Community

The winners of a weight loss challenge organised by the Center for Indian Community (CIC) Rayyan Zone were honoured at a ceremony. Shereef K B, Fayiz Abdulla and Rafeeq Soopi won the first, second and third prizes, respectively. Consolation awards were presented to Mohammed Rafi and Sameer Salih. Rashad Pallikandi, who received the ICBF Award for Social Service, was also felicitated during the event. President Sudheer T K presided. Secretary Abdul Jaleel M M welcomed the gathering and vice president Subul Abdul Aziz proposed a vote of thanks.

With winter approaching, Hamad Medical Corporation (HMC) is urging senior citizens and residents and their families to prioritize considering the annual flu vaccine.HMC added that the free vaccine is available at more than 90 government, semi government and private healthcare facilities across the country and offers crucial protection against the influenza virus, especially for vulnerable populations.Deputy Chief for Long Term Care, Rehabilitation and Geriatric Care, and Medical Director of Rumailah Hospital and Qatar Rehabilitation Institute at HMC, Dr. Hanadi Khamis Al Hamad, emphasized the importance of this vaccination, highlighting that the flu shot is a simple and effective way to protect senior citizens from the serious complications of influenza. It's particularly crucial for older adults with underlying health conditions, as they are more susceptible to severe illness.Dr. Al Hamad indicated that at HMC, patients can ask to receive their flu vaccine when they attend their scheduled outpatient's department appointments and HMC is encouraging them to do this as soon as possible, adding that they can also take the vaccine at all Primary Health Care Centers and a range of private clinics in Qatar.She said that protecting senior citizens is a community effort, underlining that by getting the flu shot, individuals are not only protecting themselves but also contributing to a healthier community, in addition to encouraging their loved ones to prioritize vaccination and help them access the necessary healthcare services.Regarding the methods of booking an appointment to get the influenza shot, Dr. Al Hamad highlighted that this is done through either through the Primary Health Care Corporation (PHCC), calling 107 for information or visiting a nearest PHCC center for a walk-in flu vaccination.She stated that they can also receive the vaccine during one of the scheduled appointments, asserting that the vaccine can be get at more than 50 private clinics across Qatar.As for HMC Outpatient Department (OPD) appointments, the flu vaccine is available free for any patient attending a scheduled OPD appointment at an HMC facility, by asking physicians for the flu vaccine. (

In its ongoing commitment to promoting health and wellness in the community, Aster Hospital and Medical Centre is proud to announce a special initiative offering free HbA1c testing for all residents of Qatar. Launched on “World Diabetes Day”, this campaign underscores the importance of diabetes education, early detection, and prevention.The HbA1c test, a critical diagnostic tool, measures average blood sugar levels over the past three months, providing valuable insights into diabetes management and risk assessment. With the growing prevalence of diabetes, this initiative is a step forward in empowering individuals to take charge of their health.Dr. Gireesh Kumar Bharathan , Specialist in Internal Medicine at Aster Hospital, emphasized the importance of early screening, stating:"Diabetes is a silent condition, often going undetected until complications arise. With this free HbA1c screening, we aim to raise awareness and encourage proactive health management to reduce the long-term impact of diabetes in our community.”The free HbA1c tests are available at all Aster facilities across Qatar. Residents are encouraged to take advantage of this initiative by visiting their nearest branch. The campaign runs until 15th December 2024, ensuring ample opportunity for everyone to benefit.For more information or to book an appointment, please call 44440499

As part of the school’s golden jubilee activities, MES, in collaboration with the Indian Doctors Club (IDC) and the Federation of Indian Nurses (Finq), organised a medical camp for the transport, housekeeping, maintenance, and security staff, ensuring healthcare access and awareness for a vital section of the workforce.Over 300 members of the staff benefitted from face-to-face consultations. They were educated on lifestyle modifications and chronic diseases. A special session for women was conducted by Finq, focusing on breast cancer awareness, and emphasising early detection and prevention. School’s officiating president Dr Najeeb K P felicitated the representatives from the IDC and Finq. Principal Dr Hameeda Kadar thanked the doctors and nurses for their voluntary service. General secretary Hazmal Ismal visited the camp and conveyed his appreciation on behalf of the institution.IDC’s president Dr Saibu George was present during the event, ensuring its smooth execution. Dr Sunil Koya (IDC) and Bijoy (Finq) co-ordinated the programme, with the support of the school’s administration and facilities head Mohammed Rashid.

