Category Archives: Minorities

Waqf Bill 2024 introduced in Lok Sabha leading to a Joint Parliament Committee.

October 19, 2024 | By Maati Maajra

(In a move fraught with desperate effort to reform Muslim institutions , the government at the Centre has brought in Waqf Amendment Bill 2024, which has been refered to the Joint Parliamenary committee. The committee has reporterdly received over one crore representations already and the warring members of the ruling BJP and the opposition are grappling with the details of the bill before recommending to the government.

Among other changes, the bill pitches for far-reaching changes in the present Act, including ensuring the representation of Muslim women and non-Muslims in central and state Waqf bodies.

Clearly it gives way to already aggrieved feeling of the community. The question is is a democratic set up , does the government has a role in reforming religion unless it interfeares with the constitution of the country. Editor)

A primer on the Waqf Bill to understand it in details, as given by Ministry of Minority Affairs.

On August 8, 2024, two bills, the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2024, and the Mussalman Wakf (Repeal) Bill, 2024, were introduced in the Lok Sabha with an aim to streamline the Waqf Board’s work and ensure the efficient management of Waqf properties.

The objective of the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2024, is to amend the Waqf Act, 1995, to redress the issues and challenges in regulating and managing Waqf properties. The Amendment Bill seeks to improve the administration and management of waqf properties in India. It aims to overcome the shortcomings of the previous act and enhance the efficiency of Waqf boards by introducing changes such as renaming the Act, updating the definitions of waqf, improving the registration process, and increasing the role of technology in managing waqf records.

The primary objective of the Mussalman Wakf (Repeal) Bill, 2024 is to repeal the Mussalman Wakf Act, 1923, a colonial-era legislation that has become outdated and inadequate for managing waqf properties in modern India. The repeal aims to ensure uniformity, transparency, and accountability in the administration and management of waqf properties under the Waqf Act, 1995, thus eliminating inconsistencies and ambiguities caused by the continued existence of this redundant law

The Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2024 has been referred to the Joint Committee of Parliament.

The following FAQs provide an understanding of Waqf’s history, laws, regulations and management.

Q.1 What is the meaning of ‘Waqf’?

Waqf refers to properties dedicated exclusively for religious or charitable purposes under Islamic law, and any other use or sale of the property is prohibited. Waqf means that the ownership of the property is now taken away from the person making Waqf and transferred and detained by Allah. ‘Waqif’ is a person who creates a waqf for the beneficiary. As Waqf properties are bestowed upon Allah, in the absence of a physically tangible entity, a ‘mutawalli’ is appointed by the waqif, or by a competent authority, to manage or administer a Waqf. Once designated as waqf, the ownership is transferred from the person making the waqf (waqif) to Allah, making it irrevocable.

Q.2 What is origin of the concept of ‘Waqf’?

In India, the history of Waqf can be traced back to the early days of the Delhi Sultanate when Sultan Muizuddin Sam Ghaor dedicated two villages in favour of the Jama Masjid of Multan and handed its administration to Shaikhul Islam. As the Delhi Sultanate and later Islamic dynasties flourished in India, the number of Waqf properties kept increasing in India.

There was a case made for the abolition of Waqfs in India in the late 19th Century when a dispute over a Waqf property ended up in the Privy Council of London during the days of the British Raj. The four British judges who heard the case described the Waqf as “a perpetuity of the worst and the most pernicious kind” and declared Waqf to be invalid. However, the decision by the four judges was not accepted in India, and the Mussalman Waqf Validating Act of 1913 saved the institution of Waqf in India. Since then, no attempt has been made to curb Waqfs.

Q.3 What are the key legislative changes and developments in the administration of Waqf properties in India through Waqf Act?

The Waqf Act, 1954 – Waqf has only been strengthened post-independence. The Waqf Act of 1954 passed provided a pathway toward the centralisation of Waqfs. Central Waqf Council of India, a statutory body was established in 1964 by the Government of India under this Waqf Act of 1954. This central body oversees the work under various state Waqf boards which were established under provisions of Section 9(1) of the Waqf Act, 1954.

The Waqf Act, 1995 – The Waqf Act was made even more favourable to Muslims in 1995, which made it an overriding law. The Waqf Act, 1995 was enacted to govern the administration of Waqf Properties (Religious Endowments) in India. It provides for the power and functions of the Waqf Council, the State Waqf Boards, and the Chief Executive Officer, and also the duties of mutawalli. This Act also describes the power and restrictions of a Waqf Tribunal that acts in lieu of a civil court under its jurisdiction. The Waqf Tribunals are deemed to be a civil court and required to exercise all the powers and functions exercised by a civil court under the Code of Civil Procedure, 1908. The decision of a Tribunal shall be final and binding on the parties. No suit or legal proceedings shall lie under any civil court. Thus, making the Waqf Tribunal decisions above any civil court.

Amendments in 2013 – Some provisions of the Act were amended in the year 2013 to make waqf management more efficient and transparent. However, during the course of implementation of the Act, it was felt that the Act did not prove effective in improving administration of Waqf.

The Waqf Repeal Bill, 2022 – For the purpose of achieving a more equitable arrangement and treatment of bodies such as waqf and other recognized religious

entities established under similar intent, the aforesaid Waqf Act, 1995 as amended was tabled in Rajya Sabha on December 8, 2023.

Q.4 Are the Waqf properties revocable?

No, since the ownership of the property is transferred to Allah from the waqif in the case of Waqf, and property cannot be taken back from Allah, once a property becomes Waqf, it will always stay Waqf, making it irrevocable. Once a property is declared waqf, it remains so forever. Examples include the Bengaluru Eidgah ground, claimed as waqf property since the 1850s. Similarly, the Surat Municipal Corporation building, claimed due to historical use as sarai during Hajj in the Mughal era.

Q.5 Do all the Islamic Countries have Waqf Properties?

No, not all the Islamic countries have Waqf properties. Islamic Countries such as Turkey, Libya, Egypt, Sudan, Lebanon, Syria, Jordan, Tunisia, and Iraq do not have Waqfs. However, in India, not only are Waqf Boards the largest urban landowners, but they also have an Act protecting them legally.

Q.6 How many properties does the Waqf Board control?

Wakf Boards currently control 8.7 lakh properties spanning 9.4 lakh acres across India with an estimated value of 1.2 lakh crores. India has the largest waqf holding in the World. Further, Waqf Board is the largest landowner in India after the Armed Forces and the Indian Railways.

7 How many Waqf Estates are registered under Waqf Board?

There are 356, 051 Waqf Estates registered under waqf Board.

Q.8 How many Immovable Properties are registered under Waqf Board?

There are 872,328 immovable properties registered under Waqf Board.

