Tag Archives: Positive News of Indian Muslims

Social worker Farooq Siddiqui urges youth to apply for PM Internship Scheme, seeks support from NGOs and civil society

NEW DELHI :

New Delhi : 

Renowned social worker Farooq Siddiqui has launched a public awareness campaign urging students and eligible youth to register for the recently announced Prime Minister’s Internship Scheme. The initiative, aimed at providing valuable internship opportunities to one crore young Indians over five years in 500 top companies, has already gained momentum. Companies like Mahindra & Mahindra, Alembic Pharmaceuticals, and Max Life Insurance have listed over 1,000 internship positions as part of the scheme’s pilot phase on the first day of the portal’s launch.

Under the pilot, 111 companies have signed up, offering 1,077 internship positions across key sectors such as automotive, pharmaceuticals, and agriculture. The internship portal has been live for companies to list positions since October 3, and from October 12, eligible candidates can start registering for internships through the government portal http://www.pminternship.mca.gov.in

Siddiqui highlighted the scheme’s potential to empower unemployed youth by providing them with hands-on experience in top companies. “This initiative is a game-changer for our young people. I strongly urge NGOs and civil society organizations to help spread the word and encourage eligible candidates to register. This is a unique opportunity for skill-building and career development,” Siddiqui said.

The internship scheme targets youth between the ages of 21 and 24 who are not currently employed or enrolled in full-time studies. Eligible candidates must have completed high school, higher secondary school, or hold a diploma from an ITI, Polytechnic, or a degree in fields like BA, BSc, B.Com, BCA, BBA, or B.Pharma. The program, however, excludes those with higher qualifications such as CA, MBA, and graduates from IITs, IIMs, and other premier institutions.

Interns selected through this scheme will receive a stipend of Rs 4,500 per month via Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT). They will also be covered by the government’s insurance programs—PM Jeevan Jyoti Bima Yojana and PM Suraksha Bima Yojana—at no cost. Additionally, companies will contribute Rs 500 per month, and a one-time annual payment of Rs 6,000 will be made to the interns, bringing the total annual benefit to Rs 66,000.

Siddiqui noted that the first pilot phase, which involves a government investment of Rs 800 crore, aims to place 1.25 lakh youth in internships by December. He further emphasized the importance of reserving opportunities for marginalized groups, such as SCs, STs, OBCs, and the disabled, in line with government policies.

To ensure a smooth process, nodal officers will be appointed by participating companies to address any concerns raised by the interns. The government has also established a negative list of ineligible candidates, including those from families earning more than Rs 8 lakh annually or having a regular government employee in the family.

As the registration date for candidates approaches, Siddiqui stressed the importance of collaboration from all sections of society, urging more companies, banks, and financial institutions to join the scheme and offer internships. “This is not just about internships. It’s about building futures and enabling our youth to contribute to the nation’s economy,” he concluded.

Siddiqui’s call to action has resonated widely, and it is hoped that the collective efforts of the government, companies, NGOs, and civil society will ensure maximum participation in this impactful program.

source: http://www.indiatomorrow.net / India Tomorrow / Home> Education / by India Tomorrow Admin / October 04th, 2024

150 Educators honoured with AMP National Award for Excellence in Education in Bhopal

Bhopal, MADHYA PRADESH :

AMP awardees with guests on the stage.

Bhopal : 

On Teachers’ Day, over 150 educators from around the world were celebrated with the 8th AMP National Award for Excellence in Education 2024 at a distinguished ceremony held at Ravindra Bhawan in Bhopal.

The event was presided over by Bhopal Shahar Qazi Maulana Syed Mushtaq Ali Nadvi, with former Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister and current Rajya Sabha Member Digvijay Singh serving as the Chief Guest.

The ceremony drew attendees from various educational backgrounds, including award recipients who were present in person, special guests, AMP members and volunteers, and members of the academic community. Many other winners participated virtually, and the event was widely followed on social media.

In his address, Bhopal Shahar Qazi Maulana Syed Mushtaq Ali emphasized the profound role of teachers, citing a saying of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH): “I have been sent only as a teacher to you.” He highlighted the Prophet’s impact through education and quoted Allama Iqbal, who praised the fertile soil of Hindustan for nurturing good deeds. The Qazi reminded attendees of the honor and responsibility of being a teacher, suggesting that a dedicated educator can approach the level of Prophets.

Bhopal Shahar Qazi Syed Mushtaq Ali speaking on the occasion, with senior Congress leader and former chief minister of Madhya Pradesh Digvijay Singh on his right.

Digvijay Singh commended the AMP initiative for uniting Muslim professionals to contribute positively to society. He stressed the importance of prioritizing education and healthcare for national progress. Singh noted the underrepresentation of Muslims in government jobs compared to SC/ST categories and highlighted the need for increased professional education within the Muslim community.

