Andhra Pradesh Waqf Board announced that selection of 250 meritorious underprivileged Muslim students for free Intermediate education through the talent test initiative ‘Taalim-e-Hunar’, which will cost approximately ₹6 crore.

On the occasion, State Waqf Board Chairman Abdul Aziz was felicitated by the members of Muslim Minority Employees Welfare Association here on Tuesday. “Over 250 underprivileged students have been selected for higher education based on merit and enrolled in corporate colleges. It was conducted on a scale unprecedented in the country's history,” said association president Hamid.

He lauded the Waqf Board Chairman for enrolling the underprivileged Muslim students in the colleges that were previously accessible only to the wealthy. He noted that even neighbouring States were drawing inspiration from the initiative and were coming forward to study the programme. The entire Islam community stands in support of such a noble initiative.

Speaking to The Hindu, Mr Aziz said, “As many as 7,400 students applied for the test across the State, and among them 6,605 attended it. Ultimately, we chose 250 candidates for the free residential education programme."

“To encourage female candidates, we have reserved 41% of the seats for them. Muslim students, particularly girls, might not always have a conducive study environment at home. So, residential education is essential to prepare them to face competitive challenges,” he added.

Mr. Aziz stated that these educational initiatives were being taken forward as part of the 'P4 programme’, in line with the Chief Minister's vision and with the aim that poverty does not become a barrier to education.

Haj Yatra 2026

The Waqf Board Chairman revealed that around 335 pilgrims from the State have received a subsidy of ₹1 lakh for Haj Yatra this year. “The Chief Minister has fufilled his promise made before elections and extended support to devotees undertaking the sacred journey. The subsidy amount was credited to the pilgrims’ account soon after their return,” he said.