The Indian Pharmacists Association Qatar (IPhAQ) celebrated World Pharmacists Day 2024 under the theme ‘Pharmacists: Meeting Global Health Needs’.The event, aligned with The International Pharmaceutical Federation (FIP), showcased the vital role of pharmacists in healthcare both in Qatar and globally.The event began with networking and registration, followed by the national anthems of Qatar and India. IPhAQ general secretary Suhail Konnakkot welcomed the gathering, emphasising the value pharmacists bring to healthcare. President Ashraf K P, noted the association’s mission to support pharmacists and enhance patient care through training and mentorship.Indian ambassador Vipul, the chief guest, lauded the Indian pharmacists for their dedication. Dr Moza al-Hail from Hamad Medical Corporation appreciated IPhAQ’s commitment to advancing pharmacy through educational initiatives, promising support to enhance pharmacists’ skills.The programme included a role-play by the IPhAQ Academics and Research team, highlighting pharmacist-patient interactions, along with expert presentations on pharmacists’ expanding roles in clinical trials and healthcare policy by Dr P V Abdulrouf and Prof Zaheer Babar.Leaders from various Indian community organisations, including Hisham Abdulrahim (IBPC) and Shanavas Bava (ICBF) delivered felicitation speeches honouring pharmacists’ efforts.IPhAQ secretary Mohd Umer Farook proposed a vote of thanks. Programme convener Dr Binny Thomas thanked the organising team, especially Anvar Sadat, Sooraj Sreekumar, Dr S K Vyas, Jyothi, and Riyas for their support in the event’s success.

Zeal Toastmasters Club hosted a speakathon themed ‘Pink Power’, celebrating the strength and resilience of cancer survivors and caregivers. Muna, Thasni, Kamakshi Gopi, Stephen, Padma, Elizabeth, Rafeek, Yatika, Shilpa, Seema, Mujib, Jayant, and Diana handled various roles.

The Icc Eves Toastmasters Club held its 336th meeting with the theme ‘Ribbon of Hope’ to promote breast cancer awareness. The session, led by Samreen Shah, featured an international speech module by Philip Cherian and Suryanarayanan. Ambili Vinod released the first newsletter of the year. A send-off was given to Mani Roy and Sharda.

Indian expatriate forum Billawas Qatar, hosted a breast cancer awareness programme. The highlight was a presentation by Dr Pramitha Ponnappan (specialist-OBG, Abeer Medical Centre) on the importance of regular check-ups, self-examinations, and recognising early warning signs. Billawas Qatar members presented a dance performance.Indian embassy second secretary Bindu Nair lauded the organisation for its dedication to such an important cause and urged the attendees to spread the knowledge gained. The session was led by Billawas Qatar member Vasudha Sandeep and cultural secretary Pooja Jithin. Vice president Aparna Sharath welcomed the gathering and member Jyothi Raghunath proposed a vote of thanks. A number of community leaders were present.

