Who We Are
Idara Tehqeeq-o-Tasneef-e-Islami is a renowned institution in the field of Islamic academia. Established in 1949, its mission is to conduct research and produce scholarly works on contemporary topics related to religion, society, history, and ethics. Since 1986, it has operated as an independent registered organization, under the patronage of Maulana Syed Jalaluddin Umri.
The institute's main objective is to offer a scientific and intellectual exploration of Islam within the context of modern society. This includes providing a critical evaluation of current systems of thought and practice and proposing solutions to contemporary intellectual dilemmas, all rooted in the teachings of the Qur'an and Sunnah. Key priorities include promoting a modern understanding of Islam, facilitating its practical implementation, advocating for its propagation in accordance with the country's constitution, and addressing obstacles that may hinder this process.
Vision
To establish a robust, reliable, and sustainable system of research and development of knowledge to provide a rational and informed introduction to Islam, facilitating its practical interpretation and resolving the intellectual challenges of the contemporary era.
Mission
To present Islam in a conceptually rich and intellectually accessible manner, tailored to the contemporary era.To promote critical academic discourse, challenging prevailing misconceptions and offering solutions to modern intellectual dilemmas, all guided by the Qur'an and Sunnah.To address obstacles hindering the comprehension, practice, and propagation of Islam.To foster academic and research skills through comprehensive research training programs.
The institution has had the privilege of being supported by esteemed thinkers and researchers since its inception. Maulana Sadruddin Islahi served as the institution's first president from 1981 to 1985. Subsequently, from 1985 to 2000, the institution enjoyed a successful fifteen-year journey under the leadership of its second president, Maulana Muhammad Farooq Khan, a renowned Hindi translator of the Quran. Since 2000, Maulana Syed Jalaluddin Omari has held the position of President, while the administrative affairs are overseen by the Secretary.
Maulana Syed Jalaluddin Umri served as the institution's first secretary until 2002. Following his election as president, the distinguished intellectual Dr. Fazlur Rahman Faridi assumed the role of secretary and held this responsibility until 2007. After Dr. Faridi's passing, Dr. Safdar Sultan Islahi was elected as the institution's secretary. He dedicated ten years of hard work, contributing significantly to the institution's growth. Unfortunately, Dr. Islahi lost his life in a car accident in 2017. Dr. Muhammad Razi Islam Nadvi then assumed the role of secretary and effectively fulfilled his duties until 2012. Maulana Ashhad Jamal Nadvi has been actively serving as secretary since July 9, 2012, up to the present day.
Activities
1. Department of Research and Writing
This constitutes the primary focus of the organization. Distinguished individuals such as Maulana Sadruddin Islahi, Maulana Syed Jalaluddin Umri, Maulana Sultan Ahmad Islahi, and Dr. Muhammad Razi Islam Nadvi have authored numerous invaluable books within this department. What sets these works apart is their exploration of sensitive contemporary subjects through the lens of the Quran and Hadith, offering insights and solutions to contemporary questions. Among these publications, several hold a unique status of Sanad, thus playing a pivotal role in addressing the intellectual and practical needs of the modern era. The associates of the institution have collectively contributed more than eighty books on a diverse range of topics.
2. Department of Translations
Translation is an urgent and vital necessity of our time. Among the institution's top priorities is the translation of renowned and widely-read books into various languages. This effort aims to foster the global recognition of Islam and promote research endeavors. The goal is to ensure that language does not hinder the accessibility of the profound ideas put forth by Islamic scholars. Through translation, we can readily access insightful interpretations of Islam. So far, the institute's scholars have published English translations of the following books, which offer an authentic portrayal of Islam and greatly aid in grasping its core principles.
Considering the contemporary significance and value of these books, some other institutions have also published translations with the institution's permission. Additionally, certain books have been translated into various regional languages within the country.
