MIL Asia Pacific Publishing Engine

Source: Government of India

Steps taken by the Government for prevention and management of Thalassemia

Under National Health Mission (NHM), support is provided to States/UTs to strengthen their healthcare system including support for prevention and management of Thalassemia

As on 26th March 2025, a total of 15,87,903 individuals screened for Thalassemia; 50,462 individuals identified as carriers of Thalassemia

To assist the States/UTs for management of Haemoglobinopathies including Thalassemia, Comprehensive Guidelines on Prevention and Control of Hemoglobinopathies in India- Thalassemia & Sickle Cell Disease and other variant Hemoglobins, 2016 has been shared

Union Health Ministry has implemented Thalassemia Bal Sewa Yojana (TBSY), in association with Coal India limited (CIL) under which financial assistance up to Rs.10 lakh is provided to eligible patients for Bone Marrow transplants in 17 empanelled hospitals spread across the country

Posted On: 04 APR 2025 3:56PM by PIB Delhi

Under National Health Mission (NHM), support is provided to States/UTs to strengthen their healthcare system including support for prevention and management of Thalassemia at public healthcare facilities, provision of Blood Bank facilities, Day Care Centre, Medicines, Lab services, IEC activities and training of HR etc. based on the proposals submitted by the States/UTs in their Programme Implementation Plans.

As on 26^th March 2025, as per data updated by States on National Portal, out of 15,87,903 individuals screened for Thalassemia, a total of 5,037 have been identified as diseased and 50,462 as carriers of Thalassemia.

Comprehensive guidelines on Prevention and Control of Hemoglobinopathies in India- Thalassemia & Sickle cell Disease and other variant Hemoglobins (2016) had been shared to assist the States/UTs for management of Haemoglobinopathies including Thalassemia. The guidelines detail the strategies for management of Thalassemia disease including Thalassemia major (Blood transfusion therapy with packed red blood cell, iron chelation for iron overload, monitoring and management of complication and psychological support etc.) and non-transfusion dependent Thalassemia (NTDT) etc.

Union Health Ministry is implementing a scheme namely Thalassemia Bal Sewa Yojana (TBSY), in association with Coal India limited (CIL), wherein financial assistance up to Rs.10 lakh is provided to eligible patients for Bone Marrow transplants (BMT) from CIL Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) funds. This scheme provides for BMT in 17 empanelled hospitals spread across the country.

The Union Minister of State for Health and Family Welfare, Smt. Anupriya Patel stated this in a written reply in the Lok Sabha today.

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HFW/Steps taken by the govt for prevention and management of Thalassemia/04 April 2025/1

(Release ID: 2118782) Visitor Counter : 37

Source: Government of India

Posted On: 04 APR 2025 3:52PM by PIB Delhi

Agriculture marketing is a State subject. Domestic prices of perishable agriculture produces are mainly influenced by factors such as demand and supply, trade policies, effective taxes and duties, etc. The Central Government takes necessary measures as and when required to balance the demand and supply scenario of agriculture and horticulture produces in the domestic market and ensure remunerative prices to the farmers through appropriate policy measures and market intervention scheme.

To safeguard farmers from market volatilities, the Government takes various measures through different schemes and programmes. These include Market Intervention Scheme (MIS) for perishable horticultural and agricultural commodities; Integrated Scheme for Agriculture Marketing (ISAM) to promote- creation of scientific storage capacity; National Agriculture Market (e-NAM) online trading platform for better price discovery through competitive online bidding etc. Nationwide information network system for reporting and dissemination of market price information on agriculture commodity is provided through Agmarknet web portal. Under Agriculture Infrastructure Fund (AIF), Govt. provides a medium-long term loan facility for investment in viable projects for post-harvest market infrastructure including warehousing facility and community farming assets through interest subvention and financial support.

To provide remunerative price to the farmers, Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare implements Market Intervention Scheme (MIS), a component under Pradhan Mantri Annadata Aay Sanrakshan Abhiyan (PM-AASHA), for procurement of agricultural and horticultural commodities which are perishable in nature and are not covered under the Price Support Scheme (PSS). The objective of intervention is to protect the growers of these commodities from making distress sale in the event of a bumper crop during the peak arrival period when the prices tend to fall below economic levels and the cost of production. The scheme is implemented at the request of a State/UT government, which is ready to bear 50 percent of the loss (25 percent in case of North-Eastern States), if any, incurred on its implementation.