USA Describes India a country of PARTICULAR CONCERN (CPC) in religious freedom

October 19, 2024 | By Maati Maajra

(The US Commission on International Religious Freedom says” Religious freedom conditions in India are taking a drastic turn downward, with national and various state governments tolerating widespread harassment and violence against religious minorities. The BJP-led government enacted the Citizenship (Amendment) Act (CAA), which provides a fast track to Indian citizenship only for non-Muslim migrants from Afghanistan, Bangladesh, and Pakistan already residing in India. This potentially exposes millions of Muslims to detention, deportation and statelessness when the government completes its planned nationwide National Register of Citizens.)

India on Friday slammed the U.S. State Department’s report on International Religious Freedom for 2023 as “deeply biased” and said it reflected “one-sided projection of issues”. During the weekly press briefing, External Affairs Ministry spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said the report questioned the “integrity” of certain legal judgments of the Indian courts and highlighted the United States’s own record in handling domestic hate crimes.

The full report

I n 2023, religious freedom conditions in India continued to deteriorate. The government, led by the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), reinforced discriminatory nationalist policies, perpetuated hateful rhetoric, and failed to address communal violence disproportionately affecting Muslims, Christians, Sikhs, Dalits, Jews, and Adivasis (indigenous peoples). Continued enforcement of the Unlawful Activities Prevention Act (UAPA), Foreign Contribution Regulation Act (FCRA), Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA), and anti-conversion and cow slaughter laws resulted in the arbitrary detention, monitoring, and targeting of religious minorities and those advocating on their behalf. Both news media and nongovernmental organizations (NGOs) reporting on religious minorities were subjected to strict monitoring under FCRA regulations. In February 2023, India’s Ministry of Home Affairs suspended the FCRA license of the Centre for Policy Research, an NGO dedicated to reporting on social issues and state capacity, including discrimination against religious and ethnic minorities. Similarly, authorities raided the offices and homes of NewsClick journalists, including Teesta Setalvad for her reporting on anti-Muslim violence during the 2002 Gujarat riots. In 2023, NGOs reported 687 incidents of violence against Christians, who continued to be detained under various state-level anti-conversion laws. In January, Hindu mobs attacked Christians in Chhattisgarh in eastern India, destroying and vandalizing churches and attempting to “reconvert” individuals to Hinduism. An estimated 30 people were beaten for refusing to renounce their faith. The same month, two Christians were detained without bail, accused of forcibly converting individuals of Scheduled Tribes and Scheduled Castes. In June 2023, more than 500 churches and two synagogues were destroyed and over 70,000 people displaced during clashes in Manipur State. Home Minister Amit Shah received widespread criticism, including by United Nations (UN) experts, for his delayed response to the violence. Similarly, Prime Minister Narendra Modi faced a vote of no confidence for his administration’s lack of response to the ongoing conflict. In August, India’s Supreme Court called for an investigation of the violence, arguing that police had “lost control over the situation.” In December, the Indian Supreme Court upheld the government’s 2019 revocation of Article 370, dissolving special status and autonomy to the Muslim-majority state of Jammu and Kashmir. Indian authorities continued to detain and harass Kashmiri journalists, religious leaders, and human rights defenders. Journalist Irfan Mehraj was arrested in March for his reporting on marginalized religious minorities. Throughout the year, violence against Muslims and their places of worship continued. Several mosques were destroyed under police presence and vigilantes attacked Muslims under the guise of protecting cows from slaughter, deemed illegal in 18 states. In Haryana’s predominantly Muslim Nuh district, communal violence erupted following a Hindu procession in July, where participants carrying swords chanted anti-Muslim slogans. A Muslim tomb and mosque were torched, resulting in the death of at least seven individuals, including Imam Mohammad Hafiz. The violence was in part initiated by “Monu Manesar,” a well-known cow vigilante accused of murdering two Muslim men in January for allegedly transporting cattle. Manesar, who has garnered support from the BJP, publicly called for individuals to participate in the Hindu procession. The same day, an Indian railway guard killed three Muslim men inside a train to Mumbai. The perpetrator reportedly asked the victims their names, which indicated their religious identity, before killing them. Indian authorities also increasingly engaged in acts of transnational repression targeting religious minorities abroad. In September, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau alleged Indian authorities’ involvement in the killing of Sikh activist Hardeep Singh Nijjar in Canada, which was followed by a plot to kill Gurpatwant Singh Pannun in the United States in November

RECOMMENDATIONS TO THE U.S. GOVERNMENT

Designate India as a “country of particular concern,” or CPC, for engaging in systematic, ongoing, and egregious violations of religious freedom, as defined by the International Religious Freedom Act (IRFA);
Impose targeted sanctions on individuals and entities responsible for severe violations of religious freedom by freezing those individuals’ assets and/or barring their entry into the United States under human rights-related financial and visa authorities, citing specific religious freedom violations;
Incorporate religious freedom priorities into bilateral and multilateral forums and agreements, such as the ministerial of the Quadrilateral;
Encourage the U.S. Embassy and consulates to strengthen engagement with religious communities, local officials, and law enforcement and to facilitate meetings with prisoners of conscience and human rights defenders; and
Encourage review by the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) to ensure that international recommendations to prevent terrorist financing are not misused by Indian authorities to detain religious minorities and those advocating on their behalf. The U.S. Congress should:
Raise religious freedom and issues affecting religious minorities in India through hearings, briefings, letters, delegations, and other activities; and
Condition financial assistance and arms sales to India on improved religious freedom conditions and include measures for additional review and reporting.

https://www.uscirf.gov/sites/default/files/2024-05/India.pdf

Bulldozer Justice – Systematic assault on Human rights

October 11, 2024 | By Maati Maajra

New Delhi: Human rights activist and General Secretary of the Association for Protection of Civil Rights (APCR), Nadeem Khan, has described use of bulldozer to give instant justice in certain crime accused, in some part of the country are one of the punitive actions targeting the Muslims and other marginalized sections of people.

Mr Khan told a weekly address program at the Jamaat-e-Islami Hind (JIH) Headquarters in New Delhi on bulldozer injustice and legal implications, which has become the new normal for the demolition of property of accused in any matter for some section of people.

The Concept of Bulldozer (In)justice

Khan explained the term bulldozer justice as the state’s attempt to punish the alleged offenders through demolition without following due legal process. Bulldozer Injustice has become a tool for the government to instill fear within marginalised communities, particularly Muslims, in the wake of communal violence and political upheaval.

Context

Khan traced Bulldozer injustice to Israeli policies in Palestine, which he argued only provided a blueprint for punitive demolitions in India. He said that the practice in question picked up after the emergence of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in 2017 and has marked a considerable rise since then. “We hardly saw demolitions being used in this manner before this,” Khan said, marking the shift in governmental policy.

Bulldozer Justice — Nadeem Khan addresses the audience at Jamaat-e-Islami Hind Headquarters, discussing the implications of bulldozer Injustice on marginalised communities.

Disproportionate Impact on Muslim Communities

Patterns of Targeting

Khan provided evidence showing that demolitions mainly targeted the Muslim community. He pointed out incidents in which they destroyed the properties of the accused without any legal proceedings against their owners. “This has nothing to do with law and order; it is a selective punishment targeting Muslims,” he asserted.

