonesia, Singapore, Sri Lanka, South Africa, and the USA to discuss advancements in stillbirth bereavement care.
Moderated by Theresa Shaver (USAID), the discussion focused on the importance of compassionate support for grieving families and the need for collaborative global efforts to improve bereavement care practices. Prof. Khan shared insights on bereavement care and highlighted the role of healthcare providers in offering emotional and psychological support to families coping with stillbirth.
As part of her participation, she also presented two scientific papers on stillbirths, contributing valuable research to the ongoing discourse on maternal and infant health.
Prof. Khan described the opportunity as an honour, emphasising the significance of working alongside global experts to enhance care for families experiencing pregnancy loss.
source: http://www.radiancenews.com / Radiance News / Home> Focus> Report / by Radiance News Bureau / March 07th, 2025
In a historic moment, Hamza Hussain and Altaf Hussain, two brothers serving in Karnataka’s law enforcement, have been honored with the President’s Award for Meritorious Service on India’s 76th Republic Day.
Hamza Hussain, Superintendent of Police (S.P.) Commandant, 12th Battalion, KSRP, Tumkur, has been recognized for his leadership in critical police operations and public safety. His brother, Altaf Hussain, Assistant Sub-Inspector (ASI) at Wilson Garden Police Station, Bangalore, has played a vital role in crime prevention and community policing.
The award, one of the highest honors in Indian law enforcement, acknowledges their dedication, integrity, and commitment to justice. Their achievement is a proud moment for Karnataka and the nation, inspiring future generations of police officers.
The brothers expressed their gratitude, stating, “This award is a tribute to all officers who tirelessly serve the nation. We dedicate it to our department, colleagues, and family for their unwavering support.”
Their recognition on Republic Day underscores their exceptional service in upholding law and order, marking a milestone in Karnataka’s police history.
source: http://www.islamicvoice.com / Islamic Voice / Home> Cover Story / Vol. 37-03, No. 448 March 2025
In the heart of Meghalaya, where Christianity is deeply woven into the cultural fabric, Syedullah Nongrum stands as a prominent figure, embracing both his Khasi and Muslim identities.
As the General Secretary of the Shillong Muslim Union (SMU) for the past three decades, Nongrum has played a pivotal role in safeguarding and uplifting the Muslim community while fostering interfaith harmony.
Founded in 1905, the Shillong Muslim Union (SMU) holds a legacy older than the All India Muslim League, which was established a year later in 1906. The union has had a long history of leadership, with none other than India’s former President, Fakhruddin Ali Ahmed, serving as its first president in 1964.
Madina Mosque, Shillong, Meghalaya
“I had extensive discussions with the former President Fakhruddin Ali Ahmed about the welfare of the Muslim community in Meghalaya,” Nongrum recalls. Determined to revive the organization, his first step was to set up a dedicated office in Shillong. Over the years, he has worked relentlessly to protect and enhance SMU’s assets, ensuring its service to all communities, irrespective of caste, creed, or religion.
When Nongrum took over in 1982, SMU’s properties were in disarray, and opportunists had begun to take advantage of the situation. “The guest house and orphanage were dilapidated, and the Idgah ground was in terrible shape,” he says.
Determined to transform these neglected assets into centers of growth and learning, Nongrum spearheaded the construction of Madina Masjid, the only glass mosque in India.
This magnificent structure in Shillong is not just a place of worship, it also has an Islamic learning center; houses a school for underprivileged children, and a higher education college with modern facilities in science, arts, and technology.
Syedullah Nongrum (third from left) with former Nagaland Governor RN Ravi (second from right)
Beyond Shillong, SMU has successfully sponsored four other mosques and multiple graveyards in different districts of Meghalaya.
Nongrum, son of Subartan Bibi Nongrum and Late S.K. Abdullah, hails from the state’s oldest Khasi-Muslim family. The son of Late Subartan Bibi Nongrum and Late S.K. Abdullah, he holds a unique place in Meghalaya’s political landscape.
He is the only tribal Muslim to have been elected to the Meghalaya State Assembly, representing Rajabala constituency since 1993. He has served as a cabinet minister, advocating for the rights and development of his people.
A painting of President APJ Abdul Kalam inside the Madina mosque library
His contributions extend to education. He played a crucial role in establishing Umshyrpi College which has over 3,500 students. “We ensure that education reaches the underprivileged, regardless of their community or background,” he emphasizes.
