UMEED Portal Module Launched

Context:

The Ministry of Minority Affairs launched an additional module on the UMEED Portal to enable widows, divorced women, and orphans to apply for maintenance support from Waqf-alal-aulad properties under the Unified Waqf Management Rules, 2025.

UMEED Portal

Full form: Unified Waqf Management, Empowerment, Efficiency and Development Portal.
Objective: Digitization and modernization of Waqf property management.
New Module (2025): Provides maintenance support to widows, divorced women, and orphans through Waqf-alal-aulad properties.
Features:
- Aadhaar-based authentication of beneficiaries.
- Online application and approval by State/UT Waqf Boards.
- Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) of financial support.

Waqf and Waqf-alal-aulad

Waqf: A permanent dedication of property by a person professing Islam for religious, pious, or charitable purposes.
Waqf-alal-aulad: A sub-category of Waqf created primarily for the benefit of the settlor’s family, but surplus benefits can be used for other deserving individuals.
Governance: Under the Unified Waqf Management, Empowerment, Efficiency and Development Act, 1995 and Rules framed under it.

Legal Framework

Relevant Rule:Rule 8(2) of the Unified Waqf Rules, 2025.
Governing provision:Section 3(r)(iv) of the Unified Waqf Management Act, 1995.
Waqf Boards: Statutory bodies under the Act responsible for administration, registration, and supervision of Waqf properties.

Policy Significance

Focus on inclusive development and social justice.
Promotes welfare of vulnerable groups within minority communities.
Leverages digital governance tools for transparency, efficiency, and accountability.
Aligns with broader government initiatives of DBT, good governance, and empowerment of minorities.