Category Archives: Science & Technology

Akeel Ahmed of Kargil becomes youngest Air Safety Officer at DGCA

Sankoo Thangdumbdur Village (Kargil) , LADAKH :

Mohammad Akeel

New Delhi :

Mohd Akeel, a 22-year-old Aeronautical engineer hailing from Ladakh has become the first person from the frontier region to be selected as the Air Safety Officer in the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA).

Akeel cleared the Union Public Services Commission’s national examination held for selecting Air safety officers for 2023.

People are congratulating Akeel on social media, praising his achievement at such a young age, and calling it a breaking the barriers phenomenon.

Akeel is one of the youngest people to clear this coveted examination.

He belongs to the village Sankoo Thangdumbdur, located about 42 km from Kargil town in the Union territory of Ladakh.

source: http://www.awazthevoice.in / Awaz, The Voice / Home> Story / by Aasha Khosa, ATV / May 08th, 2024

Dr. Ijaz Ali is a surgeon who treats poor and seeks justice for Pasmanda Muslims

BIHAR :

Dr Ijaz Ali performing a surgery

Dr. Ijaz Ali wears many hats: he is a well-known surgeon of Bihar, a former member of Parliament, and a crusader for the rights of marginalized people. As president of the All India United Muslim Morcha, he has extended his support to the BJP for its pro-Pasmanda stance, and, is thereby, supporting the NDA candidates in the ongoing Lok Sabha Elections, Mahfooz Alam spoke to Dr. Ijaz Ali on his life and mission.

Dr.Ijaz Ali was born in a lower-middle-class family in 1958. His father Sheikh Mumtaz Ali was the first in the family to have received an education and he rose to the position of BDO in the British Raj. Ijaz Ali started his education at a Madrasa Anjuman Islamia School associated with an orphanage in Munger town up to the seventh standard.

However, he joined the government school for his eighth standard and later cleared his matriculation examination from the Hazaribagh District School. He was always a topper in school and also topped the matriculation examination at the State level. 

Dr Ijaz Ali at his clinic

Ijaz Ali says that he was the sixth among 10 brothers and sisters. Though his father was paid well due to a large brood of children, the family lived hand to mouth. So as a father, he focused on giving education and imparting moral values to all his children.

Dr.Ijaz Ali says he studied in a school meant for orphans since his father could not afford to send him to a private school. “I was a very good student and stood first in every class,” he said proudly. 

Thereafter, he joined the prestigious Science College in Patna for further studies. “I loved mathematics, physics, and chemistry, but my parents wanted me to become a doctor and I shifted to biology. At first, I didn’t like it ( the idea of studying biology), but my family admitted me to the Science College in the Biology stream. 

“Studying biology was the turning point in my life,” says the surgeon, who is a name to reckon with in the state and outside.

Dr Ijaz Ali is always surrounded by patients

For him, the first year of college was very difficult, as he had no interest in biology. Soon he realized there was a good future ahead for him if he studied well. “As a student, I never wasted time – he follows this routine even today. I worked hard, and soon I started enjoying the subject I once hated.  I also topped the higher secondary examination in the Patna Science College  I also was among three toppers of the entrance examination for the MBBS course in the Patna Medical College.”

When Ijaz Ali joined the Patna Medical College in 1975, his family was proud of him as he would be the first one among them to become a doctor. However, he faced financial difficulties while studying in the PMCH, “Food in PMCH canteen was expensive so I arranged to eat at another hostel, next to PMCH and spent two years studying and spending time in the crowded neighborhood. Buying books was also difficult for me. When he reached the second year”

He said, “Books were costly and I didn’t have money to buy them, so I used to manage my studies somehow. “Even during my medical studies, my passion for studies did not let any difficulty stand in the way. I was in the top three in MBBS in medical college and I got admission for M.S.”

Dr. Ijaz Ali says he got some relief while studying for his Master’s in Surgery. In 1980, he married the daughter of Ghulam Sarwar, a prominent political leader. Due to his in-law’s support, he was relieved of basic financial problems and also joined as an assistant to Dr. Kamal Ashraf, a well-known surgeon of the city.

Dr. Ijaz Ali treating a hospitalised patient

“I used to get a Rs 400 stipend from PMCH and most importantly, I got the opportunity to stay with Ghulam Sarwar and learn from Dr. Kamal Ashraf. I was eating home-cooked food and was being trained as a surgeon by the best person.” He completed his MS degree from Patna Medical College and again topped the exams.

