Current Developments
Recent reports indicate a significant reduction in government funding for educational programs linked to madrasas and Waqf properties, with allocations nearing zero in the latest budget.
Educational Challenges Faced by Muslim Communities
- Literacy Disparities: Muslim literacy rates stand at 79.5%, trailing the national average of 80.9%, according to a Ministry of Minority Affairs study.
- Decline in Higher Education: Data from the All India Survey on Higher Education (2020–21) reveals an 8% drop in Muslim enrollment compared to the previous year, exceeding declines observed among SC, ST, and OBC groups.
- Key Findings from Reports:
- Reduced female enrollment during 2020–21.
- Elevated dropout rates in states like Assam and West Bengal.
- Secondary-level Muslim student attrition averages 18.64%, surpassing the national 12.6%.
- Enrollment rates diminish progressively from middle school, reaching their lowest in higher secondary grades.
Waqf-Linked Educational Programs
- Administrative Framework: Statutory Waqf Boards manage religious and charitable assets, including educational institutions, under the oversight of the Ministry of Minority Affairs.
- Key Initiatives:
- QWBTS: Focuses on modernizing Waqf properties to enhance community resources.
- SWSVY: Aims to develop urban Waqf assets for educational and social welfare.
- Implementation: Managed by the Central Waqf Council, established in 1964 to advise the government on Waqf matters.
Madrasa Modernization Efforts (SPEMM)
- Launch and Goals: Introduced in 2014, the Scheme for Providing Education to Madrasas and Minorities seeks to integrate contemporary education into Islamic institutions by improving infrastructure, teacher training, and institutional governance.
- Funding Structure:
- Himalayan/Northeastern States: 90% central funding, 10% state.
- Union Territories: Full central support.
- Other States: 60% central, 40% state.
- Eligibility: Requires affiliation with recognized educational boards and GIS mapping.
Key Concerns and Controversies
- Funding Cuts: Drastic reductions in allocations for Waqf and madrasa schemes, with some receiving no funds in 2024–25.
- Policy Shifts: Assam’s 2021 decision to convert state-funded madrasas into general schools sparked debate, followed by similar moves in 2023.
- Regulatory Criticism: The NCPCR highlighted issues such as religious bias in curricula, non-compliance with child rights, and lack of standardized teaching practices.
- Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2024-Â The proposed Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2024, could increase governmental control over Waqf assets and dilute traditional oversight, potentially altering madrasa administration.
Pathways for Improvement
- Enrollment Drives: Identify and integrate out-of-school children into formal education.
- Financial Support: Expand scholarships and grants for Muslim students.
- Infrastructure Investment: Upgrade facilities in minority institutions to ensure equitable access to quality education.
Conclusion
Addressing educational disparities requires sustained funding, inclusive policies, and collaboration between communities and authorities to balance traditional systems with modern educational demands.
