SIO Maharashtra Calls for 20% Education Budget Increase to Address Muslim and Minority Student Concerns

Mumbai: The Students Islamic Organisation of India (SIO) Maharashtra South Zone has presented recommendations to the state government for the upcoming budget. SIO has urged the Maharashtra government to increase the education budget allocation to 20% and has proposed several suggestions related to higher education, the current educational standards, and especially the concerns of Muslim and minority students.

Even after seven decades of independence, the Muslim community in India continues to face social, economic, and educational backwardness. Reports from various committees, including the Mandal Commission (1980), Gopal Singh Committee (1983), Sachar Committee (2006), Kundu Committee (2014), and Dr. Mahmood ur Rahman Committee (2013), have highlighted that Muslims lag behind even Scheduled Castes (SC) and Scheduled Tribes (ST). In light of these findings, the government must take concrete measures to address this issue.

To tackle these challenges, SIO South Maharashtra has put forward the following recommendations:

1) The state government should increase the education budget to 20%, ensuring access to quality education for all.

2) SIO has drawn attention to the deteriorating condition of Urdu medium schools in Maharashtra and the rising dropout rates among Muslim students. The organization has urged the state government to take immediate action.

3) There is a demand for the integration of technology in education, including the use of AI and digital tools to enhance learning. SIO has also suggested the establishment of career counseling cells in colleges and sufficient government funding for these initiatives.

4) Minority students should have access to scholarships such as the Maulana Azad National Fellowship (MANF) and Pre-Matric Scholarships, which should be reinstated and expanded.

5) Muslim students should be provided with a 10% reservation in education and employment opportunities in the public sector.

6) The establishment of a central university in Maharashtra should be ensured.

Along with these recommendations, SIO presented additional proposals during a press conference, addressing various issues beyond education. These include demands for better maintenance of Muslim neighborhoods, proper sanitation, public parks, libraries, student centers, and efficient waste management systems.

During the press conference, SIO Maharashtra South Zone President, Simab Khan , stated that the Maharashtra government must take decisive steps toward developmental initiatives.

By ensuring comprehensive policies and adequate budget allocation, the government can support Muslim students and promote fairness and inclusivity. Prioritizing these recommendations in the 2025-26 budget can contribute to building a progressive society where every section of the community enjoys equal rights.