On the advice of Ghulam Sarwar, he opened a clinic in 1984 in his house in Patna. In the same year, Prime Minister Indira Gandhi was assassinated and there was uproar throughout the country. Slowly my picked up. “In 1990, Ghulam Sarwar became the Minister of the Bihar Government and he handed over his house to me for use as a clinic.

Dr. Ejaz Ali took up medicine as a social service and while all consultants in Patna charge Rs 300 as consultation fees he has kept it as low as Rs 10.

“A good doctor was available at a lower fee, so a caravan of people started arriving at the hospital. The rickshaw-pullers, thela-walas, sabzi-walas, and people from the rural areas started coming in droves,” he said.

“I was a surgeon but started all kinds of treatment. Many villagers who came to me had no money to eat and I wondered how they would buy medicines. Though I was a surgeon, I was treating patients with tuberculosis, kala azar, and everything.”

 He realized most of his patients were poor Muslims. He reduced his fees for surgery to a minimum. I understood that there is so much poverty among Muslims.

Dr. Ijaz Ali

Dr. Ijaz Ali says he became successful because of his hard work and discipline but he is pained to see that children in neighbourhood where he was born were living in the same conditions. “Children are still hurling abuses at each other while playing street games and indulging in Lathi Danda in Muharram

“After I became a doctor and started practicing, many poor Muslims came to me for treatment and consultations. I started visiting the villages to know their conditions. After visiting hundreds of villages and seeing the condition of people, I felt that I should fight for their development and welfare.”

For 44 years, Dr. Ijaz Ali has been traveling to a village every Friday to be with the people and understand their problems. “During 1990-92, the environment across the country was surcharged. Ghulam Sarwar Sahib was a great leader of the Muslims of Bihar, so many people used to visit him. He was my father-in-law, and I lived with him. He did not like people who seek political advantage by inflaming the feelings of Muslims. Under these circumstances, I felt that Muslims do not need emotional slogans but should get opportunities to become good and empowered citizens.”

Dr. Ijaz Ali says that to bring justice to the weaker sections of backward Muslims, he set up the All India Muslim United Morcha. “Our demand to the government is that the Dalit section of the Muslims should also be provided with the facility of Section 341 of the Constitution so that they can also raise their standard of living. 

“From what we have seen on the ground’, Dr. Ijaz Ali says, “There is a need for reservation for this section of the Indian population for the overall development of society and the nation If this large section of the population is facilitated to join the developmental mainstream, it will change the situation.”

Dr Ijaz Ali says that no one can be successful in life without clear goals and objectives. The greater the success, the more effort it will demand. Therefore, even in difficult situations, people should not leave the path of justice, patience, and peace.

He says that for a successful person, it is equally important that he thinks about the welfare of the society.

source: http://www.awazthevoice.in / Awaz, The Voice / Home> Story / by Mehfooz Alam, Pune / May 06th, 2024

Izaan glides into India Book of Records

Ludhiana, PUNJAB:

Izaan glides into India Book of Records

Ludhiana: 

Izaan Ali, a 12-year old from the city, has made an entry into India Book of Records by making the smallest functional model of hovercraft measuring 10 inches x 6 inches.

Izaan’s hovercraft is remotely controlled and is connected to a GPS system. It uses four brushless motors and 3D printed components to run. This initiative that leverages smart technologies to revolutionise healthcare services was approved by the India Book of Records.

Currently studying in Class 7 at a private school in Ludhiana, Izaan thought of the idea years ago when he lost his grandfather to cardiac arrest. He said the family could not get urgent medical aid during the golden hour.

The hovercraft has been envisioned to seamlessly fill in the current lags in access to essential supplies which are currently restricted by operational constraints like working hours of delivery platforms, thus saving precious lives. An official launch and commercialisation are awaited.

Izaan’s parents are committed to his ambitions. While his father, Imtiaz Ali is an educational consultant, his mother Seher Imtiaz, is a rehabilitation psychologist. Residents of Dugri phase III, his parents shared that Izaan worked on this idea for around six-eight months and burnt the midnight oil (even during) his exams to achieve his goal.

