9th Mile, Khanapara, Ri Bhoi, May 24, 2025: The University of Science and Technology Meghalaya today hosted the grand Parents-Management Meet — and it was significant that the year 2025 harmonized with USTM’s Silver Jubilee Year-2025 that was held on May 10th 2025, . This distinguished platform rekindled ties with their alma mater and honoured the powerful heritage of ERDF.
The Grand “Parents-Management Meet 2025” on May 24, 2025, was a momentous milestone that brought together families and university leadership in a contributive dialogue on shaping USTM into a premier global centre of learning and excellence positioning the University as an academic destination of international repute.
The auditorium was fully packed and abuzz with energy and pride with an overwhelming number of parents from all over North East in attendance. The event commenced with a gracious welcome address delivered by Ms. Anju Hazarika, Registrar of USTM.
A dynamic and engaging interaction with the esteemed Founder Chancellor Mahbubul Hoque ensued. In his address, he highlighted, “Education is a collaborative journey that thrives on the active involvement of students, parents, and teachers. Today’s meeting is a reflection of our shared commitment to shaping responsible, capable, and value-driven individuals. At our University, we not only focus on academic excellence but also emphasize character-building, innovation, and holistic development. I sincerely thank all the parents and guardians for their continuous trust and support. Together, we are building a brighter future for our youth.”
He stressed, “We only focus on the reformation of students which is our main motto at USTM. He spoke about the role of parents in the growth of USTM.
The function also marked the official launch of the PA Sangma International Medical College and Hospital Parents’ Health Card. This card promises to be a lasting support system, enhancing access to medical care for parents. Chancellor Mahbubul Hoque said, “This health care will help the parents of USTM to avail special facilities.”
Earlier in the event, Honourable Vice-Chancellor of Professor G.D. Sharma took the podium, offering a compelling address emphasizing the important role parents play in which he remarked: “With the support of their parents, USTM will reach great heights.”
Subsequently, an open session was held, during which parents candidly expressed their perspectives. Of particular note was the enthusiastic appreciation for the success of students in qualifying for the National Eligibility Test (NET). Many parents expressed immense satisfaction with their children’s achievements and credited the University’s academic environment, serenely ensconced at the edge of a lush forest, and faculty dedication for these accomplishments.
One of the parents said, “We appreciate how USTM prioritizes and cares for the students, ultimately evidenced by the results of NET/UGC.”
Another parent appreciated the sports facilities of the University also suggesting promotion of the same to let state national games being held at the university campus for exposure of students which will help talented students prepare for participation in the Olympics.
One parent recommended promoting competitive exams more extensively, noting that many university students were already successfully clearing the NET. He also added “Parents should select USTM as a mode of higher education for their children, and more students must get a chance to come to USTM to get unparalleled greater exposure.”
The parents expressed their desire to see the increased enrollment of North Eastern students in the 2024–2025 academic year—an objective to which the University of Science and Technology, Meghalaya is intrinsically committed.
Professor Marie Mc Andrew, from the University of Montreal, Canada graced the event.
The occasion was wrapped up with concluding remarks and a Vote of Thanks by Dr Azmol H. Barbhuiya, Academic Registrar, who expressed gratitude to all the parents for their feedback.
The event commemorated not just a celebration of the past, with great collaborations and enduring partnership, but a reaffirmation of USTM’s unswerving commitment to excellence, transformation, and nation-building through education.
Algiers, Algeria: – The Halal Economic Leadership Forum (HELF) 2025, held today at the Centre International de Conferences Algiers – Abdelatif Rahal in Algiers, Algeria, successfully convened global leaders, industry pioneers, policymakers, and key stakeholders in the Halal economy to chart a collaborative path for inclusive growth and sustainable development.
Jointly hosted by the Halal Development Corporation Berhad (HDC) – an agency under the Ministry of Investment, Trade and Industry (MITI), the Islamic Development Bank (IsDB) through its Center of Excellence in Kuala Lumpur (IsDB KLCoE), and Halal Products Development Company (HPDC) – a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Public Investment Fund (PIF) established to localize the halal production industry in Saudi Arabia, the forum focused on advancing the global Halal agenda by strengthening trade, innovation, and cross-border partnerships within the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) and beyond.
It was part of IsDB’s Private Sector Forum organized in conjunction with its Group Annual Meeting.
With the global Halal economy valued at over USD 3 trillion, the forum highlighted Africa’s growing prominence as both a consumer and producer hub, with an estimated over 540 million Muslims — nearly 40% of the global Muslim population — residing in the continent. Many of these markets are underserved in key Halal sectors such as food manufacturing, personal care, pharmaceuticals, Islamic finance, and Halal logistics.
