Waqf boards applaud IIT Delhi study on Waqf properties
RSD- Bharat news: Ministry of Minority Affairs convened a comprehensive review meeting to assess the progress of Waqf property data uploads on the UMEED Central Portal, reaffirming its commitment to transparency and digital governance in the management of Waqf properties. Held at Kavaratti Island in the Union Territory of Lakshadweep, the meeting witnessed active participation from the Lakshadweep Waqf Board, along with senior representatives from the Maharashtra and Gujarat Waqf Boards. The session focused on reviewing data digitisation efforts, streamlining operational workflows and strengthening coordination between state Waqf Boards and the central portal team. Senior officials from the Ministry of Minority Affairs, including S. P. Singh Teotia, Director (Waqf), and Samir Sinha, Deputy Secretary, led the session. Representing their respective Waqf Boards were T. K. Rafeek, CEO, Lakshadweep Waqf Board; B. Sayyad, CEO, Maharashtra Waqf Board and Abedhusen Hajibhai Mansuri, CEO, Gujarat Waqf Board.
IIT Delhi Study Commended by State Waqf Boards
During the deliberations, Waqf Board representatives unanimously hailed the study conducted by the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Delhi on Waqf properties. The Boards emphasised that the findings of the IIT Delhi study have been instrumental in identifying and addressing key challenges related to Waqf property management. The study has not only provided critical insights but has also helped shape more efficient, evidence based approaches to streamline data collection, validation and digitisation.
Focus on Digital Transformation and Operational Support
The technical team supporting the UMEED Portal offered hands on guidance to address operational challenges encountered by the state boards in uploading data. Discussions centred on improving data accuracy, ensuring completeness of entries, and enhancing the user interface for smoother integration. This high level engagement underlines the Ministry’s ongoing efforts to create a robust, transparent and efficient digital ecosystem for Waqf property management, in alignment with the Government of India’s Digital India and Good Governance initiatives. The session concluded with a shared resolve to expedite the digitisation process and achieve full integration of all Waqf property records into the UMEED Portal, further empowering Waqf institutions through technology driven solutions.
About UMEED Portal
The UMEED (The Unified Waqf Management, Empowerment, Efficiency and Development Act, 1995) Portal is a flagship initiative by the Ministry of Minority Affairs aimed at the end-to-end digitisation and centralised management of Waqf properties across India. The portal enhances transparency, governance and accountability in the functioning of Waqf Boards.