Senior Congress leader and former chief minister of Madhya Pradesh Digvijay Singh speaking on the occasion.

Singh also criticized the state of the education system, pointing to corruption and the prevalence of contract-based teaching positions, which he argued undermine the quality of education. He lamented the shortage of permanent teaching positions and the poor condition of many government schools.

A view of the audience

Prof. Furqan Qamar, former Vice Chancellor of the University of Rajasthan and Central University of Himachal Pradesh, delivered a keynote address advocating for increased participation in higher education and greater public investment to make education more accessible, particularly for rural populations, women, and landless laborers.

Dr. Usha Khare, a National Teacher Awardee and recently retired Principal of Jahangirabad Girls Government School in Bhopal, shared her inspiring journey of advocating for girls’ education in impoverished neighborhoods. She revealed that she donated her prize money from the Kaun Banega Crorepati show to her school and left significant assets upon her retirement.

The awards were presented in seven categories: Primary and Secondary Teachers, College and University Teachers, Principals/Heads of Institutions, Islamic Education (Arabic/Fiqh/Islamic Studies), Educational Institutions, Lifetime Achievement Awards, and the Late Ibrahim Qureshi Memorial Award. Prof. Furqan Qamar was honored with the Ibrahim Qureshi Memorial Award for his exceptional contributions to education.

Lifetime Achievement Awards were given to:

Hazrat Maulana Sayyed Muhammad Aqil, Shaikh-ul-Hadith, Mazahir-ul-Uloom, Saharanpur, UP

Jamaluddin Ahmad Khan, Former Lecturer, Halim Musim Inter College, Kanpur, UP

Sharifa A. Azeez, Correspondent, Crescent Matriculation H.Sec. School, Chennai, TN

Sheila Lawrence, Former Headmistress, Lucknow Christian College, Lucknow, UP

Additionally, 78 educators received Special Jury Awards in various categories, and 50 “My Favourite Teacher” Awards were presented based on votes from students and parents nationwide.

In Bhopal, local awardees included:

*Bushra Parveen, Oakwoods School (Primary & Secondary)

*Dr. Shazia Ali, Campion School (Primary & Secondary)

*Dr. Mohammad Athar, Institute of Excellence (Higher Education)

*Dr. M. M. Malik, MANIT (Higher Education)

*Dr. Sana Khan, Azim Premji University (Higher Education)

*Dr. Siraj Ahmed, MANIT (Higher Education)

*Prof. Dr. Ghayur Alam, National Law University (Higher Education)

*Prof. Asma Rizwan, People’s University (Higher Education)

*Dr. Abid Husain Saify, All Saints’ College of Technology (Higher Education)

*Dr. Faiqa Saulat, Trailblazer International School (Principal/Head)

*Ms. Nikhat Ara, A.U. School (Principal/Head)

The ceremony was also graced by Guests of Honour including MLAs Arif Masood and Atif Arif Aqueel, and Mohammad Wazir Ansari IPS (R), Former DGP – Chhattisgarh. They praised AMP’s significant achievements in education and employment over the past 17 years and commended the thorough selection process and professional execution of the event.

Farooq Siddiqui, Head of the AMP National Coordination Team, hosted the event, reflecting on AMP’s growth from modest beginnings to its present reach across over 200 cities and many countries worldwide.

Kalim Akhtar, Zonal Head – Central India, AMP NGO Connect, presented an English translation of the Holy Qur’an to Digvijay Singh, who accepted it with reverence.

Sajid Qureshi, Acting President of the Ibrahim Qureshi Memorial Study Circle, thanked AMP for their support in organizing the event, and Rafat Iqbal Farooqi, State Head – AMP Madhya Pradesh, offered the vote of thanks to all attendees and the Bhopal Chapter team for their hard work in making the event a success.

source: http://www.indiatomorrow.net / India Tomorrow / Home> Education / by Pervez Bari / September 09th, 2024

Welfare Yuva Karnataka Inaugurated Successfully in Kalaburgi

Kalaburagi (Gulbarga), KARNATAKA :

Yuva Welfare Karnataka unit of Kalaburgi.

Kalaburgi(Gulbarga): 

On August 8, 2024, Kalaburgi city witnessed the successful launch of “Welfare Yuva Karnataka,” the youth wing of the Welfare Party of India for the Karnataka State. The event drew enthusiastic participation from youths across various districts of North Karnataka.

The day began with a vibrant rally leading to the conference hall, where participants energetically chanted slogans. Advocate Taher Hussain, the state president of the Welfare Party, officially inaugurated the event. The flag of Welfare Yuva Karnataka was then ceremoniously handed over to Mr. Muhammad Rafiq, the state general secretary of the youth wing.