The forum was attended by His Excellency Rizany Irwan Muhamad Mazlan Ambassador of Malaysia to Algeria, representing Malaysia’s Minister of Investment, Trade and Industry, The Hon. Senator Tengku Datuk Seri Utama Zafrul Tengku Abdul Aziz. Also attended were His Excellency Datuk Johan Mahmood Merican, Secretary General of Treasury, Malaysia, His Excellency Dr. Issa Faye, Director General of Global Practices and Partnership at IsDB and HDC’s CEO Hairol Ariffein Sahari.
Quoting Tengku Datuk Seri Utama Zafrul’s speech, delivered by H.E. Rizani Izwan, he expressed his delight in noting that the previous forum had yielded significant and tangible outcomes — including strengthened global collaboration, new investments, and expanded market opportunities across OIC member states and beyond.
Malaysia’s Halal exports to Algeria surged to RM156.3 million in 2024, a 24% increase from the previous year. These exports span a wide range of products including food and beverages, cosmetics, halal-certified ingredients, and palm oil derivatives.
Tengku Zafrul reiterated Malaysia’s commitment in supporting initiatives that facilitate trade, develop industries, and expand market access for halal enterprises. This include deepening collaboration with Algeria and OIC member states to harness the full potential of the halal economy and create a future that is more inclusive, equitable and prosperous for all.
The need for collective action to ensure the Halal economy remains resilient amid shifting global trade and geopolitical trends. He reaffirmed Malaysia’s commitment to deepen collaboration with Algeria and fellow OIC nations to strengthen supply chains, facilitate market access, and drive socio-economic progress.
On his part, Dr. Issa Faye, as well as Mr. Samer Elesawi, Head of the IsDB KLCoE urged member countries to take a more active role in global halal value chains, amid ongoing shortages in halal-certified raw materials and end-products. In response, the development of dedicated halal industrial zones integrated by infrastructures and infostructures will be introduced in the participating IsDB member countries to boost production, support entrepreneurship, and drive innovation — strengthening halal economies and enhancing global competitiveness.
The forum facilitated several bilateral engagements, with discussions centered around:
Joint Halal certification recognition and streamlining compliance to support smoother trade flows between Malaysia and North African markets.
Investment opportunities in Halal industrial zones and logistics infrastructure across Africa, supported by Malaysia’s expertise in Halal ecosystem development.
Capacity-building initiatives to support SMEs and certification agencies in Algeria and other OIC countries, leveraging Malaysia’s Halal training, financing facilities and technical support.
HELF remains as a recurring strategic platform to connect stakeholders and unlock commercial value across the Halal supply chain. The 2025 forum follows the success of the inaugural HELF held in Riyadh during the IsDB’s Golden Jubilee in 2024, which laid the groundwork for deeper Halal economic integration across OIC member states.
The ongoing tragedy in Palestine and Gaza has not gone unnoticed by the Arab world. Far from being silent, the Arab masses are deeply aware and profoundly affected by the suffering of their brothers and sisters. As a people chosen by Allah (SWT) to lead, blessed with the Quran in their language and the legacy of our Beloved Prophet (PBUH) from their lineage, Arabs carry a divine responsibility. They are not merely spectators to the horrors unfolding; their blood boils with righteous anger, and they are far from distracted by the comforts of wealth or luxury. Instead, the Arab world is quietly but powerfully mobilizing, driven by a centuries-old civilization’s wisdom and guided by long-term, strategic plans crafted by the best professionals.
Contrary to misconceptions, Arabs are not passive. Their restraint is not a sign of apathy but a reflection of their discipline and loyalty to their leaders, who are orchestrating a calculated response. The Arab masses across all Arabic-speaking nations are awake, conscious, and ready to act. Their immense wealth, a blessing from Allah (SWT), is being channeled into a multi-pronged strategy to address the Palestinian genocide and reshape the global order. This article outlines the visionary ways in which the Arab world is preparing to act, leveraging their resources to lead the Muslim Ummah and beyond.
Harnessing Media and Modern Technology
The Arab world is poised to wield the power of media and cutting-edge technology to expose the genocide in Palestine and rally global support. Through sophisticated media campaigns, social platforms, and innovative digital tools, they aim to amplify the voices of the oppressed and awaken the world’s conscience. By investing in global media networks, documentaries, and grassroots movements, Arabs are ensuring that the plight of Palestinians reaches every corner of the globe, fostering solidarity and demanding justice.