Government has introduced a new component of Price Differential Payment (PDP) under Market intervention scheme (MIS) from 2024-25 season for direct payment of the price difference between the Market Intervention Price (MIP) and the selling price to the farmers of perishable crops. States/UTs have an option to choose either to do physical procurement of the crop or to make the differential payment between the MIP & Sale Price to the farmers. Further, from 2024-25 season, Government added another component under Market intervention scheme for reimbursing the Storage and Transportation cost of TOP crops (Tomato, Onion and Potato) to central nodal agencies for transporting them from the producing state to consuming states in the interest of the farmers.

This information was given by the Minister of State for Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare Shri Ramnath Thakur in a written reply in Rajya Sabha today.

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PSF/AR/3857

(Release ID: 2118772) Visitor Counter : 81

Source: Government of India

Posted On: 04 APR 2025 3:52PM by PIB Delhi

The National Statistics Office (NSO), Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation, Government of India, organized the All India Workshop of Trainers (AIWOT) for the Comprehensive Modular Survey (CMS) on Education, as part of the NSS 80^th Round, at Marriott Hotel, Jaipur, on April 3, 2025. The NSO will conduct the CMS (Education) from April  to June 2025.

Dr. Saurabh Garg, Secretary, Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation, Government of India, inaugurated the workshop and, in his address, underscored the significance of the education survey. He emphasized the crucial role of surveys in evidence- based policymaking and stressed the need for high-quality, timely data. Dr. Garg urged participants to uphold rigorous standards in data collection and processing and highlighted the importance of proactive engagement with state authorities to ensure smooth survey implementation and address other key issues under the Ministry’s purview.

The event was attended by Ms. Geeta Singh Rathore, Director General (NSS), along with Additional Director Generals and Deputy Director Generals from various NSS divisions. Field functionaries from all regional and sub-regional offices of the Field Operations Division (FOD) also participated, along with representatives from the Ministry of Education, the Population Council Institute, and the State Directorates of Economics & Statistics from Arunachal Pradesh, Manipur, Mizoram, and Tripura.

Live demonstration on the art of canvassing the schedule and hands-on training on CAPI was imparted to the participants.

CMS (Education) aims to collect critical data on education-related indicators, with a special focus on household expenditure on education.

The survey will cover the entire Indian Union, except for remote villages in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands that are difficult to access.

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Samrat/Allen

(Release ID: 2118773) Visitor Counter : 69

Source: Government of India

Posted On: 04 APR 2025 3:51PM by PIB Delhi

The Sub-Mission on Agricultural Mechanization’ (SMAM), one of the Centrally Sponsored components of the Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana (RKVY) is implemented through the State Governments.  Under SMAM, financial assistance is provided to the farmers for purchase of various agricultural machines and equipments including the post-harvest and processing technologies on individual ownership basis. Financial assistance is also provided for establishment of Custom Hiring Centres (CHCs) and Village Level Farm Machinery Banks (FMBs) in order to provide machines and equipments to the farmers on rental basis as per their requirements. Financial assistance under SMAM is also provided for demonstration of kisan drones on farmers’ fields, purchase of drones by the farmers on individual ownership basis and establishment of Custom Hiring Centres of Kisan drones for providing services of drones to farmers for agriculture purpose.

The Government has approved Central Sector Scheme ‘NAMO DRONE DIDI’ for providing 15,000 Drones to the Women Self Help Groups (SHGs), during the period of 3 years (2023-24 to 2025-26) with a view to provide sustainable business and livelihood support to them. Lead Fertilizer Companies (LFCs) have distributed 1094 drones to drone didis of SHGs in 2023-24 using their internal resources. Out of these 1094 drone distributed to drone didis, 500 drones have been distributed under the Namo Drone Didi Scheme. The remaining 14500 drones under the scheme has been targeted to be distributed by the end of financial year 2025-26.

