Mumbai: SIO Maharashtra South Zone held a press conference on “Maharashtra State Budget Recommendations” at Mumbai Marathi Press Fort on Thursday at 3 PM. The event was attended by Zonal President Simab Khan, Zonal Secretary Uzair Ahmed, Education Secretary Hamza Baig, and SIO Mumbai President Najamul Huda.
Simab Khan stated that SIO has submitted budget recommendations, urging the government to allocate 20% of the state budget to education. The proposals focus on higher education, current educational standards, and the challenges faced by Muslim and minority students.
He highlighted that, despite decades of independence, Muslims in India remain socially, economically, and educationally backward. Reports like the Mandal Commission (1980), Gopal Singh Committee (1983), Sachar Committee (2006), Kundu Committee (2014), and Dr. Mahmood ur Rahman Committee (2013) show that Muslims lag behind even SCs and STs. The government must take urgent steps to address these disparities.
SIO’s Key Recommendations:
1. Increase the education budget to 20% for universal access to quality education.
2. Improve Urdu medium schools and address rising Muslim student dropout rates.
3. Integrate technology in education, including AI and digital tools. Establish career counseling cells with adequate government funding.
4. Reinstate and expand scholarships like the Maulana Azad National Fellowship (MANF) and Pre-Matric Scholarships for minority students.
5. Provide 10% reservation for Muslim students in education and public sector jobs.
6. Establish a central university in Maharashtra.
SIO also raised concerns beyond education, demanding better infrastructure in Muslim neighborhoods, including sanitation, parks, libraries, student centers, and waste management systems.
Simab Khan emphasized that the Maharashtra government must act decisively on these issues. By ensuring fair policies and sufficient budget allocation in 2025-26, the state can promote equality and development for all communities.
