Hyderabad: Telangana Irrigation and Civil Supplies Minister Uttam Kumar Reddy called for Osmania University global transformation while inaugurating the national-level NIRMAAN-26 symposium at the University College of Engineering, Osmania University on Thursday.
Describing Osmania University as the pride of Telangana, he said the institution carries a rich academic legacy. He urged students, faculty and stakeholders to work together to place the university among India’s leading institutions and on the global academic map.
The minister also praised Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy for sanctioning ₹1,000 crore for the university’s development. According to him, the allocation marks the largest funding support in the institution’s history and will strengthen infrastructure and academic standards.
Addressing students and faculty, Uttam Kumar Reddy spoke about discipline and ambition in public life. Drawing from his earlier career as a fighter pilot in the Indian Air Force, he highlighted the importance of commitment and institutional excellence.
NIRMAAN-26 symposium highlights university legacy
Speaking about the institution’s history, Uttam Kumar Reddy said the university was established in 1917 during the rule of Mir Osman Ali Khan, the last Nizam of Hyderabad.
He noted that the engineering college began operations in 1929 and remains one of the oldest engineering institutions in India.
The minister also mentioned distinguished alumni, including Telangana Minister Damodar Raja Narasimha and former Indian cricketer Arshad Ayub.
During the interaction, the Vice-Chancellor raised concerns about faculty shortages.
Uttam Kumar Reddy assured the gathering that he would take up the issue with the Chief Minister and push for filling vacant teaching posts.
He said such measures would support the Osmania University global transformation and improve teaching quality and institutional performance.
Engineering achievements highlighted
The minister also highlighted major irrigation projects in the region, including Nizam Sagar Dam, Nagarjuna Sagar Dam and Srisailam Dam.
He also referred to modern projects such as the Devadula Lift Irrigation Scheme and the Srisailam Left Bank Canal.
Addressing students, Uttam Kumar Reddy urged them to use their academic years effectively.
He said civil engineering is not limited to constructing infrastructure but also plays a key role in shaping society.
Students, he added, must combine academic excellence with innovation and sustainability to address present and future development challenges.
