The Indian Nawayath Forum (INF) has appointed its new office bearers for the term 2025-2028, with Aftab Kola assuming the role of President. Hashim Mohtesham (Barni) and Fayyaz Mohtesham have been named as the first and second Vice Presidents, respectively.
Adil Nagarmat has been entrusted with the responsibilities of General Secretary, while Gufran Lanka will serve as Secretary. The forum’s financial management will be overseen by Treasurer Ummer Khalifa, and Faizan Lanka has been designated as the Internal Auditor.
The Indian Nawayath Forum, a prominent organization working for the upliftment and welfare of the society, plays a crucial role in social, educational, and cultural initiatives. With a strong commitment to community development, the newly appointed team aims to carry forward the organization’s objectives and address various issues concerning the Nawayath people.
source: http://www.english.varthabharati.in / Vartha Bharati / Home> Karavali / by Vartha Bharati / February 10th, 2025
He can afford to hand out fistfuls of Liv.52 to anyone feeling liverish, although he would prefer to sell the pill. As Meraj Manal says, one Liv.52 is bought every second somewhere in the world. The only ayurveda pill among the 12 bestselling medications in India, Liv.52 has powered its manufacturer The Himalaya Drug Co into the ranks of Big Pharma in India.
But ask Manal to sell a slice of his privately-held company and you are shown the door. Many consumer care companies have tried to acquire a stake in Bangalore-based Himalaya. Dealmakers know it is not up for sale, but they do not give up hope or stop making bids.
Why should they? Himalaya, started by Manal’s father, the late M. Manal, in 1930 to make herbal tablets in the Himalayan town of Dehradun, is today an established brand in over 70 countries with about 160 products – 66 in pharma, 63 in personal care, nine in baby care and 22 in animal care.
After India, its three top markets are West Asia, Russia and the CIS, and South East Asia. In 1999, Himalaya took its personal care range into global markets, piggybacking the equity of its pharma products.
Figures are not available, but Manal says turnover has crossed Rs 1,000 crore on the back of Liv.52, some similar pills and the personal care products. “Liv.52 is one of the biggest successes of my father,” says Manal, Chairman of Himalaya Global Holdings, which owns the nine operating subsidiaries in different regions.
___________________________
I get 3 or 4 offers a year: Meraj Manal
Meraj Manal, 62, has always let his business heads to do the talking. In a rare interview with BT’s K.R. Balasubramanyam, he explains why he does not want outside investments, and why values count more than profits. Edited excerpts
How did your father get into the herbal medicine business? My father spent his lifetime gathering knowledge about traditional household remedies, standardising them, testing them for safety and efficacy and demonstrating them to doctors. He was the first who thought of producing herbal medicines in tablet form so doctors can prescribe them… Whenever he heard about a remedy, he would jot it down on a plain card to work on them later. We have tens of thousands of such cards stored in boxes. Our toothpaste is a product from one such card scribbled 40 years ago.
Why are you still not a public company? I don’t want a rupee from anyone other than the bank, because it is difficult to explain what we do to a shareholder. Can I accept outside investments and allow these cards (pointing to the stacks of his father’s cards) to disappear? Our whole philosophy, our value system is so different, how do I explain this to investors? All my children – four daughters and three sons – think so.
Do you get offers? I receive three or four offers a year. Multinationals have spoken to me and one of them even said we are the nugget of the herbal industry. If I accept these offers and put that money in a bank, I would no doubt get millions every month… What will I do with that money? I don’t want the liability of someone else’s money with me, big or small. Once you accept outside investment, they will start advising us on things like cutting the number of curries in the lunch at our canteen… or the staff transport. They will ask us why you are doing this and that. There is no “why” here. This is how it is. Since we are closely held, I have the luxury to say profits are not everything.
How much of your revenues goes into R&D? In this company, there is no limit on expenses on R&D. That is the only division without a budget. These (pointing to the cards) have to be converted into products.
How are you professionalising the company? As you grow, you need people who know more than you do. You cannot reach the next step unless you professionalise…. We will reserve the holding company for family members and the subsidiaries will have only professionals. We have separated ownership from management. Family members will be responsible for nurturing our value system. I don’t want family members on the business side. If they have energy, they are free to go out and pursue their interests.
So a family member becomes part of the holding company by default? Admission is not by default. They must have something to contribute….My son heads the US business, and not because he is my son, but because he is a professional who knows the US market the best. He is doing remarkably well.
What about this Deputy Chairman’s post? I created the post two years ago and appointed Ravi Prasad for a very special reason. To send a strong message that the operational head does not have to be a Manal. People were astonished and are happy about the decision. Like any CEO of any other region, my son too reports to Ravi. (Ravi Prasad was elevated as Executive Chairman in October. He leads the global management team.)
