Telangana Geography SPMB

Theme 2:     Climate and Rainfall of Telangana

Theme 3:     Rivers of Telangana

Theme 4:     Soils of Telangana

Theme 5:     Forest and wildlife sanctuaries

Theme 6:     Minerals and Energy resources – Coal, Iron and Limestone distribution.

Theme 7:     Thermal and Hydro Power Projects – Problems and Prospects.

·        Area: 1,12,077 Sq. Kms (adjusted for 327 villages transferred to AP).

·        Rank: 12th largest in area and population.

·        Geography: Located on the Deccan Plateau, bordered by Maharashtra (North/West), Chhattisgarh (North), Karnataka (West), Andhra Pradesh (South, East, North-East).

Population

·        Census 2011: Population approx. 3.50 crore.

·        Growth: 13.58% (2001-2011) vs national growth of 17.70%.

·        Rural Majority: Most residents depend on agriculture, but rapid urbanization in Hyderabad, Warangal, Mahabubnagar, Karimnagar, Nizamabad, Khammam.

Agro-Climatic Zones

Divided into 4 Zones:

1.      Northern Telangana

2.      Central Telangana

3.      Southern Telangana

4.      High Altitude & Tribal

·        Climate: Hot and dry, annual rainfall ~905.3 mm.

·        Soils: Red sandy loams, red loams with clay, and alluvial soils.

·        Horticulture: Major crops: Mango, mosambi, red-chilli, turmeric, marigold, vegetables.

Livestock & Agriculture

• Livestock: Cattle, sheep significant for income, especially during droughts.

Industry & Technology

• Diversified Industry: From nano-tech, biotech, pharma to textiles, leather, minerals.
• IT Hub: Telangana, particularly Hyderabad, is a leading IT exporter.
• Tier-2 Cities: Warangal, Karimnagar, Nizamabad emerging as IT hubs.

Tourism

• Hyderabad: A premier destination for medical, business, MICE tourism, and a global brand.

·        Geology: Belongs to Archean system, made up of basalt, gneiss, and schist rocks.

·        Telangana Plateau: Part of Deccan Plateau, slopes from West to East.

Erosion Surfaces

Region above 600 meters:

·       Covers Hyderabad, Rangareddy, Medchal Malkajgiri, Vikarabad, Sangareddy, Medak, Siddipet, southern Nagarkurnool.

·       Peneplained surfaces of ancient rocks, slope towards east.

·       Rivers: Krishna and Godavari.

Region between 300m-600m:

·       Western Telangana (Vikarabad, Mahabubnagar, Nizamabad, Kamareddy, Warangal).

·       Godavari valley, Krishna-Tungabhadra valleys.

·       Gneiss rock; has lakes supporting agriculture.

Region below 300m:

·       Covers Nalgonda, Khammam, Warangal, Karimnagar, Adilabad.

·       Fertile lands for cultivation.

·       Known as “Ratnagarbha” (rich in resources).

Geological Features

·        Isosceles triangle shape of Telangana.

·        Deccan Plateau: Separated from Gondwana region.

·        Granite hills in Hyderabad, Rangareddy, Vikarabad, Medchal Malkajgiri.

·        Basalt lava: Peneplains in Rangareddy and Mahabubnagar.

·        Coal deposits: Nirmal, Mancherial, Jagtial, Peddapalli.

·        Gondwana rocks in Godavari Basin.

Altitudes

·        Hyderabad: 600m above sea level.

·        Krishna-Tungabhadra valley: 300m-450m.

·        Godavari Valley: 480m-600m.

·        Region between Bhima-Godavari (Hyderabad-Khammam-Warangal): 730m.

Mountain Ranges

·        Western Ghats (Sahyadri or Satnala): Enter Telangana from Ajantha to Adilabad.

Eastern Ghats:

·       Form discontinuous ranges of low hills in Telangana.

·        Lakshmidevipalli Hill: Highest in Eastern Ghats (Siddipet) – highest peak.

·        Mahabub Ghat: Highest in Western Ghats (Nirmal).

·       Solamile: Highest point in Deccan Plateau (Jangaon).

·       Area: 59,903 sq km.

·       Altitude: 500-600m, West to East slope.

·       Districts Covered: Nirmal, Nizamabad, Kamareddy, Medak, Sangareddy, Hyderabad, etc.

Key Hills:

·       Adilabad/Nirmal: Nirmal Satnala hills, Kerimeri Ghats.

·       Jagtial/Peddapalli: Rakhi hills, Ramagiri hills.

·       Khammam/Bhadradri: Papikondalu, Yellandlapadu hillocks.

·       Nalgonda/Yadadri: Yadadri Guttalu, Nagarjuna hills.

·       Vikarabad: Ananthagiri hills (Musi river origin).

·       Medak/Siddipet: Lakshmi Devi Palli hills (highest in Eastern Ghats).

·       Nizamabad/Kamareddy: Sirnapalli hills, Rathi hills.

Godavari Basin

·       Area: 37,934 sq km.

·       Districts Covered: Nizamabad, Nirmal, Mancherial, Jagtial, Bhupalpally, Mulugu, Bhadradri Kothagudem.

·       Geology: Carboniferous, Archean, Gneissic rocks.

·       Key Irrigation Projects: Polavaram, Kaleshwaram, SRSP.

Krishna Piedmont

·       Area: 14,240 sq km.

·       Districts Covered: Narayanpet, Mahabubnagar, Gadwal, Nagarkurnool, Nalgonda, Suryapet.

·       Geology: Archean, Precambrian rocks; supports agriculture.

Key Geological Features:

·       Gondwana Rocks: Coal deposits found in Godavari Basin.

·       Key Coal Districts: Bhadradri Kothagudem, Bhupalpally, Peddapalli, Mancherial.

Climate Classification: Tropical monsoon climate with moderate conditions; Humid subtropical climate in Northern Telangana and semi-arid climate in the Southern region.

Koppen Classification: Semi-arid or humid subtropical climate.

Seasons:

1.      Winter (December-February)

2.      Summer (March-May)

3.      Southwest Monsoon (June-September)

4.      Retreating Monsoon (October-November)

Temperature:

·        Summer High: Up to 42°C, intense in May.

·        Winter Low: 29°C (max), 12°C (min).

·        Hottest Places: Ramagundam (Peddapalli), Kothagudem.

·        Coldest Places: Medak, Adilabad.

Rainfall:

·       Average 906 mm annually.

·       Highest Rainfall: Sileru Basin.

·       Lowest Rainfall: Mahabubnagar district.

·       Cyclones during the retreating monsoon.

·       Convectional Rainfall: Summer thunderstorms called “Avakal Pani” occur due to cumulonimbus clouds.

Winds:

1. Southwest Winds (humid)
2. Northeast Winds (dry)

·       Weather Patterns: Summer heat waves in May, winter tropical continental air causing mild conditions; cyclonic rainfall in the retreating monsoon season (October-November).

Notable Rainfall Areas:

·        Max Rainfall in Northeast Monsoon: Hyderabad.

·        Lowest Rainfall: Erstwhile Karimnagar district.

·       Telangana receives 80% of its rainfall from the southwest monsoons.

·       Rainfall pattern: 700-900 mm in Southern Telangana; 900-1500 mm in Northern Telangana.

·       Rainfall due to low-pressure systems from Bay of Bengal to Ganga plains, peaking in September.

·       Highest rainfall: Mulugu; Lowest rainfall: Nagarkurnool, Jogulamba Gadwal (Alampur).

·       2004-05: 614 mm (low rainfall); 2020-21: 1322.4 mm (highest in 20 years).

Rainfall Instability:

·       Southwest Monsoon: 25% instability; Northeast Monsoon: 80% instability.

·       Southern Telangana (Mahabubnagar, Narayanpet, Jogulamba Gadwal) experiences more instability.

·       Pleasant rainy season from October-December due to the northeast monsoon.

Meteorological Stations:

8 stations in Hyderabad, Warangal, Nalgonda, Mahabubnagar, Khammam, Nizamabad, Medak, and Ramagundam (for Peddapalli district).

Summer (March-June):

·       Ramagundam: Highest mean temperature (up to 50°C).

·       Bhadrachalam, Kothagudem: Can reach 48°C.

·       Summer temperatures in Hyderabad are lower due to its elevation.

·       Vehicle traffic and pollution have caused a rise in Hyderabad temperatures.

Winter (December-February):

·       Dry climate with cold winds at night.

Lowest temperatures recorded:

·       Kohir (Sangareddy): 2°C

·       Lingapur (Komaram Bheem): 2.4°C

·       Madnoor (Kamareddy): 2.5°C

Highest temperatures recorded in May 2015:

·       Ghanpur (Jayashankar), Chinthalapalem (Suryapet), Dandapally (Mancherial), and Madulapally (Nalgonda): 48.9°C.

India’s Average Annual Rainfall:

·        Around 125 cm with significant spatial variations.

Areas of High Rainfall:

·        Western Ghats, sub-Himalayan areas, Northeast, and Meghalaya hills.

·        Rainfall exceeds 200 cm.

·        Khasi and Jaintia hills (parts receive over 1,000 cm).

·        Brahmaputra Valley and nearby hills receive less than 200 cm.

Areas of Medium Rainfall (100-200 cm):

·        Southern Gujarat, Eastern Tamil Nadu, Northeastern Peninsula covering Odisha, Jharkhand, Bihar, Eastern Madhya Pradesh, Northern Ganga plain, Cachar Valley, and Manipur.

Areas of Low Rainfall (50-100 cm):

·        Western Uttar Pradesh, Delhi, Haryana, Punjab, Jammu & Kashmir, Eastern Rajasthan, Gujarat, and Deccan Plateau.

Areas of Inadequate Rainfall (below 50 cm):

·        Parts of Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Maharashtra, Ladakh, and Western Rajasthan.

Rainfall in Telangana

Normal Rainfall:

·        The average annual rainfall in Telangana is 905.44 mm.

·        Varies year by year, calculated on a district-wise basis.

·        Can be more or less than the normal level, creating positive or negative variations.

District-wise Rainfall – Variation:

Districts with Highest Rainfall in Telangana:

1. Mulugu
2. Adilabad
3. Komuram Bheem
4. Mancherial
5. Bhadradri Kothagudem

Districts with Lowest Rainfall in Telangana:

1. Jogulamba Gadwal
2. Narayanpet
3. Wanaparthy
4. Mahabubnagar
5. Nagarkurnool

Additional Important Points:

·        Highest Rainfall occurs in Mulugu, while Nagarkurnool and Jogulamba Gadwal receive the least rainfall.

·        Southwest Monsoon contributes 80% of the total annual rainfall in Telangana.

·        Godavari Basin Area: 3,12,812 Sq Km (Second largest river basin in India).

·        Mentioned in Puranas as Tellivaha river, also known as the River of Poets.

·        Largest Peninsular River by length, catchment area, and discharge.

·        Drains about 10% of India’s geographical area.

·        Second longest river in India, longest in South India.

·        Total Length: 1,465 Km (910 miles), Length in Telangana: 560 Km.

·        State with highest catchment basin: Maharashtra (48.6%).

·        Flows through Maharashtra, Telangana, Chhattisgarh, Andhra Pradesh, and Puducherry.

Origin:

·        Originates – Trimbakeshwar Temple on Brahmagiri mountain, near Nashik, Maharashtra, at an elevation of 920m (3018 feet).

Other Names:

·        Vridha Ganga, Dakshina Ganga, Poetic River, and Rhine of India.

Rainfall:

·        Annual average rainfall in its catchment area is 110 cm.

Notable Features:

·        Badanakurthi (Nirmal district): Island created by Godavari.

·        Pochampadu (Sriram Sagar Project): First project built on Godavari in Telangana.

·        Only river basin in South India with coal deposits.

·        Splits into seven branches near Vempalli Venkatraopet (Jagtial district).

·        Forms a crescent at Cheggaon (border of Jagtial and Peddapalli districts).

·        Triveni Sangamam at Kandakurthi (Nizamabad) with Manjeera and Haridra rivers.

·        Another Triveni Sangamam at Kaleshwaram (Bhupalpally) with Pranahita and Saraswati rivers.

·        Bounded by Ajanta, Nirmal, Satmala hills in the north and Papi hills in the south.

·        Highest Peak in the Godavari Basin area: Arma Konda (1,680 m

·        Origin: Trimbakeshwar, Brahmagiri Hills, Western Ghats, Maharashtra.

·        Telangana Entry: Enters Telangana at Kandakurthi (Nizamabad district), flows through Basara (Nirmal district).

·        Sriram Sagar Project: Reaches Pochampadu, crossing Nirmal and Nizamabad districts.

·        Flow through Telangana: Passes through Nizamabad, Jagtial, Mancherial, Peddapalli, Jayashankar Bhupalpally, Mulugu, Bhadradri Kothagudem.

·        Papi Hills: Cuts through Papi Hills forming Bison Gorge, enters Andhra Pradesh at Polavaram.

·        East & West Godavari: Separates East Godavari and West Godavari districts.

·        Rajahmundry: Flows through Rajahmundry, splits into five major branches at Dhavaleswaram (total 7 branches).

·        Bay of Bengal: Each branch empties into the Bay of Bengal, hence known as Sapta Godavari.

Tributaries of Godavari:

Manjeera River:

·        First tributary of Godavari in Telangana.

·        Originates in Jamkhed Hill, Maharashtra; flows through Maharashtra, Karnataka, Telangana.

·        Joins Godavari at Kandakurthi (Triveni Sangamam with Godavari and Haridra).

·        Length: 724 km, Catchment area: 30,844 sq km.

·        Major tributaries: Kakivaagu, Nallavaagu, Haldi, Lendi.

Projects:

1.     Nizamsagar (1923–1931) for Hyderabad’s water supply.

2.     Singur Project for water supply – Hyderabad and Secunderabad.

·        Manjeera Wildlife Sanctuary and Edupayala Vanadurga Temple in its basin.

·        Origin: Multai, Satpura range, Betul district, Madhya Pradesh.

·        Flows through Vidarbha, Maharashtra; joins Penganga at Jugaad village near Komaram Bheem Asifabad.

·        Length: 528 km, largest river in Vidarbha region.

Penganga River:

·        Origin: Revulghat mountains, Vidarbha.

·        Merges with Wardha river in Yavatmal district, Maharashtra.

·        Length: 676 km.

·        Lower Penganga Project: Interstate irrigation project.

·        Chanaka-Korata Barrage in Adilabad district: Provides irrigation to 50,000 acres in Thamsi, Jainath, Bera mandals.

·        Yavatmal Plateau between Penganga and Wardha rivers.

·        Pranahita-Chevella Lift Irrigation Scheme at Tammishetti village, also known as Dr. B.R. Ambedkar Pranahita-Chevella Scheme.

Wainganga River:

·        Origin: Mundhara village, Seoni district, Satpura range, Madhya Pradesh.

·        Merges with Penganga at Chamorshi.

·        Joins Pranahita river from the left, contributing 40% of Godavari’s water.