For Nongrum, SMU is not just an institution for Muslims—it is a platform for all communities. His vision transcends religious boundaries, as reflected in his role as a founder member of the Shillong All Faith Forum, a collective that promotes communal harmony and mutual understanding among different religious groups.
“We follow the traditions of the land. As an obedient Khasi Muslim, I am committed to carrying forward the good work for the betterment of Meghalaya,” Nongrum asserts.
His journey is a testament to resilience, leadership, and inclusivity. In a region where identities are often defined by religion and ethnicity, Syedullah Nongrum has emerged as a bridge between communities rooted in their respective cultures.
(The writer is an independent journalist based in North East India)
source: http://www.awazthevoice.in / Awaz, The Voice / Home> Story / by Jhumur Deb, Shillong / Februarty 26th, 2025
A ‘family get-together’ will be organized at Al Qusais Amity School in Dubai on Saturday, February 15, under the auspices of the UAE ‘Sahebaan’ community.
‘Sahebaan’ is an Urdu-speaking Muslim community from Dakshina Kannada and Udupi.
This ‘Family Get-Together’ will be held from 4 PM to 11 PM, and several programs will take place during this time, said program organizer and patron H.M. Afroz Assadi.
He stated that a felicitation program will be held to recognize children studying in the UAE who have scored more than 90% marks, as well as those who have achieved success in sports.
The chief guests of the event will be ‘Sahebaan’ community leaders, businessman and Hidayat Group President Hidayatullah Abbas, non-resident businessman, Philanthropist and owner of Nash Engineering Company in Dubai K.S. Nisar Ahmed, along with several other dignitaries.
source: http://www.english.varthabharati.in / Vartha Bharati / Home> Gulf / by Vartha Bharati / February 12th, 2025
Former member of the Legislative Council and editor of the Hindi newspaper Bidar Ki Awaaz and the Urdu newspaper Surkh Zameen, Qazi Arshad Ali
Bidar:
Former member of the Legislative Council and editor of the Hindi newspaper Bidar Ki Awaaz and the Urdu newspaper Surkh Zameen, Qazi Arshad Ali (75), passed away on Monday, March 3, due to a heart attack.
He is survived by his wife, son, and three daughters.
Qazi Arshad Ali had served two terms as a Legislative Council member and had also held positions as Chairman of the Bidar Urban Development Authority and President of the Congress district unit.
Political leaders, journalists, and residents of Bidar have expressed their deep condolences on his demise.
source: http://www.english.varthabharati.in / Vartha Bharati / Home> Karnataka / by Vartha Bharati / March 03rd, 2025
The Board of Innovative Education (BIE), Goa, successfully organised a state-level mega sports festival at the Raia panchayat grounds, Salcete on December 29-30.
Praising the efforts of BIE, Vice-President of Jamaat-e-Islami Hind, S Ameenul Hasan said that BIE is nurturing champions and stars of the future not just in the community but also the State and the nation. Through various activities and unique annual events, BIE has been showing the path for community’s unified efforts in development of the children.
He advised the parents to promote the talents in their children in order to ensure overall development of their personality. Sports is one of the many facets of human activity.
“Islam promotes physical fitness and sports. The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ is the best example for the humanity and he encouraged not just men and children but also women. He himself competed with his wife in running races,” Hasan added.
The two-day sporting event witnessed more than 1,000 participants varying between the age of 5-14 years compete in 15 different sports.
The concluding ceremony was graced by numerous Muslim political leaders, social workers, sports personalities and Ulama (Islamic scholars), who adorned the dais. A large number of parents attended the ceremony to witness their children receiving medals, trophies, mementos and certificates.
BIE Chairman and JIH Goa President Asif Hussain appealed to the parents to ensure that their children are nurtured to become responsible citizens and leaders for the Goan society.
Chief Organiser of the Mega Sports Festival, Meenaz Banu informed that BIE Goa operates through nine branches across the State where weekend classes for the overall development of children are conducted every Sunday.
One of the striking highlights of the event was that nine separate tents for boys and nine for girls were set up for participants representing the nine BIE centres. These tents served as areas for students to strategize, discuss, rest, and have their meals.
During the closing ceremony, 55 Muslim athletes from the State who have competed at state, national, and international levels and received accolades for Goa were felicitated. Children as little as 4 years, differently-abled, to adults who have been coaching students to excel in sports were among those who received special appreciation mementos. The sports personalities came from various sports including swimming, karate, kickboxing taekwondo boxing, cricket, squash, etc.