The Government has approved the Digital Agriculture Mission in September 2024 with an outlay of Rs. 2817 Crore. The Mission seeks to enable a robust digital agriculture ecosystem in the country for driving innovative farmer-centric digital solutions and making available timely and reliable crop-related information to all the farmers in the country. The Mission envisages the creation of Digital Public Infrastructure for Agriculture such as Agristack, Krishi Decision Support System, Comprehensive Soil Fertility & Profile Map and other IT initiatives undertaken by Central/State Governments. ‘Kisan e-Mitra’ an Artificial Intelligence (AI) powered chatbot has been developed to assist farmers with responses to queries about the PM Kisan Samman Nidhi Scheme

The Institutes under the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) are conducting research on drone spraying systems and droplet deposition characteristics with the objectives of enhancing the efficiency and effectiveness of pesticide and liquid fertilizer applications. An AI enabled mobile device has been developed for real time identification of abiotic stress in field crops, which assist crop breeding and precision crop input management. The institutes have also developed different precision farming technologies such as Smart sprayer for pomegranate young orchards, Automatic Spraying System for Polyhouse, Lab based robotic transplanter for plug-type vegetable seedlings, Unmanned multi-purpose track-type vehicle, Autonomous weeder for wide spaced field crops, Robotic harvester for poly-house cultivated tomatoes, Image based automatic hand held diseases identification device for soybean by application of deep learning, Image based variable-rate nitrogen applicator, Controller based feed dispensing system for poultry, Water Stress Indices using Spectral Reflectance and Thermal Imaging in Field Crops, Deep placement fertilizer applicator as an attachment to rice transplanter etc.

Soil Health & Fertility Scheme is implemented by the Government since 2014-2015, wherein Soil Health Cards (SHCs) are issued to farmers to improve the health of the soil. SHCs encourage judicious use of fertilizer, secondary micronutrients along with organic manures & bio-fertilizers. Soil samples are processed through standard procedures and analyzed for 12 parameters viz. pH, electrical conductivity, Organic Carbon, available Nitrogen, Phosphorus, Potassium, Sulphur, and micronutrients (Zinc, Coper, Iron, Manganese & Boron). SHCs provide information on nutrient status of soil and recommendations on appropriate dosage & type of fertilizers for improving soil health and its fertility. Since 2014-15 and as on 31 March 2025, 24.90 Crore SHCs have been generated across the country. Under the scheme, 1068 Static Soil Testing Laboratories, 163 Mobile Soil Testing Laboratories, 6376 Mini Soil Testing Laboratories and 665 Village Level Soil Testing Laboratories have been established across the country. To educate farmers, around 7.0 lakh demonstrations, 93781 farmer’s training programmes and 7425 farmer’s mela have been organized across the country. In addition, 70002 Krishi Sakhis are trained to support farmers in understanding SHCs.

This information was given by the Minister of State for Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare Shri Ramnath Thakur in a written reply in Rajya Sabha today.

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PSF/AR/3854

(Release ID: 2118770) Visitor Counter : 77

Source: Government of Samoa

O OLI MA FOLI:

FROM THE PRIME MINISTER

SHADOW BOXING:

[Government Press Secretariat]- Tuilaepa Sa’ilele Malielegaoi has made another desperate attempt to stir political drama by calling for Prime Minister Fiame Naomi Mataʻafa’s resignation ahead of the no-confidence vote. But Fiame has made it abundantly clear—she will not resign. If Tuilaepa truly believes in democracy and the Constitution, then he should bring his issue to Parliament instead of making noise in the media.

The Prime Minister’s stance is firm: she was elected to lead, and she will not step down just because Tuilaepa demands it. The Constitution and standing orders already outline the process for a no-confidence motion. If he thinks he has the numbers, then let Parliament decide. If not, then he should stop wasting everyone’s time with his usual distractions.

Tuilaepa, stop misleading the public and take your fight where it belongs—inside the walls of Parliament.

March 7, 2025

Source: Government of Samoa

PRESS RELEASES FROM CABINET: JANUARY TO BEGINNING OF FEBRUARY 2025

1: MINISTRY OF CUSTOMS AND REVENUE SEPARATED

Cabinet has approved the separation of the Ministry of Customs and Revenue into two Ministries. This includes;

i. Ministry of Customs.

ii. Ministry of Revenue.

Border protection remains a significant component of national efforts to combat transnational organized crimes such as illicit drugs and arms smuggling and trafficking, and all other unlawful activities targeted to penetrate our national borders. This requires effective customs monitoring of all goods entering our borders.