Are you satisfied with your growth? The growth we have had is more than satisfactory. If I want more than that, then we are greedy. We crossed Rs 1,000 crore in revenues last year. I don’t know much about finances. Professionals handle that. I just sign on the papers. …When I joined the business in 1965, the revenues were Rs 40 lakh…. The way we are growing in North and South America tells me that 20 years from now, they could possibly be our largest markets by volume.
Where is Himalaya headed? We will never move from our core competence. I am not for diversifying. I am not a person who can do other things. Opportunities for growth are unlimited and there is no real need to diversify. Our global operations have taught us many things. The country does not matter. As long as there are homes with people, we will go there.
_______________________________
Research backbone Although Himalaya’s reliance on Liv.52 has come down after both its new as well as old pharma products picked up steam in the market, and it launched personal care products, it all began with this blockbuster, whose recipe was among the many jotted down by Manal’s father on a card.
(Himalaya’s future lies in thousands of similar cards with notes that are stacked in boxes in Manal’s room.) The 52nd formula was a hit. Manal senior’s aim had been to make herbal remedies available in tablet form, scientifically tested for efficacy, identified by name and prescribed by doctors. The passion for research continues.
Ravi Prasad
Himalaya has raised its research, development and manufacturing standards so that its products clear regulatory hurdles abroad. “Apart from ayurvedic institutions, we also do clinical trials in leading allopathic institutions both in India and abroad,” says Ravi Prasad, Executive Chairman of Himalaya Drug Company, who leads the team of professionals worldwide.
“The regulatory picture is not clear in many countries and in some countries our standards have been recognised as the benchmark,” he says. Himalaya’s R&D facility, he says, is one of the biggest for an ayurveda manufacturer, with about 120 multidisciplinary scientists. As Manal proudly declares, R&D is the “backbone” of the company.
Himalaya knows the key to growth lies in its ability to create more patents. The US Patent and Trademark Office has granted it patents for its sunscreen, under-eye cream, laxative, sedative, immunestimulant, anti-acne range and hairloss cream, and 76 applications are pending. It has just released in the US markets a new type of tablet in which the binders are also derived from herbs. “No company has done this before, and we have filed for a process patent,” says Ravi Prasad. Until the 1990s, Himalaya’s portfolio had only pharma remedies. It entered the equally lucrative consumer care market with some 20 products under the Ayurvedic Concepts range in 2001. Two years later, it created the umbrella brand Himalaya Herbal Healthcare. It also began opening exclusive outlets: there are 130 shops in India and 25 in Singapore, Malaysia, South Africa and the Cayman Islands.
Dream run According to Ravi Prasad, Himalaya’s personal care products are growing much faster globally than pharma products, because pharma faces tough regulations in some countries. As of now, Himalaya gets 58 per cent of its revenues from pharma products, but that seems set to change. Saket Gore, Business Head of the consumer products division, says: “Today, we are the market leaders in face washes in the UAE, India and Malaysia.”
According to The Nielsen Co figures for April-June 2010, Himalaya face washes had a 17.8 per cent market share in India, less than two percentage points behind multinationals Hindustan Unilever Ltd and L’Oreal. Himalaya’s individual products also face competition from firms that are strong in one or just a few products, such as Colgate in toothpaste and Fair & Lovely in face masks. Doctors have been Himalaya’s biggest brand ambassadors in pharmaceuticals.
Philipe Haydon, President & CEO for pharmaceuticals, says Himalaya is in touch with about 3.75 lakh doctors and reaches 94 per cent of pharma retailers. “We are the modern face of ayurveda in India and our medical representatives promote products with scientific detailing,” says Haydon, who is also the CEO of the Asia Pacific region. In ayurveda retail, Himalaya competes with the likes of Dabur, Charak, and Baidyanath
Source: Indian Pharmaceutical Market rankings based on Org SSA report / Aug 2010
__________________________
Internationally, consumer care and pharma contribute equally to revenues. “In 20 years from now, North and South America could possibly be our largest markets by volume. They are very big on herbal medicine,” says Manal. These markets are headed by his son Nabeel, 36.
The Prognosis Industry observers believe that while Himalaya has built a cult in Liv.52, it needs more such blockbusters to make up for its low-key marketing and a distribution network weaker than that of rivals such as Dabur India.
“Today, the brand Himalaya is recognised and closely associated as a natural remedy, but on the personal-care front it sends out no cues to a consumer. This is important in the FMCG category where it competes with many others,” observes Kannan Sitaram, a former chief operating officer of Dabur.
Analysts say that opening shop-in-shops and branded stores is a good strategy. “But brandbuilding investments are required so that consumers will walk into a shop only for the Himalaya display. Also, being positioned as a mass brand, it needs greater presence and investment in distribution,” says Sitaram. But the company has to figure out if its returns are justified. “After all, rentals are going up,” he says.