Examples of Demolitions

Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, and Rajasthan: Khan explained how the states of Gujarat and Madhya Pradesh have experienced repeated razing after cases of communal violence. He highlighted how politicians’ inflammatory speeches caused riots and the subsequent razing of properties, such as in Saharanpur and Kanpur.

Government Housing Schemes: Khan noted that even demolitions that have taken place in the last few years targeted houses constructed under the government’s housing schemes. He noted that even the demolitions that took place did not ensure sufficient notice and fair hearing of the residents whose rights were violated.

Legal Issues: He highlighted the alarming trend in judicial response to these demolitions. “The Supreme Court frequently declines petitions challenging such actions and sends them back to hostile local high courts,” he argued. This lack of judicial oversight has contributed to the impunity culture in demolitions; for example, demolitions in people’s places go on without anyone being held accountable.

Khan has given more examples in high courts to illustrate the slow movement of cases in the judicial realms. He mentioned the case of Javed Muhammad, whose house had been demolished two years ago without a hearing. This delay in judicial rulings represents an issue within the legal framework of property rights and demolitions.

Demand for Legal Reforms

Khan emphasized the need for decisive guidelines over the demolition processes. “We need a minimum notice period and oversight by judicial officers to prevent arbitrary actions,” Khan said. A proper framework, he urged, would help curb some of the punitive nature of these demolitions and governmental overreach.

Recommendations for Reform

Minimum Notice Period: Khan demanded a minimum notice period before any demolition began, wherein the affected party was given a reasonable time to argue and litigate the matter in law courts.

Judicial Control: He recommended that a judicial officer be appointed to handle demolition proceedings with the intent of upholding all legal procedures.

Transparent Process: The demand for a transparent process is a reminder that will help people regain confidence in the system so that demolitions should be fair and unbiased.

Impacts on the socio-system

According to Khan, demolitions have broader implications for communal harmony in India. Targeting specific communities does not promote social cohesion, but creates resentment; these are haunting words from the newly appointed head of the MCD. “We should build a society where justice reigns through faith, irrespective of faith,” he urged.

Activism

Khan emphasised collective action in the defence of civil rights among all those organisations as well as others. In his closing remarks, Khan emphasized the need for the current legal system to respond with sufficient vigour to guarantee that the victims’ receive justice. “We should hold the state responsible for its actions,” he concluded.

Christians seek ouster of Indian lawmaker for anti-Jesus remarks

October 04, 2024 | By Maati Maajra

Chhattisgarh state assembly member, Raimuni Bhagat, is accused of trying to create a rift between tribal people

Christians have sought the disqualification of a lawmaker who allegedly insulted Christ to create a rift between tribal people in a central Indian state where a harsher anti-conversion law will soon come into force.

During a public meeting last month, Raimuni Bhagat, who represents the Jashpur constituency in the Chhattisgarh state assembly, caused outrage when she asked the gathering how they could expect Jesus to solve their problems if he could not remove the nails from his cross.

“We condemn the objectionable statement by Raimuni Bhagat,” Arun Pannalal, president of Chhattisgarh’s Christian Forum, told UCA News on Oct. 6.

Pannalal said the forum handed a petition to the Jashpur district collector on Oct. 5, calling on Governor Remen Deka to eject Bhagat from the assembly in Chhattisgarh, ruled by the pro-Hindu Bharatiya Janata Party of Prime Minister Narendra Mod of which Bhagat is a member.

Pannalal said Chief Minister Vishnudev Sai’s failure to condemn Bhagat shows that she enjoys the patronage of the state government which is accused of dividing tribal people in the name of religion.

Her statement was a “planned move to create unrest,” in the state, Pannalal added.

On Oct. 3, 11 Christian organizations came together to form a 130-kilometer human chain in the state to seek disqualification of Bhagat for the controversial statement she uttered on Sept. 1.

“Christ was nailed to the cross…he couldn’t remove the nails. How do you expect Christ will remove your problems?” Bhagat told the public meeting.

She also accused Christian missionaries of conducting illegal religious conversions in the state.

After her jibe went viral on social media, complaints were lodged at police stations on Sept. 10. However, no action has been initiated, Pannalal said.

We will soon approach the Indian President and the Supreme Court, “if there is no action taken against Bhagat soon,” by the governor, the constitutional head in the state, he added.

In the petition, the forum alleged Bhagat’s controversial remarks had disrupted communal harmony in the state.

The remarks were against the spirit of the constitution, Pannalal noted.

Christians in Chhattisgarh make up less than 2 percent of its 30 million people and indigenous people account for 30 percent. India’s constitution lists tribal people as Hindus, a practice started by colonial Britain.

On March 1, the right-wing state government proposed a new anti-conversion bill with provisions for harsher punishments.

According to the bill, religious conversion through abuse of power, coercion, undue influence, incitement, fraudulent means, or through marriage would be considered illegal.

Conversion through allurement is a punishable offense under the existing Chhattisgarh Freedom of Religion Act, 2003.

The New Delhi-based United Christian Forum (UCF), an ecumenical body that records Christian persecution across the country, recorded 148 incidents of violence against Christians in Chhattisgarh in 2023.

The state holds the dubious record of being top among 28 Indian states regarding anti-Christian violence, according to the UCF.

The state witnessed a severe economic and social boycott of Christians in December 2022 when tribal Christians alleged that they were pressured to leave their religion.

Those Christians who refused to comply with the order of tribal Hindu groups, backed by the ruling party, were beaten up, their homes vandalized, and their crops destroyed.

According to a fact-finding team’s report, thousands of Christians were forced to flee their homes in Kondgaon and Narayanpur districts and seek shelter in neighboring districts.

Christian rights activist, Sunil Minj, said Bhagat was trying to create a rift between tribal Hindus and tribal Christians “which is dangerous.”

Minj said Bhagat’s allegations of religious conversion were baseless.

https://www.ucanews.com/news/christians-seek-ouster-of-indian-lawmaker-for-anti-jesus-remarks/106630?utm_source=newsletter&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=UCAN+Directory+08+Oct+2024+(Copy+1)&cmid=de565cde-4d52-4bbb-9e3f-7e5df9c40d8b

Bangladesh – Racial profiling of Hindu officers, UN urged to intervene

October 01, 2024 | By Maati Maajra

The Rights and Risks Analysis Group (RRAG) today sought intervention of the United Nations Special Rapporteur on contemporary forms of racism, Special Rapporteur on freedom of religion or belief and Special Rapporteur on Minority Issues with the Caretaker government of Bangladesh against racial profiling of the Hindu officers of the Government of Bangladesh.

In an order dated 29 August 2024, the Ministry of Cotton and Jute, Government of Bangladesh directed various departments and institutions under it to provide the list of Joint Secretary level Hindus officers by 2^nd September 2024. The order was issued by the Ministry of Cotton and Jute pursuant to the direction of the Personnel department of the President of Bangladesh on 27 August 2024 to all Ministries and autonomous institutions.

