The Maharashtra government has significantly increased its annual grant-in-aid under the Zakir Hussain Madrassa Modernization Scheme from Rs 2 lakhs to Rs 10 lakhs. This initiative, fully funded by the state, was initially introduced in 2013 by the Congress-led government, allocating Rs 2 lakhs annually for madrassas (Islamic religious schools) across the state.

Under the current leadership of Eknath Shinde, the government plans to enhance madrassas by incorporating science, mathematics, and English into the curriculum alongside religious studies. The recent increase in allocation, effective since the December 22, 2023 Government Resolution (GR), aims to disburse funds to all Wakf Board-registered madrassas. These funds will be utilized for facility improvement, library establishment, infrastructure enhancement, and remuneration for contract-based teachers.

Interestingly, the GR specifies that only one madrassa will be permitted to function in a single building, challenging the current reality where many operate in ill-equipped prayer halls. In Maharashtra, district education officers will ensure proper scrutiny of eligibility and fulfillment of criteria before the disbursement of funds.

Deputy CM Ajit Pawar has advocated for a 5% reservation for Muslims, a stance at odds with the BJP, which previously called for the closure of madrassas but now supports their modernization. The GR acknowledges Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s emphasis on the modernization of madrassas, citing it as an important task under the new 15-point program.

While community leaders and educators generally welcome this initiative as a positive step, some express concerns. Samajwadi Party MLA Rais Shaikh cautions against government interference in madrassa functioning under the pretext of modernization. Overall, the modernization process is deemed crucial for equipping students with the knowledge and skills necessary for future academic and employment prospects.

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