Telangana, a state in southern India on the Deccan Plateau, is the eleventh-largest and twelfth-most populous state as per the 2011 census.
Telangana became a separate state on June 2, 2014, after splitting from northwestern United Andhra Pradesh, with Hyderabad as its capital. It has the ninth-largest economy in India, with a gross state domestic product (GSDP) of ₹11 trillion (US$140 billion) in 2023, and a high Human Development Index of 0.705 in 2017-2018.
Renowned for its thriving IT sector and as an industrial and service hub, Telangana also hosts significant defence, aerospace, and research institutions. In this article, we will explore Telangana in more detail.
Telangana, a land rich with historical significance, draws its name from diverse origins. One theory suggests that it stems from "Trilinga desha," signifying the "land of three lingas," in homage to three prominent Shaivite sanctuaries: Kaleshwaram, Srisailam, and Draksharama.
Historian Jayadheer Tirumala Rao offers an alternative perspective, suggesting a Gondi heritage behind the name "Telangadh," translating to "south" in the Gondi language. This theory finds support in Gond scripts dating back approximately 2000 years.
Furthermore, historical figures such as Malik Maqbul Tilangani, traced back to the 14th century, demonstrate the early utilisation of comparable terms. As time progressed, "Telinga" transformed into "Telangana," marking the predominantly Telugu-speaking territory apart from others.
Telangana's illustrious history portrays it as a bustling trade centre akin to Egypt's prominence during Ibrahim Kootb Shah's reign. From ancient times through the Middle Ages, it witnessed the ascendancy and decline of various dynasties, including the Satavahanas, Kakatiyas, and Qutb Shahis.
The mid-20th century Telangana Rebellion and subsequent movements led to its statehood on June 2, 2014, with Kalvakuntla Chandrashekar Rao assuming office as its inaugural chief minister. Presently, Telangana stands as a testament to its resilient past and the aspirations of its populace.
Telangana, situated on the Deccan Plateau, covers an expanse of 112,077 square kilometres, shaped by the flowing waters of two significant rivers, the Godavari and the Krishna. Despite its arid landscape, the region features a range of soil compositions, fostering the growth of diverse crops such as mangoes, oranges, and paddy.
The state predominantly experiences a hot and arid climate, with intense summers reaching their peak in mid-April and mild winters from late November to early February. The monsoon, providing much-needed relief, blesses Telangana from June to late September, bringing vital rainfall averaging around 755 mm.
In terms of ecology, the state encompasses the Central Deccan Plateau dry deciduous forests interspersed with pockets of woodlands that harbour a diverse range of flora and fauna. Although a substantial portion of the original forest has been cleared for agriculture, significant forested areas persist, particularly in protected reserves like the Nagarjunsagar-Srisailam Tiger Reserve.
Telangana takes pride in its wildlife sanctuaries and national parks, including Kasu Brahmananda Reddy National Park and Mahavir Harina Vanasthali National Park, which safeguard various species. Additionally, sacred groves scattered throughout the state contribute significantly to conserving indigenous flora and fauna, exemplifying Telangana's commitment to its environmental heritage. The region is home to thriving avian populations like the Indian roller and peafowl, while forests provide sanctuary for mammals such as deer and sloth bears.
Telangana is a diverse state with a rich tapestry of languages and cultures. Telugu, one of India's classical languages, is the official language, while Urdu is the second official language. The linguistic landscape includes Hindi, Lambadi, Marathi, Kannada, and various tribal languages.
Religion contributes to the diverse fabric of Telangana, where Hindus constitute the majority, followed by Muslims and Christians. The state hosts many religious sites, including temples, mosques, and churches, highlighting its profound religious legacy. Cultural hubs like Hyderabad and Warangal feature historical treasures such as the Ramappa Temple, Charminar, and Warangal Fort.
Despite its cultural wealth, the state grapples with literacy hurdles. Nonetheless, strides are being made to enhance educational accessibility, with a considerable segment of the populace availing themselves of free education initiatives.
Telangana, situated in southern India, comprises 33 districts, each with its administrative headquarters. These districts are further subdivided into 70 revenue divisions and 584 mandals. The state encompasses 10,909 revenue villages and 12,769 gram panchayats. Hyderabad, the capital, is the largest city in Telangana and the fourth largest in India. Additionally, there are 12 other cities, constituting 13 municipal corporations and 132 municipalities.