“Seeking the list of only Hindu officers by the President of Bangladesh is nothing but an act of racial profiling of the Hindus by the Government of Bangladesh for the purpose of specific targeting of minorities based on their religious belief. There is a genuine fear that senior officers belonging to the Hindu minorities will be targeted and they have been effectively silenced. This violates the UN human rights laws relating to racial discrimination and the rights of the minorities and a fit case for the UN Rapporteurs to intervene.”- stated Mr Suhas Chakma, Director of the Rights and Risks Analysis Group.

Madrasa background student Dr. Moinuddin became an agricultural scientist

April 20, 2024 | By Irshad Saqafi

Education is universally recognized as the key to progress, prosperity, and success. Decision makers across the spectrum have identified the solution to problems like extremism, poverty, and unemployment is also in education. When people living in the backward and rural areas expose themselves to education, then individual and social avenues open for them too. An educated person fulfills his aspirations of life, be it jobs or social status. One such life story due to education is about Dr. Moinuddin who started his studies in Madrasa and has now become an agricultural scientist.

Dr. Moinuddin was born in Ambedkar Nagar, Jalalpur town, Uttar Pradesh. He received primary education in Madrasa Nida Haq of the town. After that, he continued his educational journey keeping his goal in mind. And finally, he did Ph.D. Got the degree. He currently holds the post of Associate Professor in the Department of Agricultural Sciences, at Sri Guru Ram Rai University.

Dr. Moinuddin says that life was very difficult during his studies and his journey of education has not been easy. He says that when he was studying at NPG College Barhalganj, run by Deen Dayal Upadhyay Gorakhpur University, I had to face many difficulties. They say that I was not getting a house on rent there. Wherever I went for housing, I was met with refusal everywhere, and finally, I had to live in the Bhimsawa ashram for two years. After two years a Hindu family gave me a house on rent.

Dr. Moinuddin faced many difficulties in his way, but he never gave up. And keep moving forward by focusing your full attention on your studies because he knew very well that without education it is impossible to become anything in life. They say that if you want to create strength within you, then your priority should be good education and for this, whatever resources are available to you, you should pursue them to achieve your set goals.

Dr. Moinuddin obtained his PhD from Sam Higginbottom Institute of Agriculture, Technology, and Sciences, Allahabad on the topic “Effect of different organic sources of nitrogen on growth, yield and oil content of groundnut”. There he has also presented his thesis in MSc on the topic ‘Growth and yield behavior of mustard under different sowing methods and sulfur levels’. Presently he has vast experience in the agriculture sector. And he is working in the field of Agricultural Scientist.

Dr. Moinuddin has taken the path of teaching along with his research. He first served as Assistant Professor and Head of the Department of Agriculture at Maya College of Agriculture Science and Technology, Dehradun, Uttarakhand from 7 September 2013 to 16 February 2016. He then served as Head of the Department of Agriculture, Doon from 22 February 2016 to 8 December 2016. Worked as Assistant Professor and Head of the Department of Agriculture at the College of Agriculture and Technology, Dehradun, Uttarakhand.

After this, he joined the Agriculture Department, Tula Institute, Dholkot, Dehradun, Uttarakhand. Here he held the position of Assistant Professor and Head from 9 December 2016 to 19 August 2017. Then he was appointed at Global University Saharanpur. Here he worked as an Assistant Professor and Head of the Department of Agriculture from 21 August 2017 to 26 November 2020. Presently he has been working as an Associate Professor in the School of Agricultural Sciences, Sri Guru Ram Rai University, Dehradun Uttarakhand since 27 November 2020.

Dr. Moinuddin has left a mark on the hearts and minds of people with his educational qualifications, talent, and research. This is the reason why he has received many national and international awards at such a young age. He was awarded the Young Scientist Award for the first time by Bioweed Research Institute of Agriculture and Technology, Allahabad, Uttar Pradesh on the occasion of the “15th Indian Agricultural Scientists and Farmers Congress” at Allahabad University from 22-24 February 2013.

He was presented from 16-18 June 2019 on the occasion of the 3rd International Conference on “Global Initiatives in Agriculture and Applied Science for Green Environment”.

He was awarded the Best Agricultural Scientist Award at Shobhat Deemed University, Meerut, Uttar Pradesh on 26-28 February 2021 on the occasion of the 4th International Conference on Global Perspectives in Climate Smart Agriculture Natural Resource Management during Corona Pandemic. He was awarded the Outstanding Scientist Award at the Institute of Forestry, Tribhuvan University, Pokhara, Nepal on 17-19 September 2022 on the occasion of the 4th International Conference on Global Efforts on Agriculture, Forest, Environment and Food Security.

On receiving these awards, Dr. Moinuddin says that the respect I have received from people at such a young age. I can not explain it. Today if I am considered worthy, it is because of my education. Education is such a thing that can lift anyone from the ground to the sky. Everything was not easy for me when I was getting my education. Rather often have to face adverse environments. But I completed my studies. And today this education made everything suitable for me. And the things which were impossible for me to achieve have become possible today.

Dr. Moinuddin is also a life member of the Indian Society of Agronomy, Agronomy Division, Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi. He is also an active member of the Society of Agronomy, Department of Agriculture, Sam Higginbottom Institute of Agriculture, Technology and Sciences, Allahabad. And also an active life member of the Agricultural Technology Development Society, Ghaziabad, Uttar Pradesh.

Dr. Moinuddin is not only associated with teaching and research. Rather, they also keep attending national and international conferences. There they are also called teachers in workshops to impart training. He has so far attended dozens of national and international conferences.

The International Conference on “Global Perspectives in Agricultural and Applied Science for Food and Environmental Security (GAAFES)” was organized by the Society for Agricultural and Environmental Technology Development, US Nagarital on December 1-2, 2019. In which he participated as co-convenor, agriculture and environment

Apart from this, he has attended many FDPs/Training/Workshops to date. In 2010, he attended training on Agricultural Economics and Agribusiness Management organized by Sam Higginbottom Institute of Agriculture, Technology and Sciences, Allahabad, and the Indian Institute of Technology, Kanpur. Whereas, a workshop was organized from 10-19 October 2019 at ICAR-NRCL, organized by the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) New Delhi for advanced plant protection equipment for safe fruit production in which he participated. Abiotic Stress Management of Horticulture Crops organized by SKUAST, Kashmir from 11-17 September 2020; A workshop was organized on the important issue of food and nutrition security under challenging environmental conditions. He also attended the Workshop on Climate Risk Assessment and Management through Agro-Meteorological Approach organized by the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) New Delhi from 21-30 October 2020.