Earlier, on Sunday, December 29, Maulana Ibrahim, community leader and businessman from Margao was the chief guest. He expressed joy on seeing Raia sports ground filled with little children all set to enthral parents and audience. He said that such sporting events are the need of the day to showcase the talents that Muslims behold.
Asif Abbas Ahmed, President of the Thai Boxing Association, Goa made a special mention and encouraged the girls for their participation wearing hijab. He said that beyond the misrepresentation of oppression, girls participating in the sports festival in hijab have sent across a resounding message of modesty in sportswear.
BIE launched its organisational anthem during the closing ceremony.
source: http://www.radiancenews.com / Radiance News / Home> Latest News> Sports / by Radiance News / January 02nd, 2025
Member of Parliament Tariq Anwar speaking at the first year celebration of Sahyog credit co-operative society in Abul Fazal Enclave, Jamia Nagar, on February 23, 2025.
New Delhi :
Delhi’s Jamia Nagar-based Sahyog Credit Cooperative Society Ltd celebrated its first anniversary on Sunday, offering a comprehensive range of services, including Daily Deposit Accounts where daily wage earners and small businesses can deposit a minimum of Rs. 100 daily at their doorsteps, and providing interest-free loans and financial assistance ranging from Rs. 50,000 to Rs. 2 lakh under various personal consumption, consumer, and commercial loan schemes.
Sahyog is working under the nationwide Sahulat Microfinance Society, a game-changing initiative in the interest-free finance sector that operates in 13 states and has 130 branches serving 3.5 lakh members across the country.
Its first annual programme was held at Milli Model School in Okhla, New Delhi, with Congress MP Tariq Anwar speaking as the chief guest and attended by various local dignitaries and prominent personalities.
Sahulat’s Groundbreaking Work in Microfinance: A Beacon of Hope for Low-Income Families
Speaking at the event, Usama Khan, CEO of Sahulat Microfinance Society, highlighted the organization’s 14-year history of providing interest-free microfinance services across India. He shared that Sahulat currently has 63 registered interest-free credit cooperative societies affiliated with it, operating 121 branches across 13 states. These branches serve nearly 3.5 lakh members, with the number steadily increasing.
Usama further detailed its impressive figures, including annual deposits of approximately Rs. 1460 crores and annual loan disbursements of around Rs. 625 crores, both of which are doubling every year.
Emphasizing that Sahyog’s success is built on the strong foundation of Sahulat’s 14 years of experience, Usama said, “Sahyog’s journey is not just one year; it is backed by the proven track record of Sahulat’s nationwide operations.”
“Credit cooperative societies worldwide are supply-side models,” Usama said. “Similarly, Sahulat-affiliated societies help low-income individuals save a small portion of their income, whether from daily wages, small businesses, or other livelihoods, which, over time, can accumulate and be used for essential needs.”
Assuring the audience, Usama stressed that the foundations of Sahyog and other affiliated societies are robust, adhering to both Indian regulations and international microfinance standards. He also praised Sahyog’s office bearers, including President Shamsuz Zoha and Vice President, as trustworthy persons.
Defining Sahyog, Usama Khan explained that the society is registered under the Delhi Cooperative Societies Act as a credit cooperative society. It offers thrift schemes to its members, mobilizes deposits, and provides interest-free loans and financial assistance of up to Rs. 50,000 to meet the various consumption and business needs of small-income individuals in the Jamia Nagar locality, regardless of caste, class, or religion. Usama highlighted that Sahyog primarily serves small-scale businessmen and low-income people in areas such as Zakir Nagar, Batla House, Abul Fazal, Okhla Vihar, and Shaheen Bagh.
Usama further detailed Sahyog’s services, including the Daily Deposits Account. This initiative allows daily depositors, such as daily wage earners, shopkeepers, street vendors, and auto and cab drivers, to make deposits without leaving their workplaces or shops. Sahyog’s staff collects deposits directly from members’ homes, doorsteps, shops, or other locations, starting with a minimum of Rs. 100. Under this scheme, daily wage earners and small shop owners can deposit a minimum of Rs. 100 daily at their doorsteps. The service also provides e-receipts (via SMS) and passbooks for members.
