by Editor | Sep 22, 2025 | News, Politics
Shillong, Meghalaya – September 22, 2025 – The Meghalaya government has firmly rejected accusations of widespread forest land encroachment by the University of Science & Technology, Meghalaya (USTM), and refuted Assam’s claims linking such activities to flooding in Guwahati. In a detailed submission to the Supreme Court, prompted by a petition filed by Jitul Deka, the state defended its land allocation processes and outlined systemic issues in Assam as the true cause of Guwahati’s waterlogging. The case is set for further hearing on October 8.
The controversy stems from a report by the Central Empowered Committee (CEC), which advises the Supreme Court on environmental compliance. The CEC recommended a ₹150.35 crore penalty on USTM for allegedly diverting forest land without necessary approvals. The fine encompasses charges for the net present value of forest land, tree felling, environmental compensation, land restoration, demolition, and compensatory afforestation.
In response, Meghalaya asserted that land allocated to USTM adhered to legal procedures, with penalties already imposed and recovered for any violations. The state emphasized that forest lands in Meghalaya fall under the dual jurisdiction of the state government and autonomous district councils, a fact well-recognized by the Supreme Court.
Clarifying Land Use and Infrastructure Claims
Meghalaya clarified that the 60.05 hectares diverted for the 400kV NETC transmission line spans 10.4 km across Ri-Bhoi District, not exclusively within USTM’s campus. Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma had previously defended the university against accusations leveled by Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, underscoring that the institution operates within regulatory frameworks.
Debunking Assam’s Flooding Narrative
Addressing Assam’s claim that hill-cutting in Meghalaya caused Guwahati’s flooding, the state government pointed to natural topography rather than man-made interventions. “Rainwater flows from Meghalaya to Assam due to elevation differences—an inevitable geographical reality,” the submission noted. Meghalaya attributed Guwahati’s flooding to systemic urban planning failures, including:
Unplanned Urbanization: Rapid expansion up to Khanapara and Jorabat near the Meghalaya border has reduced floodplains.
Wetland Encroachment: Natural water bodies have been compromised, exacerbating waterlogging.
Poor Drainage Systems: Blocked drains, silted channels, and inadequate dredging have turned rivers like the Bharalu into “heavily polluted open sewers.”
Lack of Systemic Planning: Fragile infrastructure and encroachments on waterways have intensified monsoon flooding.
Citing Assam’s own media reports, Meghalaya highlighted that Guwahati’s urban sprawl, not activities in Meghalaya’s hills or by USTM, is the primary driver of the city’s inundation.
Expert Findings and Ongoing Scrutiny
The Meghalaya government referenced a National Green Tribunal-appointed committee, which included experts from IIT Guwahati, that found no evidence of “muck flow” from Meghalaya contributing to Guwahati’s water bodies. This further undermines Assam’s allegations.
The Supreme Court has directed Meghalaya to submit a comprehensive report addressing the alleged forest land encroachment by USTM. Meanwhile, the university faces the proposed ₹150.35 crore penalty as the legal and environmental debate continues.
As the case unfolds, Meghalaya’s robust defense underscores its commitment to transparent governance and challenges the narrative of cross-border blame, pointing instead to systemic urban challenges in Assam as the root of Guwahati’s flooding woes.
by Editor | Sep 21, 2025 | Business, Corporate
Maeeshat News Network | Mumbai
Zakaullah Siddiqui, also known as Mohammad Zakaullah Siddiqui, is a prominent Indian businessman, lawyer, and philanthropist renowned for his contributions to the travel industry and community service. As the Chairman and Managing Director (CMD) of the Zaka Group of Companies, he has built a formidable enterprise in aviation, travel, and related services. Additionally, his tenure as the former President of Islam Gymkhana in Mumbai highlights his dedication to social and cultural initiatives. Born in the mid-20th century, Siddiqui’s journey from legal practice to global business expansion exemplifies perseverance and vision.
Zakaullah Siddiqui was born on July 1, 1939, in Allahabad, Uttar Pradesh. He pursued his higher education at the University of Allahabad, where he earned a Bachelor’s degree in Arts followed by a postgraduate degree in Law. This academic foundation laid the groundwork for his initial career in law, equipping him with the analytical skills that would later prove instrumental in his entrepreneurial endeavours.