Dr. Moinuddin has participated in several important seminars, and conferences including the National Seminar on “Livelihood Generation in Hill Statistics of India based on Agriculture and Allied Sectors” organized by Uttaranchal (P.G.) College of Technology and Biomedical Sciences, Dehradun, UK in 2014.

Dr. Moinuddin gives a message to the youth to recognize the value of time and avoid wasting it, always be in good company, which will lead you towards progress. Because if you don’t value time, you will be left behind.

They say among Muslims that education is a great blessing of Allah . For which every youth struggles. Education is the only thing that can make a person move forward. Based on this education, man can struggle to build a peaceful society.

He says that the tragedy of today’s era is that the youth is not able to differentiate between right and wrong. He doesn’t know what I’m doing. And what should I do? While every person knows that the youth is of great importance in the progress of the nation, if there is corruption in them, then that nation cannot be good and if the youth deteriorates, it can prove to be dangerous for the whole country and society. He says that the youth should not waste their time, but invest it in education, and serve their community and country.

‘Plan Pasmanda’ doesn’t work, Muslims vote as one community

April 02, 2024 | By Siraj Ali Quadri

The politics of wooing Pasmanda sections among Muslims has its limits. While the BJP has popularly launched its “Muslim outreach” policy to attract support of such groups, other parties are also promoting leaders from such groups to gain their votes. However, voting in recent and past elections confirm that Pasmanda don’t vote separately from their parent community.

Pasmanda Who?

The word Pasmanda is derived from Persian and it means “left behind”. According to the leaders of the Pasmanda Muslims, these sections make for 85% of the total Muslims in the country.

Even as they are in the majority, the Pasmanda Muslim community groups are socially and economically backward. They include Dalit (Arzals) and backward Muslim (Ajlafs) population. The rest, 15% Muslims, are considered upper class or Ashrafs.

The castes within Pasmanda Muslims are generally decided by their profession. Among the Pasmandas are Malik (Teli), Momin Ansar (weavers), Qureshi (butchers), Mansoori (those who make quilts and mattresses), Idrisi (tailors), Saifi (iron smith), Salmani (barbers) and Hawari (washermen).

BJP’s Outreach

Muslims from the Pasmanda community have alleged that Ashrafs or higher class Muslims have historically discriminated against them. The fact that Pasmanda Muslims are less affluent than upper-class Muslims may be the motivation behind PM Modi’s desire to connect with them. Despite having varied occupations, Pasmanda Muslims’ financial situation largely stays steady.

The BJP has appointed Danish Ansari, a member of the Pasmanda Muslim community, a minister in the Uttar Pradesh Cabinet rather than feudal Mohsin Raza, demonstrating its desire to care for Pasmanda uplift.

Additionally, some BJP MPs and MLAs have started organising “sneh yatras” (affection rallies) to create acceptance among the Pasmanada sections. In these rallies, these social groups are asked to take advantage of government’s schemes specifically launched for them. And if some government claims are to be trusted, Pasmanadas are major beneficiaries of such schemes.

The BJP strategists believe that the welfare schemes of the Modi government such as Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana, Ujjwala Yojana, Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi, Ayushman Bharat, Pradhan Mantri Jeevan Suraksha Yojana, etc., will be most effective in connecting the Pasmanda community with the party.

Pattern of Pasmanda Politics

Keeping in mind the general elections of 2024, new political equations are being introduced involving Pasmanda Muslims. Will the 2024 general election put an end to the politics of the Muslim vote bank and theocratic hysteria, as the separation of Pasmanda will destroy the ability of Muslims to influence elections as a block?

In a revealing answer to this question, the analysis of voting patterns of Muslims, Pasmanda naturally included, says that they haven’t favoured any particular party based on their social group affiliation. They have voted as part of the Muslim community. Only traction of their votes are said to have veered away from this trend.

Even contrary to claims like some Pasmanda groups voted for BJP in 2022 Rampur and Azamgarh Lok Sabha bypolls, the ground realities convey an entirely different story. BJP registered victories in these two seats with a very short margin. If the Pasmanda Muslim community had contributed to their victory, the margin would have been much higher. In fact, the BJP even conceded that these seats had a three-party fight and it benefitted the party.

It is true that the BJP gets some votes from Muslim community here and there. Some Shia and Dawoodi Bohra Muslims are also reported to be voting for the BJP in some pockets regularly.

Now take the case of much-hyped UP Assembly polls in 2022. According to several election-specific websites, the Muslims there were content with many of the Yogi government’s plans. On the basis of that, they had even indicated a desire to support the BJP. But if you look at the election results, you’ll discover that the Muslim community finally did cast their votes as a bloc and supported the Samajwadi Party. Some votes certainly went to Bahujan Samaj Party too. For context, the Pasmanda Muslim population in Uttar Pradesh is above 3.5 crore and they make for the biggest voting bloc in the country.

Another glaring example is recent municipal elections in Delhi. BJP had fielded around four Muslims for councilor posts. All of them bit dust, shattering the saffron party’s “Plan Pasmanada.” Muslims in fact voted in herds for Congress’ Muslim candidates in every area where they are living as a community like in Okhla, North-east Delhi, Munirka and the Walled City.

Most recent example is assembly elections in Karnataka. There, two parties were claimants of Muslim votes – Congress and JDS. Muslims voted in hordes for the Congress and now around 12 of them are MLAs, out of them at least half are Pasmanda.

Case of Bihar, Epicentre of Pasmanda Awareness

In Bihar, Muslims have been voting majorly for Lalu Prasad Yada’s RJD in recent years. When the JDU-BJP alliance was created in Bihar in 2005 under Nitish Kumar’s leadership, the Pasmanda card was used to sway voters. More than 1.5 crore Pasmanda Muslims live in Bihar. Ali Anwar, a popular Pasmanda community leader, was sent to the Rajya Sabha by the JDU.

Kumar’s Pasmanada card paid dividends in the 2010 Assembly polls. Due to the split of Pasmanda votes, JDU was able to score exceptionally well in those seats where Muslim votes are crucial. Lalu Yadav’s RJD was defeated in those elections as a result of the Muslim-Yadav vote’s divide. But, even in those elections, Pasmanda voted for opposition parties where the JDU-BJP alliance had put up a BJP candidate.

The entire Muslim votebank supported Nitish Kumar and Lalu Prasad Yadav in the 2015 elections, which they ran in tandem. That indicates that even though a portion of the Pasmanda population joined Nitish’s JDU as a result of the NDA’s benefits, that group never really supported the BJP. Even the Pasmanda leader Ali Anwar walked away in 2017 when JDU and RJD split for the sake of Muslim unity. Later, the community supported the RJD in the 2020 elections. That implies that not even Nitish Kumar’s political gain was long-lasting. When the advantages of government programmes were still new, they cast their ballots as “Pasmanda,” but in later elections, they did so as “Muslims.”

In upcoming elections, be it Assembly polls and Lok Sabha elections, the pattern of Pasmanda politics is likely to remain the same. They will assert their position and seek equality, but they will stand by their community.