·        Komaram Bheem Project on Peddavagu stream near Ada village, Asifabad district.

·        Vatti Vagu Project at Pahadibanda village, NTR Sagar (Chelimelavagu Project) near Anakapalli village, Thiryani mandal.

Peddavagu River:

·        Flows into Pranahita river near Rampur, Gadchiroli district.

·        Basin area: 6000 sq km.

·        Origin: Bithai village, Bodh taluk, Adilabad district.

·        Merges with Godavari at Pasupula village, Khanapur mandal, Nirmal district.

·        Left bank tributary of Godavari, flows through Adilabad and Nirmal districts.

Waterfalls on Kaddam River:

·        Kuntala Waterfall: Neradigonda mandal, Adilabad district; height: 147 feet, cascade type.

·        Pochera Waterfall: Bodh, Adilabad district; height: 20 meters, plunge type.

·        Gayatri Waterfall: Kurdu village, Neradigonda mandal, Adilabad district.

Haridra River

·        Origin: Near Sangareddy, flows through Sangareddy, Nizamabad, and Kamareddy districts.

·        Forms Triveni Sangamam (Haridra, Godavari, Manjeera) at Kandakurthi, Nizamabad district.

Manair River

·        Origin: Sircilla hills, Rajanna Sircilla district.

·        Length: 128 km; right bank tributary of Godavari, joins at Narmala village, Jayashankar Bhupalpally district.

·        Dams: Upper Manair Dam, Mid Manair Dam (under construction), Lower Manair Dam.

Indravati River

·        Origin: Kalahandi district, Dandakaranya, Eastern Ghats.

·        Length: 535 km; joins Godavari at Mahadevpur, Jayashankar Bhupalpally district.

·        Known for Chitrakote Waterfalls (Indian Niagara Falls).

Kinnerasani River

·        Origin: Laknavaram Lake, Tadvai hills, Mulugu district.

·        Length: 96 km; flows through Mulugu, Warangal, and Kothagudem districts.

·        Falls into Godavari near Bhadrachalam.

Sabari River

·        Also known as Kolab river.

·        Length: 418 km; rises from Sinkaram hills, Eastern Ghats.

·        Last tributary of Godavari in Telangana, joins at Indira Sagar, Bhadradri Kothagudem district.

·        Parnasala: Located on Sabari’s banks; Kinnerasani reservoir supplies water to KTPS.

·       Total length: 1,401 Km.

·       Length in Telangana and Andhra Pradesh: 612 Km.

·       Source: Mahabaleshwar, Maharashtra, Western Ghats.

·       Rank: 4th largest river in India, 2nd largest in South India.

·       Flows through Maharashtra and Karnataka, enters Telangana at Tangadi village, Maktal taluk, Narayanpet district.

·         Passes through the districts of Wanaparthy, Gadwal, Nagarkurnool, Mahabubnagar, Nalgonda, Suryapet in Telangana and Kurnool, Prakasam, Guntur, Krishna districts in Andhra Pradesh.

·       Left Bank Tributaries: Bheema, Dindi, Musi, Halia, Palair, Munnair.
Right Bank Tributaries: Malaprabha, Ramileru, Ghataprabha, Tungabhadra, Tammileru, Budameru, Koyna, Panchganga, Doodhganga.

·        Length: 531 km

·        Basin Area: 74,417 sq. km

·        Origin: Varaha Parvats, Gangamoola Hills, Karnataka

·        Largest tributary of Krishna River

·        Formed by confluence of Tunga and Bhadra rivers

·        Flows through Karnataka, Telangana, Andhra Pradesh; merges with Krishna at Sangameswaram

·        Notable landmarks: Jogulamba Temple, Guru Raghavendra Temple

·        Tributaries: Varada, Kumudvathi, Hagari, Vedavati

Bhima River:

·        Length: 861 km

·        Longest tributary of Krishna

·        Origin: Bhimashankar Hills, Western Ghats, Maharashtra

·        Basin Area: 70,614 sq. km

·        Flows Maharashtra, Karnataka, Telangana; merges with Krishna at Raichur

·        Tributaries: Kagna, Mula-Mutha, Indrayani, Ghod, Sina, Nira

·        Origin: Ananthagiri Hills, Vikarabad district

·        Flows westward, merges with Bhima

Musi River:

·        Length: 250 km

·        Origin: Ananthagiri Hills, Vikarabad district

·        Flows through Hyderabad

·        Merges with Krishna at Vadapalli, Nalgonda

·        Tributaries: Esa, Alair, Sakalavani

·        Key structures: Osman Sagar Dam (1920), Himayat Sagar Dam (1927)

·        Major flood: 28 September 1908

Dindi River:

·        Length: 152 km

·        Origin: Shabad Hills, Mahabubnagar

·        Flows through Mahabubnagar, Nagarkurnool, Nalgonda; merges with Krishna at Eleswaram

·        Also known as Meenambaram

·        Length: 145 km

·        Origin: Dakshina Chinnapuram, Jangaon district

·        Flows through Suryapet, Nalgonda; merges with Krishna at Jaggayyapeta

·        Reservoir: Palair Reservoir, Khammam district

Munneru River:

·        Length: 192 km

·        Origin: Pakala Tank, Warangal rural

·        Flows through Warangal rural, Mahabubabad, Khammam

·        Tributaries: Wyra, Katleru

·        Merges with Krishna at Eluru, Nandigam

·        Factors in Soil Formation: Parent material, topography, climate, vegetation, and time.

·        Telangana Soil Types: Red, alluvial, black, and laterite soils.

·        Soil Properties: pH favorable for agriculture: 6.5-7.5.

·        Important Days: Earth Day (22 April), World Wetlands Day (2 February), World Soil Day (5 December).

·        Soil Classification:

o   Ancient: Fertile (Urvara) and Sterile (Usara).

o   Modern: Based on texture, color, moisture; classified by Soil Survey of India (1956) and ICAR (1929).

·        Soils of Andhra Pradesh (1976) identified seven types of soils in Telangana.

They are:

·       Red sandy loams (Chalka Soils)

·       Red loamy sands (Dubba soils)

·       Alluvial soils

·       Shallow to Medium black soil

·       Deep black soils

·       Lateritic soils

·       Salt affected soils

·        Parent Rocks: Granite and Gneiss.

·        pH Range: 6.0-7.5.

·        Coverage: Spread over 64% of Telangana, less prominent in Adilabad, Mancherial, Nirmal, Kumuram Bheem, Kamareddy, Nizamabad, Sangareddy, Jogulamba Gadwal.

·        Color: Red due to Iron Oxide.

·        Nutrient Composition: Low in nutrients and organic material, higher in phosphorus.

·        Soil Types: Chelka (Red Sandy Loams) and Dubba soils (Red Loamy Sands).

Chelka Soils (Red Sandy Loams):

·       Derived from weathering of Quartzite and coarse granite rocks.

·       High sand content, low clay, poor in nitrogen and phosphorus, low fertility.

·       Less water retention, often mixed with black soils or fertilizers to improve capacity.

Dubba Soils (Red Loamy Sands):

·       Higher clay content, good water retention.

·       Less fragile, pale gray in color.

·       Groundnut cultivation common.

·       Found in Mahabubnagar, Wanaparthy, Nagarkurnool, Gadwal, Nalgonda, Suryapet, Khammam, Kothagudem, Warangal, Bhupalpally, Karimnagar, Jagtial, Peddapalli, Rangareddy, Vikarabad, Kamareddy, Nizamabad.

·       Scarce in Adilabad district.

·        Alternate Name: Self-plowing soils or Regur soils (Black Cotton soils).

·        Coverage: 26% of Telangana.

·        Color: Black/dark gray due to Magnesium Oxide.

·        Formation: Weathered from sedimentary, metamorphic rocks, limestone, shells, basalt, granite; formed on lava and gneiss rocks in semi-arid Deccan plateau.

·        Clay Content: High, with excellent moisture retention.

·        Nutrient Content: High in Iron -Calcium, low in Phosphorus, Nitrogen, and organic matter.

·        Major Districts: Adilabad, Mancherial, Nirmal, Rangareddy, Nizamabad, Kamareddy, Karimnagar, Warangal, Mahabubnagar.

·        Best Crops: Cotton, tobacco, turmeric, chili, millet.

Laterite Soils

·        Alternate Name: Brick soils (Latin: “Later”).

·        Coverage: 2% of Telangana.

·        Properties: Sticky when wet, hard when dry, acidic, rich in Bauxite, Iron, and Aluminium.

·        Color: Yellow, brown, red; turns black in rainy season.

·        Major Locations: Narayankhed, Jaheerabad (Sangareddy), Khammam.

·        Best Crops: Coffee, tea, rubber, cashew, spices.

Alluvial Soils

·        Alternate Name: Khadar.

·        Properties: Very fertile, high moisture retention, rich in Potash, Phosphorus, Calcium, low in Nitrogen and organic carbon.

·        Color: Yellow, sandy, formed by river silt deposits.

·        Major Locations: Godavari and Krishna deltas.

·        Best Crops: Paddy, sugarcane, banana, mango, citrus.

·        Known As: Granaries of India.

Soil Erosion:

·       Loss of soil due to wind and water exceeds replenishment.

·       Negatively impacts agricultural productivity and economy.

Nutrient Deficiency:

·       Indian soils are deficient in nitrogen and phosphorus.

·       Imbalanced fertilizer use worsens nutrient levels.

Desertification:

·       Overgrazing and deforestation in arid/semi-arid regions lead to desert-like conditions.

·       Increased wind erosion and drought frequency.

Waterlogging:

·       Surface water drainage issues in flat areas cause waterlogging.

·       Over-irrigation reduces productivity.

Salinity and Alkalinity:

·       Over-irrigation deposits salts, reducing soil fertility.

·       Prominent in Punjab and Haryana due to intensive irrigation.

Wasteland and Urban Development:

·       Urbanization increases soil toxicity from chemical waste.

·       Heavy metal accumulation in urban soils poses health risks.

Industrialization Impact:

·       Industrial activities and mining degrade soil and alter ecosystems.

·       Definition: Dense area covered with trees and underbrush, protected under the Forest Act.

·       Renewable: Essential natural resource supporting ecology and economy.

·       Lungs of Earth: Purify air, critical for biodiversity.

·       National Property: Vital for economic development and environmental balance.

·       Total Forest Area: 26,969.61 sq km, constituting 24.06% of the state’s geographical area.

·       Hyderabad: Recognized as “Tree City of the World” by FAO and Arbor Day Foundation in 2020 and 2021 for environmental efforts.

Forest Initiatives and Programs in Telangana

Vanamahotsavam Flagship Programme:

·        Objective: Increase tree cover from 24% to 33% of the state’s geographical area.

·        2022-23: Planted 2,293 lakh seedlings (surpassing target of 1,954 lakh).

·        2023-24: Planted 1,807 lakh seedlings (target: 1,929 lakh).

·        2024-25 Target: 2,002 lakh seedlings, allocated across:

·        1,009 lakh for Municipal and Urban Development,

·        637 lakh for Rural Development,

·        134 lakh for Forest Department.

Urban Forest Parks:

·        Objective: Transform Urban Forest Blocks into Urban Forest Parks to create green, sustainable spaces.

·        109 locations: 59 within HMDA, 50 outside HMDA covering 75,740 acres.

·        73 parks completed and opened to the public, with entry fees for visitors.

Compensatory Afforestation Fund Management and Planning Authority (CAMPA):

·        Established in 2014 after the formation of Telangana.

·        Objective: Manage funds from user agencies for Compensatory Afforestation under the Forest Conservation Act (1980).

CAMPA activities:

·        Afforestation on degraded lands,

·        Assisted Natural Regeneration,

·        Forest Fire Management,

·        Biodiversity Conservation.

2014-15 to 2023-24:

·        63,475 hectares afforested,

·        Rs. 2,407.77 crore spent.

·        Districts with highest expenditure efficiency:

·        Khammam (84.9%),

·        Adilabad (82.60%).

·        Districts with lower expenditure rates:

·        Mancherial (41.90%),

·        Sangareddy (29.16%).

·        Established in 2014 after the formation of Telangana.

·        Objective: Manage funds from user agencies for Compensatory Afforestation under the Forest Conservation Act (1980).

CAMPA activities:

·       Afforestation on degraded lands,

·       Assisted Natural Regeneration,

·       Forest Fire Management,

·       Biodiversity Conservation.

·        2014-15 to 2023-24:

·       63,475 hectares afforested,

·       Rs. 2,407.77 crore spent.

·       Districts with highest expenditure efficiency:

§  Khammam (84.9%),

§  Adilabad (82.60%).

Districts with lower expenditure rates:

§  Mancherial (41.90%),

§  Sangareddy (29.16%).

Types of Forests in Telangana

·        Champion & Seth Classification (1968): Telangana’s forests categorized into:

1.      Tropical moist deciduous forests

2.      Southern dry deciduous forests

3.      Northern mixed dry deciduous forests

4.      Dry Savanna Forests

5.      Tropical dry deciduous scrubs

·        Flora: Telangana hosts about 1,945 taxa of flowering plants (including 163 cultivable species), within 893 genera and 162 families.

·        Dominant Species: Dense Teak, Nallamaddi, Yegisa, Rosewood, Narepa, and Bamboo.

·        80% Vegetation: Dominated by Hardwickia Binata and Albizia.

Forest Types:

Tropical Dry Deciduous:

·       Southern Dry Mixed Deciduous

·       Dry Deciduous Scrubs

·       Dry Teak Forests

·       Secondary Dry Deciduous Forests

·       Dry Bamboo Brakes

·       Hardwickia Forests

·       Dry Savannah

·       Boswellia Forests

·       Dry Grasslands

Tropical Thorn Forests:

·       Southern Thorn Forests

·       Southern Thorn Scrubs

Tropical Moist Deciduous Forests:

·       Southern Moist Mixed Deciduous Forests

Eturnagaram Wildlife Sanctuary

·       Established: 30 January 1952.

·       Area: 803 sq km, located in Mulugu district.

·       Fauna: Indian Bison, Tigers, Antelopes, Blackbucks, Wolves, Sambars.

·       Flora: Teakwood.

·       Hosts Medaram Jatara (Asia’s largest tribal festival).

Pakhala Wildlife Sanctuary

·       Location: Warangal Rural district, area: 860 sq km.

·       Notified: 1999, under Wildlife Protection Act 1972.

·       Fauna: Tigers, Indian Bison, Leopards, Sloth Bears, Crocodiles.

·       Flora: Dry deciduous and evergreen forests.

Sivaram Wildlife Sanctuary

·       Spread across Mancherial and Peddapalli districts.

·       Area: 30 sq km.

·       Notified: 1978, famous for Marsh Crocodiles.

·       Fauna: Leopards, Sloth Bears, Bison, Antelopes, Crocodiles, Tigers.

Pranahita Wildlife Sanctuary

·       Location: Mancherial district, Telangana-Maharashtra border.

·       Area: 136 sq km, notified in 1980 under Wildlife Protection Act.

·       Fauna: Blackbucks, Naikpod Tribe.