Professional Career and the Rise of Zaka Group
Siddiqui began his professional life as a lawyer, practicing in Mumbai and becoming a member of the Bar Council of Maharashtra. His expertise extended to serving as a legal consultant for the Haj Committee India, a government body aiding pilgrims for the Haj pilgrimage to Saudi Arabia, and Mogul Shipping Line Ltd, the official carrier for Haj pilgrims. This early involvement in pilgrimage logistics sparked his interest in the travel sector.
In 1964, Siddiqui founded Zaireen Travel Services Pvt Ltd, specializing in visa processing for Middle Eastern and Gulf countries, with a particular focus on Saudi Arabia. This venture marked his entry into the aviation and travel industry. By 1979, he established Fourways Travels Pvt Ltd, an IATA-accredited agency with access to major global carriers and computerized reservation systems like Sitar, Saber, Abacus, and Galileo. In 1982, he launched Indo Saudi Services Pvt Ltd as the General Sales Agent (GSA) for Saudi Arabian Airlines, operating across key Indian cities including Mumbai, Calicut, Hyderabad, and Lucknow.
Under Siddiqui’s leadership, the Zaka Group has grown into a multinational entity with over 25 offices in India, the United Kingdom, and the United States. The group encompasses travel, cargo, import-export, and aviation services, reflecting his vision to position India on the global travel map. With over four decades in the industry, Siddiqui has served on the boards of key organizations such as the Travel Agents Federation of India (TAFI), Travel Agents Association of India (TAAI), and Indian Personnel Export Promotion Council (IPEPCIL). His leadership style, characterized by charismatic communication and mentorship, has inspired many in the Indian aviation sector.
Leadership at Islam Gymkhana and Community Contributions
Siddiqui’s influence extends beyond business into community leadership. He served as President of Islam Gymkhana, a historic 129-year-old club in Mumbai known for fostering sports like cricket and billiards. During his tenure, he transformed the gymkhana into a vibrant community center, and emphasizing its role as a social hub.
Beyond the gymkhana, Siddiqui holds numerous advisory and leadership positions. He is the Chairman and Governing Council Member of the Maharashtra United Nations Association (MUNA), President of the Allahabad University Alumni Association, Vice-President of the Indo Arab Society, and Vice-Chairman of the Islamic Foundation. He is also a life member of the Cricket Club of India and Malabar Hill Club Limited, a member of the General Council of Anjuman-I-Islam, and has served on advisory boards for the Bombay Mercantile Co-op Bank Ltd, Indian Personnel Export Promotion Council, and Priyadarshini Park. As a Special Executive Officer to the Government of Maharashtra, he advises on various socio-economic matters.
Siddiqui’s philanthropic efforts are notable; he is described as a “silent philanthropist” committed to unconditional societal service. His involvement in events like hosting political iftars at Islam Gymkhana underscores his role in promoting cultural harmony.
Achievements and Legacy
Siddiqui’s achievements include strengthening Indo-Saudi ties through his GSA role and adapting to industry shifts, such as the transition from ship to air travel for Haj pilgrims following the 1973 government policy change. His exploratory spirit and dedication have not only expanded his business empire but also mentored young executives, fostering growth in India’s travel sector.
Despite challenges during his gymkhana presidency, Siddiqui’s overall legacy is one of innovation, leadership, and community upliftment. At over 85 years old, he continues to inspire through his multifaceted contributions to business, law, and society.
In a world of rapid change, Zakaullah Siddiqui’s story reminds us of the power of vision and perseverance in bridging cultures and economies.
by Editor | Sep 20, 2025 | Business, Halal Food, Halal Industries, Halal Medicine
KUALA LUMPUR, 20 September 2025 – The World Halal Business Conference 2025 Kuala Lumpur (WHBC), held today at the Malaysia International Trade and Exhibition Centre (MITEC), once again reinforced Malaysia’s leadership in shaping the global Halal economy, under the theme “Halal: Beyond Boundaries.”
In the keynote address, YAB Dato’ Seri Dr. Ahmad Zahid Hamidi, Deputy Prime Minister of Malaysia and the Minister of Rural and Regional Development, read by YB Senator Tengku Datuk Seri Utama Zafrul Tengku Abdul Aziz, Minister of Investment, Trade and Industry (MITI), he emphasized the transformative potential of the Halal economy, urging stakeholders to look beyond geographical, industrial, and mindset boundaries to unlock new frontiers of growth.
“The Halal industry should no longer be perceived as exclusive to Muslims. Instead, we must present it to the world as a universal symbol of quality, integrity, safety, and sustainability — values that resonate with all consumers, regardless of faith or background.”
