HYDERABAD: Telangana Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy on Friday unveiled a series of education and sports initiatives aimed at positioning the state as a leading centre for learning, skill development, and athletic excellence. Addressing a large gathering at LB Stadium, the chief minister said the government’s long-term vision is to establish Telangana as the country’s foremost education and sports hub.
The event witnessed the launch of a dedicated WhatsApp communication platform designed to connect directly with more than 18 lakh students and their parents across the state. Developed by the Electronic Service Delivery (ESD)–MeeSeva Division of the Information Technology Department, the service will deliver important educational updates and government notifications in real time.
Under the new system, students and parents will receive information related to academic performance, examination schedules, scholarships, educational material distribution, and student wellness programmes directly through WhatsApp. The initiative aims to strengthen communication between educational institutions and families while improving access to government services.
During the programme, Chief Minister Revanth Reddy and Governor Shiv Pratap Shukla launched the distribution of Young India student kits for nearly 27.5 lakh students. The leaders also administered an anti-drug pledge, encouraging students to stay away from substance abuse and focus on academic and personal development.
In a significant boost to sports development, the government virtually laid foundation stones for multiple sports infrastructure projects across Telangana. The projects, valued at Rs 50.73 crore, include mini stadiums, training facilities, and district-level sports infrastructure aimed at improving access to modern sporting amenities.
Of the total investment, Rs 36.65 crore has been allocated for constructing and upgrading sports facilities in various districts. Additionally, new sports academies for boys and girls have been established at Gachibowli and LB Stadium at a cost of Rs 14.08 crore. These facilities are expected to nurture emerging talent and create opportunities for young athletes to compete at higher levels.
Highlighting future challenges, the chief minister noted that rapid advancements in artificial intelligence are reshaping employment patterns worldwide. He said governments must prepare students for evolving workforce demands by investing in modern skills and specialised training programmes.
To address these challenges, Telangana has introduced targeted skill development initiatives, including international language courses such as German and Japanese, the transformation of Industrial Training Institutes into Advanced Technology Centres, and the establishment of a dedicated Skill University. These measures are intended to improve employability and prepare youth for global career opportunities.
Revanth Reddy also underscored the government’s commitment to strengthening the education sector through substantial financial support. According to him, education has received 8.5 percent of the state’s overall budget allocation, with Rs 26,600 crore earmarked for the sector during the 2026-27 financial year. He described educational spending as a long-term investment that would shape the future of Telangana’s younger generations.
Several educational services are already available through the WhatsApp platform. Students can access progress reports, examination hall tickets, marks memos, historical SSC records, bonafide certificates, transfer certificates, and correction services without visiting government offices. The digital initiative has helped reduce paperwork while making services more accessible and efficient.
The government plans to expand the platform further in the coming months. Upcoming features will include student and parent feedback systems, updates regarding textbooks, uniforms and notebooks, attendance records, scholarship-related information, mid-day meal details, health and wellness programmes, sports activities, co-curricular events, and residential school welfare notifications.
To make communication more engaging, the government has introduced ‘Palapitta’, the Indian Roller bird, as the campaign mascot. Through interactive video messages shared on WhatsApp, the mascot will provide important updates and information in a student-friendly format. Officials believe the initiative will improve awareness and encourage greater participation among students and parents.
With major investments in education, digital governance, sports infrastructure, and skill development, Telangana is seeking to create a comprehensive ecosystem that supports academic achievement, athletic growth, and future employment opportunities. The latest initiatives reflect the state’s broader strategy to prepare its youth for a rapidly changing world while ensuring inclusive access to quality education and modern facilities.