·       Flora: Dry deciduous forests, grass species.

·       Situated on the bank of Pranahita river.

Kinnerasani Wildlife Sanctuary

·       Location: 35 km from Bhadrachalam, 24 km from Kothagudem, part of Dandakaranya.

·       Area: 635 sq km, declared in 1977.

·       Fauna: Tigers, Chinkaras, Sambhars, Pythons.

·       Main attractions: Deer park, Kinnerasani reservoir, Ecopark.

·       Annual rainfall: 863.55 mm.

Manjeera Wildlife Sanctuary

·       Location: Sangareddy district, 50 km from Hyderabad along river Manjeera.

·       Area: 20 sq km, established in 1978.

·       Fauna: Marsh crocodiles (Mugger), 70 species of birds.

·       Manjeera reservoir supplies drinking water to Hyderabad & Secunderabad.

·       Features: 9 small islands forming Manjeera Wildlife & Bird Sanctuary.

Pocharam Wildlife Sanctuary

·       Location: 115 km from Hyderabad, 15 km from Medak district, near Pocharam lake.

·       Area: 130 sq km, once a hunting ground for Nizam kings.

·       Fauna: Antelopes, Deer, Panthers, Sloth Bears, Wild Boars.

·       Flora: Mixed dry deciduous forest with grassy plains.

·       Terrain: Low hills and water pools.

·        Established: 1965, declared a Wildlife Sanctuary in 1969 under the Wildlife Protection Act.

·        Recognized: 2012 as the 40th Tiger Reserve by the Union.

·        Area: 2,015 sq km (Core: 892.15 sq km, Buffer: 1,123 sq km).

·        Districts: Adilabad, Komaram Bheem Asifabad, Mancherial, Nirmal (Core area in Jannaram, Mancherial).

·        Fauna: Cheetals, Sambars, Nilgai, Sloth Bears, Gaurs, Tigers, Crocodiles, Monitor Lizards.

·        Flora: Rich in Teak trees.

·        River: Kaddam river flows through the sanctuary.

Amrabad Tiger Reserve

·        Also Known As: Rajiv Gandhi Wildlife Sanctuary.

·        Declared: Wildlife Sanctuary in 1978, Tiger Reserve in 1983.

·        Area: Core – 2,166 sq km, Buffer – 445.02 sq km.

·        Districts: Nagarkurnool, Mahabubnagar, Nalgonda.

·        Flora: Mixed deciduous forests, grasslands, bamboo.

·        Tribes: Chenchus and Lambadas.

·        Fauna: Tigers, Leopards, Wolves, Jackals, Antelopes, Sambar, 200+ bird species.

·        Features: River Krishna, Nagarjuna Sagar reservoir, Pedda Dookudu, Saleshwaram waterfalls.

·        Eco-Tourism: Involves local communities, benefiting Chenchus and other tribes.

National Parks in Telangana

Mrugavani National Park

·        Location: Chilkur village, Moinabad mandal, Rangareddy district.

·        Established: Reserve forest, later declared a park.

·        Renamed: Mrugavani National Deer Park in 1998.

·        Area: 4 sq km (1211 acres).

·        Flora and Fauna: Over 600 plant species, located between Gandipet and Himayat Sagar lakes.

Kasu Brahmananda Reddy National Park

·        Location: Banjara Hills, Hyderabad.

·        Established: 1994.

·        Area: 1 sq km.

·        Flora and Fauna: 600 species of trees and plants, 140 bird species. Also known as ‘Chiran Palace’.

Mahavir Harina Vanasthali Park

·        Location: Vanasthalipuram, Ranga Reddy district.

·        Established: 1975, in honor of 2500 years of Nirvana of Vardhaman Mahaveer.

·        Area: 15 sq km.

·        Attraction: Famous for its deer population, known as the largest green lung space in Hyderabad.

·       Major Minerals: Coal, Garnet, Graphite, Iron Ore, Limestone, Manganese Ore, Stowing Sand.

·       Minor Minerals: Amethyst, Barytes, Dolomite, Feldspar, Fire Clay, Laterite, Mica, Quartz, Silica Sand, Shale, White Clay, Yellow Ochre.

·       Other Minor Minerals: Black Granite, Color Granite, Gravel, Limestone Slabs, Lime Kankar, Mosaic Chips, Marble, Road Metal, Ordinary Sand.

District-wise Mineral Distribution in Telangana:

·       Adilabad: Abundant in Manganese Ore, Laterite, Road Metal, Gravel, Morrum, and Ordinary Earth.

·       Bhadradri-Kothagudem: Known for Garnet, Stowing Sand, and Coal, along with Marble, Calcite, Laterite, Quartz, Feldspar, Road Metal, Gravel, Morrum, and Ordinary Earth.

·       Jagityal: Rich in Iron Ore, Manganese, and Limestone, along with Quartz, Granite, Road Metal, Gravel, Morrum, and Ordinary Earth.

·       Jangaon: Notable for Granite, Road Metal, Gravel, Morrum, and Ordinary Earth.

·       Jayashankar: Contains Iron Ore, Coal, and Stowing Sand, with Dolomite, Laterite, Granite, Road Metal, Gravel, Morrum, Ordinary Earth, and Sand.

·       Jogulamba-Gadwal: Abundant in Limestone, with Quartz, Feldspar, Granite, Road Metal, Gravel, Morrum, Ordinary Earth, and Sand.

·       Kamareddy: Rich in Quartz, Feldspar, Granite, Road Metal, Gravel, Morrum, Ordinary Earth, and Sand.

·       Karimnagar: Known for Quartz, Feldspar, Laterite, Road Metal, Gravel, Morrum, Ordinary Earth, and Sand.

·       Khammam: Abundant in Iron Ore and Coal, also containing Mica, Dolomite, Corundum, Barytes, Quartz, Granite, Road Metal, Gravel, Morrum, and Ordinary Earth.

·       Komaram Bheem: Contains Limestone and Coal, with White Clay, Sandstone, Road Metal, Gravel, Morrum, and Ordinary Earth.

·       Mahabubabad: Notable for Iron Ore, along with Barytes, Kaolin, Granite, Road Metal, Gravel, Morrum, and Ordinary Earth.

·       Mahabubnagar: Rich in Gold and Diamonds, also containing Quartz, Feldspar, Granite, Road Metal, Gravel, Morrum, and Ordinary Earth.

·       Mancherial: Abundant in Limestone, Coal, and Stowing Sand, with Dolomite, Granite, Road Metal, Gravel, Ordinary Earth, and Sand.

·       Medak: Contains Quartz, Feldspar, Road Metal, Gravel, Morrum, and Ordinary Earth.

·       Medchal: Rich in Quartz, Feldspar, Road Metal, Gravel, Morrum, and Ordinary Earth.

·       Nagarkurnool: Notable for Quartz, Feldspar, Road Metal, Gravel, Morrum, and Ordinary Earth.

·       Nalgonda: Abundant in Limestone, Gold, and Diamonds, also containing Quartz, Feldspar, Granite, Road Metal, Gravel, Morrum, and Ordinary Earth.

·       Nirmal: Rich in Quartz, Granite, Road Metal, Gravel, Morrum, and Ordinary Earth.

·       Nizamabad: Contains Granite, Feldspar, Quartz, Road Metal, Gravel, Morrum, Ordinary Earth, and Sand.

·       Peddapalli: Abundant in Limestone, Iron Ore, Coal, and Stowing Sand, also containing Granite, Road Metal, Gravel, Morrum, Ordinary Earth, and Sand.

·       Rajanna-Sircilla: Known for Granite, Road Metal, Gravel, Morrum, Ordinary Earth, and Sand.

·       RangaReddy: Rich in Quartz, Feldspar, Granite, Road Metal, Gravel, Morrum, and Ordinary Earth.

·       Sangareddy: Contains Quartz, Laterite, Road Metal, Gravel, Morrum, and Ordinary Earth.

·       Siddipet: Notable for Granite, Road Metal, Gravel, Morrum, and Ordinary Earth.

·       Suryapet: Abundant in Limestone, Gold, and Diamonds, also containing Laterite, Quartz, Feldspar, Road Metal, Gravel, Morrum, and Ordinary Earth.

·       Vikarabad: Contains Limestone, Laterite, Quartz, Feldspar, Fullers Earth, Limestone Slabs, Road Metal, Gravel, and Ordinary Earth.

·       Wanaparthy: Rich in Limestone, with Quartz, Feldspar, Granite, Road Metal, Gravel, Morrum, Ordinary Earth, and Sand.

·       Warangal Rural: Known for Laterite, Granite, Road Metal, Gravel, Morrum, and Ordinary Earth.

·       Warangal Urban: Contains Quartz, Granite, Road Metal, Gravel, Morrum, and Ordinary Earth.

·       Yadadri: Notable for Quartz, Feldspar, Granite, Road Metal, Gravel, Morrum, and Ordinary Earth.

·       Largest Coal Deposits in South India: Telangana has proven coal reserves of 11,394.76 million tonnes, accounting for 7.04% of India’s total proven deposits.

·       Main Districts: Mancherial, Peddapalli, Bhadradri Kothagudem account for 75% of Telangana’s coal reserves.

·       Coal Usage: Utilized in Iron and Steel plants, Thermal Power plants, Cement industry, Railways, and domestic fuel.

Types of Coal:

·       Lignite: 40-55% carbon, high moisture content, produces smoke.

·       Peat: Less than 40% carbon, burns like wood, low calorific value.

·       Semi-bituminous: Telangana’s coal type, 81-82% carbon content, used to produce steam.

·       Coal Formation: Gondwana coal, formed 250 million years ago.

Coal Deposits in Telangana:

·       22.48 billion tonnes (7.45% of India’s total coal deposits).

·       Found in Mancherial, Peddapalli, Khammam, Bhadradri Kothagudem, Jayashankar Bhupalpally, Komaram Bheem Asifabad.

·       Jayashankar Bhupalpally district has A-grade coal deposits.

Key Districts:

·       Largest coal-producing district in Telangana: Bhadradri Kothagudem.

·       Largest coal-producing state in India: Jharkhand.

Singareni Collieries Company Ltd (SCCL):

·       A State Public Sector Undertaking.

·       Second-largest coal producer in India.

·       2021-22 Production: 46.52 million tonnes (42.5% growth from 2020-21).

·       Turnover in 2021-22: ₹18,907 crore.

·       Profit in 2021-22: ₹1,070 crore, a 227% rise.

Awards and Achievements:

·       Singareni Thermal Plant: Awarded by Mission Energy Foundation in 2021 for fly ash utilization.

·       Declared Best Power Plant in India by Plant Load Factor (PLF).

·       Received Solar Excellency Award 2021 for its 219 MW Solar Plant.

Iron Ore in Telangana

·        Uses: Iron ore is used in manufacturing steel, sponge iron, pig iron, and pelletization.

Types of Iron Ore:

·       Magnetite and Hematite are the two types found in Telangana.

·       Magnetite deposits are found in Bhilwara, Kallada, Rasturabad, Robanpalli, Luxettipet, and Sirpur.

·       Hematite is available in larger quantities compared to Magnetite.

Key Locations:

·       Iron ore is available in Cheruvu Puram, Bayyaram, Navapadu, Kothagudem, and districts like Adilabad, Karimnagar, Warangal, Mahabubabad, Khammam, Mancherial, and Jagtial.

Largest Iron Ore Deposits:

·       Bayyaram (Mahabubabad) has the highest deposits of iron ore in Telangana, estimated at 162 million tonnes of low-grade iron ore.

·       Steel Plant: An integrated steel plant is proposed in Khammam.

Key Facts:

·       Region with highest iron ore reserves in Telangana: Bayyaram.

·       Largest iron-producing state in India: Karnataka.

·       State with largest iron reserves in India: Jharkhand.

Limestone in Telangana

·        Key Locations: Limestone deposits are found in Adilabad, Peddapalli, Mahabubnagar, Nalgonda, Suryapet, Vikarabad, and Mancherial districts.

·        Estimated Deposits: Telangana has 75.19 million tonnes of limestone deposits.

·        Usage: Mainly used for cement production in 21 cement plants with a total installed capacity of 29.50 million tonnes per annum.

Mining Scale:

·       Coal, Limestone mining: Large scale mechanized sector.

·       Granite, Dolomite, Quartz, Feldspar, Clays, Barytes: Semi-mechanized medium sector.

·       Small Mines: 90% of the mining sector; remaining 10% under medium and large sectors.

Key Facts:

·       Largest limestone-producing district: Nalgonda.

·       Shahabad stone (Limestone slab from Vikarabad) is renowned throughout South India.Top of FormTop of FormBottom of Form

·       Capacity Growth: Telangana’s total contracted capacity increased from 7,872 MW (2014-15) to 16,614 MW (2020).

Energy Sources:

Renewable Energy:

·       23% of total contracted capacity (2020-21).

·       Sources: Solar, Wind, Bagasse, Biomass, Municipal/Industrial Waste, Mini-hydro.

·       Total renewable energy capacity: 3,818 MW.

Non-Renewable Energy (Thermal):

·       Thermal power remains the largest share due to abundant coal reserves.

·       Hydropower also plays a key role, contributing to the renewable mix.

Hydroelectricity (Hydropower):

·       Uses water stored in dams and flowing rivers to generate electricity.

·       Hydropower Capacity in Telangana: 2,506.9 MW (as of 01-09-2021).

Benefits of Hydropower:

·       Low operational/maintenance costs.

·       Long-lasting projects with proven reliability.

·       Minimal pollution and helps reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

Key Fact:

·       Asia’s first major hydropower project: Shivanasamudra Hydroelectric Project (4.5 MW, 1902) on Cauvery River, Karnataka.

Issues with Hydropower Generation:

1.      Community Concerns: Opposition from tribal communities in Godavari, Mahanadi, and other basins.

2.      Declining Contribution: Hydropower now accounts for just 10% of India’s electricity; thermal dominates with 80%.

3.      Clearance Delays: Land acquisition, planning, and resettlement delays slow hydropower growth.

4.      Environmental Challenges: Conflicts over environmental litigation, financial constraints, and local opposition.

5.      Slow Capacity Growth: Only 10,000 MW added in the last decade.

6.      State Disputes: Inter-state water and power disputes (e.g., Subansiri Hydroelectric Project) hinder progress.

Renewable & Non-Consumptive:

·       Utilizes water to generate electricity without consuming it; water remains available for irrigation and drinking purposes.

Low Recurring Cost:

·       After construction, operational costs are relatively low compared to fossil fuel plants, making hydropower cost-effective long-term.

Cost-Effective:

·       Hydroelectricity is generally cheaper than coal or gas-fired plants, offering competitive operational costs.

Stability & Dependability:

·       Contributes to grid stability and minimizes losses from frequency fluctuations. Unaffected by inflation as it doesn’t rely on fossil fuels.

Quick Response to Peak Loads:

·       Hydropower plants can quickly start/stop, making them ideal for efficiently meeting peak demand in the electricity grid.

