SKL Telangana Horticultural University Bags Best University Award from IIT Bombay for Open-Source Education Initiative
Hyderabad, July 17, 2025:
Sri Konda Laxman Telangana Horticultural University (SKLTHU) has been conferred with the Best University Award by the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Bombay, in recognition of its outstanding support in promoting Free and Open-Source Software for Education (FOSSEE-GIS) and active participation in geospatial initiatives.
The award was presented during the Open-Source GIS Day Celebrations and National Geospatial Awards 2025 (Edition 02), organized by the FOSSEE Project of IIT Bombay under the aegis of the National Mission on Education through ICT (NMEICT), Ministry of Education, Government of India.
Dr. D. Raji Reddy, Vice Chancellor of SKLTHU, received the award at the ceremony held on July 17 at IIT Bombay. The award was presented by Shri Kiran Kumar, Former Chairman of the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), who graced the occasion as Chief Guest.
Speaking at the event, Dr. Raji Reddy, a noted climatologist, highlighted the crucial role of Geographic Information System (GIS) mapping in revolutionizing the horticulture sector. He stated that SKLTHU is already implementing GIS in mapping horticultural orchards and emphasized that Telangana farmers will greatly benefit from these applications in the coming years. He also announced that the university will soon host a GIS Hackathon to further explore innovative applications of geospatial technology in horticulture.
Dr. A. Bhagwan, Registrar, and Dr. K. Veeranjaneyulu, Consultant, also attended the award ceremony.
In another proud moment for the university, Dr. K. Veeranjaneyulu was honored with the Excellence in Outreach Award by FOSSEE for his sustained efforts in promoting open-source geospatial technologies and educational outreach.