In pharma, Himalaya is stronger. “It has very sharply- positioned products for the eyes, liver, bones and so on. It is also present in areas that are not crowded. Besides, it spends huge sums on R&D and can compete with some of the best pharma companies in India,” says R.B. Smarta, Managing Director, Interlink Marketing Consultancy.
This also gives it an edge in global markets, where the demand for natural, ayurvedic and herbal remedies is growing. “They have very precise and extensive documentation on each of their ingredients, that can withstand the rigor of clinical trials. Their patents also stand them in good stead,” says Smarta.
By buying raw materials directly from growers, collectors and nongovernmental organisations, Himalaya keeps costs under control. Recently, it signed an agreement with the Sikkim government to prepare farmers in organic farming of herbs and sustainable collection. In September, Himalaya, along with a few others, came under fire from the Centre for Science and Environment or CSE, which claimed that Himalaya’s honey contained antibiotics beyond the stipulated standards. Ravi Prasad denies the charge. “The same batch was tested at three independent laboratories and none found any trace of antibiotics.
Our technical team will soon meet the CSE with these findings and seek its comments,” he says.
No entry Manal does not run day-to-day affairs and has professionalised the company by elevating Ravi Prasad as the executive head, so that his father’s legacy grows independent of the family. “My father’s life’s mission was to help people and we will move in his footsteps,” says Manal, who follows the modest example set by his father. (In September, when Ravi Prasad called on Manal at his apartment in Dubai, the chairman travelled with him to Himalaya’s office in the Metro and then took a bus to attend another meeting.)
Of Manal’s seven children, only Nabeel works for the company. Two daughters are married and homemakers, and the other two daughters and a son are still studying. One son works in the financial sector in the US. Manal is content with bank funding, and proud of his 40-yearold relationship with Union Bank of India. In turn, M.V. Nair, the bank’s Chairman and Managing Director, says its long relationship with Himalaya is a wonderful example of a banker- entrepreneur growth story.
Himayala’s requirement of funds depends on projects. It borrowed Rs 100 crore two years ago from the bank to make its manufacturing unit in Bangalore compliant with European and American standards.
Dealmakers and investment bankers are not put off by Manal’s “No Entry” board. Recently a personal-care multinational contacted Bangalore’s Viedea Capital Advisors, looking for a sizeable stake in Himalaya. Deepak Srinath, cofounder of Viedea, says: “The management did not entertain any conversation on the subject.”
Himalaya, Srinath says, is a dream mandate for any investment banker because it has all the ingredients that a PE or strategic investor looks for – a highly credible brand name, an impressive product portfolio, a professional management and profitability.
“Also, the promoters have a reputation for being ethical,” says Srinath. According to the India head of an American PE firm, Himalaya is an ideal target since its capex needs are not large and can be met by internal accruals and bank funding. Such companies usually give robust returns.
But Manal is focused on different things: “The scope for growth is unlimited. As long as there are homes with people, that family is our customer. We don’t recognise borders.”
With inputs by Shamni Pande
source: http://www.businesstoday.in / Business Today.in / Home> News> BT Magazine> Features / by K R Balasubramanyam / Print edition / November 28th, 2010
Review of Dr. Javed Jamil’s book “A Systematic Study of the Holy Qur’ān”
Dr. Javed Jamil has already earned wide acclaim for his innovative and holistic approach on the world affairs and for his concept of Applied Islamics, which implies examining the scientific theories, international ideologies and developments in the light of Islamic principles and presenting Islamic Paradigms/Models/Definitions/Concepts/Programmes in different areas of knowledge in Natural Sciences, Social Sciences as well as Health Sciences. His books like “Muslims Most Civilised, Yet Not Enough?”, “Muslim Vision of Secular India: Destination and Roadmap”, “Justice Imprisoned”, “Economics First or Health First?” have brought a new approach based on the facts and figures, which have not only highlighted the failure of the modern systems in creating a healthy and peaceful world but have also successfully countered the propaganda by Western and other forces against Islam. His latest book, “A Systematic Study of the Holy Qur’ān” may well become his most applauded work in coming times because of, (using the title of the Foreword by Former Vice Chancellor of University of Hyderabad, Padamshri Prof. E Hasnain,) its “Unique Insight into the Wondrous Verses of the Holy Qur’ān”. It will be worthwhile here to quote a passage from the Foreword:
“What attracted my attention at the very outset was the caption on the cover of the book. The book describes Qur’ān as “a humble endeavour to make a Systematic Study of the Holy Qur’an in terms of the Systems Almighty God created in the Universe, on the Earth, in Human Life, and the System He wants man to establish and adhere to with the aim of building a Healthy and Peaceful World and ensuring a Successful Life in the Hereafter”. This is a categorical confirmation of the fact that, in Qur’ān there are a very large number of verses, which describe the Creation and Functioning of the Universe as a whole and the Functioning of the Earth, including its flora and fauna. There is absolutely no doubt that, if human beings have to establish on earth the kind of harmonious functioning existing in the universe, they have no option but to follow God’s injunctions in full. The particles of the universe, the stars, the planets and all other celestial bodies follow the Laws of Nature created by God with unimaginable precision. If God gave us human beings certain flexibility, we should endeavour to work only within the boundaries prescribed by Qur’ān. Moreover. the system that God has directed through His Final Book and Final Prophet (SAW) needs to be established not only in the lives of the people, but in the world as a whole, including the legal, social, political and administrative levels.