Complementary to Thermal Power:

·       Hydropower complements thermal power, enhancing overall capacity utilization and grid stability.

Seasonal Load Matching:

·       Seasonal generation patterns align with seasonal load curves, ensuring efficient electricity supply management throughout the year.

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Disadvantages of Hydroelectric Power

Capital-Intensive:

·       Requires substantial upfront investment for infrastructure such as dams, turbines, and transmission lines.

Environmental Impact:

·       Causes deforestation, habitat loss, and ecosystem disruption due to the diversion of forested land, especially in hilly regions.

Land Submergence & Displacement:

·       Leads to land submergence, loss of flora, fauna, and agricultural areas, along with displacement of communities in the affected regions.

Limited Dam Locations:

·       Dams can only be built in areas with suitable terrain and water resources, restricting widespread implementation of hydropower.

Agricultural Impact:

·       Loss of valuable agricultural land due to the creation of reservoirs, affecting local farming communities and food production.Bottom of Form

·       Nagarjuna Sagar Hydroelectric Project

o   Built across river Krishna in Nalgonda district

o   Capacity: 815.6 MW (8 units: 1 × 110 MW + 7 × 100.8 MW)

o   First unit commissioned: 7 March 1978, 8th unit: 24 December 1985

·       Srisailam Left Bank Powerhouse

o   Located in Nagarkurnool district

o   Built across river Krishna, completed on 24 July 1980

o   Capacity: 900 MW, 3rd largest hydel plant in India, underground powerhouse

·       Priyadarshini Jurala Hydroelectric Plant

o   Joint project of Telangana and Karnataka, built in 1995

o   Located in Jogulamba Gadwal district

o   Capacity: 234 MW (6 × 39 MW)

·       Nizam Sagar Hydro Electricity Project

o   Located in Kamareddy district

o   Capacity: 10 MW (2 × 5 MW)

·       Nagarjuna Sagar Left Canal Power Station

o   Located at Nandikonda, Nalgonda district

o   Capacity: 60 MW (2 × 30 MW)

·       Singur Hydro Power Station

o   Located in Rangareddy district

o   Capacity: 15 MW (2 × 7.5 MW)

·       Pochampadu Hydro Power Station

o   Located in Nizamabad district

o   Capacity: 36 MW (4 × 9 MW)

·       Lower Jurala Hydro Power Station

o   Started in 2008

o   Capacity: 240 MW (6 × 40 MW)

·       Puttamgandi Hydro Power Project

o   Located in Nalgonda district

o   Capacity: 72 MW (4 units × 18 MW)

·       Peddapalli Mini Hydro Power Plant

o   Built across Kakatiya canal in Peddapalli district

o   Inaugurated on 31 March 1986

o   Capacity: 9.16 MW

·       Palair Mini Hydro Power Plant

o   Built in Khammam district, commissioned on 13 February 1993

o   Capacity: 2 MW

·       Pulichintala Hydro Power Plant

o   Located in Nemalipuri, Suryapet district

o   Capacity: 120 MW

Theme 2:     Sources of Irrigation: Canals, Tanks and Wells, Depletion of Ground Water and its conservation- Mission Kakatiya.

Theme 3:     Industries – Cement, Sugar, Pharma, , Tourism, IT, , SEZs.

Theme 4 :    Handicrafts and Household Industries and their problems

Theme 5 :    Road and Rail Network distribution and role in Economic Development

Theme 6 :    Population – distribution, growth, density, demographic characteristics (sex ratio, age, literacy, etc.,)

Theme 7:     Tribal Population – distribution, problems of Tribal areas and policies for Tribal Area Development

·        Central Telangana Zone (Medak, Warangal, Khammam)

·        Southern Telangana Zone (Rangareddy, Hyderabad, Nalgonda, Mahabubnagar)

Northern Telangana Zone

·        Total Area: 81,71,000 Acres

·        Headquarters: Polasa, Jagtial

Districts Included:

·        Adilabad

·        Komaram Bheem Asifabad

·        Nirmal

·        Mancherial

·        Karimnagar

·        Peddapalli

·        Jagtial

·        Rajanna Sircilla

·        Nizamabad

·        Kamareddy

Climate:

·        Annual Rainfall: 867 mm to 1,189 mm (Mostly from South-West Monsoon)

·        Temperature (Monsoon):

o   Max: 32°C to 37°C

o   Min: 14°C to 25°C

Soil Types:

·        Red soils with different textures

·        Shallow black soils

·        Deep calcareous soils

·        Red clayey soils

Primary Crops:

·        Rice, Maize, Red Gram, Turmeric

Research Infrastructure:

·        Research Stations: 7

·        Regional Research Stations: 144

·        Total Area: 95,39,000 Acres

·        Headquarters: Warangal

Districts Included:

·        Sangareddy, Medak, Siddipet, Jangaon, Hanmakonda, Warangal, Mulugu, Mahabubabad, Jayashankar Bhupalapally, Bhadradri Kothagudem, Khammam

Climate:

·        Annual Rainfall: 779 mm to 1,213 mm (Mostly from South-West Monsoon)

·        Temperature (Monsoon):

o   Max: 29°C to 39°C

o   Min: 21°C to 25°C

Soil Types:

·        Red soils with different textures

·        Shallow black soils

·        Deep calcareous soils

·        Red clayey soils

Primary Crops:

Rice, Maize, Greengram, Mango, Chili

Research Infrastructure:

·        Research Stations: 6

·        Regional Research Stations: 132

Southern Telangana Zone

·        Total Area: 99,84,000 Acres

·        Headquarters: Palem, Nagarkurnool

Districts Included:

·        Vikarabad, Medchal Malkajgiri, Hyderabad, Yadadri Bhuvanagiri, Rangareddy, Mahabubnagar, Nalgonda, Suryapet, Narayanapet, Wanaparthy, Nagarkurnool, Jogulamba Gadwal

Climate:

·        Annual Rainfall: 600 mm to 853 mm (Mostly from South-West Monsoon)

·        Temperature (Monsoon):

o   Max: 28°C to 38°C

o   Min: 22°C to 23°C

Primary Crops:

·       Sesame, Cotton, Rice, Safflower, Groundnut, Red Gram, Maize

Cropping System:

·       Refers to the specific arrangement, types of crops grown, and cultivation techniques.

·       Encompasses various crop sequences used in different locations and periods.

·       Incorporates agricultural technologies to optimize yield.

Cropping Pattern:

·       Depicts the distribution of crops over a given area at a specific time.

·       Represents the annual sequence and spatial arrangement of planting and fallow periods.

·       Influenced by factors like rainfall, climate, temperature, soil characteristics, and technological advancements.

Types of Cropping Pattern

·       Monocropping:

o   Cultivation of a single crop on a plot of land.

o   Leads to soil fertility depletion, reliance on chemical fertilizers, and increased pest and disease outbreaks.

·       Mixed Cropping:

o   Simultaneous cultivation of two or more crops on the same land (e.g., wheat and gram).

o   Minimizes the risk of crop failure and ensures protection against adverse weather conditions.

·       Intercropping:

o   Growing multiple crops in alternating rows on the same field at the same time.

o   Improves productivity per unit area (e.g., one row of main crop, three rows of intercrop).

·        Crop Rotation:

o   Growing different crops in a sequential manner on the same land.

o   Involves one-year, two-year, or three-year rotations; legumes often improve soil fertility and are followed by high-fertility crops.

·        Soil Fertility: Maintains and improves soil nutrients through crop rotation.

·        Increased Yields: Boosts production by 10-25% compared to monocropping.

·        Natural Nutrient Replenishment: Allows soil recovery during non-cropping seasons.

·        Erosion Control: Reduces soil erosion with plant roots and diverse cropping.

·        Better Soil Structure: Prevents compaction and enhances seed germination.

·        Cost Efficiency: Lowers production costs by distributing labor and resource use.

Crop Diversification

·        Sustainable Agricultural Growth: Essential for resilient farmer incomes and stability amid fluctuating prices.

·        Government Emphasis: Promotes crop diversification to prevent production glut and increase farm earnings.

·        Recommended Crops: Groundnut, Sunflower, Sesamum, Bengal gram, Black gram, Green gram, Castor, Mustard, Kusurma, Oilpalm, and Jowar.

·        2020-21 Crop Diversification Index: Nirmal, Vikarabad, and Sangareddy showed the highest diversification, while Peddapalli, Karimnagar, and Suryapet had the least diversification.

·        Agricultural Seasons: Classified into three categories based on crop duration.

·        Kharif (South-West Monsoon Season): June-October, crop duration: 5 months.

o   Main crops: Rice, Sorghum (Jowar), Maize, Pearl millet (Bajra), Finger millet (Ragi), Groundnut, Cotton, Sugarcane, Tobacco.

·        Rabi: November-February, crop duration: 4 months.

o   Main crops: Wheat, Sorghum, Pulses, Beans, Soybean, Chili.

·        Zaid (Summer Crop): March-May, crop duration: 3 months.

o   Main crops: Rice, Muskmelon, Watermelon, Vegetables, Maize.

Important Crops of Telangana

Food Crops: Classified into two types:

·        Staple Crops (Cereals):

o   Main crops: Rice, Wheat, Maize

·        Millets:

o   Main crops: Sorghum (Jowar), Pearl Millet (Bajra), Finger Millet (Ragi)

·        Scientific Name: Oryza Sativa

·        Major Crop in Telangana (26% of the gross cropped area). Cultivated in Kharif & Rabi seasons.

·        Crop Duration: 120 days

·        Main Districts: Nalgonda, Suryapet, Karimnagar, Peddapalli, Nizamabad, Jayashankar Bhupalpally, Mulugu, Wanaparthy

Wheat

·        Grown mainly in Tropical and Sub-Tropical zones.

·        Rabi Crop, cultivated in Adilabad, Medak, Nizamabad.

·        Top Wheat District in Telangana: Adilabad

·        Largest Wheat Producing State in India: Uttar Pradesh

·        Largest Wheat Producing Country: China

Maize

·        Tropical Crop

·        Main Districts: Karimnagar, Peddapalli, Mahabubnagar, Gadwal, Nizamabad, Kamareddy, Medak

·        Top States in Area: Karnataka, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra

·        Top States in Yield: Andhra Pradesh, Jharkhand

Sorghum (Jowar)

·        Known as Great Millet, a semi-arid crop

·        Main Districts: Mahabubnagar, Adilabad, Karimnagar

·        Largest Producing District: Mahabubnagar

·        Top State in India: Maharashtra, Karnataka

·        Main Crops: Cotton, Tobacco, Jute, Sugarcane, Oil seeds

Plantation Crops:

·        Main Crops: Coffee, Tea, Coconut, Rubber, Spices

Horticultural Crops:

·        Main Crops: Fruits, Flowers, Vegetables, Herbs

Commercial Crops of Telangana

Cotton

·        Known as White Gold or King of Fibers.

·        Cotton is measured in Bales (1 Bale = 170 kg).

·        Backbone for the textile industry.

·        Telangana: 3rd place in long-staple cotton production in India.

·        Main Districts: Nirmal, Adilabad, Nalgonda, Warangal Rural, Mahabubabad, Warangal Urban, Jayashankar Bhupalapally, Janagaon.

Tobacco

·        Introduced in India in A.D 1508 by the Portuguese.

·        Measured in Bales; Rabi crop.

·        Main Districts: Jogulamba Gadwal, Khammam, Nizamabad, Nirmal.

·        Largest cultivating area: Mahabubnagar

·        Highest productivity: Medak, Nalgonda

·        Highest production: Khammam

Sugarcane

·        Main Districts: Medak, Sangareddy, Nizamabad, Kamareddy, Bhadradri Kothagudem, Khammam

·        Crop Duration: 12 months, Tropical crop.

·        Largest cultivating area and highest production: Medak

·        Highest productivity: Nalgonda

·        Significance: Highest oil-yielding perennial crop, crucial for increasing indigenous edible oil production.

·        Consumption: India consumes 22 million MTs of edible oil annually; per capita consumption is 16 kg. Domestic production is 7 million MTs, with a deficit of 15 million MTs met through imports (mainly from Indonesia and Malaysia).

Palm Oil: Accounts for 60% of edible oil imports (around 9-10 million MTs), costing Rs. 60,000 – Rs. 70,000 crore annually.

·        Current Cultivation in India: Oil Palm is cultivated on 3.30 lakh Ha (8.25 lakh acres), producing 16.85 lakh MT of Fresh Fruit Bunches (FFB) and 2.81 lakh MTs of Crude Palm Oil (CPO) annually.

·        India’s Goal: To achieve self-sufficiency, an additional 28 lakh Ha (70 lakh acres) of oil palm cultivation is required.

Telangana’s Oil Palm Cultivation

·        Rank: Telangana ranks 6th in oil palm area with 21,382 Ha (53,455 acres).

·        Productivity: Ranks 1st in productivity with 8 MT of FFB per acre.

·        Oil Extraction Rate (OER): Highest in the country with 19.22% (2020-21).

·        Crude Palm Oil Production: Telangana produces 0.45 lakh MT against a requirement of 3.66 lakh MT.

·        Expansion Plans: Telangana plans to cultivate 20 lakh acres of oil palm as part of a crop diversification mission. In 2022-23, the state targets 1.00 lakh Ha (2.5 lakh acres) with an outlay of Rs. 471.93 crores (GoI share: Rs. 283.16 crores, State share: Rs. 188.77 crores).

·        Districts Notified: 26 districts are designated for oil palm cultivation.

·        Processing Units: 11 oil processing units are currently operating in the state.

·        Subsidy: Government provides a subsidy of Rs. 26,000 per acre for the first year, Rs. 5000 per acre for second, third, and fourth years as a crop investment incentive, with additional support for Micro Drip Irrigation (Rs. 23,000 per hectare).

·        Wells: Main source, accounting for 84% of net irrigated area in 2014-15.

·        Canal and Tank Irrigation: Contributed 10% and 4% respectively, showing a declining trend over the years.

·        Well Irrigation Growth: Increased from 16% in 1955-56 to 37% in 1985-86, and further to 81% in 2015-16.

·        Decline in Tank Irrigation: Tank irrigation dropped from 64% in 1955-56 to 28% in 1985-86, and further to 8% in 2012-13, indicating neglect during United Andhra Pradesh.

·        Mission Kakatiya: Launched by the Government of Telangana to revive tank irrigation and reduce dependency on well irrigation.

Tank Irrigation in Telangana:

·        Traditional System: Integral to Telangana’s agriculture for centuries; tanks store rainwater for agricultural use.

·        Geographical Importance: Vital across all 31 districts due to topography and rainfall patterns. Tanks regulate water flow and support agriculture.

·        Historical Roots: Originates from the pre-Satavahana era, with significant expansion during the Kakatiya period. Tanks like Ramappa, Pakhala, Laknavaram, Ghanapuram, and Bayyaram were constructed, boosting agriculture.

Continued Vision: Qutubshahis and Asafjahis expanded tank systems.

·        Revival Initiative: The Telangana government launched Mission Kakatiya to restore and revive minor irrigation tanks, inspired by the Kakatiya legacy.