6 predictors of coronary artery insufficiencyDiabetes, overweight, and lack of physical activity are the most prominent causesSmoking, high cholesterol, blood pressure, and stress are risk factorsHeart attack and irregular heartbeat are complications of the diseaseElectrocardiography and physical stress testing are the most important diagnostic methodsHaving coronary heart disease may affect memoryGood health reduces the risk of coronary insufficiencyDoha – Medical Care:Coronary artery insufficiency is a common disease in which the main blood vessels supplying the heart (coronary arteries) have difficulty supplying the heart muscle with sufficient blood, oxygen and nutrients.Detection and symptoms of insufficiency due to the spread of the virus when the heart does not receive a sufficient amount of oxygen-rich blood, but you are infected with the Corona virus, and decrease in blood flow to the heart can cause chest pain (angina) and shortness of breath, and complete blockage of blood flow can cause a heart attack.In this interview with Dr. Hiba Ahmed Rajab Ibrahim - Cardiovascular Specialist at Naseem Medical Center, we will learn about coronary artery disease, its causes, symptoms, risk factors, the most prominent complications, diagnostic methods, the nature of the relationship between coronary heart disease and its effect on memory, and does good health reduce the risk of infection? Coronary artery disease or not?What is coronary artery insufficiency?- It is a narrowing or blockage in the coronary arteries thatSupply the heart muscle with blood and oxygen*Why does it happen?It usually occurs due to the accumulation of fat in the walls of the arteries, which is known as atherosclerosis*What are its causes?- There are many reasons, most notably:1- High cholesterol level2- Smoking3- High blood pressure4- Diabetes5- Lack of physical activity6- Weight gain7- Family history of heart disease*What are the signs and symptoms?The signs and symptoms are the following:First: pain or tightness in the chest (angina)Second: shortness of breathThird: Unjustified fatigueFourth: Acceleration or irregular heartbeatFifth: dizziness or faintingSixth: excessive sweatingWhat are the risk factors for coronary artery insufficiency?There are factors that make you more susceptible to coronary artery disease, which are: SmokingHigh cholesterolHigh blood pressureHigh blood sugarAnxiety and stressGetting olderMen are more likely to have heart attacksMorbid obesity*What are the most prominent complications of coronary artery insufficiency?The most prominent of these complications are:- This feature is:Heart attackHeart failure (inability of the heart to pump enough blood)Heart rhythm disorderSudden death*Does heart disease affect the memory?In most cases, it does not affect memory, but it may be accompanied by cases of coronary artery insufficiency and cerebral atherosclerosis due to damage to the main arteries, such as the carotid atherosclerosis. In this case, there will be symptoms of cerebral atherosclerosis, such as poor memory.*Does good health reduce the risk of coronary artery disease?- Yes, definitely*What are the diagnostic methods?Electrocardiogram and physical stress test

Saree Sakhis, a community of saree enthusiasts, celebrated Pink October to spread awareness about breast cancer and the importance of early detection. Wearing shades of pink, the team members embarked on a bus tour of Doha for the cause, Priya Bhedi explained in a statement.

Aurora Toastmasters women’s club, a distinguished club under District 116, Division G, held its 187th meeting, on the theme ‘Together in Pink for a Brighter Tomorrow’. President Prameetha, Ruby Paul, Ritu Maheshwari, Kamakshi, Toyin, Dharini, Suchita, Ruby, Praveena, Susmita, Sahitya, Pradnya, Vinita, Poornima Dhulipala, Muna, Poornima Raj and Keerthi attended.