By just viewing the list of contents of the book, one can have an idea of the holistic nature of the work. It has five major parts: Iman (Realization with Commitment), Philosophy, Constitution, Systems and History of Confrontation between the Right and Wrong. The chapter on Iman covers Qur’ānic view of God/Allah with His Creation and Governing of the universe , the role of Prophets, especially the Last Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), the Books of God, Hereafter, Executive Angels and Predestination. Part 2 on Philosophy covers Philosophical issues related to Qur’ānic position of Monotheism, life, different religions, human nature, etc. Chapter 3 on Constitution covers Fundamental Rights, Fundamental Duties and Fundamental Prohibitions, Civil and Criminal Laws. Part 4 on Systems of Governance include Social, Political, Economic, Moral, Spiritual and Health Protective Systems and the Part 5 on History of Confrontation between the Right and Wrong compiles the stories of Prophets from Adam (AS) to Muhammad (SAW).
The book presents Islam as a Holistic System for Health, Security and Peace for mankind in this world as well as Hereafter, and effectively counters modern ideologies based on the supremacy of Economics. His arguments are highly convincing, as they are accompanied with facts and figures. He argues that while the modern constitutional systems are two-dimensional based on Fundamental Rights and Duties, while ignoring prohibitions altogether, Qur’ānic system of governance is Three-Dimensional with equal emphasis on Rights, Duties and Prohibitions. He lambastes the concept of Freedom of Choice, which is being used by the market forces to exploit the human susceptibilities at the huge cost of life and peace, resulting in tens of millions of deaths due to Alcohol, Sexual corruptions (including Homosexuality, Promiscuity and Prostitution), Gambling, Suicides, Pork, etc.
In each chapter, first a well thought and crafted article is presented followed by the compilation of the Qur’ānic verses related to that subject. The verses are followed by notes wherever necessary, providing huge information. In the first chapter on “The Supreme Being”, the components of the universe and their functioning in accordance with God’s designs are presented, and a full-blown picture of the physical State (Mulk) of universe created and governed by Head of State, Almighty God/Allah, through a unique system of the Laws of Nature (Umoor) has been developed. The arguments in Theoretical Physics about the universe being created without God have also been countered in a unique manner. The author has translated “Samaawaat” as “Cosmic Tiers” and has shown their positioning in terms of the structure of the universe. For example, Sky of the earth (atmosphere, clouds, protective roof) is the First Cosmic Tier, Solar System (Samaa-al dunyaa) the Second, Galaxy (Milky Way being ours) the Third, Cluster and Supercluster being the next in order and so on. Terms like Najam, Kawaakib, Shihab-at-Thaqib, Najm-ath-thaqib, Tariq, Samaa- dhaatil burooj, dhaatil-raj’a etc have been explained. The author notes that further researches will more specifically point out the exact positioning of these Samaawaat. When the terms Sajda, Tasbeeh, Hamd etc, are used in relation to the physical components of the universe, their existence being only physical, these terms also indicate their different physical movements like rotation on their own axis or around other objects in compliance of the Laws of Nature created and implemented by God, the Lord of the Universe. Human Sajdahs, Tasbehs and Hamd of course have physical, biological, mental, spiritual and social dimensions as well.
But the author clarifies that instead of studying Qur’ān in the light of Sciences, modern sciences and ideologies have to be studied in the light of Qur’ānic positions. Sciences can be in an evolving phase but Qur’ān is the Word of God, with absolute facts. It is another matter, due to our immense paucity of knowledge about the facts of the vast universe; more often than not we cannot fully understand their meaning.
In the chapter on different systems, he has presented alternative Islamic paradigms/models of Economic, Political, Social, Moral, Spiritual and Health protective systems of Islam, with critical review of the modern systems prevalent at the international level. He argues that the primary aim of Islamic Prohibitions and Permissions is to ensure highest standards of physical, mental, social, spiritual health and family peace and crimeless society, free of all forms of exploitation. Following these injunctions with total commitment to God, Last Prophet and Last Testament Quran will also ensure a Blissful life in Paradise after death.
The chapter on History becomes doubly interesting, as it also uses the excerpts from Torah, Evangel (Injil) and Psalms (Zabur) to explain in detail the lives and achievements of the Prophets/Ambassadors of God.