Sharing details, Izaan Ali told TOI, “This hovercraft operates by creating a cushion of air underneath itself, allowing it to float above a surface. The main propulsion and lift for this hovercraft are provided by four brushless motors. The structure was enhanced using 3D printed components, making it customisable and relatively easy to repair or modify.”

His parents said the project is a demonstration of his commitment to renewable and sustainable technology and their importance in modern engineering. The project’s use of four brushless motors for propulsion and lift showcases its commitment to efficiency and performance. This design allows the hovercraft to glide smoothly over various terrains, opening up new possibilities for transportation in diverse environments.

“Furthermore, the project’s approach not only makes the hovercraft more adaptable to different needs but also emphasizes the importance of eco-friendly manufacturing practices.” Izaan added. Aiming to become an automobile engineer, he said, “ It me took around 6-8 months of time and around Rs 20,000 to create the prototype.”

Dimple Verma, Izaan’s mentor said, “This is a 4th generation mode of transport which reduces friction by 20-30% and can be beneficial for medical deliveries to rescue people who do not have connectivity, or are disadvantaged and die in challenging terrain.”

source: http://www.timesofindia.indiatimes.com / The Times of India / Home> News> City News> Ludhiana News / April 04th, 2024

Dr. Majid Ahmed Talikoti: An oncosurgeon with a heart of gold, who has performed surgeries on over 16,000 cancer patients

Shakhapur Village, KARNATAKA / NEW DELHI / Bokharo, JHARKHAND:

Dr. Majid Ahmed Talikoti

Dr. Majid Ahmed Talikoti is not just a distinguished oncosurgeon but a trailblazer whose dedication to combating cancer through surgical intervention has left an indelible mark in the field of oncology. His exceptional expertise and unwavering commitment have led him to successfully perform surgeries on over 16,000 cancer patients, a feat that speaks volumes about his impact and contributions to the medical community.

The Early Years and Determination

Dr. Majid’s journey from the small village of Shakhapur in Karnataka to becoming one of Asia’s renowned oncosurgeons is a testament to his resilience and determination. Growing up in a backward area, he faced numerous challenges but was fortunate to have parents who believed in the transformative power of education. His father’s unwavering support and belief that education could bring about positive change became the driving force behind Dr. Majid’s journey.

Educational Pursuits and Professional Growth

Driven by a strong work ethic and a thirst for knowledge, Dr. Majid pursued his education with determination. He completed his schooling in Belgaum and went on to secure admission to Al Ameen Medical College for MBBS.

His journey took a significant leap when he got admission to AIIMS and later became a senior resident in the Department of Surgical Oncology. Seeking further expertise, he pursued advanced training in Japan, honing his skills and expanding his knowledge base.

Upon his return, Dr. Majid’s dedication and skills were put to the test in the private healthcare sector. Despite initial challenges and being initially overlooked, his commitment to excellence shone through. Offering to work for free initially to showcase his capabilities in a private hospital where he got 40k in the first month as stipend, but he soon garnered recognition and remuneration for his outstanding surgical prowess. Over the past 15 years, he has performed an astounding number of surgeries, averaging about three surgeries per day—an achievement that reflects his passion for serving patients and combating cancer.

Dr. Majid’s role extends beyond individual surgeries. As the Director of Surgical Oncology at Moolchand Healthcare and a consultant at Batra Hospital & Medical Research Center, Delhi, he has not only provided exemplary patient care but also contributed significantly to advancing surgical techniques.

 He is credited with starting oncosurgery at Majeedia Hospital (Hamdard University) and the Faculty of Medical Sciences of KBN University (Gulbarga), among others.

His contributions extend to training the next generation of oncosurgeons, having mentored over 200 professionals in the field.

Additionally, Dr. Majid has been proactive in raising awareness about cancer through organizing over 500 cancer awareness camps, furthering the cause of early detection and prevention. Through these initiatives, Dr. Majid has left a lasting impact on the field of oncology, not only through his surgical expertise but also through his efforts in education and advocacy.

Inspiration and Humanitarian Values

Dr. Majid found inspiration from a surgeon who regularly visited Gulbarga on Sundays to attend to patients, drawing large crowds outside his clinic. Witnessing this dedication to serving the community ignited Dr. Majid’s desire to pursue a career in medicine. However, his determination faced a test during a cricket match when he was injured, and a friend sarcastically remarked, “Look at this guy, he wants to become a doctor.” Rather than discouraging him, this comment fueled Dr. Majid’s resolve, turning what could have been a setback into a catalyst for his journey towards becoming a doctor.

