Six AMU girls’ hostels named after Begum Hazrat Mahal, Mrs Annie Besant, Nawab Sikander Jahan, Madam Bhikaji Cama, Hamida Habibullah and Kadambini Ganguly
ALIGARH : In order to recognize the seminal services rendered by the eminent freedom fighters and distinguished ladies, the Aligarh Muslim University has decided to name six hostels for girl students after Begum Hazrat Mahal, Mrs Annie Besant, Nawab Sikander Jahan (Bhopal), Madam Bhikaji Cama (an eminent social worker, philanthropist and a women’s right activist), Hamida Habibullah (an Indian parliamentarian and social worker) and Kadambini Ganguly (the first Indian woman to practice medicine in India).
The Aligarh Muslim University Vice Chancellor Professor Tariq Mansoor inaugurated the six hostels and an ATM kiosk at the Begum Azizun Nisa Hall yesterday. The inauguration was held after the flag hoisting programme in the Hall premises as part of the 75th Independence Day celebrations.
Professor Mansoor said that the distinguished personalities after whose names the hostels have been christened will continue to inspire generations of women who come to stay in this Hall of residence.
The Vice Chancellor also planted a rare sapling of Adansonia digitata, the monstrous “Baobab”, a native of South Africa, gifted to the Hall by Prof Shujauddin, former Member Incharge, Department of Land and Gardens, AMU.
He appreciated the Hall administration’s efforts to make the Hall campus greener by planting more than 2000 plants, including the rare plants of medicinal value.
The Vice-Chancellor declared the results of the online national essay writing competition organised as part of the ‘Azadi Ka Amrut Mahotsava’ programme marking the 75th anniversary of India’s independence.
Professor Subuhi Khan, Provost of the Hall presented a report on the works of progress. She informed that the plantation drive, launched in 2019, has seen plantation on a large scale, including 400 medicinal plants, 565 flowering trees, 205 ornamental trees, 310 fruit bearing trees, 765 shade trees and 591 potted plants. She also proposed a vote of thanks.
AMU Registrar, Mr Abdul Hamid (IPS), Women’s College Principal Professor Naima Khatoon Gulrez, Former MIC, Department of Land and Garden, Prof Shujauddin, wardens of hostels and other teachers were present on the occasion.