Telangana Government Allocates Rs 1,000 Crore for Osmania University Upgrade

Telangana Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy has announced a significant financial commitment of Rs 1,000 crore aimed at upgrading Osmania University, one of the oldest educational institutions in India. This announcement was made during his visit to the university campus in Hyderabad, which has historical significance as a key site during the Telangana statehood movement.

During his address to students and faculty, Reddy emphasized the government’s intention to involve a wide range of stakeholders, including students, academics, and intellectuals, in shaping the future of the university. He stated that the aim is to elevate the institution to international standards, reflecting Telangana’s commitment to educational excellence and social progress.

Osmania University has a rich legacy, having produced prominent figures such as former Prime Minister P V Narasimha Rao, former Union Minister S Jaipal Reddy, and influential social activists like Gaddar and George Reddy. Reddy remarked on the university’s pivotal role in the struggle for Telangana, noting its history of advocating against injustice and authoritarianism. He encouraged the student body to maintain this spirit of activism as they pursue their academic endeavors.

In response to criticism regarding his administrative experience from leaders of the ruling Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS), Reddy highlighted his grassroots upbringing. He contrasted his background with that of some political opponents, indirectly referencing K T Rama Rao, suggesting that his life experiences have equipped him to understand and prioritize the needs of the underprivileged.

Reddy criticized the previous BRS government for its focus on grand projects, such as the Kaleshwaram Project, which he claimed cost around Rs 1 lakh crore. He asserted that his administration has made significant strides in promoting Telangana’s identity through initiatives like declaring “Jaya Jaya He Telangana” as the state song and launching a caste survey to benefit the Backward Classes.

Recognizing the challenge of poverty in the region, Reddy emphasized that education is the key to transforming lives. He cited a government survey indicating that families owning up to 20 acres of land still face backwardness due to inadequate education. “Such people are not poor, but they are backward. Poverty is different, and backwardness is different,” he explained.

In a move aimed at fostering social harmony, Reddy announced the establishment of Young India Integrated Residential Schools in approximately 100 of the state’s 119 Assembly constituencies. These schools will accommodate between 2,500 and 3,000 students from diverse backgrounds, promoting unity among various communities.

Reddy also called attention to the alleged neglect of Osmania University by the previous administration, urging students to remain vigilant against political exploitation. He claimed that BRS leaders have engaged in extravagant spending, such as building lavish farmhouses, while failing to fulfill promises made to Dalit families, including the allocation of three acres of land per family.

This allocation of funds is seen as a critical step in revitalizing Osmania University and enhancing its role as a leading educational institution in India. As the government moves forward with these plans, the focus on community engagement and educational reform will be essential in realizing the vision for the university’s future.