Dr. Majid’s commitment to serving the nation  is evident in his practice, where he performs surgeries on 100 patients every month, with almost 40 of these surgeries offered free of cost.

Dr. Majid undeniably possesses a heart of gold. He firmly believes that no one should lose their life due to financial constraints. For him, saving a life is paramount, and financial barriers should never stand in the way of providing essential medical care.

This compassionate approach is evident in his advocacy for hospital owners and management to admit poor patients if there are available beds, ensuring that those in need receive the care they deserve, regardless of their financial situation.

Vision for Universal Healthcare and Preventive Medicine

After getting overs 15 years of invaluable experience in surgical oncology, Dr. Majid made a significant decision—to establish Medicant Hospital & Research Centre – a 600-beds hospital in the steel city of Bokaro in Jharkhand. Set to commence operations next month, this hospital represents Dr. Majid’s commitment to giving back to society.

Dr. Majid enlisted the expertise of Mr. Khurshid Alam , an esteemed health and educational consultant based in London, for this mega project.

When asked about his choice of location, he explained that his patients had given him a great deal, inspiring him to return the favour by serving the community. Despite acknowledging Delhi as a lucrative place for earning, Dr. Majid prioritized providing the beat medical facilities to the most backward  area like Jharkhand, where proper medical infrastructure is lacking. His decision reflects his dedication to improving healthcare access in disadvantaged regions and ensuring that quality medical care is accessible to all, regardless of their background or location.

Medicant Hospital & Research Centre in Bokaro, Jharkhand.

Dr. Majid firmly advocates for a universal health plan and security, stressing the importance of including healthcare as a fundamental right in India. He emphasizes that everyone should have access to essential health services without discrimination.

Dr. Majid’s belief extends to the core understanding that good schools and hospitals are foundational elements that should take precedence in societal priorities. His resolute stance reflects a vision for a more equitable and accessible healthcare system, where quality education and healthcare are fundamental rights accessible to all individuals, regardless of their socio-economic status.

Dr. Majid advocates for mandatory health checkups, especially for individuals aged 40 and above, as he believes they are crucial for early detection and prevention of diseases. He emphasizes the necessity of regular health screenings for women, citing the fact that diseases like cancer are highly curable when diagnosed in the initial stages. Dr. Majid’s advice underscores the critical role of health education for all individuals, as it empowers people to prioritize their health and seek timely medical interventions, ultimately contributing to better health outcomes and quality of life.

Dr.Majid Ahmed Talikoti‘s journey from a small village to a renowned oncosurgeon is not just a personal triumph but a testament to his unwavering dedication, exceptional skills, and humanitarian values. His contributions to oncology and healthcare advocacy stand as a beacon of hope for a healthier and more equitable society.

source: http://www.muslimmirror.com / Muslim Mirror / Home> Health> Positive Story / by Syed Zubair Ahmed / April 07th, 2024

Mangaluru: Doctors carry rare blood transfusion to baby inside mother’s womb

Dr Ayshath Safoorah Gynaecologist, Dr Muralidhar G K.. Fetal Medicine Specialist, Dr Abdul Bashith Pediatrician and Dr Preetham Tauro Pediatrician

Mangaluru:

In a remarkable medical achievement, an Rh ISO immunised baby was successfully discharged after undergoing multiple blood transfusions , including rare intrauterine blood transfusion.

Dr. Ayshath Safoorah,consultant obstetrician and gynaecologist at Lifeline Health Care plus falnir, recognizing the complications of the case, referred the expectant mother to Dr. Murlidhar( fetal medicine ) at Father Muller Hospital for ultrasound evaluation of foetal anemia.

After a thorough evaluation, Dr. Murlidhar carried out the intrauterine blood transfusion when the patient was in her 31st week of pregnancy.

The expectant mother, who came to Dr Ayshath Safoorah at 28th week of her pregnancy, faced complications due to antibodies present in her blood against the fetal blood cells ,along with increased blood pressure.

Three weeks following the intrauterine blood transfusion, the mother was induced at 34 weeks and delivered vaginally a preterm girl baby weighing 2.2 kg at Manglore Nursing home on 29th February . Both the mother’s health and the baby’s condition were closely monitored by the team of doctors at the hospital.