Mosques turn into spiritual magnificence during Ramadan

April 01, 2024 | By Dr. Shujaat Ali Quadri

Mosques in Islam don’t represent Muslim only religiosity, they are also exquisite centres of culture, architectural exhibition and sometimes also representative of state writ. Thousands of historical masjids (mosques) are scattered around the world and they come to life especially during the holy month of Ramadan. They are well decorated for devotees and visitors and remain points of attraction and activities throughout the month. During the month of Ramadan, mosques, with their beauty and brimming spirituality, are the best place to spend some time and soak in the devotion that flows in the premises. Devotees and pilgrims offer prayers to Allah and seek forgiveness, prosperity and rewards. The magnificent architecture and aesthetics put them high on the places-to-see list of devout Muslims, travellers, architects, and historians, among others.

Here is a look at some of world’s most famous and grandest mosques:

Masjid Al-Haram, Saudi Arabia

Also known as the Grand Mosque, Masjid Al-Haram is one of the most important masjids in Islam. It is the largest masjid in the world, with a capacity to hold up to four million worshippers during Ramadan. The masjid is home to the Kaaba, the holiest site in Islam, and its history dates back to the time of Prophet Ibrahim.

Spread over an area of 400,800 sqm, the Al-Haram mosque is not just the largest Islamic shrine but prettiest among the most beautiful mosques in the world. It is one of the most prominent places of worship globally, visited annually by millions of people for Hajj and Umrah rituals. It is mentioned in the holy book of the Quran as the first place built for worshipping Allah. It is also known as the forbidden mosque as fighting is forbidden in its vicinity. It has other significant sites in Islam, such as Maqam Ibrahim and Zamzam well. The hills of Safa and Marwa are also situated within the premises of the mosque. Since it was built, Al-Haram or the forbidden mosque is continuously expanding to accommodate more and more pilgrims.

Masjid al-Nabawi, Saudi Arabia

Masjid al Nabawi is the second holiest mosque in Islam, the second largest mosque in the world after the Masjid al-Haram in Mecca. It is the resting place of the Prophet Muhammad. It was built by the Prophet himself, next to the house where he settled after his migration to Medina in 622 AD. It was an open air building with a raised platform for the reading of the Quran. The mosque has been extended over the years, the latest being in the mid 1990s. One of the most notable features of the site is the green dome over the centre of the mosque, where the tomb of Prophet Muhammad and early Islamic caliphs Abu Bakr and Umar are located.

Al-Aqsa Mosque, Jerusalem, Palestine

Al-Aqsa Mosque, meaning “the farthest mosque” or “extreme mosque”, is the mosque, according to the Quran, to which Prophet Muhammad (SAW) arrived on his night journey riding his miraculous animal “Al-Burak” from Mecca. According to believers, this is where he ascended to heaven with the angel Gabriel after leaving his footprint on the stone. The mosque can accommodate about 5,000 worshippers. Al-Aqsa Mosque, which has the structure of a Byzantine basilica, has undergone many transformations, demolitions, and renovations. Initially, it was built of wood by Caliph Umar, and only after a few years, it was made of stone by the fifth successor to the Umayyad house, Abd al-Malek. It is built of several architectural styles combined. The exact date of its establishment is unknown, but it was built to serve as a place of prayer for many Muslim pilgrims, and it is estimated that it has existed for over 1,500 years. During the month of Ramadan, it comes to boisterous life as Palestinians throng to clean and attend prayers in its compound. Almost every year, Israeli forces cordon off and resort to firing to dissuade praying Palestinians and the site turns into the epicentre of violent clashes.

The Hagia Sophia, Istanbul

The Hagia Sophia mosque is a must-visit site for all Muslims not only for its unparalleled beauty but for its significant history. One of the most beautiful mosques in the world, this sacred place is a surviving example of Byzantine architecture. It was originally built as a Christian church, however during Ottoman rule (1453-1935), it was converted into a mosque. The building shows the religious transformations that the mosque has seen in the past. It has long minarets and inscriptions in Arabic relating to the Muslim culture while the beautiful mosaics tell about the storied Christians past.

Sultan Ahmed Mosque or Blue Mosque, Istanbul

Also known as Blue Mosque because of the Blue Iznik tiles that adorn its interiors, Sultan Ahmed Mosque is an awe-inspiring sight. The mosque dates back to the 17th century when it was constructed under the rule of Ahmed I. This structure featuring six high-rising minarets and five main domes is believed to be the last great mosque of the classical era.

Jama Masjid, Delhi

Located in New Delhi, Jama Masjid that was built by the Mughal emperor Shah Jahan between 1650 and 1656 is the largest mosque in India. This place of worship has a capacity for allowing 25,000 worshippers and is made from red sandstone and white marble. Featuring Indo-Islamic architecture, the mosque has three domes, two minarets, and three gates and is deserving of a spot in the top 10 most beautiful mosques in the world. The mosque’s architecture is inspired from the hindi and jain religion spread as the majority in the country. It was completed by around 5000 labourers working day and night to build the mosque at 1 million rupees at that time. The month of Ramadan is very special in the mosque and the area surrounding it. With devotees opening fasts in the mosque premises, the area brims with activities and culinary aroma fills the whole Old Delhi. Even those who do not fast descend to the place to taste the spiritual ambience that remains alive the whole night.

Nasir al-Mulk or Pink Mosque, Shiraz, Iran

Nicknamed the Pink Mosque, Nasir al-Mulk Mosque is located in Iran’s old city of Shiraz. It was built during the Qajar period (1789-1925) by the order of Mirza Hassan Ali Khan Nasir al-Mulk, the son of one of the Persian rulers of the period.

The incredible play of dazzling lights streaming in through the stained glass windows welcome guests into a kaleidoscope of colours right from the beginning. Try visiting early in the morning to witness this incredible show of lights and colours in shades of red, azure, yellow, orange and green.

The entrance porch is covered in colourful tiles in shades of blue, yellow, pink, azure and white. When coupled with the grand wooden door of the facade, it makes up for an entrance like no other. Another unique feature of this marvellous architecture is the two shabestan (an underground space that can be usually found in the traditional architecture of mosques) on the eastern and western sides.

The western shabestan is connected to the beautiful courtyard of the mosque by seven wooden gates. These doors wear the art of Gereh Chini (Trelliswork) and pieces of coloured glass.

Bibi-Khanym Mosque, Uzbekistan

The great mosque is an architectural beauty in the ancient city of Samarkand. Built between 1399 and 1404, the mosque is named after Mongol leader Timur’s wife. The construction began after Timur’s successful campaign in India.

The mosque was designed to be a sight of beauty and grandeur such that it would eclipse all other sites that Timur had ever seen. With such an ambition, hundreds of architects, craftsmen, artists and artisans from all over the East were brought in for the construction of the building.

Measuring about 130 x 102 square metres, the mosque can hold over 10,000 people at a time. On the western side of the courtyard is the main mosque, or jami, while many smaller mosques lace the northern and southern ends.