·        Economic Impact: Tank irrigation fosters rural employment, reduces poverty, and supports agricultural growth through commercial agriculture.

·        Neglect of Tank Systems: Due to focus on major irrigation projects under Andhra Pradesh’s irrigation policy, tanks were neglected, leading to issues like siltation, breaches, and encroachments, increasing drought vulnerability.

1.      Types of Tanks: Vary from small village tanks (“choruses” or “kuntas”) to large reservoirs.

2.      Storage Capacity: Ranges from a few thousand cubic meters to millions of cubic meters.

3.      Water Distribution: Distributed via canals, channels, and sluices using traditional community-based water sharing.

4.      Agricultural Importance: Critical for cultivating crops like paddy, cotton, pulses, and vegetables, especially where river or groundwater access is limited.

5.      Challenges: Issues include siltation, encroachment, inadequate maintenance, and declining water levels. Climate change and erratic rainfall further threaten sustainability.

6.      Revival Efforts: Programs like Mission Kakatiya (2015) focus on desilting, repairing, and restoring tanks.

Tank Irrigation is Prevalent in Telangana:

·        Difficult Terrain: Hard rock makes digging canals and wells challenging.

·        Scarcity of Groundwater: Impermeable rock structure limits percolation.

·        Seasonal Rivers: Torrential streams require bunds and tanks for water storage.

·        Natural Water Collection: Impermeable rocks aid natural or artificial rainwater storage.

·        Scattered Population: Tanks serve as viable irrigation sources for dispersed fields.

Advantages of Tank Irrigation:

·        Cost-Effective: Natural tanks are economical to construct with long lifespans.

·        Durability: Built on rocky foundations, ensuring longevity.

·        Fishing Opportunities: Provide additional income and food for farmers.

Disadvantages of Tank Irrigation:

·        Dry Seasons: Tanks dry up during summers, leading to water scarcity.

·        Silting: Regular desilting needed due to sediment buildup.

·        Evaporation Losses: Large shallow tanks suffer from high evaporation rates.

·        Land Use: Tanks occupy large arable areas, often reclaimed for agriculture.

·        High Costs: Extracting and transporting water from tanks is labor-intensive and expensive.

Objective: Tank restoration and rejuvenation program in Telangana aimed at improving agricultural income, especially for small and marginal farmers, by restoring minor irrigation infrastructure.

Launch Date: March 12, 2015, by Chief Minister K. Chandrashekhar Rao in Sadashiva Nagar Village, named after the Kakatiya rulers renowned for building irrigation tanks.

Annual Target: Restore 9,306 tanks (20% of total) each year.

Restoration Activities:

o   Desilting tank beds.

o   Repairing sluices and weirs.

o   Strengthening tank bunds.

o   Ensuring water flow through feeder channels.

Third Phase: Focuses on enhancing restoration efforts.

Benefits:

o   Improved groundwater levels.

o   Reduced power consumption for agriculture.

o   Increased crop yields.

o   Growth of livestock.

o   Overall rural economic development.

Key Goal: To rejuvenate the rural economy and support sustainable agricultural practices through improved irrigation systems.

Canal Irrigation in Telangana:

1.      Major Canal Systems:

·       Nagarjuna Sagar Canal: Serves Nalgonda, Khammam, and Warangal districts.

·       Sriram Sagar Canal: Supplies Nizamabad, Adilabad, and Karimnagar.

·       Lower Manair Dam Canal: Irrigates areas in Karimnagar.

2.      Types of Canal Systems:

·       Inundation Canals: Seasonal, based on river flooding.

·       Perennial Canals: Year-round irrigation via barrages across perennial rivers.

3.      Distribution Network: Main canals, distributaries, and minors deliver water to fields.

4.      Crops Supported: Paddy, cotton, sugarcane, maize, pulses, and vegetables.

5.      Challenges:

·       Water scarcity, siltation, and climate variability.

·       Poor maintenance and uneven water distribution.

6.      Modernization: Lining of canals, automation, and water-saving methods.

Advantages:

·        Increases crop yield in unirrigated areas.

·        Reduces drought risk and stabilizes agriculture.

·        Provides multiple uses (irrigation, hydroelectricity, etc.).

·        Raises groundwater levels.

Disadvantages:

·        Waterlogging, soil fertility loss.

·        High construction costs and maintenance.

·        Limited to flat terrain, prone to flooding in heavy rains.

1.      Types of Wells:

·       Open Wells: Shallow, manually dug or machine-dug wells accessing groundwater from aquifers.

·       Bore Wells: Deep wells drilled with specialized equipment, often encased to prevent collapse.

2.      Groundwater Availability:

·       Groundwater resources vary by region, dependent on rainfall, geology, and recharge rates.

3.      Usage and Importance:

·       Essential for agriculture where surface water is limited. Supports crops like paddy, cotton, sugarcane, fruits, and vegetables.

4.      Pump Technology:

·       Electric and diesel pumps draw water from wells for irrigation, providing control over water management.

5.      Advantages:

·       Affordable & Accessible: Even small-scale farmers can use wells.

·       Reliable: Provides independent irrigation, useful during droughts.

·       Fertility: Well water often contains nutrients beneficial for crops.

6.      Disadvantages:

·       Limited Area: Wells irrigate only small areas (1-8 hectares).

·       Depletion: Overuse can reduce groundwater levels, especially during droughts.

·       Salinity: Salty groundwater makes irrigation impractical in some regions.

7.      Challenges:

·       Overexploitation: Excessive groundwater use depletes aquifers.

·       Water Quality: Some areas face salinity and contamination issues.

·       Energy Costs: Pumping incurs energy expenses, burdening small farmers.

8.      Regulation & Management:

·       Telangana government regulates bore wells and promotes groundwater recharge and conservation.

9.      Technological Interventions:

·       Drip and sprinkler irrigation improve water efficiency. Government provides subsidies for adoption of these techniques.

Groundwater Depletion in Telangana:

1.      Overexploitation: Agriculture is the largest consumer, leading to over-reliance on groundwater.

2.      Unregulated Extraction: Bore well expansion and high-capacity pumps have worsened depletion.

3.      Declining Water Tables: Rapid drops in groundwater levels, especially in farming areas.

4.      Agricultural Impact: Lower yields, higher pumping costs, and deeper bore wells.

5.      Environmental Impact: Land subsidence, saltwater intrusion, and ecosystem degradation.

6.      Urbanization & Industry: Increased demand for groundwater due to rapid urbanization and industrialization.

7.      Government Measures: Regulations, water conservation (drip irrigation), and rainwater harvesting.

8.      Community Efforts: Involvement in watershed and groundwater management programs.

1.      Industrial Sectors:

·       Primary (raw materials, mining, farming)

·       Secondary (refining, construction, manufacturing)

·       Tertiary (services like law, medicine, distribution)

·       Quaternary (knowledge industries, tech research, computer programming, biochemistry)

2.      Industrialization Goals:

·       Strategy for economic growth and job creation.

·       Promote development of backward areas.

·       Harness available resources and local talent.

·       Vision: “Research to Innovation; Innovation to Industry; Industry to Prosperity.”

3.      Policy Slogan:

·       “In Telangana—Innovate, Incubate, Incorporate.”

·       Industrialization driven by innovation and technology.

4.      Regulatory Environment:

·       Simplified business regulations to encourage ease of doing business.

·       Self-certification and automatic renewals.

·       Efficient inspection systems, structured every 3–4 years.

·       Random inspections only with written permission from department heads.

5.      Maximum Facilitation:

·       Web-based helplines and physical helpdesks across Hyderabad and districts.

·       Transparent, web-enabled transactions with the industry department.

·       Citizens Charter to be implemented by the Commissioner of Industries and Telangana State Industrial Infrastructure Corporation (TSIIC).

6.      Vision for Growth: Create jobs, promote prosperity, and make Telangana a hub of innovation and industrial growth.

1.      Total Sugar Factories: 12 factories (7 privately owned).

Private Factories:

·       Madhucon Sugar and Power Industries Ltd – Rajeswarapuram, Khammam

·       Gayatri Sugar Ltd – Yellareddy, Nizamabad

·       Gayatri Sugar Ltd – Nizamsagar Mandal

·       Trident Sugars Ltd – Zaheerabad Mandal, Sangareddy

·       NSL Krishnaveni Sugars Ltd – Ramakrishna Rao, Mahabubnagar

·       Kakatiya Cement Sugar & Industries Ltd – Perumancha, Kalluru

·       Ganapathi Sugar Industries Ltd – Pasalvadi, Sangareddy

2.      Nizam Sugar Factory Limited:

·       Established in 1937 by Mir Osman Ali Khan at Bodhan, Nirmal district.

·       Largest sugar factory in Asia during its time.

·       Produced nearly half of the sugar in Telangana.

Additional Factories:

·       Zaheerabad (Sangareddy) – 1973

·       Miryalaguda (Nalgonda) – 1977

·       Muthyampet (Jagtial) – 1981

·       Sarangapur (Nizamabad)

3.      Key Facts:

·       First sugar mill in India: 1904, Champaran, Bihar.

·       Largest sugar-producing state in India: Uttar Pradesh.

·       Largest sugar-producing country: 1. Brazil, 2. India.

Special Economic Zones (SEZs):

·        SEZ: Special economic zones have different economic regulations to boost economic growth through tax incentives and foreign investment.

·        67 SEZs granted to Telangana by Government of India; permission for only 7 SEZs.

·        Proposal for SEZ in Maheshwaram dropped due to an electronics manufacturing cluster.

·        IT SEZ in Rayadurgam Knowledge Hub proposed on 3.6 acres with an investment of Rs. 823 crore.

1.      Mancherial Cement Company (M.C.C):

·       Originally Associated Cement Company (A.C.C), established in 1958-59 at Mancherial.

·       Limestone transported via a ropeway (first in the state).

·       Renamed to M.C.C in 2004, continues cement production.

2.      Ceramic Industry:

·       Mancherial is a hub for the ceramic industry due to the availability of white clay and coal.

Pharmaceutical Industry in Telangana

1.      Hyderabad – Pharma Capital:

·       Known as India’s capital for bulk drugs and vaccines.

·       Home to over 600 life sciences companies with a combined value of USD 50 billion, contributing 35% of India’s pharmaceutical production.

·       Genome Valley: India’s largest bio cluster, housing 200 companies.

·       The state is ranked 2nd in the Pharmaceutical Across Different States (LEADS) index.

2.      Hyderabad Pharma City:

·       Sanctioned by the government; expected to be the world’s largest pharmaceutical cluster.

·       Potential investment: Rs. 64,000 crore; employment potential: 4.2 lakh.

·       Located in Mucherla, Rangareddy district, with Pharma University and Research Institute coming up.

3.      Key Companies:

·       Indian Drugs and Pharmaceuticals Limited (IDPL): Established in 1967 at Balanagar, Hyderabad.

·       Hetero Drugs (1993): Leading generic pharma company; largest producer of antiretroviral drugs.

·       Aurobindo Pharma (1986): Headquartered in Hitech City, Hyderabad.

·       Dr. Reddy’s Laboratories (1984): First Indian pharma company listed on the New York Stock Exchange.

4.      Genome Valley:

·       Spread over 600 sq km in Shamirpet, Medchal District.

·       Home to 150 life sciences companies; includes 6 of the world’s top 10 R&D companies.

·       India’s first systematically developed R&D cluster.

5.      Shapoorji Pallonji Biotech Park:

·       Located in Turkapally, Medchal-Malkajgiri district.

·       Phases of expansion in Lalgadi Malakpet, Karkapatla, and Mulugu.

6.      Medical Devices Park – Sultanpur:

·       Inaugurated in 2017 in Sangareddy district.

·       Largest of its kind in India, employing 4,000 directly and 8,000 indirectly.

·       Houses over 50 companies with an investment of Rs. 1,424 crore.

7.      Shantha Biotechnics (1993):

·       Founded by Dr. K.I. Varaprasad Reddy in Medchal-Malkajgiri district.

·       Developed India’s first r-DNA Hepatitis-B vaccine, Shanvac-B, in 1997.

1.      ITIR (2013):

·       Aimed at Rs 2.19 trillion investment, creating 15 lakh direct jobs.

·       Shelved by Central Govt in 2019.

2.      Gaming and Animation Park:

·       30 acres in Rayadurgam.

·       Facilities for studios, labs, and Gaming Academy.

3.      Hy-Fi (2017):

·       Free Wi-Fi at 100 public locations in Hyderabad.

4.      Telangana State Data Centre:

·       Located at Manikonda, 35 racks in Phase 1, 24 in Phase 2.

·       Operates with 99.74% efficiency.

5.      T-SCAN:

·       500 nodes, connecting 3000 computers in the Secretariat.

6.      SoFTNET (2002):

·       T-SAT Nipuna and Vidya channels reach 6 million homes.

7.      e-Procurement:

·       Ensures transparency, reduces corruption, and speeds up government procurements.

8.      kill Development Programs:

·       Telangana State Skill Development Mission: Supports skill programs.

·       T-ASSIST: Focus on industrial sector jobs, entry-level training, and upgrading employee skills.

9.      T-Works:

·       India’s largest prototyping center for electronics, mechanical startups.

·       78,000 sq ft Phase 1 facility launched to encourage innovation and entrepreneurship.

10.   Telangana Fiber Grid Project (T-Fiber):

·       Launched in 2015 to deliver 16-20 Mbps to households and 100 Mbps to government institutions.

·       BharatNet Phase II signed to connect mandals to gram panchayats by 2021.

11.   Digital Telangana Centers (ePanchayats):

·       Launched on 2 October 2015, offering e-governance, welfare payments, and potential banking services in rural areas.

12.   T-Wallet:

·       Launched on 1 June 2017 as the first state-owned digital wallet in India.

·       Multi-language support: English, Telugu, Urdu.

·       Available for cashless payments via 4500+ MeeSeva centers and biometric authentication.

13.   T-Hub:

·       Operational since 2015, providing assistance to 1,100+ startups.

·       70,000 sq ft Catalyst building hosts 300 startups, supports innovation.

·       Launched FinTech Accelerator program in partnership with NPCI and Department of Science & Technology in 2019.

·        Telangana handicrafts hold a special place in India’s handicraft heritage.

Pembarthi Metal Crafts:

·        Metalworking in India dates back to the Indus Valley Civilization (e.g., Dancing Girl statue).

·        Pembarthi, a village in Jangaon district, is famous for brass, bronze, and copper metal crafts.

·        The craft flourished during the Kakatiya rule, adorning temples and chariots; revived during the Asaf Jahi period.

·        Received Geographical Indication (GI) in 2010.

·        Ayla Achari (founder of Vishwakarma Brass Cooperative Society in 1956) played a key role in promoting it internationally.

Nirmal Artware:

·        Known for wooden toys, paintings, and furniture.

·        Originated in Nirmal town, Adilabad district.

·        Nirmal Naqash artisans brought by ruler Nimmanaidu in the 17th century.

