Nalin Kumar to raise voice against Niddodi project in Parliament

[email protected] (CD Network, Photos by Suresh Vamanjoor)

July 22, 2013

Mangalore, Jul 22: Mangalore MP Nalin Kumar Kateel has raised voice against Niddodi thermal power plant. Visiting Niddodi area on Monday, Mr Kateel promised the villagers of doing whatever little he can within his ability to save their properties which have been notified for the thermal power plant.

Villager, Alban Lobo briefing the MP said, “Since my ancestors lived here and we had grown here we are not ready to sell our land. Even when government officials came to the area to conduct survey we bitterly opposed and sent them back."

Mr Lobo said that since most of the land here are cultivable land, the villagers are grossly disappointed by the move of the government, which is against their interest.

The villagers said that they had sent memorandum to the elected representatives of the state only because they have immense faith on them.

"Even after sending memorandum and letters we have not received any response from them," said Mr Lobo adding that they have lost hopes from the elected representatives.

“On 16th May nearly nine government vehicle entered Niddodi village without any intimation but villagers did not allow them to survey the land. Later waiting for two hours government officials left the place. Village has 2500 acres of land but thermal power plant requires 8000 acres of land as it of 4000 mega vat capacity. Along with Niddodi village project covers Yedapaduv, Nirude, Puttige, Kateel, Mucchuru, Padu Perar, Mudu Perar, Thenka Yedapadavu and some neighbouring villages”, said villager Sudhakar Poojary.

Veena Damodhar explaining the problems, said that she has a joint family as of now and if at all they sell their land, they will have no option but to part ways from one another.

Promising the villagers Nalin Kumar Kateel said that he was not aware of the ground realities at Niddodi, while he got hint of the situation through media.

"As I remained absent to the Parliament sessions during the legislative assembly election, I will certainly raise this issue on August 6 in the Parliament. There will be no change in my stand. I will always stand by the villagers," the MP said.

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Philanthropist, Visionary Entrepreneur, A K Group Founder M Ahmed passes away

coastaldigest.com news network

October 8,2024

Mangaluru, Oct 8: The city of Mangaluru mourns the loss of M Ahmed, a pioneering businessman, philanthropist, and the Founder Chairman of the AK Group. He passed away on Tuesday morning at the age of 76, leaving behind a legacy that spans decades of service, innovation, and community building.

M Ahmed, also fondly known as A K Ahmed, was a man of humble beginnings who grew into one of the most respected entrepreneurs in South India. He founded the AK Group in 1984, which has since flourished into a multi-faceted business empire. The company, which began as a small frame manufacturing unit, now encompasses a wide range of industries, including plywood, formaldehyde, particle boards, fire-rated products, and more. AK Group's growth extended beyond India, with manufacturing units established in Myanmar and Vietnam.

What began with 18 employees in 1984 has today expanded to provide employment to approximately 3,000 people in India and 400 abroad. M Ahmed’s dedication and vision were instrumental in transforming the company into a market leader, recognized for its high-quality products and innovation. AK Plywood is now one of India’s top plywood manufacturers, and the largest in South India. The company was Karnataka’s first plywood manufacturer to receive ISO certification and has garnered prestigious awards, including the Rising Stars Power Brands Award in London (2017) and the Best Manufacturer Award from MSME Karnataka (2018).

Ahmed’s business success was deeply rooted in values instilled in him during his early years. He worked alongside his father, the late Abdul Khader Moopa, loading sawn timber, and it was from these humble beginnings that he developed his work ethic, pioneering spirit, and respect for time—values that remained the cornerstone of his remarkable career.

His foresight was evident when he recognized the potential of timber from Perumbavoor, Kerala, for plywood and blockboards at a time when it was merely being used as firewood. This strategic move led to the establishment of one of the first frame manufacturing and peeling units there, and soon after, Ahmed launched his own company in Mangaluru, swiftly earning national and international recognition.

Beyond plywood, the AK Group has diversified into multiple industries, including marine food, pharmaceuticals, construction materials, hypermarkets in India and the UAE, and food industries in Indonesia. Under Ahmed’s leadership, the company’s reach expanded, ensuring its position as a formidable player in various sectors.

Ahmed was not only an extraordinary businessman but also a deeply compassionate individual, dedicated to social and religious causes. He served as the founding president of the managing committee of Ihsan Masjid in Mangaluru and established the Highland Educational and Cultural Centre. His philanthropic efforts were as vast as his business ventures, benefiting countless communities both in India and abroad.

His kindness, simplicity, and punctuality were hallmarks of his character. Those who knew him admired his unyielding commitment to excellence, as well as his warmth and generosity. M Ahmed is survived by his wife, three daughters, and four sons, who continue his legacy of philanthropy and social service.

As news of his passing spread, tributes poured in from all sectors of society. Social, religious, and political leaders in Mangaluru expressed their deep sorrow over the loss of a man who dedicated his life to improving the lives of others.

M Ahmed’s journey from humble beginnings to massive success will continue to inspire generations. His life serves as a testament to the power of vision, perseverance, and, above all, integrity.

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