The book has used many terms, which are different from the traditional ones, but they add to the advanced understanding of the Holy Qur’an in exploring the functioning of the universe, life on earth and human existence. The basic argument according to the author which comes out from the study of Qur’an is that if the unimaginably vast universe is functioning with impeccable harmony for billions of years, it is because each and every particle and area of the universe is following with utmost precision the Laws of Nature, Biological and other laws created by God, and if the mankind has to have a peaceful and harmonious existence, they have no option but to follow the Laws sent through His Ambassadors by God, Qur’an being the Final Constitution for all times to come till the Doomsday.
The cover is attractive and the printing of the book is of good quality. Over-all, it is a must-read book for all Muslims, especially the students, scholars and analysts, and has the potential to revolutionise the future studies of Qur’an and Islam, with their application in every field of the human existence – individual and collective, internal and external. It will be worthwhile to conclude this review by quoting a few paragraphs from the book:
“The world today, despite its apparently advanced and sophisticated ways of living, is overpowered with chaos at every level. The current international system, which many proudly call New World Order, appears to be highly advanced in method but is a colossal failure in the results. At the individual level, notwithstanding huge advancement of healthcare system, physical, mental and spiritual illnesses are ever on the rise. At the family level, the disintegration of family is fast becoming the norm rather than an exception. At the social level, the ever rising crime rate, social and economic exploitation, commercialisation of all forms of dangerous substances and practices including sexual deviations, addictions and crimes, and various kinds of extremist movements working in the interests of certain forces have almost completely destroyed the peace of life. It is in the background of this asphyxiating disruption of harmony that Qur’ān needs to be understood and applied in all spheres of life.”
“True Version of Anthropic Principle says that (1) It is God Who created the universe ultimately leading to the creation of man; (2) God controlled the whole process of creation; (3) the creation of man was not an unintended coincidence but an intended act of God; (4) the purpose of man is not simply describing the beauty of the universe, but to attain the Realization that this harmonious universe has been created, and is being governed by God; and (5) man has to submit to the System of existence perfected through His Ambassadors and Testaments, and govern the Earth in accordance with the Divine commands.”
“In short, the message of Qur’ān, the Final Document of Peace, is unequivocal. Anything good, healthy and desirable in terms of health, peace and tranquillity, has to be promoted, and anything unhealthy and undesirable has to be discouraged. Both, short term and long terms benefits are allowed; but if short term benefits seriously endanger the long term benefits, long term benefits have to be preferred. All possible means within the ambit of Islam are to be availed for achieving the goal. The goal, however, cannot be achieved with perfection, unless there is unity of mankind; and mankind cannot unite unless it submits to One God, imitates One Prophet, follows One Book and faces One Direction. This is the real meaning of Wahdat (Unity), which is central to all the Islamic systems of affairs. Wahdat of God means, in effect, the Wahdat of mankind.” “Islam’s agenda, as shown by the Quran and Prophet (SAW), is to establish Natural and Just Word Order. The agenda of the present world is to establish and sustain New World Order. It has led to the development of a strange kind of world, which appears to be paradise from outside, but as one enters it, one finds nothing but hell. We are living in a world where, thanks to the designs of merchants, immorality reigns. The globe of New World Order is therefore rapidly developing into nothing but a fireball of chaos.It is in the backdrop of this universal disharmony that Islam, in its final form established by the Last Prophet (SAW), has to play its role. We have to challenge New World Order and establish Natural Just World Order, in accordance with the principles laid down by the Book of God and the life of the Prophet (SAW).”
Price: INR 850/- Outside India: US$ 38, for copies WhatsApp on: +918130340339, Email: doctorforu123#yahoo.com
source: http://www.milligazette.com / The Milli Gazette / Home> News> Books / by J Ali / March 24th, 2021
Noted Journalist and Strategic Affairs Editor of English daily DNA Iftikhar Gilani has chosen for this year’s Shah Waliullah Award by Delhi-based the Institute of Objective Studies (IOS) for his outstanding contribution in journalism.
The prestigious award carries a memento and a cash of Rs One lakh and it was given to 11 illustrious persons so far since its inception in 1999 for their tremendous achievement in Social sciences, Islamic Studies, Law, and other subjects. It is notable that the Institute for the first time considered a journalist for its most coveted award instituted to keep alive the legacy of the great Islamic scholar Shah Waliullah Muhaddis Dehlavi.
He was selected by a jury consisted of Dr. Manzoor Alam (Chairman, IOS), Prof Mohsin Usmani, Prof Ishtiyaque Danish, Prof Afzal Wani and Prof Zahoor Ahmad Khan and headed by former Chief Justice of India Justice A M Ahmedi. The jury decided that Iftikhar was given the award for his contribution to ‘Media, Society and Indian Muslims’. And in the junior category, the jury selected Associate Prof (Dr) Nasheed Imtiyaz of Aligarh Muslim University for his work on psychology. This award carries a cash reward of Rs 25000.
