Maharashtra Launches Geo-Mapping of 45,000 Waqf Properties for Major Revenue Boost
Maharashtra is set to become the first state in India to introduce geo-mapping of all Waqf Board assets, covering nearly 45,000 properties across 92,000 acres of land. This initiative aims to tighten oversight and enhance the utilization of these religious and charitable properties.
GeomappingWaqf PropertiesMaharashtraRevenue BoostAsset ManagementReal Estate MumbaiAug 18, 2025
The project, set to begin within the next two weeks, will cover nearly 45,000 properties and sub-units spread across 92,000 acres of land, officials confirmed. By digitizing property details, the Maharashtra State Board of Waqf (MSBW) expects its annual rental income to jump from the present ₹8.5 crore to nearly ₹50 crore.
Waqf properties, which are endowed by individuals from the Muslim community for religious or charitable causes, are overseen by Muttawalis (caretakers) under the supervision of MSBW. These properties play a crucial role in supporting religious and community activities, but their management has often been marred by issues of encroachment and mismanagement.
The state has allocated ₹26.22 crore for the project, which has been awarded to Innowave IT Infrastructures Limited. According to officials, the firm will geo-tag each property and prepare detailed documentation including boundary maps, size, lease terms, legal status, encroachments, and land use. The field survey process will ensure verification of each entry.
“This exercise will finally give us accurate, updated records of every Waqf property in Maharashtra,” said a senior official. “It will also reveal the exact extent of encroachment, which has been a longstanding challenge.”
The entire digitization project is scheduled to be completed in four years and three months. It will feature a GIS-based Asset and Management Information System, a mobile app for field data collection, and integration with satellite imagery for accuracy. This comprehensive approach will ensure that the data is reliable and up-to-date.
Confirming the move, Ruchesh Jaivanshi, Secretary of the Minority Development Department, said the initiative will unlock the commercial potential of the Board’s assets. “We intend to lease properties at competitive market rates. Our projection is that annual income could increase six-fold to nearly ₹50 crore,” he said.
The rollout will initially begin in Pune, Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar (Aurangabad), and Mumbai, before expanding to other districts. Officials also stressed that digitization will strengthen legal and administrative processes.
“Digitally mapping these properties will not only curb illegal occupations and unauthorized constructions but also support evidence-based decisions on leasing, dispute resolution, and property maintenance,” an MSBW officer explained.
Jaivanshi added that the project represents a modern approach to asset governance. “By using GIS and advanced data analytics, we are bringing transparency and accountability to Waqf property management. This will protect community resources and help us harness their developmental value,” he noted.
The successful implementation of this project could serve as a model for other states, demonstrating the potential of technology in enhancing the management and utilization of public assets. With better oversight and management, these properties can contribute more effectively to community development and economic growth.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary goal of the geo-mapping project?
The primary goal of the geo-mapping project is to tighten oversight and ensure better utilization of Waqf properties, which are religious and charitable assets. This will help in increasing the annual rental income and improving the management of these properties.
How many properties will be covered under this project?
The project will cover nearly 45,000 properties and sub-units spread across 92,000 acres of land in Maharashtra.
What is the expected increase in annual rental income?
The expected increase in annual rental income is from the present ₹8.5 crore to nearly ₹50 crore, a significant six-fold increase.
Which company has been awarded the project?
The project has been awarded to Innowave IT Infrastructures Limited, which will be responsible for geo-tagging each property and preparing detailed documentation.
What are the key features of the digitization project?
Key features of the digitization project include a GIS-based Asset and Management Information System, a mobile app for field data collection, and integration with satellite imagery for accuracy. The project is scheduled to be completed in four years and three months.
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