Coronary Artery Disease (CAD) is a common type of heart disease characterized by the reduction of blood flow to the heart muscle due to the build up of plaque (atherosclerosis) within the arteries of the heart. CAD is the most common type of heart disease and remains the leading cause of death worldwide, resulting in over 3,50,000 deaths annually.Premature Coronary Artery Disease (P-CAD) refers to the occurrence of CAD in males under 45 years of age and in females under 55 years, due to atherosclerotic plaques in the coronary arteries of the heart. . Research indicates that South Asians, both in their home countries and among immigrant communities worldwide, present with P-CAD at an earlier age than other ethnic groups.Globally P-CAD represents a significant burden and a crucial public health challenge. Alarmingly, more than four-fifths (80%) of those who present themselves with P-CAD have at least one modifiable risk factor. Therefore, this article is meant for everyone to get aware on how they can reduce their future risk of CAD which can lead to varying symptoms from just reversible chest pain on exertion (Angina Pectoris) to deadly heart attacks. Adding gravity to this problem, around 30% to 40% of the individuals do not survive their first heart attack signifying the importance of awareness for prevention of this deadly disease.Common Risk Factors for CAD:Risk factors for CAD are divided into two major groups. Non-Modifiable & Modifiable. NON-MODIFIABLE RISK FACTORS:AgeMale genderEthnicity (e.g. South Asians)Family history of P-CAD or DiabetesCertain genetic diseasesMODIFIABLE RISK FACTORS: Diabetes Mellitus or Impaired Glucose Tolerance (Prediabetes) Hypertension (High Blood Pressure) Dyslipidemia (Abnormal Cholesterol levels) Central Obesity Physical Inactivity Smoking StressTEN COMMANDMENTS FOR PREVENTING EARLY CORONARY ARTERY & OTHER ATHEROCLEROTIC VASCULAR DISEASES.BE PHYSICALLY ACTIVE:Engage in at least 150 minutes of brisk walking or 75 minutes of strenuous exercise per week like swimming or running. This is mandatory to prevent atherosclerotic vascular disease in healthy individuals without any chronic disease.DAILY FRUITS & VEGETABLES:Incorporate a variety of fruits and vegetables into your diet. These natural anti-oxidants (blood cleaners) help eliminate free radicals in the body which cause inflammation, atherosclerotic vascular disease & cancers.MINIMISE THE USE OF PROCESSED FOODS ,SPICES AND SIMPLE CARBOHYDRATES:Limit the intake of processed food, artificial sugars, rice and white flour, as these can lead to insulin resistance in the body which is a precursor of eight major diseases including Hypertension, Diabetes, CAD, Stroke and Cancers.CONTROL WAIST CIRCUMFERENCE: There is enough evidence that keeping waist below 40 inches (for males) & below 35 inches (for females) OR keeping waist-to-hip ratio below 1.0 for males and below 0.85 for females reduces the risk for metabolic & cardiovascular disease.SAY "NO" TO SMOKING & TOBACCO: Avoid all forms of tobacco to protect heart health.MONITOR BLOOD PRESSURE & BLOOD SUGAR LEVELS.Even if the high sugar or high BP do not cause any symptoms , they need to be checked and maintained with strict compliance.PERIODIC SCREENING TESTS FOR DIABETES & CHOLESTEROL: Individuals over 30 years of age should undergo annual screening for diabetes and cholesterol levels.ENSURE REGULAR SLEEP: Aim for 6-9 Hours of uninterrupted sleep to support overall health.MANAGE STRESS: Avoid over thinking. Employ techniques such as exercise, meditation, rituals, psychological training & behavioral therapies to cope with stress effectively.BE SOCIAL:Finally, the most important and most neglected one is to remain in healthy & happy relationships. Avoid over-working and balance the work with some quality time with family & friends to get relaxed & refreshed.By understanding and addressing these risk factors, individuals can significantly reduce their likelihood of developing premature coronary artery disease and improve their overall cardiovascular health.

The Indian Physiotherapy Forum Qatar (IPFQ) and Outreach Qatar (OQ) joined hands to organise an awareness programme for parents of children with special needs to commemorate 'World Physiotherapy Day – 2024' on September 8.IPFQ, a non-profit organisation of physiotherapists living and working in Qatar in both private and government healthcare facilities, is an associate organisation of the Indian Business and Professional Council under the aegis of the embassy of India.Outreach Qatar is an associate organisation of Indian Community Benevolent Fund (ICBF), also under the aegis of embassy of India, Qatar, supporting and catering to children with special needs and their parents.The theme of World Physiotherapy Day - 2024 was 'Low back pain and the role of physiotherapy in its management'.The event was opened by OQ general secretary Sameer Moosa, followed by the inaugural address by president Avinash Gaikwad. Dr Sheena Maria John elaborated on the theme of the day and introduced the team of presenters and volunteers.Interactive sessions were conducted by paediatric physiotherapists Dr Nargis Prashanth Das, Dr Binoy Das Nalumakkal, and Dr Biju Nirmal Jacob.The activity focused on enriching participants’ knowledge in the role of exercises as a lifelong activity for healthy living and preventing low back pain.Parents shared their experiences, discussed their concerns and participated by asking questions to get right guidance from the expert physiotherapists. The event concluded with a relaxation breathing exercise lead by physiotherapist Dr Sejal Nariani.The combined efforts of the two organisations made the event meaningful by raising awareness among parents of children with special needs on the importance of taking care of their back while caring for their children, a statement added.