Gilani hails from Sopore in North Kashmir and has been based in Delhi for last over 26 years who is one of most widely read journalists in South Asia. Currently, he is Editor (Strategic Affairs) and Chief of National Bureau of Daily News Analysis (DNA), published from Mumbai, Pune, Bangalore, Indore, and Jaipur. DNA is amongst India’s top five widely circulated English language newspapers with a circulation of over one million. Before joining DNA, he headed the Political Bureau at Tehelka.com and its business daily “Financial World”. Earlier, he also headed the Delhi Bureau of multi-lingual Kashmir Times, the widely circulated newspaper of Jammu and Kashmir published from Jammu and Srinagar simultaneously.
Besides this, he was also the Special Correspondent (India) for Daily Times, (English newspaper, Pakistan).
Gilani also covered India for Urdu Service of Radio Deutsche Well (DW), German Radio. His columns appeared regularly in The Friday Times, an esteemed weekly from Pakistan and Urdu daily Inquilab (India), and in Weekly Kashmir Life, published from Srinagar (Kashmir). Currently, also a columnist in a popular Urdu daily of Pakistan Dunya. These columns hare widely appreciated and reproduced. He had also worked for various national newspapers, news and feature agencies in India, notably in the Indian Express and the Pioneer. He has also headed a research project on “Insurgencies in South Asia”. Gilani has conferred the award for ‘Outstanding Contribution in Media’ by the government of Jammu and Kashmir in 2010, who began his career with Delhi-based multi-lingual feature syndicate “Feature And News Alliance”.
The author of 2005 Penguin book ‘My Days in Prison’. Urdu translation of his book won him India’s prestigious Sahitya Akademi award, in 2008. A visiting fellow of Dart Centre, Australia, a project of the Columbia University of Journalism, Iftikhar Gilani has been deputy chairman of Indian Parliament’s Press Advisory Committee and also vice-president of the Press Association of India. Currently, he is also a Trustee of Delhi Centre for Media Research and Publication Trust Having several research papers to his credit, he is also an external discussant at the Institute of Defence Studies and Analysis (IDSA), a premier security think-tank in India and a research advisor at the Centre for Land ware Studies (CLAWS), a strategic think-tank. He also widely traveled to many parts of the world including UK, Germany, Russia, Denmark, Pakistan, Iraq, Thailand, South Korea, Sri Lanka, Nepal, and Israel.
When this correspondent congratulated him for recieving the award, Gilani told in his usual humility that he did not deserve this prestigious award.
source: http://www.muslimmirror.com / Muslim Mirror / Home> Indian Muslim> Media / by Abdul Bari Masoud / January 29th, 2017
Vice President Hamid Ansari released here on 21 November a book on the life and services of Akhlaqur Rahman Kidwai, the veteran Congress leader who honorably served the country in various capacities like Rajya Sabha MP, chairman of Union Public Service Commission and governor of the states of Bihar, Orissa, Haryana and Punjab.
The book “Me’mar-e Qaum” [Builder of a nation], is authored by Mufti Ataur Rahman Qasmi and published by Shah Waliullah Institute.
The book release was held at the India Islamic Cultural Centre. Vice President Hamid Ansari said that services of Kidwai cannot be forgotten by the people of the country. He said Kidwai enjoys serving people, an spirit rarely found in people these days. He helped many. One of his historic initiatives was to start Mewat Development Board.
While speaking during the function, AR Kidwai said his character has been shaped by Jamia Millia Islamia which he joined in 1924 as a student of class 2. He was fortunate to get the attention of an educationist like Dr Zakir Husain.
The function was chaired by the former Union minister and the present general secretary of Congress Party, Shakil Ahmad who said that the services of AR Kidwai are such that one yearns to emulate him. He said that a characteristic of Kidwai is that he never exhibits his work.
Ataur Rahman Qasmi, the author of the book, said that Kidwai added to the stature of any post he held. He never compromised on his principles. These days it is rare to find such servants of the people.
The function was attended by a sizeable number of Delhi elite which bore witness to the popularity of Kidwai who is now leading a private life after offering an example of how Muslims can selflessly serve the country with honesty and dignity.
source: http://www.milligazettec.com / The Milli Gazette / Home> News> Special Report / by The Milli Gazette / November 26th, 2013
Students of Bearys Institute of Technology (BIT) have made the institution proud with their achievements at the 24th Visvesvaraya Technological University (VTU) Annual Convocation held today.
Thasnim Khalid, an M.Tech CSE graduate, secured the 8th rank with a CGPA of 9.43 and received her award during the ceremony.
Ayshuthul Sajeena, another M.Tech CSE graduate, achieved the 5th rank with a CGPA of 9.53. However, she could not attend the event due to the recent passing of her father.