3. Majalla Tehqeeqat-e-Islami (Islamic Research Journal)
Majalla Tehqeeqat-e-Islami is the academic and intellectual journal of the Institute, first published in 1982. This journal holds significant importance in the academic world, particularly within Islamic publications. It has introduced a fresh approach to pondering essential Islamic subjects and resolving issues through analytical discussions, thus arriving at well-informed conclusions on unresolved matters. The magazine's content has become a subject of research in both domestic and international universities, with research articles contributing to MPhil and PhD degrees. It has an ISSN number and is expected to be included in the UGC care list soon.
Since its inception, Maulana Syed Jalaluddin Umri has diligently served as its editor. Dr. Muhammad Razi Islam Nadvi has been the assistant editor since 1998. Over its impressive four-decade history, the journal has maintained a regular publication schedule, with all issues accessible online.
4. Department of Training for Research Writing
This department holds immense significance within the institution. It enrolls graduates from Madaaris and colleges. The program spans two years, during which young scholars delve into literature rooted in the Quran, Hadith, biographies, history, principles, and contemporary thoughts and ideas. This course is rigorous and comprehensive, encompassing practical essay writing exercises throughout its duration. Toward the course's conclusion, scholars are required to undertake the task of composing a comprehensive thesis.
The institution also provides hostel facilities equipped with the necessary amenities for scholars. Additionally, students receive a monthly scholarship of ₹7,000 throughout the course. To date, numerous scholars who have benefited from this training have made significant contributions to various academic fields.
5. Seminar/ Conference
Seminars and academic discussions serve as vital platforms for collective reflection, often organized by policy-making institutions. In 2014, the institute hosted an international seminar titled “Tehzeeb-o-siyasat me Islam ka kirdar," during which approximately fifty scholars presented valuable articles. A compilation of these articles was published and gained widespread popularity.
From March 1 to 3, 2020, the institute hosted the second national seminar, focusing on “Asr-e-hazir me Islam ko darpesh challenges." Mr. Syed Saadatullah Hussaini, President of Jamaat-e-Islami Hind, delivered the keynote address, and Maulana Syed Jalaluddin Umri delivered the presidential speech, emphasizing the need to confront these challenges guided by the Quran and Sunnah. This seminar witnessed the participation of around 50 esteemed scholars from across the country, presenting valuable research on various aspects of the subject.
In commemoration of Professor Muhammad Rafat, the institute organized a one-day webinar dedicated to his contributions. Maulana Syed Jalaluddin Umri, President of ITTI, delivered the keynote speech, and Mr. Syed Saadatullah Hussaini, President of Jamaat-e-Islami Hind, presided over the event. Professor Muhammad Ahmadullah Siddiqui from the United States and renowned researchers from various cities in the country presented their articles
In November 7, 2021, our institution's campus hosted a Muta’ala-e-seerat conference. Mr. S. Ameen al Hasan, Vice-President of Jamaat-e-Islami Hind, attended as the chief guest and delivered the keynote address. Dr. Muhammad Razi-ul-Islam Nadvi presided over the event, and distinguished scholars from Aligarh Muslim University presented their articles.
6. Sermons
The institute highly values the expertise of distinguished scholars. Every two months, ITTI extends invitations to renowned educators and scholars from Aligarh Muslim University and various regions of the country, asking them to share their insights on important topics. Additionally, it welcomes university teachers and scholars to participate in these discussions.
Throughout this initiative, esteemed individuals such as Professor Muhammad Aslam (a renowned historian), Professor Ishtiaq Ahmad Zilli, Dr. Muhammad Nejatullah Siddiqui, Professor Abdul Rahim Kidwai, Professor Muhammad Yasin Mazhar Siddiqui, Professor Jalalul Haq, Professor Syed Masood Ahmad, Professor Zafarul Islam Islahi, Professor Abdul Azim Islahi, Mr. H. Abdul Raqeeb, Prof. Kunwar Muhammad Yusuf Amin, Prof. Muhammad Saud Alam Qasmi, Prof. Jameel Farooqi, Prof. Abdul Waheed, Prof. Waleed Ansari, Prof. Asmar Beg, and many others have delivered lectures and shared their wisdom.