On Sunday, March 10, the newborn has been discharged.

What does positive Indirect Coombs Test mean?

When an Indirect Coombs Test is positive, it means that antibodies against red blood cells are present in the patient’s blood serum. The test detects these antibodies indirectly by mixing the patient’s serum with red blood cells of a known blood type. If antibodies in the serum react with the red blood cells, it indicates a positive result.

“In the context of pregnancy, a positive Indirect Coombs Test suggests that a pregnant woman has developed antibodies against the red blood cells of her unborn baby. This situation is often associated with Rh incompatibility, where the mother is Rh-negative, and the baby is Rh-positive.Injection Anti D is given after delivery to all Rh negative mothers to prevent this kind of iso immunisation,” Dr. Ayshath Safoorah told Vartha Bharati.

What is Intrauterine blood transfusion?

Intrauterine blood transfusion is a complex medical procedure performed during pregnancy to address severe fetal anemia. Through the procedure, the baby in mother’s womb is transfused blood.

Before the procedure, the mother undergoes thorough assessments, including ultrasound scans and blood tests. Continuous ultrasound guidance is used throughout the procedure to visualize the fetus, placenta, and the specific blood vessels involved. A thin, specialized needle is carefully inserted through the mother’s abdomen and into the amniotic sac, guided by real-time ultrasound imaging. The goal is to reach the umbilical vein of the fetus.

Once the needle is correctly positioned, compatible blood is slowly transfused into the fetus through the umbilical vein. The amount of blood transfused is carefully controlled to avoid overloading the fetal circulation.

“Prior to the intrauterine blood transfusion,the hemoglobin of the foetus was just 4 g/dl. While this situation presented complications of cardiac failure , our medical team implemented measures to ensure a smooth transfusion ,” Dr. Murlidhar who has handled cases of intrauterine blood transfusion during his practice abroad, told Vartha Bharati.

“Once the baby was delivered , she needed 2 exchange transfusions and one blood transfusion to combat the rising bilirubin levels due to hemolysis. Throughout the exchange blood transfusion, our medical team comprising Dr Preetham , faced challenges associated with the fluctuating and rising hemoglobin levels of the baby. The unexpected variations required vigilant monitoring and immediate responses to ensure the baby’s stability,” Dr. Abdul Bashith said while also adding that the team was overjoyed with the successful procedure and to see the baby and mother healthy.

Dr. Abdul Bashith also added that both mother and baby would require follow up at the hospital with their first visit being scheduled after 1 week .

Dr. Abdul Basith thanked and appreciated other members of the team including Manglore Nursing home NICU staffs and management, for their care and support.

source: http://www.english.varthabharati.in / Vartha Bharati / Home> Karavali / by Vartha Bharati / March 10th, 2024

AMU Research Scholar Rizwan Ahmad Won ‘Young Innovator Award-2023’ from Indian Academy of Bio-Medical Sciences held at AIIMS, Patna

Aligarh, UTTAR PRADESH:

Aligarh : 

Rizwan Ahmad, a research scholar, working under the supervision of Prof. Moinuddin in the Department of Biochemistry at the Faculty of Medicine, Aligarh Muslim University has won the “Young Innovator Award-2023” from the Indian Academy of Biomedical Sciences, held at AIIMS, Patna.

Ahmad’s outstanding poster presentation, titled “Modified Fibrinogen Entraps Blood Cells and Induces Oxidative Stress, Leading to Deposition of Arterial Clot: Possible Pathway in Metabolic Disorder and Development of a Novel Biomarker,” secured the second prize.

His research sheds light on the effects of fibrinogen protein under diabetes-induced stress, potentially aiding in the early detection of metabolic diseases.

Ahmad also attained first prize in an oral presentation at a symposium organized by the Endocrine Society of India and third prize at the Hematology conference organized by the Department of Pathology last year.

source: http://www.indiaeducationdiary.in / India Education Diary / Home> National News> University News / by India Education Diary (headline edited) / March 05th, 2024

Dr Syed Althaf appointed director of Kidwai Memorial Institute of Oncology

Bengaluru, KARNATAKA:

Dr. Syed Altaf, Director Kidwai Cancer Hospital, Bengaluru

Bengaluru :

Dr Syed Althaf, professor and head of the Department of Surgical Oncology, has been appointed as Director of the Kidwai Memorial Institute of Oncology.