The assembly saw the participation of hundreds of youths from North Karnataka. The inaugural address was delivered by Mujahid Pasha Khureshi, the state vice president of the party. During the event, two notable achievers from Kalaburgi were honored with the Welfare Yuva Award.

Key addresses were made by Muhammad Rafiq, General Secretary of Welfare Yuva Karnataka, along with state secretaries Riaz Ahmed, Talat Yasmin, Mubeen Ahmed, Asif Bilikudri, and C.H. Salaam. The program concluded with a closing speech by Habibullah Khan, the state vice president. The event was skillfully hosted by Afzal Hussain Humnabad, the district vice president of Bagalkote.

source: http://www.indiatomorrow.net / India Tomorrow / Home> News> Society / by India Tomorrow Admin / September 09th, 2024

Wajid Khan: An artist’s unique obsession with Mahatma Gandhi

MADHYA PRADESH :

Wajid Khan Artist with the portrait of Mahatma Gandhi he made with nails.

Few artists are as passionately obsessed with Mahatma Gandhi as Wajid Khan, whose love and reverence for Gandhi manifest in extraordinary ways through his art. Wajid’s devotion to the Father of the Nation is evident not only in the subjects of his artwork but also in the innovative techniques he uses to create them. Whether by assembling nails, arranging goggles, or using other unconventional materials, Wajid Khan’s portrayal of Gandhi is a testament to his deep admiration.

Gandhi ji art by Wajid Khan #shorts

Wajid Khan  a multifaceted artist—a portraitist, sculptor, inventor, and patent holder—known for pushing the boundaries of traditional art. He specializes in creating intricate works of art using unconventional materials such as iron nails, bullets, metal, stones, automobile parts, medical equipment, iron rods, and more. His passion for creativity is boundless, and his art often reflects his deep emotions and thoughts about the world and the figures who have shaped it.

Among his many talents, Wajid’s ability to carve canvases using iron nails has garnered international acclaim. His work has earned him places in prestigious records such as the Guinness Book of World Records, Limca Book of Records, and Asia Book of Records. His artistic prowess is admired from Mumbai to Dubai, captivating both art connoisseurs and the general public with his exceptional nail art.

Although Wajid has made portraits of numerous iconic personalities, including Indira Gandhi, Jawaharlal Nehru, Sardar Patel, Dhirubhai Ambani, and Nelson Mandela, his fascination with Mahatma Gandhi stands out. His first portrait, fittingly, was of Gandhi—a powerful expression of his love and passion for the man who led India to independence. Wajid meticulously used thousands of iron nails to craft this portrait, each nail symbolizing the unwavering dedication and perseverance Gandhi embodied throughout his life.

Wajid’s connection to Gandhi goes beyond artistic inspiration. His admiration for Gandhi stems from the values of patience and truth that Gandhi represented. “There are many qualities in Gandhiji that impressed me deeply,” Wajid shared in an interview. “His power of patience and his commitment to truth are what stand out the most. For me, those who hold onto patience and never lie are truly great individuals.”

One of the moments that left an indelible mark on Wajid was when he visited a museum and saw letters written by Gandhi in which the leader openly admitted his mistakes. “It takes a big heart to admit one’s mistakes in public,” Wajid reflected. “I greatly admire Gandhi’s patience and steadfastness.”

Wajid’s connection to Gandhi also has personal roots. He fondly recalls stories from his grandfather, who would attend Gandhi’s meetings during the freedom movement in India. “My grandfather used to tell us about the time when he was very young and would participate in Gandhi’s meetings. Enthusiastic crowds would gather to listen to Gandhi, and when they returned, they were always calm and composed,” Wajid recounted. The calm demeanor Gandhi inspired in his followers left a profound impact on Wajid, influencing both his life and his art.

In one of his most ambitious projects, Wajid demonstrated the extent of his dedication to honoring Gandhi. He organized an event where 6,000 people were gathered in a stadium, carefully arranged in a formation that created a massive portrait of Gandhi. This live depiction showcased not only Wajid’s artistic genius but also his ability to bring people together to celebrate Gandhi’s legacy.

Wajid Khan’s artistic journey is a remarkable blend of creativity, innovation, and an unyielding devotion to Gandhi’s principles. Through his portraits, sculptures, and inventive techniques, he continues to keep the spirit of Gandhi alive, inspiring others with the same values of patience, truth, and perseverance that Gandhi embodied.

source: http://www.muslimmirror.com / Muslim Mirror / Home> Indian Muslim> Positive Story / by Syed Zubair Ahmad / October 02nd, 2024

Veteran Photojournalist Nisar Ahmed No More

Srinagar, JAMMU & KASHMIR :

Srinagar :

Veteran photojournalist Nisar Ahmed, who spent over three decades documenting the diverse and critical events in Kashmir, passed away on Wednesday. His legacy in capturing the region’s essence lives on through his work.