Decorated with marble tiles, this courtyard itself is a beauty to behold. The entrance is decorated as a high portal with two round minarets of 50 metres in height each. The facade of the mosque is lined with a grand portal and two minarets. The walls wear glazed bricks with large Arabic letters. The impeccable blue domes make the mosque one of the most stunning examples of the Persian style of architecture in the world.

Crystal Mosque, Malaysia

Sitting majestically in Kuala Terengganu’s Wan Man Island, the Crystal Mosque is a unique example of futuristic modern style and elegance. Built in 2008, the mosque structure is coated with steel, glass and crystal. It is the first mosque in the world to have solar panels, WiFi connection and electronic Qurans.

The surrounding waters seem to be the muse for the mosque’s exterior as the steel and glass shimmer and reflect the river it overlooks. The sleek and modern appearance gets even more heightened when the building is illuminated from within in the evening., turning the place into a dazzling spectacle. One of the excellent examples of modern-day architecture, the mosque is sure to turn heads with its intricately decorated interiors.

The Crystal Mosque in Malaysia also displays replicas of other famous mosques such as the Taj Mahal, Masjid al-Haram, Aleppo Citadel and Al-Hambra Mosque. As part of the Islamic Heritage Park the mosque and its surroundings often become the choicest location for photoshoots.

Putra Mosque, Malaysia

Located in Putrajaya, Malaysia’s administrative capital, Putra Mosque is a modern masjid that blends traditional and contemporary elements. Its design is inspired by Iranian architecture, with a pink granite facade and a stunning blue dome. The masjid is also surrounded by a beautiful man-made lake.

Masjid Sultan, Singapore

Masjid Sultan is a historic masjid located in Singapore’s Arab Street district. It was built in the mid-1800s and features a beautiful blend of Arab, Islamic, and European architectural styles. The masjid is known for its stunning golden dome and intricate tile work.

Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, UAE

The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi is a stunning example of modern Islamic architecture. With 82 gleaming white domes, several beautiful hand-knotted carpets, and many Swarovski-covered chandeliers, Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque definitely deserves a spot among the most beautiful mosques in the world. It is an architectural marvel with a capacity for allowing more than 40,000 worshippers at one time. Also, it has a pool that reflects the mosque columns and looks charming during the night time. The mosque has 1096 columns embedded with amethyst and jasper. Further, it has the prized owner of Guinness Book of World Records for housing the largest hand woven carpet. The mosque has calligraphic writings on the walls and arches encouraging the Muslims to maintain patience and spread peace.

Umayyad Mosque in Damascus, Syria

The beautiful mosque that has stood the test of times since it was completed over 1000 years ago in 715. It features three high-rising domes and a large courtyard where several Muslims gather every day to offer prayers. Interestingly, the mosque is believed to have a shrine that holds the head of John Baptist, a Jewish itinerant preacher from the early 1st century AD, also known as Prophet John (Yaḥya) in Islam.

Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque in Muscat, Oman

Designed to accommodate up to 20,000 worshippers, Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque in Oman is a beautiful place of worship. It was opened in 2001 and was built to celebrate 30 years of rule by Qaboos bin Said Al Said, the Sultan of Oman. The mosque features five minarets representing five pillars of Islam and has colourful mosaic patterns and fine crystal work that make it one of the most beautiful mosques in the world.

Islamic Centre Mosque in Rijeka, Croatia

This mosque is a beautiful amalgamation of contemporary and traditional Islamic art. Featuring curved geometric shapes and patterns, the mosque has a uniquely styled dome, shaped in five separate parts that visually make a single object. The Islamic Centre Mosque was designed by the well-known Croatian sculptor, Dusan Dzamonja. A popular tourist site today, the mosque was built as a result of years-old aspiration of the Islamic community of Rijeka to have a dedicated space for offering prayers.

Ramadan: Fasting and feasting, an annual chance to reset life amid divine connect…..

March 06, 2024 | By Maleeha Akhter & Asim Kidwai

Ramadan is the most delightful time of the year for the Muslims! As always, this blessed month of fasting, mercy, and forgiveness provides a believer with an annual chance to reset life. With the rituals of fasting, prayer, Quran recitation, and remembrance, the month also brings moment of festivity for the community. Food is something which makes this holy month equally blissful, for, not only the timing of food is altered but also the varieties which represents the tradition which keeps pace with the specific requirement of body during the long hours of fasting.

Ramadhaan fast, feasting and that market buzz…

Although Ramadan is more of an observance than a celebration as Muslims fast the entire day for a month,yetprofusion of food flavours erupt at differentparts of India giving a full festive look to Mohallahs and cities for whole month. Over-night market buzz, specially in the old locales of the cities, represents the whole tradition of food and gastronomical culture restored through centuries.

Bustling markets, street decorations, and iftar invitations are essential parts when it comes to the holy month of Ramdan. Thirty days of fasting, dawn till sunrise, have since forever brought a mystical feel to this most important month in Islamic calendar.

Old Dehi’sJama Masjid environs, Mumbai’s Mohammed Ali-Bhindi Bazaar Area, Hyderabad’s Old City Area, Kolkata’s Zakaria Street, Chennai’s Triplicane, Bangalore’s MM Road-Mosque Road, Lucknow’sChowk&Aminabadburst with flavors for whole month.

Muslims wake up before sunrise to eat something. This meal is called Sohoor or Sehri and it has foods like dates, milk, etc. to help them survive the day without food. They aren’t allowed to drink water during the day. The fast ends every day in the evening after sunset. This meal is called Iftar.

Iftaar….. Dastarkhaan of food traditions

Iftar, the food which breaks the long fast is not only the most important food of the day but also the most elaborate and intricately planned. Dastarkhaan, literally, the food-spread, is a representation of the variety, not only for the palate but for the soul but most important for making up the loss of long abstinence of water and food.

This is typically a grand affair and includes a variety of dishes that are both delicious and nutritious. Dates are considered an ideal food to break the fast as they are rich in nutrients and provide instant energy to the body. Other than that, dishes include samosas, biryani and haleem amongst other yummy foods that are usually included in the typical Iftar meal. Special sweet dishes are also prepared during Ramadan in India and are shared with family and friends. Sheer khurma made with vermicelli, milk, and dates, is a popular sweet dish served during Ramadan and Phirni, a rice pudding flavored with cardamom and saffron, is another favorite dessert that is enjoyed during this holy month.

Iftar is also the time when families and communities come together to break their fast. Iftar parties are another thing keenly looked forward to where family and friends meet and feast together. The food is an elaborate affairs at these parties including different kinds of Pakode, biryani, kebabs, haleem, shorbas and much more. For non-Muslims too these Iftar parties becomes an annual ritual of not only meet friends but also an opportunity to grab that bite of favourite food laden with traditional touch.

