‘FIMA’ elects new executive committee for 2025-26

The Federation of Indian Muslim Associations (FIMA), a coordination council representing 21 Muslim organizations from various parts of India, recently held its election for the 2025-26 term. The event commenced with a recitation of verses from the Holy Quran by Master Fatallah Anas, setting a spiritual tone for the proceedings.

Established in 1995, FIMA has consistently worked for the betterment of the community through various impactful programs. Over the years, FIMA has provided substantial financial and material support to victims of natural calamities and those affected by floods. During the challenging times of the COVID-19 pandemic, FIMA rendered remarkable services, extending critical aid and support for the community.

The FIMA Secretary-General, Mubeen Ahmed Sheik, warmly welcomed participants to the event, which was presided over by FIMA President, Salim Desai. In his address, President Salim Desai extended a special welcome to the esteemed dignitaries and offered an insightful overview of the challenges and opportunities the Executive Committee faced while taking charge in the post-pandemic era.

This period was characterized by the establishment of new norms and a decline in activities and official communication channels. President Desai articulated FIMA’s Strategic Vision, which prioritizes educational and economic empowerment, while elaborating on the team’s notable achievements and the challenges encountered, and highlighted their diligent efforts to maximize the use of available resources.

Election Commissioner Dr. Nayeemuddin conducted the proceedings for the FIMA election, during which the following executive committee members were unanimously elected by the organization’s members.

Kareem Irfan – President, MKS. Mohiudeen – Vice President, Sideeque Valiyakath – Secretary General, Mohamed Shabeer – Secretary, Basheer Batha – Treasurer, Mehaboob Nademal – Joint Treasurer, Mubeen Ahmed Sheik, Dr. A Hidayatullah, Aslam Thakur, KV Faisal and Wajid Ali respectively.

President Kareem Irfan expressed heartfelt gratitude for the support extended to him and the newly elected team. In his address, he reflected on FIMA’s significant past achievements and the pressing challenges that lie ahead. He emphasized the critical role of active participation from member associations in ensuring FIMA’s continued success and in restoring its positive image.

President Irfan voiced his deep concern over the community’s diminishing presence and influence in key areas such as education, economy, and technology. Drawing from history, he cited the examples of the once-thriving civilizations of Baghdad and Samarkand, highlighting their pinnacle achievements and the underlying factors that led to their eventual decline.

In the past, FIMA has organized numerous impactful events, including the prestigious FIMA Excellence Awards, to honor distinguished individuals from various fields. These awards have recognized activists, judicial experts, and media professionals for their exemplary contributions to society.

FIMA in the past conducted many important events hosting and honoring with FIMA Excellence Awards for activists, judicial experts and media persons including Justice Fathima Beevi, Justice Rajinder Sachar, Teesta Setalwad, RB Srikumar IPS – former DGP Gujarath, Harsh Mandar IAS, Vinod Dua, N Ram, Sayed Mohamedali Shihab Thangal, CM Ibrahim – former minister of cabinet for Civil Aviation, E Ahmed – former minister of state for external affairs, ET Mohamed Basheer MP, Saleem Sharwani MP etc.

FIMA in the past conducted many important events hosting and honoring with FIMA Excellence Awards for activists, judicial experts and media persons including Justice Fathima Beevi, Justice Rajinder Sachar, Teesta Setalwad, RB Srikumar IPS – former DGP Gujarath, Harsh Mandar IAS, Vinod Dua, N Ram, Sayed Mohamedali Shihab Thangal, CM Ibrahim – former minister of cabinet for Civil Aviation, E Ahmed – former minister of state for external affairs, ET Mohamed Basheer MP, Saleem Sharwani MP etc.

FIMA’s iconic Iftar parties bring together community members alongside ambassadors, diplomats, and representatives from countries including the US, UK, Europe, GCC, and Africa. The events are graced by prominent Kuwaiti dignitaries, including members of the esteemed Sabah family and Governors.

The felicitation of the newly elected committee was led by Mohamed Hanief and Sayed Ghalib Al Mashoor. The event concluded on a gracious note with a vote of thanks delivered by Dr. Hidayathullah, marking the end of a memorable occasion.