Economic Empowerment in Africa and Asia
Recognizing the potential of Muslim-majority countries in Africa and Asia, Arab leaders are directing their wealth to foster industrial and economic development in these regions. The goal is to replicate and surpass Western progress by building sustainable industries, advancing infrastructure, and creating economic opportunities. This strategic investment aims to strengthen the Muslim world economically, reducing dependency on Western systems and creating a robust network of self-sufficient nations united by shared values.
Building a Defense and Military Industrial Complex
To safeguard their sovereignty and protect the Ummah, the Arab world is investing heavily in a state-of-the-art defense and military industrial complex. By developing advanced weaponry, technology, and training programs, they are ensuring that Muslim nations are equipped to defend themselves against external threats. This initiative not only strengthens their military capabilities but also positions the Arab world as a global leader in defense innovation.
Promoting Peace and True Islam
The Arab world is committed to spreading the authentic message of Islam, which is rooted in peace, justice, and compassion. By funding educational programs, interfaith dialogues, and community initiatives, they aim to counter extremist narratives and foster harmony in Muslim-majority countries. This effort will strengthen the spiritual and moral fabric of these societies, ensuring that Islam’s true essence guides their development.
Empowering New Converts for Rejuvenation
The Arab strategy includes engaging newly converted Muslims, particularly from Western nations, to play a pivotal role in the rejuvenation of Africa and Asia. These individuals bring unique perspectives and skills, bridging cultural divides and contributing to the modernization of Muslim societies. By integrating them into development projects, the Arab world is fostering a global Islamic renaissance that unites diverse communities under the banner of faith.
A Civilization Poised for Action
The Arab world, with its thousands of years of history and resilience, is not sitting idly by. The masses are awakened, their rulers are strategic, and their plans are bold. This is not a fleeting reaction but a meticulously crafted vision to restore justice, empower the Ummah, and lead the world toward a brighter future. The tragedy in Palestine is a catalyst, igniting the Arab world’s resolve to act decisively.
Wait and watch—the real Arabs are rising. Their wealth, wisdom, and faith will soon reshape the global landscape, bringing justice to Palestine and progress to the Muslim world. This is a movement of historic proportions, and the world will soon witness its impact.
Call to Action: Share this article widely to spread awareness of the Arab world’s awakening. Let the world know that the Arab masses are ready to lead, and their vision for justice and progress is unstoppable.
· Inaugurates Mobile Medical Units across 4 metropolitan construction sites and slums to benefit over 1 lakh urban workers
Mumbai: (Press Release) PNB Housing Finance, one of India’s leading housing finance companies, through its CSR arm Pehel Foundation, announced the launch of the second phase of its Mobile Medical Unit (MMU) Program in partnership with Wockhardt Foundation. The program is aimed at improving primary healthcare access for construction workers and underprivileged communities across key regions of Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai and Ahmedabad, providing doorstep medical services to them.
The program is designed to address the lack of accessible and affordable healthcare services near construction sites and slum areas. Construction workers and their families often forego basic medical treatment due to high commute costs, long queues at hospitals, or fear of wage loss from time away. PNB Housing Finance and Wockhardt Foundation have joined hands to bridge this gap and offer a sustainable solution by bringing primary and preventive care directly to them.
Speaking on the launch, Mr. Girish Kousgi, MD & CEO of PNB Housing Finance said, “Healthcare is a basic right, yet access remains a privilege for many. At PNB Housing Finance, we believe that development must be inclusive, and that means addressing real needs where they exist – on the ground, at construction sites, in underserved neighborhoods. Our Mobile Medical Unit Program in association with Wockhardt Foundation aims to reduce the financial and physical barriers that prevent thousands of underserved families from seeking primary medical care. This is not just about treatment – it’s about creating awareness and promoting long-term well-being amongst the masses.”
Mr. Denis Varghese, Director- Wockhardt Foundation, added, “This collaboration with PNB Housing Finance gives us an opportunity to bring healthcare to those who need it the most – right inside the communities. With over 93,000 lives touched in Phase 1, this next chapter will further expand our reach to over one lakh individuals—a meaningful step toward bridging the healthcare gap. By bringing healthcare to the underserved, we will continue to empower communities to take charge of their health.”
Each mobile unit is staffed with 3 members – an MBBS doctor, pharmacist and licensed driver. The medical vans will offer essential services including general check-ups, treatment for common ailments, diabetes and hypertension management, and referrals for advanced treatment. In addition, the MMUs will continue to conduct health education and hygiene awareness sessions, and promote access to government healthcare schemes, further empowering these communities with knowledge and preventive practices.