At the same time, revenue collection through compliance with Samoa’s taxation laws is important. These functional responsibilities are currently undertaken by the Ministry for Customs and Revenue. However, the separation will enable demarcation of Customs functions from Revenue collection functions, with emphasis on effective compliance and border protection.

Relevant preparations are currently underway for implementation including legislative, staffing, and budgetary requirements. The separation will be effective from the next Financial Year 2025-2026.

2: MINISTRY OF POLICE, PRISONS AND CORRECTIONS SERVICE SEPARATED

Cabinet has approved the demarcation of the Ministry of Police from Prisons and Corrections Service. The two agencies were initially seceded in January 2015 as a result of government organisational reforms and departmental arrangements. The Samoa Prisons and Corrections Service operated for four years until 2020 when Parliament passed a legislative amendment to the Prisons and Corrections Service Act, signaling to re-merger of the Ministry of Police, Prisons and Corrections Service. This was in response to ongoing systemic and operational challenges which impacted the Samoa Prisons and Corrections Service.

The distinct functions of the Police and Prisons and Corrections Services are critical, but separate in priorities and legislative focus. This separation will enable the Police to focus on law enforcement and security, and the Prisons and Corrections Service to prioritize prisons and corrections rehabilitation and reintegration programmes for inmates, and improved prison and access services such as medical support.

Preparations are in progress to ensure the separation takes effect as scheduled for the 2025-2026 financial year.

3: MOU SIGNED FOR MEDICAL TREATMENTS IN INDIA

Cabinet has approved the signing of two Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between Samoa’s Ministry of Health and the Medican Services Company, to coordinate medical treatments for Samoan patients referred under the Samoa Medical Treatment Scheme for treatments in India. The two hospitals included in these MOU are the Artemis Medicare Services Limited and Fortis Hospital Limited, which are based in India. This expands the existing network of hospitals supporting Samoa’s Overseas Medical Treatment Scheme.

The inclusion of the two hospitals will provide more options for Samoa to effectively place Samoan patients in facilities that not only offer the required treatment, but also ensure cost-effectiveness.

4: TELECOMMUNICATION LICENSE FOR SPACEX TO OPERATE IN SAMOA

Approval has been granted to issue telecommunication license to an American Company ‘Space Exploration Technologies Corp’ or SpaceX to operate in Samoa, following thorough assessment conducted by the Office of the Regulator. This license allows Starlink Samoa Ltd, a subsidiary of SpaceX registered in Samoa, to provide Internet services and relevant equipment for Samoa. Starlink Samoa Limited is a new venture added to current Internet service providers in Samoa including the Computer Services Limited, Digicel, and Vodafone.

Information, Communication and Technology (ICT) is critical to improving telecommunication, online systemic support, timely and effective service delivery, boosting support for education and health, science and research, and business and innovation. Government is committed to bolstering ICT services for Samoa that are reliable, consistent and affordable.

Negotiation with Starlink led by the Office of the Regulator has completed, which now enables users in Samoa to purchase equipment and to pay monthly subscriptions in Samoan Tala. An alternative is also available to those who prefer to pay their subscriptions in cash, if they do not have the means to do online purchase.

5: EARLY CHILDHOOD DEVELOPMENT (ECD) FRAMEWORK APPROVED

Cabinet has approved the Framework for Early Childhood Development. This framework, has been designed in a multi-sectoral approach, laying the groundwork for a coordinated effort to improve early childhood development throughout Samoa.

The ECD Framework provides for the creation of a National ECD Advisory Board, responsible for overseeing the ongoing implementation and evaluation of the framework. This board will include representatives from key ministries, such as the Ministry of Women, Community, and Social Development (MWCSD), the Ministry of Education, the Ministry of Health, the Ministry of Finance, and the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment. Their collaborative efforts will ensure a unified strategy that integrates health, education, and social services for young children.

The ECD Framework establishes a transformative pathway forward, ensuring that the youngest members of Samoa’s society have access to the necessary resources and support to lead healthy, fulfilling lives.

6: NATIONAL SCIENCE, TECHNOLOGY AND INNOVATION POLICY APPROVED

The first National Science, Technology, and Innovation Policy for Samoa was approved by Cabinet this week. The Policy aims to leverage science and technology through research and innovation.

