Mumbai: The Students Islamic Organisation of India (SIO) Maharashtra South Zone on Thursday urged the state government to increase the education budget to 20% in its upcoming financial plan. The organisation has also put forward a series of recommendations aimed at addressing concerns related to higher education, educational standards, and the challenges faced by Muslim and minority students.
Highlighting the “persistent educational, social, and economic disadvantages of the Muslim community even after seven decades of independence”, SIO referenced findings 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).
“These reports have consistently shown that Muslims lag behind even Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes in key indicators, prompting calls for urgent government intervention,” SIO Maharashtra south zone president Simab Khan said at a press conference.
To address these issues, SIO South Maharashtra has made several key recommendations, including a substantial increase in education funding to ensure access to quality learning for all students. The organisation has also raised concerns over the deteriorating state of Urdu medium schools in Maharashtra and the rising dropout rates among Muslim students, urging the government to take immediate remedial action.
Emphasising the need for modernisation, SIO has proposed the integration of artificial intelligence and digital tools in education, along with the establishment of career counselling cells in colleges with adequate government funding. The organisation has also called for the reinstatement and expansion of scholarships such as the Maulana Azad National Fellowship and Pre-Matric Scholarships to support minority students.
Additionally, SIO has demanded a 10% reservation for Muslim students in education and public sector employment and called for the establishment of a central university in Maharashtra. Beyond education, the organisation has also raised concerns about the upkeep of Muslim neighbourhoods, advocating for improved sanitation, public parks, libraries, student centres, and efficient waste management systems.
During the press conference, Khan said that the state government must take concrete steps to implement developmental initiatives. He emphasised that prioritising these recommendations in the 2025-26 budget would contribute to a more inclusive and equitable society, ensuring that all communities receive equal opportunities for progress.