The government order was issued by Mohammed Mohsin, Principal Secretary of the Medical Education Department, following a report by the investigating committee headed by Arundhathi Chandrashekar, Commissioner, Department of Treasuries.

The report highlighted that the institute, under Dr Lokesh, misused funds, provided low-quality treatment to patients at much higher costs, lacked necessary medicine stocks, violated the Karnataka Transparency in Public Procurement (KTPP) Act in tender procurements, and committed corruption, among other things.

Dr. Syed Althaf has been practicing as General Surgeon in Karnataka for a considerable amount of time, and is respected by his peers. Whether you’re coming for a simple check-up or a more complex treatment, you will be treated with utmost empathy.

Kidwai Memorial Institute of Oncology is a cancer care hospital here. It is an autonomous institution of the Government of Karnataka and a Regional Cancer Centre funded by the Government of India. It was granted Regional Cancer Center status on 1 November 1980.

Rafi Ahmed Kidwai played a major role in donating 20 acres of the campus land and Rs.100,000 for the radiotherapy machine. It was founded on 26 June 1973. The Government of Karnataka, by an order on 27 December 1979, converted the institute into an autonomous institution.

Rafi Ahmed Kidwai (18 February 1894-24 October 1954) was a politician, an Indian independence activist and a socialist. Kidwai served as a Minister of Communications in the first Cabinet of Independent India.

source: http://www.radiancenews.com / Radiance News / Home> Latest News / by Radiance News Bureau / February 17th, 2023

Dr Farasat Hussain: Remembering a Doctor, Healer and a Remarkable Son of Magadh

Chhapra District / Gaya, BIHAR :

Dr Hussain was the kind of man, that if he himself were to read (or edit) this obituary, he would flinch at the mention of his generosity as a doctor or friend. Good deeds were to be done, he believed, not to be remembered or recounted.

Dr. Farasat Hussain (1952-2023)

This Sunday (August 6) when a group of people assemble to remember Dr Farasat Hussain, in ‘Renaissance’, an aptly named Cultural Centre in Gaya, set up by his lifelong friend, noted litterateur Sanjay Sahay and his wife Durba Sahay, the inter-faith gathering will be much more than a tribute to him. They will of course meet to talk about the good doctor who died on July 28 at the age of 71 in Delhi. But the meeting will embody the very essence of Dr Hussain’s life which was dedicated to bridging divides and building relationships. Be it religious, caste and class, there was not one single divide he had not jumped across.

The meeting will be very personal, no doubt, but it will also be a tribute to the India he inhabited for most of his life, where he was proud to serve as a doctor, live his life as a Magadh ka baashinda, a Bihari, an Indian, and all in all, a lively human being. But it will also be a necessary reminder in these vicious and polarised times of people who with their singular focus on humanitarian work are the secret sauce of what keeps or certainly kept India going.

Born in Bihar’s Chhapra district in 1952, Dr Hussain made Gaya his home soon after he completed his post-graduation in Orthopaedic Surgery at Government Medical College, Ranchi in 1983.

As a young doctor, he would kick-start his Rajdoot motorcycle and ride off to remote villages across Bihar to attend to emergencies. A pioneer in polio corrective surgeries in Bihar, he conducted scores of special camps where he performed more than 3,000 polio surgeries for poor children when he started his work here decades ago. He even conducted Caesarean sections when a gynaecologist wasn’t available.

In a state where public health was never really a thing, doctors like Farasat Hussain were the system. He was anyway an exceptional surgeon who had multiple opportunities and offers to make a career in the lucrative corporate medical sector, but he didn’t even consider it. He stayed in Gaya where he mixed his practice as a doctor with large-scale social work, community building and helped initiate a multi-faith effort to ensure communal harmony across the Magadh region.

But for people there, he wasn’t just a skilful surgeon and an efficient clinician, he was also a psychologist. His unique sense of humour, they suspected, was part of his treatment plan for a patient. Dr Hussain didn’t merely look at the disease of his patients, he treated the person. In a place where health infrastructure had crumbled in the decades of the 80s and 90s, he was an address for the sick where they knew they would surely get help.

He was also closely associated with the upliftment of the disabled population, who remember him as a mentor and benefactor for helping them with their livelihood. Several disabled people travelled from across the region, despite difficulties, and joined his funeral.