·        Famous for Nirmal Toys, utility items, and Nirmal Paintings.

Government Support:

·        SFURTI scheme (Traditional Industries Scheme) provided Rs. 1.8 crores for Pembarthi Brass crafts.

·        National Institute for Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises supports the development of MSMEs and clusters.

·        Toys feature deities like Radhakrishna, Ganesh, Buddha, and tribal women.

·        Utility items include bangle boxes, jewelry boxes, envelope racks, pencil boxes, cigar cases, paper-pen stands.

·        Exported through Golkonda Emporia, Hyderabad.

Nirmal Paintings:

·        Known for plaque painting with Duco paint; traditionally used natural colors like shells (white), turmeric (yellow), Butea flowers (red), and lamp black (black).

·        Famous for synthesizing Indian and Mughal schools of art.

·        Paintings depict epics like Ramayana and Mahabharata.

Nirmal Furniture:

·        Includes sofa sets, chairs, dining tables, stools, cots, trolleys, lamp shades, and executive office sets.

·        GI tag in 2008.

·        Nirmal Toys Industrial Co-operative Society established in 1955.

Cheriyal Scroll Paintings:

·        Cheriyal scroll paintings depict stories from Indian mythology, Puranas, and Epics.

·        Artists are known as Nakashi artists; also called Theme paintings.

·        Cheriyal village in Siddipet district is renowned for these scroll paintings.

·        Received Geographical Indication (GI) tag in 2010.

·        Subjects are based on mythological, literary, and folk traditions.

Siddipet Gollabhama Sarees:

·        Siddipet is famous for Gollabhama sarees.

·        Handloom sarees are hand-woven, using frame looms.

·        Delicate metalwork involving conversion of silver into fine threads, soldered together.

·        Originated 200 years ago in Elagandal, Karimnagar; introduced by Kadarla Ramaiah.

·        Jaali work or intricate craftsmanship in silver filigree.

·        Famous for spoons, jewelry, boxes, perfume containers, etc.

·        Geographical Indication (GI) status in 2007.

·        Cuttack (Odisha) first city for filigree work, Karimnagar second.

Narayanpet:

·        Famous for gold jewelry and handloom fabrics.

·        Narayanpet sarees received GI status in 2012.

Gadwal-Kothakota Sarees:

·        Gadwal known as Cotton seed bowl of Telangana.

·        Famous for silk-cotton sarees; GI status in 2012.

Bidriware:

·        Originated in Bidar, developed during Sultan Ahmed Shah’s rule.

·        Made from gun metal with silver or golden designs.

·        Known for vases, hookahs, jewelry boxes.

Banjara Needle Craft:

·        Embroidery and mirror work introduced in the 17th century.

·        Common on bags, kurtas, bed sheets, and home décor items.

Bronze Statues:

·        Famous for deity statues, especially Nataraja, made in Hyderabad.

Telia Rumal:

·        Double Ikat weave from Pochampally, Yadadri Bhuvanagiri.

·        Yarn treated with sheep dung, castor pod ashes, oil.

·        Puttapaka Telia Rumal received GI status in 2020.

Dokra Metal Craft:

·        Also known as Bell Metal craft, uses lost wax casting.

·        Practiced by tribal artisans in Adilabad district.

·        Famous for elephants, peacocks, household items.

Lace Art:

·        Originated in Dummugudem, Bhadradri Kothagudem.

·        Introduced by Christian missionaries, handmade lace by women.

1.      Finance Access: Limited access to loans/credit for small-scale businesses.

2.      Infrastructure Gaps: Inadequate transport, power, and basic facilities.

3.      Market Reach: Limited access to wider markets, lack of marketing skills.

4.      Outdated Technology: Reliance on traditional methods, low productivity.

5.      Quality Control Issues: Difficulty meeting regulatory standards.

6.      Skill Shortages: Lack of vocational training for skilled labor.

7.      Competition: Tough competition from larger, better-resourced industries.

8.      Policy Hurdles: Complex regulations and bureaucratic red tape.

9.      Economic Vulnerability: Susceptible to demand shifts, price changes, and downturns.

·        Road Network: Key for socioeconomic growth, carries 80% of goods and passenger traffic.

·        Road Assets in Telangana: 24,245 km managed by R&B Dept, including 3,152 km of State Highways, 12,079 km Major District Roads, 9,014 km Other District Roads.

·        National Highways: 2,690 km in Telangana; 868 km under NHAI.

·        R&B Department: Responsible for roads and maintenance of 54.50 lakh sq. ft of government buildings.

·        Transport Department: Enforces Motor Vehicle Act, 1988; controlled by Transport Commissioner.

Telangana Transport Department

·        Structure: Controlled by Transport Commissioner, supported by additional and joint commissioners.

·        National Highways: Ministry of Road Transport provides full financial support for highways in Telangana.

·        Infrastructure: R&B Dept maintains state government buildings (13.13 lakh sq. ft non-residential, 41.37 lakh sq. ft residential).

·        Total National Highways: 16 national highways span across Telangana, ensuring connectivity between districts and major cities.

NH7:

·        Longest NH in Telangana.

·        Passes through Adilabad, Nizamabad, Medak, Ranga Reddy, Hyderabad, Mahbubnagar.

·        Connects the state from North (Adilabad) to South (Mahbubnagar).

NH9:

·        Connects Hyderabad, Medak, Nalgonda, Ranga Reddy.

·        Passes through Zahirabad, Suryapet, Narketpally, Vijayawada, Kodad, Machilipatnam in Andhra Pradesh.

NH16:

·        Passes through Karimnagar, Adilabad, Nizamabad.

·        Crosses NH7 at Nizamabad.

NH222:

·        Shortest NH in Telangana.

·        Touches only Adilabad district.

NH202:

·        Connects Hyderabad to Warangal.

NH221:

·        Passes through Khammam district.

1.      State Highway 1 (SH-1):

·       Route: Hyderabad – Nizamabad – Adilabad

·       Length: 306 km

·       Importance: Connects the capital, Hyderabad, with northern districts, crucial for goods and passenger movement.

2.      State Highway 7 (SH-7):

·       Route: Hyderabad – Karimnagar – Mancherial

·       Length: 224 km

·       Importance: Major route connecting Hyderabad with eastern districts, supports agricultural and industrial transport.

3.      State Highway 9 (SH-9):

·       Route: Hyderabad – Vikarabad – Raichur (Karnataka Border)

·       Length: 155 km

·       Importance: Links Telangana with Karnataka, facilitates interstate trade and connectivity.

4.      State Highway 10 (SH-10):

·       Route: Hyderabad – Sangareddy – Medak

·       Length: 119 km

·       Importance: Key route for agricultural and industrial transportation to northwestern districts.

5.      State Highway 24 (SH-24):

·       Route: Hyderabad – Siddipet – Karimnagar

·       Length: 163 km

·       Importance: Supports economic activities by connecting Hyderabad to northern districts.

6.      State Highway 18 (SH-18):

·       Route: Hyderabad – Suryapet – Khammam

·       Length: 207 km

·       Importance: Critical for trade, tourism, and commerce in southern Telangana.

1.      Administration:

·       Managed by District Rural Development Agency (DRDA) and respective district administrations.

·       Essential for rural development and connectivity.

2.      Connectivity:

·       Links towns, villages, agricultural areas, markets, schools, healthcare facilities, and more.

·       Critical for socio-economic development in rural areas.

3.      Length and Classification:

·       Vary in size: village roads to larger arterial roads connecting towns within districts.

4.      Maintenance:

·       Includes construction, repair, widening, and upkeep for safe transportation.

·       Ensures smooth travel for vehicles and pedestrians.

5.      Importance:

·       Serve as lifelines for rural communities, enabling movement of people, goods, and agricultural produce.

·       Enhance access to markets, education, healthcare, and government services.

6.      Development Initiatives:

·       Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana (PMGSY) and state-funded projects focus on improving road quality.

·       Aims to boost rural development, connectivity, and livelihood opportunities.

7.      Key Role:

·       Vital for transportation, commerce, and access to essential services.

·       Priority for government development to ensure rural accessibility and growth.

Rail Network in Telangana

History:

·       Origin dates back to the Nizam’s Guaranteed State Railway (NGSR) during British colonial rule.

·       Post-independence, managed by Indian Railways with significant expansions.

Railway Zones & Divisions:

·       South Central Railway (SCR): Majority of Telangana under this zone, headquartered in Secunderabad.

§  Secunderabad and Hyderabad divisions manage operations.

·       East Coast Railway (ECoR): Includes areas like Kazipet and Jangaon.

Major Railway Stations:

·       Secunderabad Junction: One of the busiest hubs for both passenger and freight services.

·       Hyderabad Deccan (Nampally) & Kacheguda: Key terminals in Hyderabad.

·       Kazipet Junction: Critical for connecting routes and handling freight.

Key Rail Routes:

·       Hyderabad to Mumbai via Secunderabad.

·       Hyderabad to Chennai via Secunderabad.

·       Hyderabad to New Delhi via Secunderabad.

·       Secunderabad to Bengaluru and Vijayawada.

·       Kazipet to Visakhapatnam.

Expansion & Modernization:

·       Electrification, track doubling/tripling, high-speed trains, and station upgrades to improve passenger safety and amenities.

Freight & Cargo:

·       Significant role in cargo transport via freight terminals at various stations for goods, raw materials, and industrial products.

District Connectivity:

·       Major districts well-connected: Adilabad, Nizamabad, Karimnagar, Medak, Warangal, Khammam, Rangareddy, Hyderabad, Nalgonda, Mahabubnagar.

Role in Economy:

·       Supports commerce and tourism in Telangana, facilitating both intra- and inter-state travel efficiently.

1.      Headquarters:

·       Located in Secunderabad, a key railway hub connecting major regions across India.

2.      Divisions:

·       Six divisions: Secunderabad, Hyderabad, Vijayawada, Guntakal, Guntur, and Nanded.

3.      Connectivity:

·       Secunderabad is a major junction with connections to cities like Mumbai, Chennai, New Delhi, Bengaluru, and Kolkata.

·       Important stations: Secunderabad Junction and Hyderabad Deccan (Nampally).

4.      Passenger Services:

·       Offers long-distance express, superfast, intercity, and suburban trains.

5.      Freight Operations:

·       Handles significant freight traffic including bulk commodities and containerized cargo.

·       Dedicated freight terminals and goods sheds.

6.      Modernization & Upgradation:

·       Electrification, track doubling/tripling, modern signaling systems, and station facility improvements.

7.      Initiatives:

·       Mobile ticketing, online reservations, cleanliness drives, and passenger awareness campaigns.

8.      Safety Measures:

·       Regular inspections, track maintenance, and rail safety programs to ensure the safety of passengers and staff.

1.      Uninterrupted Freight Movement:

·       Continuous operation of freight trains during lockdown for essential commodities.

2.      Food Grains Transport:

·       10 million tonnes of food grains transported from Telangana since April 2020 to various parts of the country.

3.      Exports to Bangladesh:

·       13 rakes of essential commodities (turmeric, dry chillies) from Nizamabad and Warangal to Bangladesh Railways.

4.      ‘Jai Kisan’ Trains:

·       Introduced the ‘Jai Kisan’ special trains concept from Telangana by clubbing two freight trains.

·       44 rakes operated to ensure rapid delivery of food grains.

5.      Freight Terminals:

·       Food grains transported to Tamil Nadu from two private freight terminals in Telangana.

6.      Cargo Express:

·       Introduced “Cargo Express” concept in Indian Railways from Telangana for small and medium freight customers.

·       Timetabled freight train from Sanathnagar (Telangana) to Adarsh Nagar (New Delhi).

7.      Automobile Transport:

·       Automobiles transported from Zaheerabad to Jirania Station (Tripura) for the first time over the longest distance by SCR.

1.      Fast and Free Wi-Fi:

·       Free high-speed Wi-Fi at all railway stations in Telangana (except halt stations).

·       174 stations provided with Wi-Fi in the last 8 years.

2.      DiGiPAY Stations:

·       4 stations (Kacheguda, Hyderabad, Secunderabad, Basar) fully DiGIPAY.

·       Cashless transactions via BHIM, RuPay, Debit Cards, e-wallets at ticket counters.

3.      UTS on Mobile:

·       Pan India app for paperless unreserved tickets, platform tickets, and season tickets.

4.      QR Code Payments:

·       QR Code payments enabled at Automatic Ticket Vending Machines (ATVMs).

Swachh Rail – Swachh Bharat

1.      On-board Housekeeping:

·       Available on 34 pairs of trains.

2.      Mechanised Cleaning:

·       At 14 stations; Secunderabad station with the Clean Train Station (CTS) concept.

·       Available at 3 coaching depots.

3.      ISO 14001 Certification:

·       16 stations in Telangana certified for implementing Environmental Management Systems.

·        Share of Males/Females: Males: 50.31%, Females: 49.69%

·        Sex Ratio (per 1000 males): 988

·        Highest Sex Ratio: Nirmal (1046 females per 1000 males)

·        Lowest Sex Ratio: Rangareddy (950 females per 1000 males)

·        Median Sex Ratio: 996 (Suryapet, Mahabubabad, Hanumakonda)

·       Rural Population: 21,395,009 (61.12%)

·       Most Urbanized Districts: Hyderabad (100%), Medchal Malkajgiri (91.47%)

·       Most Rural Districts: Mulugu (96.10%), Narayanpet (92.63%)

Population Density

·       Overall Population Density (State Average): 312 per sq. km

·       Lowest Density: Adilabad (170 per sq. km)

·       Highest Density: Hyderabad (18,172 per sq. km)

·       Districts with Lower than State Average: Adilabad (170), Khammam (197), Mahabubnagar (220)

·       ST Population: 3,177,940 (9.08% of the total population)

·       District with Highest SC Share: Mancherial (24.72%)

·       District with Lowest SC Share: Hyderabad (6.28%), Medchal-Malkajgiri (9.42%)

·       District with Most SC Population: Rangareddy

·       District with Least SC Population: Mulugu

o   Females: 8,995,049

o   Males: 11,701,729

·       Literacy Rate (Overall): 66.54%

·       Female Literacy Rate: 57.99%

·       Male Literacy Rate: 75.04%

·       Rural Literacy Rate: 57.30%

·       Urban Literacy Rate: 81.09%

Child Sex Ratio

·       Total Child Population (0-6 years): 3,899,166

o   Females: 1,881,231

o   Males: 2,017,935

·       Child Sex Ratio (CSR) (0-6 years): 932

·       Lowest CSR: Wanaparthy and Mahabubabad (903)

·       Highest CSR: Mulugu (971)

·       Median CSR: 934

·       Definition (Imperial Gazetteer of India): A tribe is a collection of families with a common name, dialect, and territory.

·       Tribal Population in India (Census 2011): 8.9% of the total population.

·       Scheduled Tribes (STs): Defined under Article 366 (25) of the Indian Constitution

Socio-Economic Status

·        Challenges: Poverty, illiteracy, lack of healthcare, limited access to amenities.