The Ministry of Public Health (MOPH) has increased its monitoring of local markets to strengthen its efforts in ensuring the safety of imported and domestically traded foods in Qatar.In the first half of 2024, the Ministry inspected 60,520 shipments of imported food to verify their safety and compliance with relevant technical standards, said MOPH in a press statement on Saturday.The total volume of imported food that met these standards was 1 billion, 168 million, and 695 thousand kilograms. Meanwhile, 985 thousand and 676 kilograms of non-compliant food were destroyed, and 211 shipments were re-exported, the statement added.The Food Safety Department at the Ministry of Public Health issued 155 export and re-export certificates, 104 food destruction certificates, and 48 food re-inspection certificates during the first half of the year.Regarding export certificates, the Department issued 155 export and re-export certificates in the first half of the year. Additionally, the Department issued 104 certificates for the destruction of food products and 48 certificates for the re-inspection of food items. During this period, there were 625 requests for the destruction of food items and 102 requests for the re-analysis of food products. The Ministry also processed 3,119 requests for the final clearance of products and conducted 147 reviews and follow-ups on the registration of operational information for local food establishments.As for the services provided by the Ministry of Public Health to food producers, 1,279 producers were registered in the first half of this year. The Ministry issued 1,734 certificates to food handlers and granted 766 food handler permits.In its efforts to improve the operations of food establishments in Qatar, the Ministry of Public Health inspected 3,221 local food establishments to ensure compliance with relevant laws, standards, and technical requirements. A total of 7,022 samples from imported foods at the country's ports were analysed.Additionally, 10,064 samples from local food establishments were tested for safety and quality. The "Watheq" electronic food safety system approved 21,457 food items, ensuring they met the necessary standards. Furthermore, 883 food establishments were registered under the system. The Ministry also responded to 181 public inquiries and complaints about food safety, received through the health sector's hotline number 16000.

