Islamic endowment (Waqf) in India: Towards poverty reduction of Muslims in the country

This paper aims to examine the potential role of Waqf (Islamic endowment or philanthropic institution) in poverty alleviation and socio-economic development of the Indian Muslim community. The paper attempts to critically analyze the structure, mechanism and legal framework of Waqf management in India followed by pinpointing the existing lacuna and insufficiency of the Waqf governance model and practices in the country. The paper finds that the institution of Waqf possesses a mammoth amount of financial and infrastructural resources in India, and the role of this institution can be critically important in reducing the poverty of, particularly, the Muslim community. Muslims in India are trapped in the incidence of poverty more than other communities except for Buddhists. In aggregate terms, one in every three Muslims lives below the poverty line in India. Proper utilization of Waqf institution can be critical in reducing the poverty of the Muslim community in the country. The paper is based on a qualitative research paradigm and it adopts a socio-legal research methodology for the analysis of the available literature. The paper concludes with some critical policy recommendations for enhancing the role of Waqf in reducing the poverty rate among Muslims in the country.