A landmark survey of Muslim charitable giving, zakat, volunteering, and waqf across eight Indian states — produced by Indiana University Lilly Family School of Philanthropy.
This report was produced by the Muslim Philanthropy Initiative at the Indiana University Lilly Family School of Philanthropy with the support and collaboration of the Center for South Asian Studies (CSAS). CSAS contributed to advancing research and dialogue on philanthropy and charitable practices among Muslims in India. The full report can be accessed below.
Charitable behavior is deeply rooted in Islamic practice, with 92% of zakat concentrated during Ramadan and altruism cited as the primary giving motivation.
Nearly 90% of monetary donations and 68% of zakat go directly to individuals, reflecting a preference for local, community-centered giving over institutional channels.
Food security, education, and healthcare consistently ranked as the highest priority causes for both general charitable giving and zakat distribution.
Waqf is broadly recognized for poverty alleviation and wealth redistribution, though most giving remains modest and respondents prefer government or qualified oversight.
79% of respondents interact with neighbors daily or weekly. Charitable giving remained stable or increased during personal and community hardship.
NGOs are viewed as capable and purposeful (trust score 3.26/5), but actual charitable engagement remains low — only 10.5% donated to any charitable organization.
A comprehensive survey of 4,000 Muslims across 8 Indian states examining charitable giving, zakat, volunteering, waqf, and NGO engagement — revealing the depth and character of Muslim philanthropy in contemporary India.
“A groundbreaking study that illuminates the rich tradition of Islamic giving and its profound impact on communities across India.”
Farhat, Z., Siddiqui, S., Wasif, R., & Cheema, J. (2026). Muslim Philanthropy in India. Muslim Philanthropy Initiative at Indiana University Lilly Family School of Philanthropy.
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