Globally it is estimated that 20% of the world's population is Muslim and as a consumer group they are worth US$ 2 trillion. In India the percentage is slightly less but in 2009 there were 160.9 million Muslims in the country.

Better education leading to better jobs

The Sunday Times celebrates India's more tolerant society and provides examples of how Indian Muslims are beginning to improve their lifestyle through better education. As a result higher numbers are getting better jobs, as a group they are becoming an increasingly influential consumer group.

Highly skilled and aspirational workforce

The report highlights the fact that due to economic reasons the natural pull to the Gulf states is no longer as strong, consequently there is a more affluent, highly skilled Muslim workforce available in India.

This new wave of professional Muslims are aspirational and globally connected, and their ranks are set to swell as more Muslim-managed institutes of learning are opened.

Opportunities for brands

The Muslim population is now a major global force, with big communications networks setting up Muslim specific brand consultancies like Ogilvy Noor.

Increasingly affluent Indian Muslims provide opportunities for domestic and global brands. Obvious examples are Islamic finance, food and grocery (Halal) and fashion - providing brands are willing to develop more conservative lines.

The challenge is developing a deep understanding of this consumer group and striking a balance between Holly and Worldly. But with such a sizable population the demand exists and it is set to grow.

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