Telangana to Become the “Hub of Horti Start-ups” – Dr. Danda Raji Reddy
Hyderabad, November 6, 2024: Telangana is set to emerge as a major hub for horticulture start-ups, according to Dr. Danda Raji Reddy, Vice Chancellor of Sri Konda Laxman Telangana Horticultural University (SKLTGHU). The state, already a leader in producing turmeric, tomatoes, chillies, and leafy vegetables, offers vast potential for horticulture-based entrepreneurship. Dr. Reddy highlighted the growing preference for seed production of native vegetables, the vibrancy of beekeeping, and the innovative trend of “green gifting,” which is gaining popularity as a sustainable alternative to traditional presents.
Focus on Horticultural Heritage and Geographical Indication (GI)
Dr. Reddy stressed the university’s commitment to preserving Telangana’s horticultural heritage. SKLTGHU has already submitted a GI application for Warangal Chapata chilli and is conducting studies on Balanagar custard apple and Armoor turmeric with funding support from NABARD. The university also plans to apply for GIs for a range of other crops, including Nalgonda dosakaya, Jagtial podugu beera, and Siddipet ginger.
Bright Career Prospects for Graduates
SKLTGHU graduates are excelling in both government and private sectors. Many students have secured positions as horticulture officers in Telangana, with a significant share in government recruitment. Graduates are also working as scientists in ICAR institutions and other universities. The private sector offers ample opportunities in industries related to oil palm cultivation, landscaping, nurseries, and organic farming. Telangana’s targeted oil palm cultivation is providing immediate employment opportunities to horticulture graduates.
Rise of Horticulture Start-ups
Post-COVID, horticulture start-ups are witnessing significant growth, with 60% of them focusing on healthy and value-added horticultural products. Dr. Reddy emphasized that the future of start-ups lies in horticulture, with sectors like hydroponics, biotechnology, and exotic horticulture crops creating new career opportunities.
Unique Overseas Fellowship Program
In a unique initiative, the university sends two students annually to Auburn University in the United States under an overseas fellowship program funded by the Telangana government. Each student receives Rs 1.1 crore to support their education and research, providing them with international exposure.
Expansion of Research and Teaching Facilities
SKLTGHU continues to expand its reach across Telangana with three horticultural colleges, three polytechnics, eleven research stations, and one Krishi Vigyan Kendra. Two new colleges were sanctioned in 2023—one in Mahbubabad district and another in Nagarkurnool district. The university’s intake capacity includes 340 B.Sc. students, 42 M.Sc. students, and 9 Ph.D. candidates annually.
Additionally, the university offers affiliation to the Forest College and Research Institute (FCRI) in Mulugu, which offers undergraduate and postgraduate programs in forestry.
Accreditation and New Research Initiatives
All SKLTGHU colleges and programs are accredited by the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR). The university is actively facilitating the registration of farmers’ varieties, such as Nalgonda dosakaya. New research stations, including a sub-center for potato research in Sangareddy and a chilli and seed spice research station in Warangal, are set to begin operations soon.
With its commitment to research, teaching, and innovation, SKLTGHU is paving the way for Telangana to become a thriving hub for horticulture start-ups, offering bright prospects for students and contributing to the state’s agricultural heritage.