For salaried individuals, working women, and both skilled and unskilled professionals, Sahyog offers a Saving Account with a minimum deposit of Rs. 200. This account is designed to cater to their future needs and is supported by deposit collection both in the field and at the branch office.
Micro Finance institution Backed by Strong Islamic Interest-free norms
Speaking about Sahyog’s interest-free loan offerings, Usama Khan outlined three types of loan schemes: Demand Loan, Consumer Murabaha Financing, and Commercial Murabaha Financing. He explained that the Demand Loan is specifically designed for consumption purposes, such as personal use, with a maximum tenure of 12 to 18 months. Under this scheme, Sahyog charges no interest or profit, not even based on depositor profits or institutional standards. Instead, the society only applies a minimal surcharge of 1-2%, covering the actual costs of office maintenance, such as doorstep collections, record keeping, and expenses related to core banking software and office staff.
Usama emphasized that Sahyog, as a non-banking institution, operates with core banking software to ensure transparency and efficiency in its operations.
Addressing concerns regarding the minimal surcharge being equated with interest, Usama firmly stated that all of Sahyog’s schemes strictly adhere to Islamic teachings, reinforcing the society’s commitment to providing interest-free financial services.
Usama made a heartfelt appeal to marginalized and low-income people, encouraging them to save and invest in the scheme to meet their daily needs. He also urged the affluent members of society to contribute resources and support this initiative to uplift those in need.
Sahyog: Expansion Plans and Promising Future
In a conversation with Indiatomorrow.net, Sahyog Vice President Abdul Mannan clarified that the society does not charge interest or fixed percentage fees on loans. Instead, it only recovers the actual costs associated with services like doorstep collections, office maintenance, and software upkeep. These costs are minimal, typically ranging from Rs. 500 to Rs. 2,000 per loan of 20-50 thousand. He also shared that Sahyog’s Jamia Nagar branch has been operating smoothly, with 750 members joining within its first year. The members have shown great cooperation, with loan repayments being made responsibly. Abdul Mannan revealed plans to expand Sahyog’s branches in different areas of Delhi and aimed to increase the membership to 1,000 by 2025.
Regarding the Consumer Murabaha Financing scheme, Abdul Mannan explained that it allows Sahyog to provide durable products to members for consumption. The loan repayment period ranges from 3 to 18 months, with amounts between Rs. 10,000 and Rs. 1 lakh. For example, if a member wants to purchase a refrigerator priced at Rs. 20,000, Sahyog buys the refrigerator at that price, and then negotiates a one-time profit share with the seller. The member then repays the exact Rs. 20,000 in easy instalments. Abdul Mannan emphasized that this profit is in compliance with Islamic teachings.
Abdul Mannan also introduced the upcoming Commercial Murabaha Financing scheme, which will provide commercial products to members. Loans for these products will range from Rs. 10,000 to Rs. 2 lakh. Members can also invest in one-time shares up to Rs. 50,000 and make time-bound savings of up to Rs. 1 lakh.
Moreover, the Sahyog official mentioned the Haj and Umrah Account, which allows individuals planning to undertake the sacred pilgrimage to open an account with a minimum deposit of Rs. 200 per day or Rs. 5,000 per month. The term period for this account can range from 1 to 5 years, depending on the member’s needs.
Lauding Sahulat and Sahyog’s services for their focus on human care and the empowerment of low-income individuals, MP Tariq Anwar praised the society’s constructive work, highlighting its crucial impact on society. He commended the society’s interest-free loan schemes and financing programmes as a significant and commendable effort to assist those in need.
The MP said, “India is still not a developed country. We are still struggling to reach that goal. Even after 75 years of independence, our dream of a developed nation remains distant. It is a sad fact that around 90% of the population in this country is either poor or below the poverty line. Nearly 80 crore people depend on government rations or food.”
Urging people to work together and support initiatives like Sahyog to help elevate the country from poverty, Tariq Anwar emphasized the importance of cooperation. He reminded the audience that the cooperative movement in India began even before independence and has since become an integral part of the nation’s structure, with cooperatives playing key roles in different sectors including agriculture.
Lauding the progress of Sahulat and Sahyog, Prof. D.K. Dhusia, Head of the Department of Commerce and Business Studies at Jamia Millia Islamia, stated that microfinance is synonymous with empowerment. He emphasized that microfinance is particularly beneficial for small-scale businesses, noting that these cooperative societies operate interest-free, in alignment with Islamic banking principles that also function on a zero-interest basis. He highlighted that microfinance societies play a vital role in empowering low-income groups within society.