·        Livelihood Patterns: Agriculture, forest produce collection, handicrafts, facing pressure due to resource depletion and changing land use.

·       Recommendation: Formed based on Dhebar Commission (1973).

·       Established: 1975, originally called Primitive Tribal Groups (PTGs), now PVTGs.

·       Total PVTGs: 75 PVTGs in 17 states and one Union Territory.

·       Characteristics of PVTGs: Homogenous, small populations, isolated, lack of written language, simple technology, slower rate of change.

Government Welfare Programs:

Integrated Tribal Development Agency (ITDA):

·       Focuses on holistic development through infrastructure, education, healthcare, and skill development for tribal communities.

·        Government Initiatives: Ministry of Tribal Affairs established in 1999.

·        Janjatiya Gaurav Divas: Celebrated on 15th November 2021 to honor tribal freedom fighters.

Major Tribal Groups

·        Key Tribes: Gonds, Lambadas (Banjaras), Kolams, Thotis, Yerukalas, Koyas, Chenchus.

·        Concentration: Mainly in hilly, forested regions bordering Maharashtra, Chhattisgarh, Andhra Pradesh.

·        Districts with High Tribal Populations: Adilabad, Khammam, Bhadradri Kothagudem, Mahabubabad.

District Highlights

1.      Adilabad: Highest tribal concentration with Gonds, Kolams, and Thotis.

2.      Khammam: Significant tribal population, prominent Koya and Lambada tribes.

·       Lack of Basic Amenities: Inadequate access to water, electricity, sanitation, roads.

·       Land Alienation & Displacement: Loss of traditional lands due to development, industrialization, urbanization.

·       Healthcare Challenges: Poor healthcare infrastructure and services, high morbidity.

·       Education Disparities: Low enrollment, high dropout rates, poor infrastructure.

·       Exploitation & Vulnerability: Exploitation by land grabbers, middlemen, lack of legal protection.

·       Forest Rights Issues: Lack of recognition of traditional rights over forest resources.

·       Gender Inequality: Discrimination and limited education, employment opportunities for tribal women.

·       Climate Change Impacts: Vulnerability to erratic rainfall, droughts, floods affecting livelihoods.

·        Eklavya Model Residential School (EMRS): Specialized schools for tribal students providing quality education.

·        Pre-Matric Scholarship Scheme: Universal scheme for eligible tribal candidates to support education.

·        Post Matric Scholarship Scheme: Financial aid for higher education.

·        National Scholarship Scheme (Top Class): Merit-based scholarship.

·        National Fellowship Scheme: Awarded through selection process.

·        National Overseas Scholarship Scheme: Provides funding for higher education abroad for eligible students.

Janjatiya Gaurav Divas

·        Declared Date: 15th November, in honor of Bhagwan Birsa Munda‘s birth anniversary.

·        Celebrations: Nationwide iconic week from 15th to 22nd November.

·        Honored by:

o   President: Smt. Droupadi Murmu paid floral tributes at Birsa Munda’s statue in Ulihatu, Jharkhand.

o   Vice President: Shri Jagdeep Dhankar offered tributes in the Parliament.

o   Prime Minister: In a special video message, emphasized the energy of ‘Panch Praan’ to fulfill Birsa Munda’s vision.

o   Union Ministers: Shri Arjun Munda, Smt. Renuka Singh, Shri Bishweswar Tudu, along with other dignitaries, participated.

Key Government Initiatives for Tribal Development in Telangana

1.      Special Development Funds: Allocated for infrastructure, amenities, and livelihood support in tribal areas.

2.      Education Initiatives:

o   Establishment of Gurukul schools.

o   Scholarships and stipends for tribal students.

3.      Healthcare Services:

o   Mobile health units, primary health centers, and community health workers in tribal areas.

o   Focus on reducing maternal and child mortality.

4.      Livelihood Support:

o   Skill development, agricultural services, livestock programs, and promotion of handicrafts.

5.      Empowerment & Participation:

o   Strengthening traditional governance, promoting self-governance, and empowering tribal leaders.

·        Development of PVTGs: Targeted schemes for Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups.

·        Pradhan Mantri Adi Adarsh Gram Yojana (PM-AAGY): Model village development for tribals.

Livelihood & Economic Support:

·        Pradhan Mantri Janjatiya Vikas Mission (PM-JJVM): Skill development for tribals.

·        Venture Capital Fund for STs: Financial support for tribal entrepreneurs.

·        Logistics & Marketing Support (NSTFDC): Enhancing tribal product marketing.

Key Agencies:

·        Integrated Tribal Development Agency (ITDA): Oversees education, healthcare, infrastructure, and livelihoods for tribals.

·        Tribal Welfare Department: Manages scholarships, healthcare, housing, and skill programs.

Forest Rights Act (FRA):

• Implementation of FRA: Securing land and forest rights for tribals through title distribution.

Forest Rights Act (2006)

·        Ministry: Administered by the Ministry of Tribal Affairs, Government of India.

·        Objective: Recognition and vesting of forest rights for Scheduled Tribes (FDSTs) and Other Traditional Forest Dwellers (OTFDs).

·        Implementation: Responsibility lies with State Governments/UTs.

·        Current Status (June 2023):

o   Claims Filed: 45,54,603 (43,68,025 individual, 1,86,578 community).

o   Titles Distributed: 23,12,041 (22,01,842 individual, 1,10,199 community).

o   Forest Land Distributed: 1,77,90,056 acres (47,56,040 acres individual, 1,30,34,016 acres community).

·        Support: Ministry provides necessary assistance to States/UTs; Joint Communication issued by Secretaries of Ministry of Tribal Affairs and Ministry of Environment for implementation.

Theme 2:     Evolution and phases of Urban Growth of Hyderabad

Theme 3:     Transformation from historical to modern cosmopolitan Megapolis, Primacy of Hyderabad in Telangana State, City structure, Industries and Industrial estates, urban infrastructure and transport

Theme 4:     ORR and Metro – Problems and Planning – role of GHMC and HUDA (Metropolitan Development Plan – 2031, HMDA), Hyderabad as a Tourist Centre and Global city.

Theme 5:     Heritage Structures of Hyderabad

Definition of Towns (1961 criteria):

·        Minimum population: 5,000

·        Density: Not less than 1,000 per square mile

·        Non-agricultural occupation: 75% of the working population

·        Additional criteria: Industrial areas, large housing settlements, tourist importance, and civic amenities.

·       Challenges: India faces diverse challenges with rapid urbanization, such as infrastructure strain, housing, and civic amenities.

·       Telangana: One of the fast-urbanizing states in India, propelled by economic transformation and urban growth.

·        Accounts for a large portion of Telangana’s urban population.

·        Known – cosmopolitan city, hosting national and international events, fostering – skilled workforce, & becoming hub for industrial and service-oriented businesses.

Warangal, Nizamabad, Karimnagar:

·        Emerging – key urban centers, contributing to the state’s changing urban landscape.

Urban Planning Proposals for Telangana

·        Three-Tier Urban Pattern: Proposes a hierarchical urban development system with multiple levels of town networks.

·        Multiple Urban-Industrial Nuclei: Focuses on creating alternative growth centers beyond Hyderabad to decentralize development.

·        Metropolitan Region: Development centered on Hyderabad Metropolitan Region has come at the cost of smaller towns.

·        Urban growth in Telangana has predominantly centered around Hyderabad, leading to intra-sub-regional disparities.

·        Over the past six decades, Hyderabad has overshadowed the development of smaller towns.

Urban Growth History:

·        Hyderabad’s population in 1961: 12.51 lakhs.

·        From 1961 to 2001, Hyderabad emerged as one of India’s fastest-growing metros.

·        Declining Growth in Other Towns: From 1991-2011, most of the 27 Telangana towns saw a decline in population growth rates. Towns – Vijayapuri & Bellampally – experienced absolute population decline, -only towns near Hyderabad (Sangareddy, Siddipet, Mahbubnagar, Zahirabad) recorded growth.

Historical Context:

·        Telangana’s urbanization influenced by history and geography.

·        Ancient cities like Warangal, Hyderabad, and Karimnagar were centers of commerce, culture, and governance.

Population Growth:

·        Significant population growth due to natural increase and rural-urban migration.

·        Higher population density in urban areas than rural areas.

Expansion of Urban Centers:

·        Rapid growth of Hyderabad, Warangal, Nizamabad, Karimnagar, and Khammam.

Infrastructure Development:

·        Investments in transport, housing, healthcare, education, and recreational facilities.

·        Focus on improving quality of life in urban centers.

Economic Opportunities:

·        Urbanization drives growth in manufacturing, services, trade, IT, and real estate.

·        Cities as economic hubs attracting investments and skilled labor.

·        Infrastructure Deficiencies: Traffic, water supply, and sanitation issues.

·        Housing Shortage: Growth of informal settlements and slums.

·        Social Inequality: Disparities in education, healthcare, and services.

·        Environmental Degradation: Pollution, loss of green spaces, and resource depletion.

Government Initiatives

·        Telangana Municipal Development Project (TMDP): Master plans for 20 urban local bodies, supported by World Bank.

·        Support to Urban Street Vendors (SUSV): 67,294 vendors identified, 63,361 issued ID cards.

·        Shelter for Urban Homeless: 25 shelters established, proposal for more in hospitals.

·        Mission for Elimination of Poverty in Municipal Areas (MEPMA): Poverty alleviation through programs like DAY-NULM, Vaddi Leni Runalu (interest-free loans), and SHG support.

·        Swachh Telangana Vajrostavam (2014): Focus on sanitation and cleanliness, with public awareness campaigns.

Urban Growth and Migration in Telangana

·        Population Growth: Urban population growth was fueled by natural increase and significant migration from rural areas.

·        Rural-Urban Migration: Migrants from rural regions moved to urban centers seeking better jobs, healthcare, and education, contributing to urban expansion.

·        Industrialization: The growth of sectors like information technology, manufacturing, and services attracted migrants, boosting economic activities in cities.

·        Housing and Real Estate: The rapid urban growth led to high demand for housing, resulting in new residential developments and expansion of real estate.

·        Social and Cultural Dynamics: Migration has increased social diversity, bringing different languages, traditions, and cultural practices into cities.

·        1591 AD: Founded as Bhagyanagar by Mohammad Quli-Qutb Shah, 5th ruler of the Qutb Shahi dynasty.

·        Location: 8 km east of Golconda Fort, south of Musi River.

Historical Rule:

·        Qutb Shahi Dynasty → Mughals → Asaf Jahi Dynasty → Indian Union (1948).

Capital Role:

·        Qutb Shahi Rulers: Civil capital.

·        Asaf Jahi Dynasty (1763-1948): Continued as capital.

·        State Transitions:

o   Hyderabad State: 1948-1956.

o   Andhra Pradesh: 1956-2014.

o   Telangana: Since 2014.

Twin Cities: Hyderabad and Secunderabad.

Geographical & Cultural Landscape: Blended physical, cultural, industrial, and economic elements spanning 425 years.

Nomenclature of Hyderabad

Speculations:

o   Named after Bhagyamathi, wife of Mohammad Quli-Qutb Shah.

o   Alternatively, derived from “Bhags” meaning gardens.

·        Global Recognition: Known as City of Pearls during Qutb Shahi era.

Evolution of Hyderabad City

Origins:

·        13th Century: Golconda Fort built by Kakatiya rulers.

Transformation Phases:

·        Citadel → Fortress Town → Walled City → Modern City → Metropolis → Global Megacity.

• Golconda Fort: Built by Kakatiya Emperor Ganapatideva on Mankal Hill.
• 1512 AD: Qutb-ul-Mulk declared independence from Bahmani Kingdom, established Qutb Shahi rule, making Golconda Fort capital.
• 1573 AD: Purana Phul Bridge constructed by Sultan Ibrahim Qutb Shah over Musi River, facilitating Hyderabad’s expansion.

2.Later Qutb Shahi Phase / Early Twin City Phase (1591-1687 AD)

• 1591 AD: Foundation of Hyderabad by Mohammad Quli-Qutb Shah, construction of Charminar.
• Urban Planning: Grid pattern with intersecting 60 ft roads; Hussaini Álam, Daruslhifa, Sultan Shahi mohallas.
• Water Supply: Mir Jumla Tank and Jalpally Reservoir; supplied via underground earthen pipes.
• 1683 AD: Mughal Invasion led to plundering and decline of Qutb Shahi rule by 1687 AD.

3.Transitional Phase (1687-1724 AD)

• Post-Qutb Shahi Decline: Political instability; minimal development.
• City Walls: Extension from Chaderghat to Dabirpura Gate.
• Integration: Golconda Kingdom merged into Mughal Empire, Aurangabad made capital of Deccan Subha.
• Asaf Jahi Dynasty: Established in 1724 AD.

4.Early Asaf Jahi Phase / Second Twin City (Secunderabad) Phase (1724-1874 AD)

• Asaf Jahi Dynasty: Nizam-ul-Mulk founded in 1724 AD, ruled until 1948 AD.
• 1763 AD: Nizam Ali Khan Asaf Jah II shifted capital back to Hyderabad from Aurangabad, initiating accelerated growth.

Secunderabad Formation:

• 1798 AD: Subsidiary Alliance Treaty with British East India Company.
• 1806 AD: Construction of British Residency, establishment of Secunderabad as a twin city.

Urban Development:

• Growth along Afzalgunj Road.
• Emergence of mohallas: Darushifa, Moghalpura, Hussaini Alam, Shaalibanda.
• Railway Introduction (1874 AD): Expansion towards Nampally.
• Population Growth: From 4 bazaars to 12 bazaars and Begum Bazaar wholesale center by 1798 AD.

Government Initiatives

·       Transport Infrastructure: Expanded Metro Rail, constructed flyovers and transit corridors.

·       Industrial Infrastructure: T-iPASS single window system for investors.

·       High-Tech Policing: 1 lakh CC cameras, central command station in Banjara Hills.

·       Continuous Electricity Supply: Achieved since 2015 AD.

·       Safe Drinking Water: Phase-wise water supply from Godavari and Krishna Rivers.

·       Green Infrastructure:

§  Haritha Haram and Green Curtain programs.

§  50 lakh trees planted, 1000 km² green cover targeted.

Population Projections:

• 2014 AD: Over 10 million.
• 2030 AD: Projected 12 million.

Governance and Demographics in Hyderabad

• Urban Bodies:

1.      Hyderabad Urban Agglomeration (HUA).

2.      Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation (GHMC).

3.      Hyderabad Metropolitan Development Authority (HMDA).

o   Railways (1874 AD): Directed urban growth towards railway stations and industrial regions.

o   Municipal Development:

§  1869 AD: Department of Municipal and Road Maintenance formed.

§  1888 AD: City water works scheme from Mir Alam Tank.

§  1896 AD: Hyderabad Water Works Department established.

§  1896 AD: Chaderghat Municipality constituted.

o   1908 AD Musi Floods:

§  Severe floods caused stagnation; led to creation of City Improvement Board (1912 AD) under Sir M. Vishveshwarayya.

§  Dams Construction:

§  Osman Sagar Lake (1917 AD).