Survived by his wife, two sons, and a daughter, Ahmed was admitted to the SMHS hospital in Srinagar after his health worsened on Tuesday.

Ahmed, associated with the national daily The Hindu for the last thirty years, had been unwell for the last couple of years. His demise has prompted condolences from various journalists’ organizations and political parties.

“Nissar was a thorough photojournalist, capturing the turmoil and beauty of Kashmir through his lens until his last breath. His work has left an indelible mark on our hearts and in the annals of photojournalism. His legacy lives on through the countless images that tell the stories of heartbreaks, joy and beauty of the Valley,” The Hindu posted on X.

Before joining The Hindu as a Photojournalist, Ahmad spent most part of his life working for Kashmir’s local media.

Hundreds of people, including journalists, took part in the funeral of the deceased. Ahmad was buried amid sobs and tears at his ancestral graveyard in Natipora Srinagar. The mourning will be held for three days, with congregational Feteha Khawani on Friday.  

Meanwhile, the Kashmir Press Photographers Association (KPPA) has expressed grief over the death of senior photojournalist Nasir Ahmad.

In a statement, the KPPA said that Nisar’s passing away has left a vacuum in the photojournalistic circles of Kashmir. 

source: http://www.kashmirobserver.net / Kashmir Observer / Home> News> Media / by KO Web Desk / June 19th, 2024

Ahamed beats mentor Jagan in a photo-finish; Dave twins hog limelight

Malappuram, KERALA / Chennai / Mumbai / Pune :

Sarah Khan wins maiden race in Apache RTR 200 class.

KY Ahamed (33) edging out Jagan Kumar to win the Pro-Stock 165cc Open race on 15 June 2024. Photo by Anand Philar

Chennai :

Two sets of siblings from Chennai hogged the limelight by winning four of the nine races on Saturday at the Madras International Circuit to light up the first round of the MRF MMSC fmsci Indian National Motorcycle Racing Championship 2024.

The 15-year-old Dave twins, Rakshith and Rakshitha took the honours in the Idemitsu Honda India Talent Cup (NSF 250R) and the National Championship Girls (Stock 165cc) races. It was a maiden win for both of them, in their respective categories.

Two other siblings, 28-year-old KY Ahamed (Pro-Stock 165cc Open) and his 17-year-old brother Abdul Basim (Novice 165cc), also won a race apiece to set off celebrations in both families.

Elsewhere, Sarthak Chavan, the 17-year-old from Pune, led a 1-2 finish for TVS Racing along with Bengaluru’s Chiranth Vishwanath, also 17, in the premier Pro-Stock 301-400cc category. The race was cut to four laps from scheduled six after a red flag stoppage following a Turn-3 crash (riders ok) and Sarthak, starting from pole, virtually destroyed the field on restart. Chiranth came in second, ahead of Hyderabad’s Sairahil Pillarisetty (Gusto Racing).

Sarthak, however, had a disastrous outing in the Pro-Stock 165cc Open race as he crashed when in the lead. On his exit, Sathak’s two TVS Racing team-mates, KY Ahamed and multiple National champion Jagan Kumar, were involved in a tight finish. Ahamed pipped his mentor Jagan in a photo-finish with another TVS Racing ace, Deepak Ravikumar, who had started the race from the pit lane, completing the podium. Chiranth, who was running second, also crashed, but resumed to finish fourth.

Also finishing on top step of the podium was Chennai’s Kaushik Subbiah Ganesan (RACR Castrol Power1 Ultimate) who won as he pleased in the Novice 301-400cc class that gained National championship status from this season.

Earlier, pole-sitter Abdul Basim, held off a strong challenge from Mysuru’s Tasmai Cariappa (Motul Sparks Racing) who led briefly in the penultimate lap but conceded the advantage. Basim went on to win with Tasmai and Coimbatore’s Abhinav G (Chandra LGE Racing) finishing second and third, respectively.

Rakshitha Dave, starting from P2, moved in front by Turn-2, deftly avoiding any jostling that was happening behind her, and enjoyed a trouble-free run for a commanding win. Another Chennai rider, Jagathishee Kumaresan (One Racing) and Ryhana Bee (Motul Sparks Racing) settled for second and third spots, respectively, while pole-sitter Ann Jennifer (Alpha Racing) came in a disappointing fourth.

“I am very happy to score my first-ever win in the National championship. I had a good start today and a trouble-free run after going into the lead early in the first lap. The bike too performed very well,” said a delighted Rakshitha.