Telangana functions within a parliamentary system, where executive authority rests with the Chief Minister and the Council of Ministers. The state's legislature comprises the Legislative Assembly and Council, while the High Court of Judicature at Hyderabad administers the judiciary. Moreover, local governance is overseen by panchayats. Major political parties in Telangana include the Bharat Rashtra Samithi, All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen, the Bharatiya Janata Party, and the Indian National Congress.
Telangana's economic base is primarily grounded in agriculture, with prominent crops including rice, cotton, sugarcane, mangoes, and tobacco. However, there has been a recent shift towards cultivating sunflowers and peanuts. Additionally, the state thrives in information technology (IT) and biotechnology, boasting 68 Special Economic Zones and positioning itself as a leading IT exporter.
The Singareni Collieries Company holds a crucial position in the state's economy due to its substantial coal reserves. However, challenges endure, notably for small cotton farmers, affecting their livelihoods. Industries like automobiles, textiles, pharmaceuticals, and IT are major catalysts for growth, particularly in Hyderabad, often called "Cyberabad" due to its prominence in the IT sector.
Moreover, collective efforts are being made to establish industrial parks and foster the growth of healthcare industries to enhance the economy further.
Telangana's infrastructure is robust, encompassing irrigation projects, public transport, roadways, railways, and airports. Notable irrigation projects such as Sripada Yellampalli and Kaleswaram bolster agriculture in the region.
The Telangana State Road Transport Corporation (TSRTC) ensures seamless connectivity with significant hubs in Hyderabad and Secunderabad. The state boasts 16 national highways spanning over 3,550 kilometres.
Railways, with roots dating back to the Nizam era, remain crucial, with divisions of the South Central Railway operating in Secunderabad and Hyderabad. Rajiv Gandhi International Airport in Hyderabad serves as a central air travel hub, while plans are underway to upgrade existing airports and construct new ones, further enhancing connectivity across Telangana.
Telangana boasts a diverse educational landscape with government and private schools alongside specialised institutions like Kendriya Vidyalayas and Jawahar Navodaya Vidyalayas. It houses 27 universities, including Osmania University and the University of Hyderabad.
Nationally important institutes like AIIMS Bibinagar, IIT Hyderabad, and NIT Warangal also thrive here. Despite this, the state's literacy rate is 72.8%, among the lowest in India.
In sports, Hyderabad is home to teams like Hyderabad FC in football, Sunrisers Hyderabad in cricket, and Hyderabad Hunters in badminton, competing at national levels. The Rajiv Gandhi International Cricket Stadium hosts major matches.
Facilities like G.M.C Balayogi Athletic Stadium and Gachibowli Indoor Stadium also provide ample opportunities for athletic engagement.
Media in Telangana is diverse, with Telugu and English newspapers dominating print media. Leading Telugu publications include Nava Telangana, Sakshi, and Eenadu, while Deccan Chronicle and The Times of India are renowned in English. Urdu readers rely on outlets like Etemaad Daily and The Munsif Daily, which play crucial roles in shaping public opinion and distributing information throughout the state.
Telangana boasts a vibrant cultural landscape steeped in music, art, and tradition. Classical music, folk dances like Perini Shivatandavam, and arts such as Cheriyal scroll painting are integral to its heritage.
Festivals like Bonalu and Bathukamma celebrate the state's spirit. Architecturally, Telangana showcases a blend of ancient and medieval marvels, including the iconic Warangal Fort and Ramappa Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The Qutb Shahi dynasty left its mark with structures like Charminar and Golconda Fort, while the Nizam era added opulent palaces like Chowmahalla Palace. Telangana's culinary delights, known for their bold flavours and spices, include biryani, haleem, and kebabs, reflecting the region's rich Deccan and Telugu influences.
Telangana beckons with a wealth of natural marvels awaiting exploration. The Telangana State Tourism Development Corporation (TSTDC) is spearheading this endeavour, which is dedicated to showcasing the state's rich array of attractions.
Among its crown jewels are breathtaking waterfalls that mesmerise visitors with their beauty and grandeur. Kuntala Waterfall, towering at 45 meters in the Adilabad district, enchants with its majestic cascade. Meanwhile, Bogatha Waterfall, nestled in the Jayashankar Bhupalpally district, invites travellers to immerse themselves in its tranquil surroundings. Savatula Gundam Waterfalls, also in Adilabad district, beckons adventurers to uncover its hidden charms amidst verdant greenery.
These natural wonders not only provide solace from the urban rush but also serve as reminders of nature's awe-inspiring power and beauty.
In conclusion, Telangana stands as a shining example of resilience, diversity, and progress. As we delve into its rich history, nature, and culture, let's celebrate the magnificence of this ever-evolving state and treasure its limitless marvels.