In 2010, the government of Bihar honoured Dr Hussain for his work. At that time, he was national president of the Association of Sports Medicine of India. He was honoured for his contribution to promote sports among disabled people, especially polio patients.

Dr Hussain was closely associated with Arpan, an organisation of disabled people in Gaya, where he was instrumental in motivating disabled youngsters to participate in sports and other activities to turn their physical challenges into opportunities that helped them move away from a life merely at the fringes of society.

Dr Hussain mentored Krishna Murari, who subsequently represented India at the sitting volleyball competition in the US.

Several other disabledyoungsters from the Magadh region also attended national sports events in cricket, volleyball and cycling. His focus on encouraging disabled youngsters to take up sports was to help in their inclusion in the social fabric, not as dependents, but as equal partners.

Dr Hussain was an integral part of the inter-faith dialogue, peace and harmony initiatives in the Magadh region.

This is why those who attended his burial say that it aptly exhibited the fruits of his lifelong work to build bridges between communities. Buddhist monks came to pay their respects to him. Hindus and Muslims came and prayed for him. Several disabled men came for the first time into a graveyard, only to express their love for the departed. There were madrassa children, who were helped by him when their institution was in extreme financial distress. A befitting farewell to a man of all persons.

Dr Hussain had been closely involved with one of Bihar’s oldest minority educational institutions – Mirza Ghalib College, where he consistently promoted progressive and secular values. Mirza Ghalib would be proud of all that he upheld there. He was also involved with a number of charity organisations, such as an orphanage at Cherki for more than two decades. This home for poor, underprivileged orphans is one of the biggest in India.

Dr Hussain was an exceptional man, who stood out because he was so restless and always busy, working, helping; a doctor in the truest sense of the word.

I happened to meet him several times, and saw an adoring grandfather to a precocious and thoughtful Farris. His quiet charm, polished demeanour and contagious smile did not mean that he ever held back on his views. A man capable of sharp candour and an openness of the heart, he could surprise you with his diagnosis of the social situation.

Dr Hussain was the kind of man, that if he himself were to read (or edit) this obituary, would frown and take serious umbrage at even a mention of his generosity as a doctor, friend, and human being. Good deeds were to be done, he believed firmly, and not to be remembered or recounted.

He is at eternal rest now. But his life needs to be celebrated for how he lived it and how he wanted the world around him to be. There is a need to nourish his legacy, intangible as it may seem. This is true today more than ever before, as we seem to have a hard time even imagining living a harmonious life as a collective.

He knew very well that there was no magic pill to fix the social fabric, no ready rafoo. But the good doc he was, he knew what it took to keep trying to get there and the importance of keeping all kinds of fevers down.

RIP, Dr Hussain.

source: http://www.thewire.in / The Wire / Home> English> Health> Rights / by Seema Chishti / August 05th, 2023

Impelsys CEO, Sameer Shariff enters elite IRONMAN Club

Bangalore, Mangalore, KARNATAKA / New York, U.S.A :

Sameer Shariff, the CEO of Impelsys, a prominent IT company with global offices, including one in Mangalore, successfully completed the IRONMAN 70.3 Bahrain triathlon on December 8, 2023. The challenging event, held at Reef Island, witnessed the participation of over 1500 individuals, with more than 1000 successfully completing it.

By accomplishing the IRONMAN 70.3 course, which comprises a 1.9 KM swim, 90 KM cycling, and a 21.1 KM run, Sameer Shariff joined an exclusive club of global business leaders who have conquered this grueling challenge. Beyond personal achievement, Shariff aims to inspire others to adopt a healthy and active lifestyle. He expressed, “Completing the IRONMAN triathlon pushed my endurance limits, and I believe it sets an example for others. We are making strides with the CEO Fitness Challenge for associates at Impelsys.”

Shariff’s achievement has motivated many colleagues at Impelsys to pursue their fitness goals. Sripad, heading cloud services, shared, “Sameer’s dedication motivated me to run a half marathon in 2023.” Prachi, a project manager, added, “After seeing Sameer’s preparations, I decided to participate in a half marathon. I completed my first half marathon on November 5, 2023, in Mangalore.”

