In 1995, as a student involved in social politics, Dr. Zafar Alam found himself drawn to the polio eradication campaign. Through his volunteer work, he encountered the harsh realities of laboring families in the slums of Firozabad—lack of basic facilities, illiteracy, child labor, and widespread poverty. Deeply moved by their plight, he set out to uplift the community, despite the overwhelming influence of local mafias and societal norms.

Against the backdrop of a society that deemed educating girls as a crime, Dr. Alam initiated night schools for child laborers, offering them a chance to escape the cycle of poverty through education. With the support of his family, including his late brother Farhat Alam and sister Shabana, he took bold steps to confront the entrenched social issues, including child labor, drug addiction, and exploitation.

In 2001, Dr. Alam and his team established the “Chirag Society,” a beacon of hope for the marginalized. Through their tireless efforts, including advocacy, awareness campaigns, and community meetings, they successfully challenged the local mafia, earning support from government authorities. The initiative resulted in the transformation of countless lives, empowering youth, particularly women, to break free from their constraints and contribute actively to society.

Today, the Chirag Society is a respected name in Firozabad and surrounding areas, with a prominent role in district-level committees and a deep connection with the community. Thousands of children, once trapped in child labor, now thrive as professionals in various fields, including law enforcement, education, and healthcare. Dr. Alam’s journey from a concerned student to a pillar of social reform highlights the power of resilience and collective action in overcoming adversity.

Dr. Alam’s legacy continues to shine, as the “Chirag” he lit now illuminates the lives of many, proving that even in the darkest corners, a spark of hope can lead to transformation. He has dedicated the last two decades to serving and supporting the most vulnerable communities in Firozabad District.
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