It is designed to enhance students’ access to scientific equipment and technology to advance scientific research and innovation. It seeks to create more opportunities for Samoa through strong scientific methodologies, technology and innovation to support national development priorities.

The Scientific Research Organisation of Samoa (SROS) and the National University of Samoa (NUS) co-lead the implementation of this policy in partnership with other government, private and civil society organistions in Samoa.

7: NATIONAL CRIME PREVENTION POLICY APPROVED

Cabinet at its meeting this week approved the National Crime Prevention Policy. The policy is being developed to strengthen strategic areas and measures, systems and programmes designed to prevent crimes. The Ministry of Justice and Courts Administration is the lead agency working closely with government, private and non government organisations in the Law and Justice Sector.

The Policy requires review of current legislation in view of enforcement and statutory penalites. It also targets counseling and educational programmes customized for crime prevention, public awareness, assistance for victims, and repercussions for perpetrators.

The policy calls for national participation and commitment to address crime prevalence in Samoa. Partnerships among government, private, civil society, churhces and village councils is central to the successful implementation of this policy.

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February 11, 2025

Source: Government of Samoa

MAEA.

Friday 17 January 2025

TERMINATION OF ASSOCIATE MINISTERS’ APPOINTMENTS

In accordance with section 3(b) of the Parliamentary Under Secretaries Act 1988, appointments as Associate Ministers for the Members of Parliament provided hereunder, have been terminated with immediate effect. This emanates from the issue of confidence in the Prime Minister to continue to work with the Associate Ministers, and the Associate Ministers’ expression of no confidence in the Prime Minister’s leadership.

These include;

i. Tagaloatele Pasi Poloa, Associate Minister Commerce, Industry and Labour.

ii. Fuiono Tenina Crichton, Associate Minister Communications and Information Technology.

iii. Maiava Fuimaono Tito Asafo, Associate Minister Agriculture and Fisheries.

iv. Seuamuli Fasi Toma, Associate Minister Women, Community and Social Development.

v. Hon. Tu’u’u Anasi’i Leota, Associate Minister Police, Prisons and Corrections.

vi. Agaseata Valelilo Tanuvasa Peto, Associate Minister Education and Culture.

vii. Tea Tooala Peato, Associate Minister Health.

viii. Magele Sekati Fiaui, Associate Minister of Finance, initially appointed as Associate Minister of Communication and Information Technology.

ix. Fo’isala Lilo Tu’u Ioane, Associate Minister Health.

x. Fesola’i Apulu Tusiupu Tuigamala, Associate Minister Justice and Courts Administration.

xi. Ale Vena Ale, Associate Minister Customs and Revenue.

xii. Masinalupe Makesi Masinalupe, Associate Minister Customs and Revenue.

xiii. Manuleleua Paletasala Tovale, Associate Minister Prime Minister and Cabinet.

The termination of Fepuleai Faasavalu Faimata Su’a’s appointment as Associate Minister for Police, Prisons and Corrections was issued and made effective from 24th November 2023.

The functions and responsibilities of the Executive Arm of Government continue under the leadership of the Prime Minister – Hon Fiame Naomi Mataafa, and Cabinet.

The issue of confidence in the Prime Minister’s leadership rests with Parliament. It is not a responsibility of a political party.

END.

January 17, 2025

Source: Government of Samoa

Prime Minister of Samoa Hon. Fiame Naomi Mata’afa KEYNOTE REMARKS at the “Groundbreaking Ceremony for the Atele Packhouse”

(Atele Horticulture Centre, Nu’u, Tuesday 18th February 2025@10 am)

Reverend Iamafana Fa’a’u’uga,

Honourable Ministers of Cabinet,

Representatives of our Development partners,

Representatives of the World Bank, and the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD),

Distinguished Guests, Community Leaders, our dedicated farmers, Ladies and Gentlemen,

It gives me great pleasure to welcome you all this morning, and it is my honour to address this significant occasion of the groundbreaking ceremony for the new Atele Packhouse; a project that represents progress, resilience, and opportunity for Samoa’s Agriculture sector.

This project, valued at $4.5 million Samoan Tala, is a critical investment under the Samoa Agriculture and Fisheries Productivity and Marketing Project (SAFPROM). It is a testament to our government’s unwavering commitment to strengthening the Agricultural sector, which is one of the lifelines of our economy and the very backbone of our rural communities.

