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Udupi: The Tourism Department is planning a major eco-friendly development initiative for Kamini Island, located near the Blue Flag-certified Padubidri End Point beach, aiming to attract more visitors while maintaining environmental sustainability.

Assistant Director Kumar CU emphasized that, given the island’s proximity to the Blue Flag beach, all development efforts will center around eco-friendly practices. “We are looking to enhance the Kamini River and the island’s surroundings by adding a hanging bridge, nature trails, and eco-friendly food courts offering traditional cuisine. Visitors will also be able to reach the island by pedal boats or kayaking,” he said.

The development project is estimated to cost between Rs 3 crore and Rs 4 crore. Meanwhile, the Blue Flag beach, Padubidri, continues to see a steady flow of visitors. Vijay Shetty, manager of the beach, shared that tenders for food courts and water sports have been awarded to private parties. Recently, three new coracles have been introduced, which are proving to be a hit with visitors. Additionally, three more shelters are expected to be ready by November 20.

Shetty mentioned that the beach can now accommodate between 2,500 and 3,000 visitors daily, although footfall remains lower than other district beaches due to user fees and activity restrictions. “Initially, most visitors were from Mangaluru, but now nearly 40% come from other districts, showing a shift in the visitor demographics,” Shetty noted.

To further boost tourism and promote a healthy lifestyle, a Beach Carnival is set to take place on November 23-24, featuring the National Sea Swimming Championship and a sea marathon in collaboration with the Padubidri JCI, which is celebrating its golden jubilee. Cultural events will be held at the main beach, with some sports events taking place at the Blue Flag beach. Emphasis will be placed on making all activities environmentally friendly.

Riyadh: The Jam'iyyatul Falah (JF) Riyadh Unit held its Annual General Body Meeting at Loaloah Istirah in Riyadh on Thursday, October 3, 2024.

The gathering commenced with Master Ayman reciting verses from the Holy Quran, setting a solemn tone for the event. Br. Haneef Bardila warmly welcomed attendees, including JF Life Members, Office Bearers from various organizations, and guests, and extended his congratulations to all present.

During the meeting, Br. Muhammad Ashfaq, President, delivered the Annual Report, highlighting the unit's achievements, while Treasurer Br. Nazeer Ahmed presented the Annual Financial Report.

Br. Ashfaq updated members on the ongoing efforts of Jam'iyyatul Falah in the Dakshina Kannada and Udupi districts for the year 2023-2024. Expressing gratitude for the support of the members and the committee, he encouraged the youth to join JF, emphasizing the importance of continuing the mission initiated by their elders 36 years ago.

The primary guest, Br. Yasin Baig, inspired the audience with a message underscoring the significance of service. He encouraged everyone to heed the Prophet's (pbuh) words: “Take advantage of five before five: your youth before your old age, your health before your illness, your wealth before your poverty, your free time before you become busy, and your life before your death.” He also spoke about the responsibility and blessing of serving the community through Jam'iyyatul Falah, stressing the promise of rewards in both this life and the hereafter.

Following his address, Br. Ashfaq Ahmed (President) formally dissolved the current committee and entrusted Br. Abdul Hameed and Br. Fazlur Rehman with the election process. A new Executive Committee was then formed for the 2024-2025 term, with Br. Salman Noor elected as the President, Br. Abubaker Irfan as General Secretary, and Br. Nazeer Ahmed continuing as Treasurer. Additionally, 26 other members were appointed to the Executive Committee.

The evening concluded with a dinner for all participants, and Br. Haneef congratulated the newly formed JF Riyadh Executive Committee and all attendees for their contribution to the event's success.

Office Bearers Elected for the 2024-2025 Term

President: Salman Noor

Vice President: Fazlur Rehman

General Secretary: Abubaker Irfan Sheikh

Joint Secretary: Irshad Moideen

Treasurer: Nazeer Ahmed

Joint Treasurer: Akhil Ganjimutt

Auditor: Haneef Bardila

Advisors: Sheikh GK, Abdul Hameed Wenz, Abdul Basheer Beary

NRCC Representatives: Mohammed Ashfaq, Akthar Shaikh

NRCC Rep. at JFCC: Parvez Ali

Sports Coordinators: Shareef Ahmed, Ayaz Ahmed, Mohammed Mahir, Sameen Gurukambla, Mohammed Gazali, Javed Khan

Event Coordinators: Abdul Hameed Nazeer, Sharief Thokur, Sadhik Mohammed

Media Coordinator: Parveez Ahmed

Committee Members: Sadique Moideen, Sayed Sameer, Mohammed Khizer, Mohammed Sarfaraz, Fareed Mohammed, Suhail Ahmed

Prominent NRI community leader SM Syed Khalilur Rehman, fondly known as CA Khalil, passed away in Dubai on Thursday at the age of 86 after a brief illness.

Khalil had been admitted to Aster Hospital in Mankhool on Tuesday after experiencing severe leg weakness. Despite the best efforts of the medical team, he succumbed to a double heart attack that worsened his condition, his son Rais Ahmed confirmed.

The news of his passing has sent waves of grief across communities, particularly in his hometown of Bhatkal, Karnataka, where he was a celebrated figure. Tributes have been pouring in on social media, highlighting his significant contributions to international trade, social service, and education.

A Legacy of Leadership and Service

A chartered accountant by profession, Khalil was a founding member of the Dubai chapter of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI), where he served as chairman from 1987 to 1994. His illustrious career included key leadership roles, such as general manager of Khaleej Times, group executive director of the Ilyas and Mustafa Galadari Group, and vice-chairman of the Jashanmal Group of Companies.

He also chaired Maadhyama Communications and Sahil Online, a web-based news platform, and was a director and trustee of several media companies and charitable organisations in Dubai and India.

A Champion for Education and Philanthropy

Khalil’s impact extended far beyond his professional achievements. As president and general secretary of Anjuman Hami-e-Muslimeen, he played a pivotal role in the development of educational institutions, including schools and colleges in Bhatkal and surrounding areas. His dedication to social upliftment earned him recognition from the Government of Karnataka, which honoured him with a prestigious award for his philanthropic contributions.

A Life Celebrated

The Bhatkal Muslim Khaleej Council (BMKC) recently released a documentary celebrating Khalil’s remarkable life and service to the community—a testament to his enduring legacy.

CA Khalil is survived by his family and countless admirers across the globe. His passing marks the end of an era for Indian expatriates in the UAE and beyond, leaving behind a legacy of leadership, generosity, and commitment to community service.