In addition to the iftar meal Sehri is eaten before dawn and is a light meal that provides energy for the day ahead. It usually consists of foods that are rich in complex carbohydrates and protein, such as eggs, bread, and yogurt.

Places like Lucknow, old Delhi and Hyderabad, which represents the rich history of royal families of India, have meticulously retained the traditions of food through centuries. During Ramazaan, streets and by-lanes of these cities represents how the history and the culture can be retained through food as well.

People mostly prefer Naharikulcha , Seekh kebabs and biryani along with some other foods which are exclusively prepared and served in the month of Ramadan that is Khicda- A meat dish prepared with the lentils soaked for overnight, Another dish is Lacche- It is a baked vermicilli soaked overnight in milk people usually prefer to eat it in sehri and its quite nutritious lastly Pink tea usually called Kashmiri chai (tea) which is serve with thick layered of malai (cream) is quite popular during the month of Ramadan. And it is served all night .

Popular Ramzan foods

Haleem – “Haleem” is one of the favourite dishes ofRamadan food in India. It is a scrumptious mutton preparation slow-cooked along with lentils, broken wheat, and spices. This dish is usually prepared for ‘Iftar’ due to its high nutritional value, revitalizing nature, and comforting porridge-like texture.

Dum Biryani – This dish is prepared in most of Muslim home and in every non-vegetarian restaurant during Ramzan. It is made with basmati rice, mutton, and spices. Mixed with the richness of ghee and saffron this dish is deliberately designed to win hearts.
Mutton or chicken is commonly used to prepare Dum Biryani, however, other variations use chicken instead of goat, depending on the preference of flavour and taste.

Kebabs – During this holy month, kebabs are made in almost every Muslim household kitchen. To prepare this dish, chunks of chicken or mutton are marinated in a unique preparation of yogurt and spices, for a more distinct flavor. Aromatic and appetizing this dish is impossible for any true non-vegetarian to resist.

Chicken Shawarma – Shawarma is a popular middle-east dish prepared during Ramzan. It is nothing but, thinly sliced chicken or mutton, wrapped in a pita bread with veggies and sauce. Lip smacking and delicious, Shawarma is an all-time favorite, of all food lovers.

Kheema Samosa – Kheema samosa or minced meat samosa is a must have during Ramzan. No ‘Iftar’ celebration is complete without this snack.Kheema samosas are crispy from outside and moist from within. The outer layer is made with all-purpose flour or whole wheat flour, whereas the filling has everything that Indian taste buds would crave for – hot, spicy and zesty.

Sheer Khurma – Sheer Khurma is a rich Mughlai dessert made during Ramzan. Where ‘Sheer’ stands for milk and ‘Khurma’ stands for dates. The texture and sweetness of this dessert is so unique, that it prides to have many foodie fans during the holy month.

RoohAfza – RoohAfza is a common sharbat prepared during Ramzan. It includes herbs, fruits, veggies, flowers, and roots. It’s brilliant fragrance, special flavor and cooling effect make it unique and special from the other drinks.

The month of Ramadan spells out a powerful and spiritual time for Muslims, and as it nears its end, the excitement for Eid-al-Fitr builds with people coming together to pray, eat special food, and break their fasts with loved ones. The spirit of Eid also inspires acts of charity, as giving alms and donations is an important tenet of Islam, highlighting the values of generosity and kindness.

Urfee Yousuf: Another Youth Star from Kashmir

February 25, 2024 | By Siraj Ali Quadri

Youths of Kashmir seem quite intent on leading their state and India into a new age with renewed vigour. A success story from the Valley is now almost daily news. The latest among these young stars is Urfee Yousuf, a B. Sc. Final year student of AP College, Banihal, who has grabbed the prestigious National Youth Brilliance award.

The award was presented to her by Member Parliament, Manoj Tiwari at a Function held in New Delhi, where around 17 states across the country participated in the National Youth Exchange programme held from 18th to 20th August 2023.

Urfee Yousuf was selected for the award for tremendous work done as a social worker in the field of Education through her NGO “Living for Others Being Helpful Foundation”.

Urfee was also honoured by her college in the Valley. The principal of the SP College felicitated her for achieving such a great success and wished her good luck for future endeavours and the staff and students of the college congratulated her for doing such wonderful work.

Overall, 30 youths from all corners of India were conferred National Youth Brilliance award for their contributions in various fields. They all have worked in their region for the betterment of the society and nation to help in nation building. Navya (Jammu & Kashmir), Urfee Yousuf (Jammu & Kashmir), Shalinee Gupta (Chhattisgarh), Meghana Shantaram Bhalekar (Maharashtra), Anjali Taj (Uttar Pradesh), Chandan Kumar Dubey (Bihar), Angel’s Cultural Academy (Jammu & Kashmir), Arjun Singh (Chhattisgarh), Abhishek Gupta (Jammu & Kashmir), Amit Chaurasia (Madhya Pradesh), Omkar Sudam Pise (Maharashtra), Satyajit Balu Chavan (Maharashtra), Prakash Mahopatra (Odisha), Mohit Yadav (Rajasthan), Asmita Chaurasia (Madhya Pradesh), Adarsh Jain (Madhya Pradesh), Sachin Nandi (Jharkhand), Brijesh Singh (Maharashtra), Institute of Psychological Medicine Services (Chhattisgarh), Nitin Madan (Delhi), Himanshu Jonwal (Rajasthan), Hrithik Arora (Uttar Pradesh), Maroofa Shah (Jammu & Kashmir), Dr Nitika Singh Gaur (Uttar Pradesh), Shubham. S Gupta (Maharashtra) Kumar Foundation (Bihar), Uthasha Foundation (Madhya Pradesh), were honoured with the National Youth Brilliance Award 2023 in New Delhi in a programme helmed by the Kanyadan Foundation.

Kashmiri Women Winning National Laurels

In recent years, and if we say post-Article 370 period, the number of Kashmiri youths winning laurels on national and international stage is increasing at a rapid pace. Not only boys, but even girls are carving their own niche place and are shining in every field – be it education, sports, governance, social service or business.

According to a WION report, over 70 medals in various tournaments have been won by female athletes in the last two years.

“If we talk about the last two or three years, there has been a huge increase in the number of female participation in water sports. There have been around 110 medals won by water sports athletes and over 50 percent of these medals are taken by female athletes.

Earlier, everyone used to say that water sports are not for women. It was a challenging role for me also when I started.

There is a revolution in women participation in Kashmir and soon we will see these girls’ winning medals in national and international tournaments,” says Bilquis Mir, director of Water Sports, Jammu and Kashmir, highlighting women participation in nontraditional sports.

Interestingly, women from Kashmir have recently made their names in sports like cricket, boxing, taekwondo, weight-lifting, mountaineering, etc. All these achievements were unimagined a few years ago. However, now since girls have made them possible, inspiring a whole new generation to pursue them more passionately, a new whip of changing wind has swept through the scenic region that suffered a lot and is now celebrating a lot.