Maik Wiedenbach’s Training is a staple in the Manhattan fitness scene and beyond. The New York based trainer and his team have gained a reputation way beyond the City that never sleeps for their overall quality of facilities and knowledge.Maik Wiedenbach is now bringing this luxury trademark to Dubai, where he has already started to change the fitness landscape with his knowledge shared in workshops.Few marketplaces in the world are as crowded and competitive as that of the Big Apple. Manhattan offers a large selection of upscale gym offers, however Maik Wiedenbach has achieved something special - building a gym and personal training environment that separates significantly from the competition, in multiple ways. The ex-elite swimmer and multiple winner of ‘NY’s Coach Of The Year’ award credits his loyalty to his core values to the success story, and claims that it’s those exact qualities that will make the difference in Dubai as well.Most gyms follow the same business model: you sign up and they hope you never come. An average of an astounding 74% of gym members never visits the gym again after the first month, according to comparisons of data among the big fitness chains in the United States. For Maik Wiedenbach, this would be a nightmare. His happy and motivated clients are his reward as much as they are his billboards. Him and his team want clients to come, get in great shape and inspire others to join the community. And this concept has been proven and changing lives for almost two decades now.It’d be fair to say that Maik Wiedenbach’s core values can be broken down into 5 main points, even though there are many other touches that make the experience in their gyms so enjoyable and rewarding.Unique Quality Of Equipment & KnowledgeThe first thing you notice when walking into one of Maik Wiedenbach’s gyms will be the green machines. The premium Watson equipment is made in the UK and represents the very high end of professional training and weight lifting equipment. They have become a true part of Maik Wiedenbach’s brand and signature quality. Everything touched in this gym is state of the art quality. The team wouldn’t want to train in a different environment themselves - they’re all passionate, successful and professional bodybuilders. This means, the team shares an exceptional pool of knowledge, incomparable to your common gym trainer. Trainers are trusted for personal training, supervision and qualified nutritional advice, allowing clients to reach and sustain whatever goals they bring into the facilities. Maik Wiedenbach is internationally recognised for his knowledge in the field, leading him to host sold out workshops for other fitness professionals across the globe. The fact that he is looking to concentrate his efforts on the Dubai region is a gift to the region’s fitness industry.Empowering & Safe EnvironmentMaik Wiedenbach prides himself in having selected a team that cultivates a safe and empowering environment. People visit frequently because they feel better when they are leaving. There is no tolerance or space for personal ego or making anyone feel less about themselves. Part of the many client success stories is the creation of a gym that becomes a place that people truly get excited about instead of dreading it. Clients associate the gym with the confidence and positive energy they feel there, and can’t wait to return as soon as a session is over.Leading By ExampleAs mentioned, all team members are bodybuilders. This means every interaction is carried by true passion for the sport and the knowledge that can be shared. The team members pride themselves in sharing the best advice available, sourcing from a rich experience in both recreational and competitive bodybuilding. Further, they excel as brilliant examples of the supportive and uplifting fitness community.IntegrityIntegrity, in this case this means you have a team and gym truly dedicated to giving you a true ‘wow - experience’. Not only the first time, but every time you visit the facilities. So consistency in the quality and experiences is a big key. Also, openness to feedback and constant improvement. Members truly receive what they paid for here, and beyond. Many small signs of true attention to detail make these sessions so different from the competition - when you join a Maik Wiedenbach gym, you become part of a highly qualified and supportive family of people passionate about what they do.CleanlinessNeedless to say, the facilities are truly spotless. From the machines, floor to the changing rooms - hygiene and cleanliness are immaculate. No smelly shared spaces or bathrooms that remind you of the public gyms you are used to. Maik Wiedenbach’s facilities set a standard for gym hygiene, making a massive - and often underestimated - difference for their clients.Now combine these values with the New York hustle mentality and you have a guaranteed winning combination for the client.Maik Wiedenbach had countless opportunities and offers from investors to turn his brand into a typical big chain in the United States. However, the elite athlete and honorable businessman is less a paycheck person but rather someone who realizes his vision and dreams - helping others to realize theirs.Needless to say the Dubai Fitness industry is gaining a true gem with the New York fitness authority that comes in Maik Wiedenbach. Not only is he continuing to share his wisdom with fellow professionals in the local industry, but it looks like Maik Wiedenbach is ready to make a bigger step into Dubai this year. An equally strong testament to the international pull and attractiveness of the city.

MES Indian School actively engaged in a fundraising drive carried out under the aegis of Qatar Charity (QC), for the treatment of four-month-old Malkha Rouhi who has been diagnosed with Type 1 Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA). Students of all classes contributed generously by donating money in collection boxes kept in each class. The proceeds collected from students and staff and a sizeable amount contributed by the school management for the relief fund, totalling QR100,000, were handed over to QC officials.

Overseas Indian Cultural Congress (OICC) Incas Qatar has raised funds through its various bodies for the health and treatment support of Malkha Rouhi, an infant suffering from the rare disease of Spinal Muscular Atrophy - SMA Type 1.The amount was handed over to Qatar Charity officials at an event held at the Qatar Charity headquarters. OICC Incas Qatar working president, Anwar Sadath, general secretary Srijith S Nair, treasurer George Augustine, global committee members, John Gilbert, Nassar Vadakkekad, joint treasurer, Noushad T K, Central Committee officer-bearer Juttas Paul among others took part in the event.