Idemitsu Honda India Talent Cup: Rakshith Dave reigned supreme in the NSF 250R race after initial battle with the more experienced Mohsin Paramban (Mallapuram) with Bengaluru’s AS James finishing third. It was Rakshith’s first-ever win in this class. Incidentally, Rakshith’s twin sister, Rakshitha made her debut in this class and finished 13th.

TVS One-Make Championship: Coimbatore’s Senthilkumar C took the honours in the truncated Open (Apache RR 310) race that was reduced to three laps from six due to a red flag stoppage following an on-track incident. Jayanth Pratipathi (Chennai) came in second, ahead of Nagercoil’s Ajai Xavier M.

Harshith V Bogar from Bengaluru notched a dominating win in the Rookie category with second-placed Saranjith KM (Thrissur) finishing some 10 seconds behind. Vijayawada’s Akarsh Jangam was a distant third.

Mumbai’s Sarah Khan won the Girls (RTR 200) race untroubled from Pune’s Saimah Ajaz Baig and Aisvarya V (Coimbatore).

The results (Provisional, all 6 laps unless mentioned):

National Championship – Pro-Stock 301-400cc Open (Race-1, 4 laps): 1. Sarthak Chavan (Pune, TVS Racing) (7mins, 36.007secs); 2. Chiranth Vishwanath (Bengaluru, TVS Racing) (07:39.254); 3. Sairahil Pillarisetty (Hyderabad, Gusto Racing India) (07:41.470).

Pro-Stock 165cc Open (Race-1): 1. Ahamed KY (Chennai, TVS Racing) (12:04.178); 2. Jagan Kumar (Chennai, TVS Racing) (12:04.192); 3. Deepak Ravikumar (Chennai, TVS Racing) (12:14.569).

Novice (Stock 165cc) Race-1: 1. Abdul Basim RS (Chennai, Rockers Racing) (12:55.808); 2. Tasmai Cariappa (Mysuru, Motul Sparks Racing) (12:56.136); 3. Abhinav G (Coimbatore, Chandra LGE Racing team) (13:04.554).

Girls (Stock 165cc) Race-1 (5 laps): 1. Rakshitha Dave (Chennai, RACR Castrol Power1 Ultimate) (10:58.183); 2. Jagathishree Kumaresan (Chennai, One Racing) (11:03.012); 3. Ryhana Bee (Chennai, Motul Sparks Racing) (11:03.150).

Novice (Stock 301-400cc) Race-1: 1. Kaushik Subbiah Ganesan (Chennai, RACR Castrol Power 1 Ultimate) (12:17.257); 2. Lokesh V (Bengaluru, Pvt.) (12:23.458); 3. Varun Nanjundegowda (Mysuru, Gusto Racing India) (12:27.927).

Idemitsu Honda India Cup (NSF 250R) Race-1: 1. Rakshith S Dave (Chennai) (11:12.157); 2. Mohsin Paramban (Malappuram) (11:16.226); 3. AS James (Bengaluru) (11:16.669)

TVS One-Make Championship – Open (Apache RR 310) Race-1 (3 laps): 1. Senthilkumar C (Coimbatore) (05:56.457); 2. Jayanth Pratipathi (Chennai) (05:59.277); 3. Ajai Xavier (Nagercoil) (06:02.953).

Rookie (Apache RTR 200) Race-1: 1. Harshith V Bogar (Bengaluru) (13:43.666); 2. Saranjith KM (Thrissur) (13:53.770); 3. Akarsh Jangam (Vijayawada) (14:07.100).

Girls (Apache RTR 200) Race-1 (5 laps): 1. Sarah Khan (Mumbai) (11:19.075); 2. Saimah Ajaz Baig (Pune) (11:21.156); 3. Aisvariya V (Coimbatore) (11:23.221).

source: http://www.indiainf1.com / INDIA in F1 / Home> Non-F1> Domestic / by David Bodapati / June 16th, 2024

Father Muller alumnus Dr Ashique K T awarded patent for groundbreaking medical device

Perinthalmanna, (MALAPPURAM), KERALA :

Father Muller Medical College is celebrating a landmark achievement as Dr Ashique K T, an esteemed alumnus of the Department of Dermatology, Venereology, and Leprosy, has been awarded a patent for his innovative medical device, the Dr Ashique’s Skin Clamp.

The patent, issued by the Controller General of Patents, Designs, and Trade Marks of the Government of India (Patent No. 548121, dated November 26, 2020), acknowledges the groundbreaking work of Dr Ashique, who is currently the medical director and senior consultant dermatologist in Perinthalmanna, Kerala. His invention holds far-reaching implications across multiple medical disciplines, including dermatology, dermatosurgery, dental and maxillofacial surgery, hair transplantation, ENT, emergency medicine, general surgery, and gynecology.