The BIT management, faculty, and staff have congratulated both students on their accomplishments, appreciating their hard work and dedication.
source: http://www.english.varthabharati.in / Vartha Bharati / Home> Karavali / by Vartha Bharati / February 08th, 2025
Inauguration of the New Batch at Noori Academy, Malegaon
Malegaon:
Noori Academy, a beacon of knowledge, continues its academic journey under the leadership of Dr. Ataur Rahman Noori. On January 28, 2025, after Maghrib prayers, the inaugural session of the UGC NET June 2025 batch was held at the academy’s headquarters with great enthusiasm. The event witnessed the participation of distinguished educationists, researchers, and scholars, while thousands of students from across India watched it live.
Noori Academy is not just an educational institution but a stronghold for the promotion of Urdu language and literature. Over the years, it has helped more than 500 students clear UGC NET, State SET, PhD entrance, and assistant professor exams, significantly contributing to Urdu research and teaching.
The session began with Quranic recitation, followed by speeches from eminent scholars. Mufti Mujeeb Sir highlighted the academy’s exceptional results, urging students to seize this opportunity. Linguist Saleem Shehzad spoke on modern and postmodern literary discourse, while Dr. Muhammad Husain Mushahid Rizvi called Noori Academy a guiding light for Urdu education.
Dr. Ataur Rahman Noori emphasized the academy’s mission, showcasing its success in both traditional and digital platforms. With 8 million+ YouTube views and a thriving mobile app, Noori Academy continues to shape the future of Urdu education.
source: http://www.radiancenews.com / Radiance News / Home> Education> Focus / by Radiance News Bureau / February 05th, 2025
As part of its educational initiatives, Jamaat-e-Islami Hind (JIH), Pune City has started a study center for students and youth in Sai Baba Nagar, Kondhwa. Given the large number of students in need in this area, the center will serve as a valuable facility for those seeking a peaceful environment for studying.
Speaking at the inauguration, the President of Jamaat-e-Islami Hind, Pune City, Tajammul Khan, stated “Jamaat has been actively supporting the educational progress of students and youth since its inception. He highlighted that various initiatives such as career guidance, exam preparation, motivational programs, and scholarships are already being conducted under the organization’s banner, and this new study center is an extension of those efforts. The area houses several schools, tuition centers, and students who lack a conducive environment for academic pursuits. Through this study center, an additional effort will be made to have educational mentors available periodically to guide and assist students in their studies. Furthermore, Jamaat-e-Islami Hind is committed to providing educational facilities to other students in need across the city, whether through scholarships, distribution of educational kits, or the establishment of study centers and mentorship programs. JIH has already been providing computer and teaching facilities in several schools to promote quality education.”
The inauguration ceremony was attended by local dignitaries, school administrators, and education professionals, who appreciated the efforts of Jamaat-e-Islami Hind in supporting the academic development of students.
source: http://www.radiancenews.com / Radiance News / Home> Education> Latest News / by Radiance News Bureau / February 10th, 2025
Topper students of Minto Circle were honored for their academic excellence by senior students and teachers at the second Mintorians Meet held at Jamia Millia Islamia on Sunday.
Teachers and alumni gathered to discuss ways to give back to their alma mater and support students facing educational challenges. The Mintorians Meet was created to connect and help students from marginalized communities.
Ex-Principal Manzar Jamal praised the initiative and mentioned a parallel Mintorians platform supporting over 600 students. He emphasized promoting sports so students can represent India internationally, contributing to nation-building. He also urged students to play meaningful roles in the country’s progress.
Mintorians excelling in various fields like judiciary, army, journalism, academics, and entrepreneurship were also awarded.
Senior alumni, including Prof. Saleem Kidwai, Jawed Ali Khan, and Haziq Ameen, shared nostalgic experiences and praised the organizers.
source: http://www.radiancenews.com / Radiance News / Home> Focus / by Radiance News Bureau / February 10th, 2025
Despite Kejriwal not addressing any public meetings in Muslim pockets or visiting Muslim-dominated areas like Jama Masjid and Okhla during his election campaign, the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) performed well in Muslim-majority constituencies. AAP secured victory in 8 out of 11 Muslim-concentrated seats. Notably, four Muslim candidates from AAP—Amanatullah Khan, Aaly Mohammad Iqbal, Imran Hussain, and Chaudhri Zubair—won comfortably. Meanwhile, Asaduddin Owaisi’s AIMIM, which contested with high hopes, failed to open its account and faced disappointment.