HOPE Qatar Centre for Persons with Disabilities marked with students and staff, the World Autism Awareness Day on April 2.With over 35 students with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), the centre organised a series of engaging and educational activities, fostering both learning and enjoyment. Some students were also taken on a shopping excursion as part of the classroom beyond walls programmes. This visit was arranged together with Aster volunteers.Globally this day serves as a critical reminder of the millions of individuals and families living with ASD. It’s a day to raise awareness, promote acceptance and to celebrate the unique strengths and experiences of autistic people. There are currently about 1,300 children with autism in Qatar, according to a statement from HOPE Qatar.“The theme for World Autism Awareness Day 2024 is “Moving from Surviving to Thriving: Autistic Individuals share regional perspectives”. This theme goes beyond just raising awareness of autism. It emphasises the importance of moving the conversation forward, from simply understanding autism to creating an environment where autistic people can truly thrive,” said Evans Tutordo, head of academic programme at HOPE Qatar.“Autism, also known as Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), is a developmental condition that causes difficulties in social communication and interaction. People on the autism spectrum experience the world differently, and these differences can affect how they communicate, behave, learn and process sensory information,” said Yasin Khan, head of therapeutic programme at HOPE Qatar.“People with ASD often have problems with social communication and interaction, and restricted or repetitive behaviours or interests. People with ASD may also have different ways of learning, moving or paying attention. These characteristics can make life very challenging,” he added.HOPE Qatar has been organising autism awareness activities for its students over the past eight years. This year’s progress was to reaffirm its commitment to fostering inclusive societies where individuals with ASD can live fulfilling lives and contribute meaningfully to their communities. Similar awareness activities are planned during April.

Indian Physiotherapy Forum Qatar (IPFQ) has unanimously elected its new managing committee for the 2024-2026 term.IPFQ, an associate organisation with Indian Business and Professionals Council in Qatar, has its members working in the private and public sectors.The new officials are: Sheena John (president), Prasobh Jacob (vice-president), Shahir M T (general secretary), Nivedita Vishwanathan (joint secretary), Shanavas Neelikandy (treasurer), Reshma Gaurav, Mohamed Hussain, Arun Kumar, Nikesh Balan, Jasman Abdul Kader and Zulfeequer C P (managing committee members).The outgoing president Mohamed Shafi handed over the organisation’s official “Constitution” to symbolically transfer the office to his successor. The general body was the final event organised by the outgoing managing committee and a report of the activities of the past two years was presented by general secretary Biju Nirmal Jacob. Former treasurer Shahir M T presented the audited financial report of 2022-2024. Roshna Madhur proposed a vote of thanks.

A Doha-based ultrarunner is eyeing more achievements while imparting strong messages on health awareness.Indian expatriate Noufal C C is all set to take part in the upcoming Riyadh and Mumbai marathons.“My dream is to achieve the Ironman title after completing the series of long-distance triathlon races that consist of a 2.4-mile (3.9km) swim, a 112-mile (180.2km) bicycle ride and a marathon 26.22-mile (42.2km) run,” Noufal told Gulf Times.In December 2023, Noufal completed the 90km ultramarathon from Doha to Dukhan. He finished first among the 120 runners. For Noufal, his accomplishment in the ultramarathon was the fruit of years-long training and practice, under coach Rajendra Yadav.“I start my training and practice early in the morning. I start to walk randomly after parking my car somewhere. Sometimes, I need to take a taxi to reach my car after walking for hours,” he recalled.Little did Noufal know when he reached Doha in 2013, that years later he would venture into ultrarunning. “Covid-19 changed everything and left us all more health conscious. I started to engage in physical activities to beat the lifestyle diseases.”Later, Noufal joined Wellness Challengers, a group of walking and running enthusiasts in Qatar, and started to attend health awareness programmes while taking part in regular physical activities.At Wellness Challengers, members use Strava app to track exercise. The status of physical engagement is shared in the app along with pictures of the location. Wellness Challengers helped Noufal get acquainted with like-minded people and to be instilled with a passion for conquering new heights. Noufal owes much to his friends at Wellness Challengers, his wife Adila Marjana and sons Zahran Mohamed and Mohamed Zayn for their support of his ventures.“I want to inspire and draw more people towards walking and running. Physical engagement is inevitable for both physical and mental health,” Noufal added.