The Indian government's UMEED (Unified Waqf Management, Empowerment, Efficiency, and Development) portal, launched on June 6, 2025, to streamline the registration and management of Waqf properties across the country, has seen a slow start in data submission. Recent reports indicate that only 69 "makers of waqf" have submitted property details on the central UMEED website. This figure raises concerns about the pace of implementation and the level of engagement from relevant stakeholders in digitizing Waqf property records.
The UMEED portal was launched following the enactment of the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2025, which aimed to bring greater transparency, reduce legal ambiguities, and resolve long-standing disputes surrounding Waqf land and assets. The portal is intended to be a centralized system for registering all Waqf properties, requiring detailed descriptions, including dimensions, ownership documents, and geotagged locations. A unique 17-digit identification number is generated for each property registered.
Under the new law, State Waqf Boards are responsible for monitoring and overseeing the property registration process. Properties not registered within six months of the portal's launch may be declared disputed and referred to a tribunal. The government has emphasized that the UMEED portal is more than just a technological upgrade; it symbolizes a firm commitment to safeguarding the rights of minority communities and ensuring that Waqf assets are utilized effectively and fairly for the benefit of poor Muslims.
Several factors may contribute to the slow pace of data submission. The All India Muslim Personal Law Board has expressed concerns about the portal's legal validity and has threatened to challenge it in the Supreme Court. Such opposition could create uncertainty and discourage some stakeholders from participating in the registration process. There may also be challenges related to awareness and technical capacity among Waqf property managers, or "makers of waqf," in navigating the online registration process.
To address these challenges, the government may need to intensify its outreach and awareness efforts to educate stakeholders about the benefits of the UMEED portal and the requirements for registration. Providing training and technical assistance to Waqf property managers could also help to accelerate the data submission process. Additionally, addressing concerns about the legal validity of the portal through dialogue and clarification may help to build trust and encourage greater participation.
The success of the UMEED portal is crucial for improving the management and utilization of Waqf properties in India. By creating a comprehensive digital inventory of these assets, the government aims to enhance transparency, accountability, and public participation in Waqf administration. This, in turn, could lead to more effective use of Waqf resources for the benefit of the community, particularly women, children, and the economically weaker sections.
