Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, along with Union Coal Minister G. Kishan Reddy, unveiled the official logo of the Sammakka Saralamma Central Tribal University in Mulugu, Telangana, on Tuesday. The event was held in New Delhi in the presence of Vice-Chancellor Y.L. Srinivas and other senior officials. The newly revealed logo represents the creative and inclusive vision of the university. It features words and symbols drawn from various tribal languages, celebrating India’s rich cultural diversity and the unity of tribal communities across regions. Minister Kishan Reddy described the occasion as a moment of pride, noting that naming the university after Sammakka and Saralamma, revered tribal deities of Telangana, reflects deep respect for tribal faith and heritage.
I am writing about this because the launch of the logo is not just a ceremonial act — it marks a symbolic step towards recognising the educational and cultural identity of tribal communities in India. Universities like Sammakka Saralamma Central Tribal University play a crucial role in ensuring that higher education reaches remote and marginalised areas. Understanding the spirit behind such initiatives helps us see how education can become a tool of empowerment and inclusion. The university represents not only an academic institution but also a bridge connecting tradition, knowledge, and modern aspirations for tribal youth.
About Sammakka Saralamma Central Tribal University
The Sammakka Saralamma Central Tribal University was established to serve as a dedicated higher education institution for tribal communities in Telangana and nearby regions. It aims to promote education, research, and development among Scheduled Tribes while preserving their unique cultural identities.
Located in Mulugu district, the university will offer undergraduate, postgraduate, and research programmes across disciplines, with a strong emphasis on:
- Tribal art, culture, and heritage studies
- Sustainable development and rural livelihoods
- Forest management and biodiversity
- Language preservation and social sciences
- Education, health, and skill-based training
The university’s establishment was announced under the Central Universities (Amendment) Bill, which received parliamentary approval in 2023. The creation of this university is part of the government’s commitment to improving access to quality education for tribal populations.
Meaning behind the new logo
The newly unveiled logo has been designed to represent the essence of tribal strength, creativity, and diversity. It features words from various tribal dialects, symbolising unity through linguistic variety. The design includes elements that highlight the deep connection between tribal life, nature, and cultural traditions.
Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan stated that the logo is not merely an emblem but a “visual expression of inclusion and empowerment.” It embodies the vision of the university — to nurture knowledge that draws from indigenous wisdom while preparing students for modern challenges.
Union Coal Minister G. Kishan Reddy also said that it is a matter of pride that the university carries the names of Sammakka and Saralamma, two legendary tribal women worshipped for their courage and leadership. Their story continues to inspire millions across Telangana and neighbouring states through the biennial Sammakka Saralamma Jatara, one of Asia’s largest tribal festivals.
Why this university matters
The Sammakka Saralamma Central Tribal University holds significant importance for both Telangana and India as a whole. For decades, tribal regions have faced barriers in accessing quality higher education. This institution aims to change that by creating an environment that values both traditional knowledge systems and modern learning opportunities.
Some key goals of the university include:
- Promoting inclusive education for tribal students
- Supporting research in indigenous culture, agriculture, and environmental conservation
- Providing vocational and skill-based courses to improve employability
- Encouraging innovation rooted in tribal wisdom and local practices
By combining traditional insights with modern research, the university can contribute to sustainable development while empowering tribal youth to become leaders in their communities.
Government’s vision for tribal education
The central government has been taking several steps to strengthen education for tribal communities across India. These include:
- Setting up new Eklavya Model Residential Schools (EMRS) in tribal-dominated areas
- Increasing scholarships for Scheduled Tribe students pursuing higher education
- Encouraging regional universities to establish departments for tribal studies
- Launching cultural preservation projects to document and revive tribal languages
The Sammakka Saralamma Central Tribal University is expected to play a key role in advancing this agenda. It will also work in partnership with state governments, local NGOs, and international academic institutions to create impactful learning and research networks.
A symbol of cultural pride
For Telangana, the naming of the university after Sammakka and Saralamma carries deep emotional and cultural meaning. These mother-daughter figures are symbols of strength and resistance against oppression. Their festival, held in Medaram, attracts millions of devotees every two years, showcasing the living traditions of tribal communities.
The university, through its name and logo, honours that legacy. It reminds us that education is not just about academics — it is about identity, belonging, and empowerment. By grounding modern education in the roots of local culture, the institution sends a powerful message: that progress does not mean leaving heritage behind, but building upon it.