These accomplishments mark the beginning of a broader wellness initiative envisioned by Sameer Shariff. In 2024, Impelsys aims to encourage more participants, extend the challenge to partner organizations and customers, and promote overall well-being. The ‘CEO Fitness Challenge’ is a voluntary program that has seen over a hundred associates engaging in specific health and fitness activities, collectively achieving impressive milestones.

source: http://www.english.varthabharati.in / Vartha Bharati / Home> Gulf / by Vartha Bharati / January 12th, 2024

A Physics Project: Two 11th Graders Build Affordable Electric-Powered Car

Bicholim Town, GOA:

Mohammad Sehab Beig and Muhammad Shaan Sheikh with their car

Mohammad Sehab Beig and Muhammad Shaan Sheikh, two classmates from Shantadurga Higher Secondary School in Goa’s Bicholim town, were assigned a 20-mark physics assignment for 11th grade. The two youngsters, together with their friend Moun Mamlekar, a commerce student, worked for a month to develop an electric car powered by a lead acid battery.

The car gained attention when it was displayed at Delhi’s Ravindra Bhavan as part of ‘The Western India Science Fair Competition’. The electric car is powered by a lead acid battery rather than a lithium battery, which reduces its cost significantly.

From a Physics Project To Developing an EV

Sheikh and Beig had been friends since childhood and used to repair remote-controlled cars when they broke down, so when their physics teacher, Deviya Gaonkar, assigned them a physics project to build something innovative worth 20 points, the boys seized the opportunity to demonstrate their talent for building things. 

Shaan & Sehab with their teacher Deviya Gaonkar

“When our teacher assigned us the project and specified that we may design anything related to physics, our initial goal was to build an engine, but we later decided not to limit ourselves to just engines. So, taking a step forward, we decided to build an entire car,” Sheikh told Two Circles.

The motive for developing an electric car aligns with the growing demand for sustainable transportation options, as electric vehicles dramatically reduce air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions, thereby addressing environmental concerns.

Mamlekar, whose family owns an automobile garage, assisted Sheikh and Beig with the technical aspects of the project. 

They showed the model to their teacher, Goankar, and after receiving a positive response, they began collecting the parts and materials required to build the car. 

Specifications of the Electric Car

After working tirelessly for a month, the duo completed the automobile, which includes a brushless DC motor that converts electrical energy into mechanical energy and a 48-volt lead-acid battery system connected in series with four 12-volt batteries. Its standout feature is its strong load-bearing capacity, which can support up to one tonne of weight. 

Charging the vehicle is achieved by connecting it to a power source compatible with the lead-acid battery setup. While charging periods may be longer than with advanced lithium-ion batteries, the lead-acid configuration remains a practical option. In terms of speed, the automobile can reach a maximum of 60-70 kilometers per hour, demonstrating its ability to cover moderate distances efficiently, making it suitable for diverse urban and suburban commuting needs. 

Shaan with his family

Hindrances Along the Way

Building the electric car was a difficult endeavour, and they faced discouragement from others. Gaonkar, their physics teacher, stated that many people discouraged them from building the car, but they persevered and completed it. 

The two spent over INR 70,000 on making the car, which they received from their parents and several well-wishers. 

They have also attempted to raise funds to upgrade their automobile to ones that can be auto-charged while in motion but have had little success. The project is only two alternators away from being self-sufficient in terms of charging.

Sehab with his family

‘Parents Have Always Been a Huge Support’

Sheikh’s mother is a chemist, and his father is a businessman; both are very supportive of their son’s project. 

Beig’s mother, Mubina Beig, who runs a pre-primary school in town, helped them in finding spare parts for the car. 

“My parents have always been a huge support when it comes to my inclination towards experimenting with things,” he stated.

A Career in Innovation

This is not the duo’s first innovative design. Sheikh created a small solar vehicle a few years ago, while Beig made a generator in fifth grade and a hydraulic crane in eighth grade.

Speaking about their goals, Beig stated that he wants to pursue a career in science and research to enhance his curiosity and innovative tendencies, whilst Sheikh is interested in a career that allows him to blend science and compassion to contribute to the well-being of others.

They intend to submit their design to vehicle manufacturers. “If a compelling proposition arises, we are open to collaboration,” Sheikh said.

Imran Inamdar is an independent reporter based in Goa, India.

source: http://www.twocircles.net / TwoCircles.net / Home> India News / by Imran Inamdar, TwoCircles.net / January 16th, 2024