Ladies and gentlemen, the journey to this day has not been without its challenges. Since the launch of SAFPROM in March 2020, we have faced both pre-pandemic and post-pandemic obstacles that tested our resilience. The disruptions brought about by COVID-19 affected global supply chains, market access, and the livelihoods of many of our farmers and fishers. Yet, despite these challenges, the project has persevered, reaching over 3,000 farming households and communities across Samoa. This is a remarkable achievement that reflects the dedication of our people, the strength of our partnerships, and our collective vision for a more productive and sustainable Agricultural sector.

The core objective of SAFPROM, is to enhance the productivity and market access of our farmers and fishers, by improving value chains, promoting climate-smart agriculture, and strengthening the institutions that support our food systems. This aligns perfectly with our national vision of ensuring food security, economic prosperity, and sustainable development for all Samoans.

Today, we mark the beginning of the construction of a packhouse facility that will revolutionize the way we handle and market our agricultural produce. The Atele Packhouse will be a game-changer in post-harvest processing, quality control, and distribution. It will provide our farmers with the infrastructure they need to meet stringent market standards, reduce post-harvest losses, and ultimately increase their incomes. With a construction timeline of approximately seven months, this facility will soon stand as a symbol of progress, one that will open doors to greater economic opportunities and expand Samoa’s potential as a competitive player in the regional and global agricultural markets.

Our Agriculture sector today faces increasing demands for quality and consistency in both local and export markets. Consumers, whether they are in Samoa or abroad, expect high standards in food safety, packaging, and traceability. The functions of this packhouse will directly address these demands. It will serve as a centralized hub for cleaning, sorting, processing, and packaging of our fresh produce, ensuring that our farmers can supply premium-quality products, that meet the expectations of buyers and consumers. More importantly, this facility will also support our efforts to increase agricultural exports, positioning Samoa to access high-value markets with confidence.

Beyond its economic impact, the Atele Packhouse represents a broader vision of sustainability. By enhancing efficiency in post-harvest management, we are reducing food waste and optimizing the use of resources. This aligns with our commitment to building a resilient Agriculture sector, that is adaptive to climate change and supportive of long-term environmental sustainability.

I take this opportunity to express my sincere gratitude to our development partners – the World Bank and the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) – for their invaluable support and collaboration in making this project a reality. Your commitment to strengthening Samoa’s Agriculture sector has been instrumental in empowering our farmers, improving our food systems, and fostering economic growth. We deeply appreciate your partnership and look forward to continuing this journey together in the future.

I also acknowledge the Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries, the Ministry of Finance, the dedicated farmers, and all stakeholders who have contributed their expertise and efforts to this project. Your hard work and commitment ensure that we continue to make meaningful progress in transforming our agriculture and fisheries industries.

As we break ground today, let us reaffirm our shared commitment to advancing our Agriculture related development initiatives and efforts, and let us work together to ensure that this packhouse fulfills its purpose of supporting sustainable economic opportunities for our farmers and exporters. With determination and unity, I have no doubt that this project will leave a lasting beneficial impact on our Agriculture sector and the livelihoods of our people.

May this groundbreaking event, be the foundation of a brighter future for Samoa’s farmers and exporters, and all those who depend on this vital industry.

Thank you and may God bless Samoa.

Photo by the Government of Samoa (Leota Marc Membrere)

 

 

Source: Government of India

Posted On: 04 APR 2025 8:28AM by PIB Delhi

The Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi today highlighted the grace that Maa Jagdambe brings as a new dawn of happiness in the lives of devotees. He also shared a prayer by Smt. Lata Mangeshkar.

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MJPS/SR

(Release ID: 2118578) Visitor Counter : 40

Source: Government of India

Posted On: 04 APR 2025 3:45PM by PIB Delhi

Introduction

The Waqf Amendment Bill, 2025 was introduced to fix problems in the management and governance of Waqf properties. The aim is to make rules clearer, include more people in decision-making, and improve how Waqf assets are used.

On August 8, 2024, two bills were introduced in the Lok Sabha; Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2024 and Mussalman Wakf (Repeal) Bill, 2024. These bills aim to make Waqf Boards work more smoothly and ensure Waqf properties are managed well.

