Telangana education budget allocates Rs.26,674 crore with expanded student welfare
Hyderabad: The Telangana government allocated Rs.26,674 crore under the Telangana education budget for 2026-27, announcing a wide range of welfare schemes, infrastructure projects, and reforms to improve access and learning outcomes.
Deputy Chief Minister and Finance Minister Bhatti Vikramarka Mallu, while presenting the budget speech in the Legislative Assembly on Friday, said the Telangana education budget formed a core part of the State’s long-term development strategy. He stressed that investments would focus on infrastructure, quality education, and skill development. The government aimed to prepare students for a changing economic landscape.
A major highlight of the Telangana education budget was the launch of a breakfast scheme. This scheme will cover students from pre-primary to Intermediate level. Officials said the initiative would ensure that no child attends school hungry. It is expected to improve attendance, concentration, and overall health.
Under the plan, students will receive milk three days a week. On the remaining days, they will be given ragi malt. The government said this nutritional support would reduce dropout rates. It will also ease the burden on families who struggle to provide morning meals.
In another key decision, the government extended the midday meal scheme to Intermediate students in government junior colleges. This marks a significant expansion beyond school-level coverage. The Minister noted that adolescence is a critical growth stage. Proper nutrition during this phase supports both physical and cognitive development.
Officials expect the expanded meal programme to reduce absenteeism. It is also likely to improve academic performance among students in higher secondary education.
The Telangana education budget also prioritised school infrastructure. The government announced the establishment of Young India Integrated Residential Schools across Assembly constituencies. These schools aim to bring students from diverse backgrounds into a common learning environment.
Telangana education budget strengthens schools and higher education access
The Telangana education budget proposed the construction of 105 residential schools. These institutions will include digital classrooms, hostels, and skill development facilities. The government said the initiative would promote both quality and inclusivity in education.
Primary education also received attention. The government plans to expand pre-primary sections in thousands of government schools. This move aims to strengthen foundational learning at an early stage.
In addition, the budget placed special focus on girls’ education. Several Kasturba Gandhi Balika Vidyalayas will be upgraded to higher levels. These institutions will also be developed into centres of excellence to improve academic standards.
The government allocated Rs.100 crore to modernise kitchens in hostels and residential schools. This step is intended to improve hygiene and ensure better food quality for students living on campus.
Higher education saw major allocations under the Telangana education budget. Osmania University received Rs.1,000 crore for infrastructure upgrades. Veeranari Chakali Ilamma Women’s University was allocated Rs.400 crore to expand its facilities.
The government also sanctioned new degree colleges, engineering colleges, and professional institutions. These additions aim to increase access to higher education across the State.
A key reform is the proposed establishment of a Skill University. This institution will focus on bridging the gap between academic learning and industry needs. It will offer specialised courses designed in collaboration with industries.
Polytechnic colleges and ITIs will be upgraded into Advanced Technology Centres. These centres will provide modern courses and hands-on training. The government also announced scholarships for trainees to support skill development.
The Finance Minister said the Telangana education budget aimed to create a skilled workforce. He emphasised that education spending would directly contribute to economic growth. He added that the government views education as an investment in the State’s future.
Overall, the Telangana education budget presented a comprehensive roadmap. It combined welfare measures, infrastructure expansion, and skill-focused reforms. The government expects these steps to improve education quality and enhance employment opportunities.