During the event, Dr. Majid Ahmed Talikoti, a renowned surgeon and chairman of the 600-bed Medicant Hospital and Research Centre in Bokaro, Jharkhand, made a significant announcement. He pledged to offer free OPD treatments to all members of Sahyog and provided a 50% discount on cancer treatments. Dr. Talikoti also committed to extending full support and assistance to Sahyog’s members at his hospital.
source: http://www.indiatomorrow.net / India Tomorrow / Home> Economy / by Anwarulhaq Baig / February 24th, 2025
The inauguration of the new office of the well-known social organisation, Fajr Trust, located in Thani Sandara, Gulistan city of Bangalore, took place recently in a dignified ceremony at Faizi Masjid, Thani Sandara. The event saw enthusiastic participation from esteemed personalities and local residents. The office was inaugurated by Mr. Khadim Nabi Khan, a senior member of Fajr Trust.
On this occasion, a review of the welfare services provided by the trust to the underprivileged and needy was presented. Speaking about the objectives of the trust, Mr. Masood, a member of Fajr Trust, stated that its key mission is to encourage people to attend Fajr prayers in congregation, attain the blessings of Fajr, work towards eradicating poverty among Muslims in the Thani Sandara area, and promote education.
Another member of Fajr Trust, Mr. Burhanuddin, recited and explained Surah Al-A’raf, Ayah 34. He emphasised that Allah grants every nation a fixed time to prove itself. Those who use this time wisely to please Allah will succeed, while those who stray from His guidance and become engrossed in worldly life will face failure and punishment in the Hereafter. He stressed the importance of self-accountability in all our actions.
Fajr Trust is a welfare organisation dedicated to serving the Muslim residents of Bhartiya City, Nikoo Homes, Sobha City, Piccadilly, and other housing societies in the Thani Sandara area.
Under its microfinance programme, Fajr Trust has provided interest-free financial assistance to over 100 individuals. Additionally, in a very short period, the trust has distributed 21 sewing machines to support needy families. To promote education, the “School Re-enrolment Programme” has facilitated the return of 30 children to school, covering their fees, books, and other essentials.
Furthermore, the “Masjid Musalla Programme” has been launched in two different slum areas to provide Islamic education for children and to establish regular congregational prayers. Considering the employment needs of the underprivileged, 15 individuals were provided with pushcarts to sell fruits and vegetables. Additionally, 25 deserving families received financial aid to help with marriage expenses.
On this occasion, Advocate Mohammad Naushad provided insights on income tax and other legal requirements.
Expressing his thoughts, Mr. Rauf, a member of Fajr Trust, stated that the trust is committed to expanding its services further, and this new office will play a crucial role in achieving that mission.
The event was attended by several members of Fajr Trust, including Mr. Akbar Sharif, Mr. Sameer, Mr. Shayan Umar, Mr. Irfan Razaq, Mr. Shahid, Mr. Parvez, Mr. Azeem, Mr. Azgar Pasha, and Mr. Farhat Abbas, among others.
source: http://www.radiancenews.com / Radiance News / Home> Latest News> Social Service / by Radiance News Bureau / February 28th, 2025
AMP Founder Aamir Edresy being honored by eminent personalities at a function in Islam Gymkhana, Mumbai
AMP Founder Aamir Edresy Honoured by Eminent Personalities in Mumbai
Mumbai’s Islam Gymkhana witnessed a grand event as Aamir Edresy, founder of the Association of Muslim Professionals (AMP), was honoured by distinguished personalities for his organization’s transformative impact on education and employment in India.
AMP, established in 2007, has provided job placements and skill training to over 100,000 youth, trained 30,000+ teachers, and organized career guidance seminars in 50+ cities. It has also registered 300,000 students for the National Talent Search Exam, enabling rural and underprivileged students to access top institutions.
Eminent guests praised AMP’s nationwide network of 200+ city chapters, which connects professionals, educators, and NGOs to uplift marginalized communities.
“AMP has built pathways where none existed,” remarked Padma Shri Prof. Akhtarul Wasey.
A documentary showcased AMP’s journey, highlighting how it has empowered thousands, making it a beacon of hope and progress in India’s socio-economic landscape.
source: http://www.radiancenews.com / Radiance News / Home> Pride of the Nation> Awards> Latest News / by Radiance News Bureau / February 14th, 2025