The Dr Ashique’s Skin Clamp is a sterilizable, metallic surgical tool designed for use in a wide range of medical procedures. Its versatility and effectiveness have already caught the attention of professionals across various medical fields. The device offers a practical solution to complex surgical challenges and is set to make a significant impact on clinical practices once commercial production begins.

Dr Ashique’s journey toward this patent was marked by close collaboration with his former professors and mentors from the Father Muller Medical College Dermatology Department. Throughout the development and research phases, he regularly sought their advice, leveraging their expertise to refine his innovative design. This spirit of partnership and academic support has been instrumental in transforming his idea into a patented reality.

In a statement, Fr Richard Aloysius Coelho, director of Father Muller Charitable Institutions (FMCI), expressed pride in Dr Ashique’s achievement. “It is a moment of great pride for our institution to witness one of our own making such a meaningful contribution to the medical field. His innovation is a testament to the excellence fostered within the walls of Father Muller Medical College,” said Fr Coelho. The administrative heads of both the medical college and hospital also joined in congratulating Dr Ashique on this remarkable accomplishment.

The Department of Dermatology, Venereology, and Leprosy at Father Muller Medical College continues to shine as a center of excellence, cultivating bright minds who contribute groundbreaking solutions to the medical world. Dr Ashique K T’s patent is just the latest example of how the institution empowers its students to innovate, achieve, and redefine the future of healthcare.

With plans to publish detailed research on the skin clamp’s many uses and the upcoming commercial production, Dr Ashique’s contribution to modern medicine is just beginning to unfold. The medical world is watching eagerly as this revolutionary device prepares to hit the global market.

source: http://www.daijiworld.com / Daijiworld / Home> Top Stories / by Media Release / September 26th, 2024

Atiqa Mir only Asian shortlisted for Iron Dames Young Talents programme

JAMMU & KASHMIR :

Winners will benefit from tailored development programmes and mentoring from experienced motorsport professionals at Iron Dames.

Mir will compete in the Iron Dames Young Talents selection round in Italy on July 29-30

Nine-year-old Atiqa Mir, from Kashmir, has been shortlisted for the Iron Dames Young Talents programme. The new initiative has been launched by the same squad that made history last year as the first all-female team to win a race in the World Endurance Championship (at the 2023 8 Hours of Bahrain).

Mir is the only racer from Asia to be shortlisted for the first selection round that will be held at Italy’s Franciacorta karting track on July 29-30.

  1. First selection round in Italy on July 29-30
  2. Mir has top three results in the DAMC and UAE IAME Series

Iron Dames Young Talents programme

Iron Dames says the main goal of its new Young Talents initiative is to “identify and develop young kart racers between the ages of eight and 13”. A total of 20 young female racers have qualified for the selection round at Franciacorta, where they’ll compete in a series of scouting events.

Junior racing giant Prema Racing will help assess the candidates based on their driving skills, work ethic and “ability to embody the spirit and attitude of the Iron Dames”. Those who impress will earn the chance to join the Iron Dames stable and benefit from tailored development programmes, mentoring from experienced motorsport professionals and access to world-class training facilities.

Besides being the only Asian, Mir is also the youngest racer shortlisted in the Mini Category. “I’m truly honoured to be shortlisted for the Iron Dames Young Talent selection process. It motivates me further to perform and improve my skills as a driver. I will work hard and prepare myself better than ever to come out on top in the selections and make India proud,” she said.

Atiqa Mir: Climbing up the karting ladder

Mir has already built an impressive racing resume with outings in India, the UAE and Europe. She started karting at the age of six and made her competitive debut in 2021. Since then, she’s gone on to finish third overall in the 2023-24 DAMC (Dubai Autodrome Motorsports Club) Cup and second overall in the 2023-24 UAE IAME Series Rookie Championship.

Of course, racing runs in Mir’s blood. Her father, Asif Nazir Mir, was India’s first National Karting Champion and also raced in Formula Asia. “[My motorsport journey] started when I was three-four years old, watching my dad race at the Dubai Kartdrome,” Mir told Autocar India. “He gives me a lot of tips on the track, and we practice everything on our home simulator, which I drive on every day.”

Mir had competed in the Indian National Karting Championship in 2022. And she’s back this year, competing in all five rounds in the Micro Max category this time, racing for team MSport. And she’s already made a podium appearance, having finished third in Round 1.

This year, she also had her first taste of racing in Europe as part of the CEK (Campeonato de España de Karting) series. “The drivers are really competitive there,” she shared. “But the tracks there are like my style. That’s why I’m getting better and progressing.”

