Maharashtra government has started the work of modernizing the madrassas of Maharashtra.
It is reported that for this, Chief Minister Eknath Shinde has decided to give Rs 10 lakh to every madrassa. Besides, work is also being done to make science and maths compulsory subjects in madrassas.
The special thing is that the state government has issued a resolution, under which changes are to be made on a large scale.
According to a media report, the resolution states that funds will be released under the Dr Zakir Hussain Madrasa Modernization Programme.
With its help, work will be done on establishment of libraries, teachers’ salaries and infrastructure. Only eligible madrassas will be able to avail the benefits of grants and schemes provided by the government.
Madrasas will also have to accept certain conditions. According to a New Indian Express report, the resolution states, ‘Madrasas seeking funds from the state government will have to be registered with the Waqf Board.
Children studying in these madrassas will have to take admission in government schools. Apart from religious education, teachers teaching in madrassas will also have to teach science and maths.
It is reported that these teachers will be hired on contract basis and the state government will pay their salary. The resolution states, ‘Only one madrassa will be allowed to run in one building.’
There are 121 madrassas registered in Maharashtra. Bharatiya Janata Party had earlier demanded closure of madrassas, but now changed its policy and has decided to provide all possible help to religious educational centres.