Muslims constitute around 13% of Delhi’s voter base. Their votes influence the results of nearly 11 assembly seats. There are 11 seats where the Muslim voter population is significantly high. Let’s examine the situation in these Muslim-majority areas:
A Look at the Results of Delhi’s Muslim-Majority Seats
Let’s take a closer look at the statistics of 11 Muslim-majority constituencies. Notably, Muslims constitute 13% of Delhi’s electorate, and 11 seats are considered Muslim-majority constituencies. These include Okhla, Mustafabad, Ballimaran, Seelampur, Matia Mahal, Chandni Chowk, Seemapuri, Babarpur, Karawal Nagar, Jangpura, and Sadar Bazar. This time, there was a high voter turnout in these constituencies. The results of these seats are as follows:
AAP’s Victories in Muslim-Majority Constituencies
Amanatullah Khan Wins from Okhla
In Okhla, AIMIM’s Shafa Ur Rahman, AAP’s Amanatullah Khan, Congress’ Ariba Khan, and BJP’s Manish Chaudhary contested the elections. According to the Election Commission’s data, AAP’s Amanatullah Khan secured victory with a margin of 23,639 votes, receiving a total of 88,943 votes. BJP’s Manish Chaudhary came second with 65,304 votes, while AIMIM’s Shafa Ur Rahman ranked third with 39,558 votes.
Aal Mohammad Iqbal Secures Matia Mahal
From Matia Mahal, AAP’s Aal Mohammad Iqbal won by a significant margin of 42,724 votes, securing a total of 58,120 votes. BJP’s Deepthi Andora finished second with 15,396 votes, while former Congress MLA Asim Mohammad Khan came third with 10,295 votes.
Zubair Ahmad Clinches Victory in Seelampur
As per the Election Commission’s data, AAP’s Zubair Ahmad won Seelampur by a huge margin of 42,477 votes, receiving a total of 79,009 votes. BJP’s Anil Kumar Sharma came second with 36,532 votes, while Congress’ Abdul Rahman secured third place with 16,551 votes.
Imran Hussain Emerges Victorious in Ballimaran
Ballimaran witnessed a tough contest, but AAP’s Imran Hussain secured victory with a margin of 29,823 votes, receiving a total of 57,004 votes. BJP’s Kamal Bangdi came second with 27,181 votes, while Congress’ Haroon Yusuf stood third with 13,059 votes.
Prernadeep Singh Sahni Wins from Chandni Chowk
AAP’s Prernadeep Singh Sahni won Chandni Chowk with a margin of 16,572 votes, securing a total of 38,993 votes. BJP’s Satish Jain finished second with 22,421 votes, while Congress’ Modit Aggarwal came third with 9,065 votes.
Gopal Rai Triumphs in Babarpur
From Babarpur, AAP’s senior leader Gopal Rai secured a decisive victory with a margin of 18,994 votes, receiving a total of 76,192 votes. BJP’s Anil Kumar followed in second place with 57,198 votes, while Congress’ Mohammad Ishraq Khan came third with 8,797 votes.
Sadar Bazar Goes to AAP’s Som Dutt
From Sadar Bazar, AAP’s Som Dutt won with a margin of 6,307 votes, securing a total of 56,177 votes. BJP’s Manoj Kumar Jindal stood second with 49,870 votes, while Congress’ Anil Bhardwaj secured third place with 10,057 votes.
Vir Singh Dhangan Secures Seemapuri for AAP
In Seemapuri, AAP’s Vir Singh Dhangan won by a margin of 10,368 votes. BJP’s Kumari Rinku, who was leading at certain points in the counting, finished second with 55,985 votes. Congress’ Rajesh came third with 11,823 votes.
Three Muslim-Majority Seats Won by BJP
There are three Muslim-majority constituencies in Delhi where BJP candidates secured victory. These seats are Mustafabad, Jangpura, and Karawal Nagar. Details of these seats are as follows:
BJP’s Big Win in Mustafabad
In Mustafabad, BJP’s Mohan Singh Bisht won by a large margin of 17,578 votes, receiving a total of 85,215 votes. AIMIM’s Tahir Hussain, AAP’s Adil Khan, and Congress’ Ali Mehdi also contested from this seat. AAP’s Adil Khan finished second with 67,637 votes, while AIMIM’s Tahir Hussain stood third with 33,474 votes.
Close Contest in Jangpura, BJP Secures Victory
Jangpura was a high-profile seat where BJP’s Trivendra Singh won by a narrow margin of just 675 votes. AAP’s senior leader and former Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia secured 38,184 votes but lost by 675 votes. Congress’ Farhad Suri finished third with 7,350 votes.
Kapil Mishra Wins Karawal Nagar for BJP
From Karawal Nagar, BJP’s firebrand leader Kapil Mishra won by a decisive margin of 23,355 votes, receiving a total of 107,367 votes. AAP’s Manoj Kumar finished second with 84,012 votes, while Congress’ P.K. Mishra came third with 3,921 votes.
source: http://www.muslimmirror.com / Muslim Mirror / Home> Indian Muslim> Politics / by Muslim Mirror Desk / February 09th, 2025