We’ve seen growing female participation in motorsport recently, further propelled by the new F1 Academy and even the success of Iron Dames. But there’s still a long way to go. “There are only three-four girls [competing in Europe with me], so not many, but they’re more than in Dubai. But that motivates me a lot,” added Mir.

She already has her sights on F1 and highlights Max Verstappen as a racer she looks up to. “I want to race in F1 because it’s the top 20 best drivers of the world, so it’s really rare to compete with them. I want to be the first girl driving in F1, and I want to do what’s never been  done before.”

source: http://www.autocarsindia.com / Autocar / Home> Motorsports News / July 09th, 2024

How NSS volunteers in Gujarat fought COVID crisis at the frontline

GUJARAT :

During the months of lockdown last year, NSS units in colleges across Gujarat mobilized resources for food, masks, sanitation.

More than 5,000 student volunteers associated with NSS units in universities carried out COVID relief projects during the initial phase of lockdown

New Delhi :

The risk of contracting a life-threatening virus and the lockdown did not discourage Shaikh Afzal, a final year student of LD Engineering College, Ahmedabad from stepping out to collect food grain for the people in need.

A volunteer with the government-led National Service Scheme, in his case the NSS unit of Gujarat Technological University, Afzal felt the need to be on the ground despite the inhibitions of his family members. While the country was under a nation-wide lockdown in March last year, volunteers like Afzal risked their lives to help migrant workers stranded for days without supplies.

“I have faced a shortage of food for days at home during the lockdown and I understood their situation. They have extremely limited means. I decided to help them despite the risks,” said Afzal who resides with his 70-year-old grandmother and five other family members. He spent two months distributing food kits in various parts of Ahmedabad.

Soon after the central government announced the countrywide shutdown to control the spread of the coronavirus, a wide range of problems emerged, especially for the working class. The lockdown was extended for nearly four more months. Having lost their jobs, thousands of migrant workers attempted to leave major cities for home. In the absence of food reserves, many were pushed into starvation and others struggled to make ends meet.

Like Afzal, more than 5,000 student volunteers associated with NSS units in universities across Gujarat carried out COVID relief projects during the initial phase of lockdown. From providing masks, hand sanitizers and dry ration kits, to managing large crowds along with the police, students participated in several measures.

Prompt relief in Ahmedabad

Ahmedabad, one of the major cities employing daily wage workers and construction workers from bordering states, experienced food shortages amid the extended lockdown. NSS units in various colleges kicked into action to provide ground relief.

Along with Afzal, a team of 15 NSS and National Cadet Corps (NCC) volunteers in coordination with Ahmedabad’s district magistrate’s office conducted an extensive COVID relief drive. The team under the leadership of Chaitanya Sanghvi, the college’s NSS program officer, raised Rs. 3.69 lakh in donations from teachers and students’ parents to arrange for food kits. The volunteers distributed more than 12,500 kits in two months.

“A lot of parents were concerned about their [students’] health but my personal assurance that COVID safety measures will be taken while helping others made them feel confident,” said Sanghvi. “The students were given training by the GIDM [Gujarat Institute of Disaster Management] on how to respond to various challenges on the field,” he added.

Student of LD Engineering College, Ahmedabad distributing ration kits

Each day, for nearly two months, the team distributed 500 kits that sustained families of four for at least 10 days. On several occasions, the team members recalled being overwhelmed by the gravity of the situation on the ground. “Every day we would find a new challenge before us. We had to be cautious about our own safety while maintaining safe distance among those who came to collect the kits. The chaos escalated at times and we had to call the local police to maintain order,” said Deval Naika, a final-year mechanical engineering student.

The relief work began with 16 volunteers but the group expanded into a large team of 100 students after the initial phase of the project ended in success. The students were asked to work on the field in rotation. The effort, according to Sanghvi, helped families that were severely starved amid the lockdown. “I remember providing a food kit to a migrant worker’s family of 12 members. They told me that they were going to eat solid food after 12 days of starvation. There were small kids delighted at the sight of food. I will never forget that day,” recalled Sanghvi.

The team, in a tie-up with the Indian Red Cross Society, also conducted a blood donation drive for thalassemia major patients who were facing a shortage of blood supply during the lockdown. To allay the fear of blood donors, the team remotely reached out to the willing donors on mobile donation vans in various parts of Ahmedabad.

Porda village, Anand

Another NSS volunteer, Kishan Nileshkumar Dave, studying in Natubhai V. Patel College of Pure and Applied Sciences, Vallabh Vidyanagar, managed to provide relief to 100 families in his village, Porda, in Anand district. The volunteers carried out a multifaceted relief drive which included the distribution of food, masks, sanitizing common gathering areas and distribution of Ayurvedic immunity boosters.