The initiative builds on the success of Phase 1, where four MMUs served thousands of beneficiaries, majority of whom were from the construction worker community. With this second phase, PNB Housing Finance reaffirms its commitment to inclusive community development and sustainable urban progress – where nobody is left behind in the journey towards better health and well-being.
By Dr Syed Khursheed, Mumbai with the inputs of Swaminathan Anklesaria
Donald Trump is on a mission to dismantle the post-World War II global economic order—one anchored by the US dollar. If his policies erode confidence in this system, the world could face a serious reckoning. Some analysts even warn that we may be heading back to a gold standard.
The Dollar as the Financial Anchor
Since the end of World War II, the United States has served as the global economic stabiliser. It played a central role in creating the World Bank and International Monetary Fund (IMF), which continue to act as lenders of last resort for troubled economies. In every major financial crisis, the US has taken the lead in crafting international rescue packages.
But this dominance is increasingly resented—particularly by BRICS nations such as India and China. Although Trump has threatened sanctions against BRICS efforts to develop an alternative currency, he’s ironically doing more than anyone else to undermine the dollar’s global supremacy. Trump argues that the US has been exploited by the current system and that it’s time to tear it down.
What Happens Without the Dollar?
The dollar underpins the global financial structure. Without the US guaranteeing leadership during global crises, we could return to a situation similar to the 1930s, when the lack of a financial anchor deepened the Great Depression.
Economic historian Charles Kindleberger famously wrote:
“The 1929 depression was so wide, so deep and so long because the international economic system was rendered unstable by British inability and United States unwillingness to assume responsibility for stabilising it.”
A Brief History of the Gold Standard
Before World War I, most nations were on the gold standard, tying their currencies to gold reserves. But the war’s enormous costs forced countries to print unbacked money, abandoning gold. After the war, attempts to return to the gold standard failed. Governments realized that pegging spending to limited gold holdings would require painful austerity.
The result? Countries dropped the gold standard again, and global trade and payment risks soared. While not the cause of the Great Depression, this lack of a financial anchor definitely worsened it.
Kindleberger argued that the international economy needs a leader willing to bear risks and costs to keep the system stable. As he put it:
“For the world economy to be stabilised, there has to be a stabiliser, one stabiliser.”
Enter Project 2025
A radical plan is already on the table. The Heritage Foundation, a conservative think tank, drafted Project 2025 as a roadmap for a second Trump presidency. Though Trump has publicly distanced himself from parts of the plan, many of its proposals mirror his own views. Notably, several of his key advisors were directly involved in writing it and are expected to push its agenda.
Among the more drastic ideas:
Withdraw from the World Bank and IMF (or render them powerless).
Force holders of US Treasury securities to exchange them for lower-value, 100-year bonds—a move that would amount to economic expropriation.
This would devastate global investors and foreign governments, most of whom keep 50–70% of their foreign exchange reserves in US Treasuries. However, it would dramatically reduce US debt obligations, enabling tax cuts and larger deficits.
Key supporters of this plan include Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent and Economic Advisory Council head Stephen Miran. They’re also considering similar alternatives to achieve the same result.
One scenario being floated: a new “Mar-a-Lago Accord” (a nod to the 1985 Plaza Accord) that would impose these changes on G7 partners.
The Market’s Reaction: No More Free Ride
The global bond market won’t accept this quietly. If the US takes these steps, it risks losing its “exorbitant privilege”—the ability to print dollars without consequence. The dollar would no longer be the default global currency. It would become just another currency.
With no trusted alternative—neither the euro nor the yen—some analysts believe the world might turn to gold as a financial anchor once again. Central banks have already begun increasing their gold reserves, and this trend could accelerate.
But the Gold Standard Has Its Own Problems
The same issues that doomed the gold standard after WWI still apply today. Governments want to run budget deficits (especially for defence in Europe), and they don’t want to be restricted by gold reserves. Meanwhile, voters would rebel against the austerity required to maintain a strict gold-backed currency.
Could other global players step up to fill the void?
Unlikely. Europe won’t ally with China or Russia, and the idea of Europe and Japan providing a gold-backed alternative is laughable.
No Clear Anchor in Sight
For now, no viable replacement for the dollar exists. The world may limp along without a global anchor. But when the next financial crisis hits, the consequences of operating without one could be disastrous.
Conclusion
Donald Trump’s economic plans could fundamentally reshape the global financial system. Whether by design or consequence, the dollar’s fall as a global anchor may be closer than we think. Yet, no credible alternative is ready to take its place. And if history is any guide, a world without a stabilising force will be a far more volatile one.