The Halal economy has grown far beyond its traditional scope of food and compliance, evolving into a global force across pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, logistics, Islamic finance, travel, and digital innovation. He reaffirmed Malaysia’s strong performance in the sector, with Halal exports for the first half of 2025 reaching RM33.32 billion, representing 16.1% of total national exports.
Malaysia was also recognised as the leading global Halal economy for the 11th consecutive year in the State of the Global Islamic Economy Report 2024/2025, an achievement credited to its robust ecosystem, innovation-driven approach, and multi-stakeholder collaborations.
The WHBC 2025 Kuala Lumpur gathered more than 1000 participants from 42 countries, including policymakers, business leaders, scholars, and entrepreneurs. The conference also hosted a Halal Industry Townhall Session, alongside YB Senator Tengku Datuk Seri Utama Zafrul Tengku Abdul Aziz, Minister of Investment, Trade and Industry. Their leadership and perspectives provided invaluable insights into the current landscape as well as the future direction of the global Halal industry.
Looking ahead, the Deputy Prime Minister reiterated his appeal for the establishment of both an ASEAN Halal Council and a World Halal Development Council to strengthen cross-regional dialogue and governance.
The WHBC 2025 concluded with a shared commitment among stakeholders to translate insights into action, ensuring that the Halal industry continues to drive sustainable growth, inclusivity, and resilience on a global scale.
by Editor | Sep 20, 2025 | Business Summit, Events, Halal Food, Halal Industries, Halal Medicine
Kuala Lumpur, 20 September 2025 – OCBC Al-Amin Bank Berhad (OCBC Al-Amin) signed a strategic partnership with Halal Development Corporation Berhad (HDC) at the Malaysia International Halal Showcase (MIHAS) 2025, marking a significant step forward in strengthening support for halal entrepreneurs and expanding opportunities within Malaysia’s halal economy.
The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was formalised between OCBC Al-Amin Chief Executive Officer, Tuan Syed Abdull Aziz Syed Kechik, and HDC Chief Executive Officer, En. Hairol Ariffein Sahari.
Tuan Syed emphasised OCBC Al-Amin’s deep commitment to the halal sector. “At OCBC, our commitment goes beyond financing. We aim to support the growth of halal businesses by combining financial solutions with market connectivity, equipping halal entrepreneurs to grow their presence in Malaysia and aspire to venture into global markets. We are pleased to have this collaboration with Halal Development Corporation to provide greater opportunities to entrepreneurs and businesses in the halal sector,” he said.
CEO of HDC, Hairol Ariffein Sahari, described the partnership as a pivotal step in advancing Malaysia’s halal economy, which currently contributes about 8.1% to the nation’s GDP and is projected to reach a market value of USD 113 billion by the end of 2030.
He said, “Through this collaboration, we are laying a robust foundation to connect halal entrepreneurs with Shariah-compliant financial solutions, while simultaneously providing access to HDC’s comprehensive support services, including training, consultancy, and market facilitation via the Halal Integrated Platform (HIP). We will provide impactful programmes such as workshops, financial literacy programmes, and awareness campaigns designed to build the capacity of halal entrepreneurs. This partnership emphasizes HDC’s mission to position halal as the first choice in business ventures, empowering entrepreneurs and SMEs to enhance their competitiveness and expand Malaysia’s halal products globally.”
This initiative aligns closely with the Halal Industry Master Plan 2030, particularly in strengthening industry infrastructure and nurturing home-grown halal champions. Under the MoU, OCBC Al-Amin and HDC will collaborate extensively to promote and broaden the reach of Shariah-compliant financial products within the halal ecosystem, enabling effective cross-referrals, knowledge exchange, and expanded market access.
OCBC Al-Amin remains dedicated to supporting growth and sustainable development in Malaysia’s SME, including the halal industry. One of the initiatives is its Islamic Portfolio Guarantee-i (PG-i) agreement with Credit Guarantee Corporation Malaysia Berhad (CGC) to support the growth of Bumiputera and women-led enterprises. Prior to this, OCBC Al-Amin had already disbursed a total of RM268 million in PG-i schemes with CGC since 2017. Through these efforts, OCBC Al-Amin continues to play a role in driving meaningful and lasting progress in Malaysia’s halal industry.