The Mussalman Wakf (Repeal) Bill, 2025 seeks to repeal the Mussalman Wakf Act, 1923, which was created during British rule and is now outdated. Removing this old law will help create a more consistent, transparent, and accountable system under the Waqf Act, 1995, removing confusion caused by the old law.

The Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2025 aims to update the Waqf Act, 1995, to solve problems in managing Waqf properties. It proposes several improvements, such as:

• Overcome the shortcomings of the previous act and enhance the efficiency of Waqf boards by introducing changes such as renaming the Act
• Updating the definitions of Waqf
• Improving the registration process
• Increasing the role of technology in managing Waqf records​.

Distinctive aspects of this Bill:

• On August 9, 2024, both Houses of Parliament agreed through separate motions to send the Bill to a Joint Committee for review and a report. This Joint Committee included 21 Members from the Lok Sabha and 10 Members from the Rajya Sabha.
• Since the Bill is important and has a broad impact, the Committee decided to gather opinions from the public, experts, stakeholders, and other relevant organizations on its provisions.
• The first sitting took place on August 22, 2024 and the key organizations/ stakeholders consulted during the sittings were:

1. All India Sunni Jamiyatul Ulama, Mumbai;
2. Indian Muslims of Civil Rights (IMCR), New Delhi
3. Muttaheda Majlis-e- Ulema, J&K (Mirwaiz Umar Farooq)
4. Zakat Foundation of India
5. Anjuman E Shiteali Dawoodi Bohra Community
6. Chanakya National Law University, Patna
7. All India Pasmanda Muslim Mahaaz, Delhi
8. All India Muslim Personal Law Board (AIMPLB), Delhi
9. All India Sufi Sajjadanashin Council (AISSC), Ajmer
10. Muslim Rashtriya Manch, Delhi
11. Muslim Women Intellectual Group – Dr. Shalini Ali, National Convener
12. Jamiat Ulama-i-Hind, Delhi
13. Shia Muslim Dharamguru and Intellectual Group
14. Darul Uloom Deoband

• The Joint Parliamentary Committee held 36 meetings, where they listened to the opinions and suggestions of representatives from different Ministries, Departments, State Governments, State Waqf Boards, and experts/stakeholders. In total, they received 97,27,772 memoranda through both physical and digital modes.
• To thoroughly review the Waqf Amendment Bill, 2024, the Committee conducted detailed study visits across multiple cities in India. The details of the study visits in 10 cities are as under:

1. 26.09.2024 to 010.2024: Mumbai, Ahmedabad, Hyderabad, Chennai and Bengaluru
2. 09.11.2024 to 11.11.2024: Guwahati, Bhubaneshwar
3. 18.01.2025 to 21.01.2025: Patna, Kolkata and Lucknow

• The Committee had in-depth discussions, interacting with 284 stakeholders, 25 State Waqf Boards, 15 State Governments, 5 Minorities Commissions, and 20 Ministers/MPs/MLAs/MLCs. These visits helped Committee members understand the situation on the ground and collect region-specific insights.
• The Waqf (Amendment) Bill has 44 Clauses and the Joint Committee on Waqf Amendment Bill (JCWAB) has recommended changes in 19 Clauses.
• The Joint Committee submitted its report to the Hon’ble Speaker of Lok Sabha on 31 January 2025, and the report was laid before both Houses of Parliament on 13 February 2025.

An example of recommendations submitted:

The All India Pasmanda Muslim Mahaaz, an organization working for their upliftment, presented its suggestions before the Joint Committee on the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2024.

1. Introduction of an Appellate System
2. Better Management of Waqf Records
3. Stricter Penalties for Encroachment and Misuse
4. Disqualification of Board Members Involved in Irregularities
5. Proper Utilization of Waqf Property Revenue
6. Empowering Senior Revenue Officials for Fair Inquiry

Conclusion

The Joint Parliamentary Committee Report on the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2024 highlights the effort to make Waqf property management fair, transparent, and efficient. The Committee listened to different viewpoints, conducted study visits, and had detailed discussions to address the concerns of stakeholders. The proposed changes in the Bill aim to create a more inclusive and responsible system that meets the changing needs of society.

Click here to download PDF

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Santosh Kumar/ Ritu Kataria/ Kritika Rane

(Release ID: 2118763) Visitor Counter : 37