7. Writers Forum
The 'Writers' Forum' is a group of scholars who have received training from the Institute. It conducts academic sessions every two months, led by an Islamic studies expert. During these sessions, each scholar presents a research paper on a specific topic. Research scholars from Aligarh Muslim University also take part in these academic gatherings. Following the paper presentations, participants are provided with the opportunity to ask questions and engage in discussions.
8. The Library
The institution has its own library, housing an extensive collection of books in Arabic, Urdu, Persian, and English. This valuable resource is accessible to colleagues, scholars, and external researchers, providing them with a wealth of knowledge. The institute is actively working on standardizing and expanding this collection by acquiring additional sources.
Recognizing the convenience of researchers in the digital age and the growing trend of online usage, the institution is also focusing on enhancing its digital library offerings. This digital collection benefits not only the institution but also scholars and teachers at the university. Alhamdulillah, the library's book count continues to grow steadily, ensuring that it remains a valuable asset for all who seek knowledge.
9. Networking of Scholars
The institution has implemented an innovative fellowship program aimed at connecting scholars. This initiative involves enrolling members of various academic institutions as fellows, associate fellows, and assistant fellows. They are introduced to the institution's vision, mission, and goals, and are encouraged to actively contribute to its mission. Each member receives a membership certificate, valid for three years, with the possibility of renewal based on their performance.
In pursuit of this endeavor, the institute is actively engaged in providing the necessary resources for research, identifying talented individuals, and formulating relevant regulations. To successfully execute the institution's projects, it also seeks support from individuals and experts associated with these departments.
10. Social Media
Given the increasing popularity of the internet and social media, the organizing committee made a significant decision to establish a media center. This center was inaugurated on October 27, 2020, by Mr. Syed Saadatullah Hussaini, President of Jamaat-e-Islami Hind. In his inaugural address, he emphasized the importance of reaching out to the new generation, often referred to as "Digital Natives," who make up more than half of the world's population. To engage with this demographic effectively, it is essential to expand our online presence.
Currently, there are approximately 2.5 billion Facebook users and over 2 billion YouTube users worldwide. To introduce Islam to such a vast audience, provide practical interpretations, address misconceptions, and navigate the intellectual challenges of the modern age, the institute launched its YouTube channel by the name of ITTI ALIGARH. Additionally, the institute maintains an active presence on Facebook, Twitter, Telegram, and Instagram.
On the YouTube channel and Facebook page, you can find lectures by scholars, Friday sermons, and intellectual guidance tailored to the current context. During Ramadan, the institute hosted a special series called the "Ramadan Series," featuring Quran lessons, Hadith lessons, and question-and-answer sessions with researchers and scholars from our institute. In the month of Rabi-ul-Awwal, it introduced the "Introductory Literature Series," which presented daily insights into significant books on the biography of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). We are pleased to report that these initiatives have been well-received. Our ongoing efforts are aimed at enhancing their effectiveness further.
11. Mosque
The institute boasts a spacious mosque on its campus, and what sets this mosque apart is its aspiration to become an ideal place of worship. Here, daily Tazkir-bil-Qur'an and Tazkir-bil-Hadith gatherings take place, both in the morning and evening. During Friday and Eid sermons, contemporary issues are addressed, and valuable lessons are revisited. Weekly and monthly meetings are also organized, with the goal of establishing it as a center for conflict resolution and youth development. We are delighted to report that significant progress is being made in this endeavor.
Furthermore, the mosque plays a crucial role in religious education, where local boys and girls receive instruction in Quranic studies and theology.
Appeal
This provides a concise overview of the organization's silent but impactful contributions. The institution's expenses are covered by the generous support of individuals who understand the significance of such enduring and wide-reaching services. Its annual budget stands at approximately ₹60 lakhs, and it has increased significantly after the project renewals.
Supporting this academic and intellectual institution is a substantial contribution to the cause of religion. We humbly request you to step forward to sponsor academic and intellectual endeavors. With the grace of God, your valuable cooperation will be both a reward for you and an ongoing act of charity.