Dave and his group of 10 volunteers started a fundraiser to provide relief to the families struggling without any financial help in the period of lockdown. With the help of the village sarpanch and some of its well-heeled families, Dave managed to collect enough funds to feed the hungry for more than a month.

“The money was utilized to cook food and deliver to each villager in need. We also maintained meticulous records of people who require urgent help and avoided missing out on anyone who needed attention,” said Dave. This group also served food to the policemen and health-workers on
COVID-19 duty.

The team also engaged local tailors to sew 2,100 masks to be distributed in the community. In this way, they supplied masks to 920 families of the village and surrounding areas.

The volunteers also prepared herbal tonic under the supervision of the Ayurvedic Aushadhi Kendra of a nearby village, Aradi, and distributed it in Porda and the surrounding areas. Around 1,500 villagers received the immunity booster.

In addition, Dave also conducted a sanitization drive for 20 days. “Providing food and masks was not enough, we also used a sprayer machine and fogging machine provided by the Gram Panchayat and sanitized all the streets, milk collection centres, banks, and other areas of the village,” said Dave. Close to 900 houses of the village were sanitized. The volunteers also raised awareness among the villagers about the significance of personal hygiene, wearing the mask, washing hands frequently, and maintaining social distance.

As the lockdown caused huge losses for the farmers, this group brought vegetables from the village farmers and sold them at fair price to the villagers and residents of slum areas of the village like Indira Nagari. While some group members sold the vegetables, others helped maintain social distancing among the buyers.

Food delivery on national highway

With education institutions shut for months, many students had left the college campuses. They planned to contribute from home. Several NSS volunteers of Vishwakarma Engineering College, Ahmedabad, stepped up to help the migrant workers heading home along the National Highway eight. “Our NSS volunteers living close to the NH provided home-cooked food whenever possible to several families traveling on foot. Since the lockdown was sudden, it was difficult to provide funds. Therefore, each student utilised their own resources,” said Shiza Sheikh, a second-year student of electronics and communication.

At the beginning of COVID-19 lockdown, to meet the sudden rise in demand of masks, the students also distributed 1,500 hand-stitched masks from unused cloth they found at home and distributed it in various parts of Gujarat. “Even though students were scattered throughout the state, the NSS volunteers of our college were determined to help people who were in need. The students learned how to make masks through YouTube videos or by learning stitching from their parents,” Sheikh added.

source: http://www.news.careers360.com / News Careers360 / Home / by R Radhika / April 24th, 2021

Mysuru’s Extraordinary individuals share their extraordinary journeys

Mysuru, KARNATAKA :

Mysore/Mysuru:

In a unique session, extraordinary individuals from different domains came together for a rare confluence at the Mysuru Literature Festival last evening. They introduced the audience to new perspectives and showcased their talent beautifully.

Abdul Rasheed, Programme Executive, Akashvani, Mysuru, delivered an engaging speech and introduced the audience to the world of new ideas. He explained his journey through various phases of life and how he embraced several individuals from different social strata as his mentors. He expressed his excitement about presenting his distinctive insights, which will provide a more representative portrayal of himself.

Jabbar Samo, a talented Yakshagana artiste from Uttara Kannada district, shared his experiences and motivations. He shed light on the significance of his performances in different aspects of life, both at the societal and personal levels. He also acknowledged the numerous individuals he considers his gurus and how they have influenced him.

He expressed how art flourishes without a specific reason and shared the dedication of Yakshagana artistes, who work without any external motivation. Despite facing difficulties as a member of the Muslim community, Jabbar Samo fearlessly pursued his passion. “Due to the prevailing circumstances, pursuing formal education was not possible, but I found solace in Kannada poems sung at the school, which fuelled my interest in the language,”  he recalled.

Mohammed Kaleemulla, a retired teacher from Nagamangala taluk, dedicated his life to the preservation of historical temples, monoliths and hero stones in Mandya district. He explained the architectural aspects of these stones, their current conditions and the ongoing efforts to safeguard them with the support of Shri Kshetra Dharmasthala. “Many hero stones are being used for mundane purposes like drying clothes. I took it upon myself to inform the villagers and engage in the preservation work,” he said.

Syed Isaq narrated how he had built the library with zinc sheet roof at the corner of a playground in Rajivnagar and has been running it for the benefit of the public for 12 years. He also told the audience how the library was burnt down and his efforts to rebuild it.

“I have never been to school but my love for books gave wings to my dream of setting up a library. I built the library with 85 percent of books in Kannada and newspapers of various languages. My Kannada library is located in an area where there is a majority of the Urdu-speaking population and Kannada language must be propagated in areas like these,” he added.

source: http://www.starofmysore.com / Star of Mysore / Home> News / July 03rd, 2024