Since its establishment in December 2008, OCBC Al-Amin has remained among the top foreign Islamic banks in Malaysia, consistently placing among the top two by assets since 2013. It offers its products and services through the 38 OCBC branches nationwide, including 7 that are standalone Islamic banking branches.
by Editor | Sep 20, 2025 | Business, Corporate, Corporate Buzz, Corporate finance, Corporate Governance
Maeeshat News Network | New Delhi/Riyadh
In a dynamic push to strengthen bilateral economic ties, India and Saudi Arabia are intensifying collaboration in the aviation and cargo sectors, fuelled by strategic investments, expanding airline operations, and booming tourism and trade. This partnership aligns with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 diversification agenda and India’s ambitious aviation growth trajectory, cementing both nations as pivotal players in the global air transport ecosystem.
A Thriving Private Aviation Market
The private aviation sector between India and Saudi Arabia is witnessing robust growth, driven by rising demand from high-net-worth individuals (HNIs) and corporate travellers. India’s private jet fleet, currently comprising approximately 140 business jets, is projected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 10-12% over the next decade, bolstered by infrastructure initiatives like the UDAN scheme and airport modernization programs. Saudi Arabia, with over 200 registered business jets, is capitalizing on Vision 2030 mega-projects, such as NEOM, to solidify its position as a regional aviation hub.
Bilateral Trade and Strategic Investments
Aviation trade between the two nations is flourishing, with India exporting aircraft and aerospace components worth USD 1.12 billion to Saudi Arabia in FY2024-25, while importing USD 839.05 million in similar goods. A landmark moment came during Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Saudi Arabia in April 2025, which spotlighted aviation through the India-Saudi Arabia Strategic Partnership Council. Discussions highlighted a potential USD 100 billion Saudi investment in Indian sectors, with aviation as a cornerstone. Opportunities include joint ventures in maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) facilities—projected to grow from USD 1.7 billion in 2023 to USD 2.4 billion by 2028—and sustainable aviation fuel initiatives.
Expanding Airline Connectivity
Saudi carriers are aggressively expanding into India. Flyadeal, Saudi Arabia’s budget airline, plans to launch services to India within the next 12 months as part of a broader initiative to add 25 new routes in the coming 3-4 months. This expansion will enhance connectivity, especially as Saudi Arabia projects 1.8 million Indian tourists in 2025, positioning India as the fourth-largest source of airline capacity growth for the Kingdom.
Defence and Aerospace Synergies
Defence-related aviation ties are also deepening. Saudi Arabia’s participation in Aero India 2025, India’s premier aerospace exhibition, underscored growing collaboration. In 2024, India’s state-owned Munitions India Limited secured a USD 225 million export deal with Saudi Arabia for ammunition supplies, reflecting the expanding scope of aviation and defence partnerships. The sixth meeting of the Joint Committee on Defence Cooperation in September 2024 further reinforced these ties.
Cargo Sector: Powering Logistics and Trade
The air cargo sector is a key growth driver, with Saudi Arabia’s market projected to rise from USD 2.87 billion in 2024 to USD 5.03 billion by 2030. Saudia Cargo is expanding its presence in India, operating two freighter flights to Mumbai and negotiating additional traffic rights to increase passenger belly hold capacity to five flights while adding freighter services to Mumbai and potentially Delhi.
India’s evolving air cargo landscape, critical for exports and supply chains, complements these efforts. Indian Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal’s visit to Saudi Arabia in November 2024 spurred new trade and investment collaborations, including logistics and renewable energy, which indirectly bolster cargo operations. Riyadh Air’s partnership with SATS Saudi Arabia in August 2025 aims to enhance cargo handling across Saudi airports, strengthening Indo-Saudi freight routes. Swissport’s expansion to 13 Saudi airports in June 2025 further improves ground handling, streamlining cargo operations.
Economic Context and Future Outlook
Bilateral trade reached USD 43.3 billion in FY2023-24, with aviation and cargo as key pillars. The second meeting of the Strategic Partnership Council in April 2025 established a ministerial committee on defence cooperation, extending to aviation synergies. India’s 2.6 million-strong diaspora in Saudi Arabia further deepens cultural and economic bonds.
Looking ahead, experts foresee sustained momentum, with potential investments from Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF) in Indian aviation firms and joint technology ventures. As both nations prioritize sustainable and efficient air transport, this partnership is poised to reshape regional logistics and travel, fostering economic growth and strategic alignment in the Indo-Arab corridor.