§  Himayat Sagar Lake (1927 AD).

o   Transport Enhancements:

§  Suburban Trains (1928 AD) and Bus Services (1932 AD) linked Hyderabad and Secunderabad.

o   1948 AD Police Action:

§  Operation Polo: Integration of Hyderabad into Indian Union, end of Nizam’s rule.

o   Population Growth:

§  1901 AD: 448,466.

§  1941 AD: 739,159.

§  1931-1941 AD: 58% population growth.

6.Pre-Economic Reforms Phase / Metropolitan Phase (1948-1991 AD)

o   1956 AD: Formation of Andhra Pradesh; Hyderabad becomes metropolitan.

o   Industrial Growth:

§  Establishment of BHEL, NMDC, HMT, BEL, IDPL, ECIL, DRDO, HAL.

§  Industrial Clusters:

§  Azamabad Industrial Area.

§  Balanagar-Sanath Nagar-Kukatpally: Includes Allwyn, HMT, HAL.

§  Moula-Ali-Nacharam-Uppal: EC Warner Hindustan Limited, NECL.

§  Ramachandrapuram-Patancheru: BHEL, ICRLSAL.

§  Chandulal Baradari (1963 AD): Small and medium-scale industries.

o   Municipal Expansion (1991 AD):

§  GHMC Formation (2007 AD).

§  HMDA Formation (2008 AD).

o   Infrastructure Projects:

§  Rajiv Gandhi International Airport (2008 AD).

§  Jawaharlal Nehru Outer Ring Road (JN-ORR).

§  Sri P.V. Narasimha Rao Expressway (PVNREW).

o   Population Growth:

§  1991 AD: 4.34 million.

§  2001 AD: 5.74 million (32% growth).

§  2011 AD: 7.75 million (35% growth).

Post Globalisation Phase / Contemporary Megapolis Phase (1991 Onwards)

o   Economic Reforms (1991 AD): Liberalization, Privatization, Globalization boosted Hyderabad’s growth.

o   HITEC City (1991 AD): Inauguration of Cyber Towers, major IT cluster.

o   Special Economic Zones (SEZs): Enhanced industrial and IT growth.

Infrastructure Development:

§  Rajiv Gandhi International Airport (2008 AD).

§  Metro Rail Expansion: First phase nearly completed.

§  Flyovers/Skyways/Transit Corridors: Planning stages.

·       1986: First IT tower, Intergraph, established in Begumpet.

·       1995: N. Chandrababu Naidu spearheaded the Software Industry in Hyderabad.

·       HITEC City/Cyberabad: Developed under Naidu’s leadership in collaboration with Larsen & Toubro.

·       Slogans: “Bye Bye Bangalore” and “Hello Hyderabad” coined by Naidu to attract IT investments.

·       Bill Gates convinced to establish the first Microsoft Development Center outside the USA in Hyderabad.

·       1999: Genome Valley (Biotech Park) launched through a public-private partnership under Naidu’s leadership.

·       D.E. Shaw & Co.: First multinational to open an office in Hyderabad (1996).

·       Key Initiatives:

o   Hardware Park.

o   Knowledge Park.

o   Financial District.

o   Biotech Park: Special focus on biotechnology.

·       Transit Hub: Planned as a key transit point between Europe and the Far East.

·       Tourism Policy: Predicted 2.5 million international tourists and 70 million domestic tourists by 2020.

·       Tourist Infrastructure: Focus on developing high-quality infrastructure to attract more tourists.

Ongoing Infrastructure Development

Key Projects (since 2007):

o   Flyovers: At Rajiv Gandhi Circle, Green Lands Junction, Chandrayanagutta.

o   Water Supply: Krishna Drinking Water Supply Project Phase II.

o   Krishna Water diversion to Secunderabad and construction of storage facilities.

·       Hyderabad Growth Corridor Limited: Focus on beautification of traffic islands and other infrastructure development on Outer Ring Road (ORR).

·       Nehru Outer Ring Road (ORR):

o   158 km expressway connecting major city hubs like Hi-Tech City, Hyderabad International Airport, Financial District, etc.

o   Designed for high-speed travel and reduced congestion.

·       Hyderabad Urban Development Authority: Aims to make Hyderabad the next Silicon Valley.

·       Cultural & Historical: Over 400 years of rich heritage, known as the City of Pearls.

·       IT Hub: Home to Google, Microsoft, TCS, and other MNCs.

·       Pharma Capital: Emerging as India’s pharma hub.

·       Educational & Medical Hub: Presence of reputed institutions, colleges, and affordable hospitals.

·       Physical Infrastructure:

o   Hyderabad Metro.

o   Outer Ring Road (ORR).

o   Green Buses.

·       Economic Contribution: Hyderabad’s growth significantly contributes to both Telangana’s prosperity and India’s economy.

·       Length: 158 km, eight-lane expressway encircling Hyderabad, designed for 120 km/h (75 mph).

·       Key Areas Covered: Hi-Tech City, Nanakramguda Financial District, Rajiv Gandhi International Airport, Telangana State Police Academy, Games Village, Hardware Park.

·       Opened: 124 km of ORR opened by December 2012.

·       Connectivity: Connects NH 44, NH 65, NH 161, NH 765, and NH 163. Eases access from Rajiv Gandhi International Airport to Nizamabad, Adilabad.

·       Development: Initiated by HUDA without state government interference. December 2022: Telangana government planned monetization via TOT model.

• Phase 1: Required 750 acres (500 acres private), Phase 2: Required 5,500 acres (1,000 acres government land).
• Estimated Cost: ₹250 Crores.

Traffic Studies

• Conclusion: Four/six-lane roads on NH 44 and NH 65 inadequate; eight-lane expressway designed for 20-year lifespan.
• Features: Access-controlled, grade-separated intersections, two-lane service road on both sides, low-level underpasses every 1–2 km.

Green Metro

·        Eco-friendly Features:

o   Rainwater Harvesting, recycling 100,000 liters daily.

o   Reduction of 10,000 tons of CO2, elimination of 200 tons of volatile organic compounds.

o   Solar energy usage, tree planting around depots, recycling of paper, and use of eco-friendly chemicals.

• Length: 23 km cycle track between Nanakramguda Junction and TSPA, and from Narsingi to Kollur.
• Launched: September 2022 by Minister K.T. Rama Rao.
• Solar Panels: Capacity of 16 MW, 4.5-meter wide track with green spaces and facilities such as food stalls, parking.

Hyderabad Metro

·        Objective: Address traffic congestion, reduce pollution, and improve livability.

·        Developer: Larsen & Toubro; L&T Metro Rail Hyderabad Limited (LTMRHL) incorporated in 2010.

·        PPP Model: World’s largest Public-Private Partnership (PPP) in the Metro sector.

·        Network: Covers 69.2 km across three corridors:

o   Corridor I: Miyapur to LB Nagar.

o   Corridor II: JBS to MGBS.

o   Corridor III: Nagole to Raidurgam.

·        Formed in 2007 by merging 12 municipalities with Municipal Corporation of Hyderabad.

·        Spread over 625 sq. km in four districts: Hyderabad, Rangareddy, Medchal-Malkajgiri, and part of Sangareddy.

HMDA (Hyderabad Metropolitan Development Authority):

·        Formed in 2008, covering 7,257 sq. km, spread over seven districts and 1,032 villages.

·        Oversees planning, coordination, and development in Hyderabad Metropolitan Region.

Safety and Security Initiatives

1.      CCTV Surveillance:

·       CCTV cameras installed across the city connected to a Command and Control Center.

2.      SHE Teams:

·       Formed to ensure safety for women, making Hyderabad a secure and smart city.

3.      Hyderabad Metro Rail:

·       Rapid transit system, first phase 30 km from Miyapur to Nagole launched by PM Narendra Modi.

·       Developed by L&T, costing Rs. 15,000 crores, under a PPP model with state involvement.

• Provides hygienic meals at Rs. 5 in 150 centers, serving 40,000 people daily.
• GHMC subsidizes Rs. 24.25 per meal in partnership with Hare Krishna Mission Charitable Foundation.

Rehabilitation of Beggars:

• Joint Action Team with Traffic Police, UCD staff, and Amma Nanna Ananda Ashramam.
• From December 2017, rescued 3,521 beggars; 3,260 reunited with families.

Swachh Dooths:

• SHG members raise awareness on Swachh Hyderabad and facilitate waste segregation.
• As of December 2017, 9,32,520 households engaged.

Aasara for Senior Citizens:

• Provides medical camps, aids, and recreational day care centers for senior citizens.

Vikasam for Persons with Disabilities (PWDs):

• Distributes aids, appliances, organizes free surgery camps, and promotes SHGs for PWDs’ welfare.

• Focus on skyways, major roads, and flyovers. Project cost: Rs. 25,000 crores.
• Improves traffic flow, reduces pollution, and minimizes travel time.

Lake Conservation (HMDA):

• Surveying 3,132 lakes; completed for 2,546 lakes to establish Full Tank Level boundaries.

Musi Riverfront Development:

• Layout at Uppal Bhagat with roads, water supply, electrification, and planting.

Inter-City Bus Terminal (ICBT) at Miyapur:

• State-of-the-art bus terminal on PPP basis, catering to interstate services.

Hussain Sagar Lake Project:

• Joint project with JICA ODA to improve lake water quality. Total cost: Rs. 310 crores.

Eco-Park at Kothwalguda:

• Spread over 85 acres, featuring a bird park, aviary, butterfly park, and mountain biking tracks.

·        Largest mosque in Hyderabad, capacity of 10,000 people.

·        Built during 17th century under Muhammad Qutb Shah (Qutb Shahi dynasty).

·        Name derived from bricks made from Mecca soil used in the central arch.

·        Close to Charminar, Chowmahalla Palace, and Laad Bazaar.

·        Listed on UNESCO’s tentative World Heritage Site list in 2014 (Monuments and Forts of Deccan Sultanate).

Hyderabad Culture

·        Known as the “City of Nizams” due to Asaf Jahi dynasty influence.

·        Rich cultural amalgamation, blending Urdu, Hindi, Telugu with a unique Hyderabadi dialect.

·        Secunderabad has a Tamil influence due to proximity to Tamil Nadu.

·        Contemporary mix of traditional and modern lifestyle with a strong cultural identity.

Charminar

·        Iconic symbol of Hyderabad, constructed in 1591 by Muhammad Quli Qutb Shah.

·        Popular tourist attraction and site for Eid celebrations.

·        Located near the Musi River, Laad Bazaar, and Mecca Masjid.

·        Officially listed by Archaeological Survey of India as a historical monument.

·        Located on the south bank of the Musi River, built in Saracenic style with red and white stones.

·        Construction from 1915 to 1919, inaugurated by Nizam VII Mir Osman Ali Khan.

·        Designed by Shankar Lal with contributions from Mehar Ali Fazil and Mirza Akbar Baig.

·        Silver model presented to Nizam during his 1936 Silver Jubilee.

Nizamia Observatory

·        Established in 1901 by Nawab Zafar Jung Bahadur, under Nizam VI Mahbub Ali Khan.

·        Known for contributions to Carte du Ciel project with 463,542 observations.

·        Equipped with an 8″ Cooke Astrograph and 15″ Grubb refractor telescope.

Festivals

·        Hyderabad became a cultural hub after the Mughal decline and rise of the Nizam.

·        Celebrations include Ganesh Chaturthi, Diwali, Bonalu, Eid ul-Fitr, and Eid al-Adha.

·        Telugu and Urdu are the official languages of Telangana, reflecting the city’s cultural mix.

·        Traditional attire includes Sherwani, Kurta-Paijama for men and Khara Dupatta, Salwar Kameez for women.

Nizamia Observatory

·        Founded by Nawab Zafar Yar Jung Bahadur in 1901 with a 6-inch telescope from England.

·        Located in Phisal Banda Palace, later transferred to Nizam Government in 1908 as per Bahadur’s wish.

·        Named after the sixth Nizam of Hyderabad, Mir Mahboob Ali Khan.

·        Established: 8 August 1941, during the reign of Nizam Mir Osman Ali Khan.

·        Managed Currency: Osmania Sicca for Hyderabad State (Telangana, Hyderabad-Karnataka, Marathwada).

·        First Branch: Gunfoundry, Hyderabad, opened on 5 April 1942.

·        Initial Staff: Provided by Imperial Bank of India.

·        First Secretary: Muhammad Saleh Akbar Hydari (son of Sir Akbar Hydari).

·        Architect: Mohammad Fayazuddin, alumnus of Architectural Association School, London.

Osmania University

·        Established: 29 August 1917 by Nizam Mir Osman Ali Khan.

·        First in South India: Third oldest university, the first using Urdu as instruction language.

·        Global Reach: Hosts 3,700 international students from over 80 nations.

·        Osmania Medical College: Initially part of Osmania University, now under Kaloji Narayana Rao University of Health Sciences.

Dar-ul-Shifa

·        Founded: AD 1591 by Mohammed Quli Qutb Shah.

·        Known for its historical hospital and Jama Masjid.

·        Located in Old City, Hyderabad, on the banks of the Musi River.

Jagannath Temple, Hyderabad

·        Constructed: 2009 by Odia community of Hyderabad.

·        Located near Banjara Hills; annual Rath Yatra attracts thousands.

·        Shikhara: 70 feet high, replica of the Jagannath Temple, Puri.

Raymond’s Tomb

·        Dedicated to: Michel Joachim Marie Raymond, a French general in Nizam Ali Khan’s army.

• Tomb: Black granite, 7 meters high, with JR initials.

·        Constructed: 1860 by Nizam Nazir-ud-Dowla as Residency House.

·        Now the President’s winter retreat in Hyderabad.

·        Opened to the public in March 2023.

Salarjung Museum

·        Inaugurated: 16 December 1951.

·        Collections: Sculptures, paintings, textiles, manuscripts, artifacts from Japan, China, Persia, Egypt, Europe, North America.

Hyderabad’s Handicrafts

·        Known for Golconda and Hyderabad painting styles, influenced by Mughal and Vijayanagara traditions.

·        Features luminous gold and white colors.

Cuisine

·        Signature dishes: Hyderabadi Biryani, Haleem, Nihari, Qubani ka Meetha.

·        Influenced by Mughlai, Turkish, and Telugu cuisines.

Telangana State Archaeology Museum

·        Oldest museum in Hyderabad.

·        Founded by Mir Osman Ali Khan, originally known as Hyderabad Museum, renamed in 1960 and 2014 post-bifurcation.

Key Palaces in Hyderabad

1.      Purani Haveli Palace: Residence of Nizam Sikander Jah; features Ayina Khaana (Mirror House).

2.      Falaknuma Palace: Built by Nawab Sir Viqar-ul-Umra; renovated by Taj Hotels in 2010.

3.      Chowmahalla Palace: Construction started by Nizam Ali Khan in 1769; official residence of Nizams.

4.      Bella Vista: Built by Muslehuddin Mohammed in 1905, later purchased by Nizam Osman Ali Khan in 1917.