September 2025 - Page 5 of 8 - Telangana NavaNirmana Sena

Adani Gets Clean Chit, India-US Tariff Resolution Expected Soon The Indian financial markets experienced significant developments this week with three major announcements that could reshape investor sentiment and economic outlook. SEBI has cleared Adani Group of all Hindenburg allegations, India-US trade tensions may resolve within 8-10 weeks with tariffs potentially dropping from 50% to 10-15%, and market experts explain why portfolio performance doesn't always match Nifty movements. India-US trade negotiations symbolizing diplomatic cooperation SEBI Delivers Clean Chit to Adani Group in Hindenburg Case In a landmark decision that ends months of regulatory scrutiny, the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) has completely exonerated the Adani Group and Chairman Gautam Adani from all allegations made by US-based short-seller Hindenburg Research. The regulator's comprehensive investigation concluded that "no merit exists in allegations against the Adani Group" and that the questioned transactions were legitimate business dealings rather than fraudulent activities. The SEBI order specifically states that the controversial transactions did not qualify as "related party transactions" under the regulations that existed at the time. The regulator emphasized that the 2021 amendment to LODR (Listing Obligations and Disclosure Requirements) regulations was substantive and could not be applied retroactively to past transactions. Key findings of SEBI's investigation include: No violation of Securities and Exchange Board regulations No evidence of manipulation, fraud, or unfair trade practices All loans were repaid with interest and no funds were siphoned off The questioned transactions were with unrelated parties and thus not covered under related party transaction definitions This clean chit represents a massive relief for Adani Group, which saw its market capitalization plummet by billions following Hindenburg's January 2023 report. Gautam Adani responded to the vindication by demanding a "national apology" from those who spread "false narratives". In his statement, he emphasized: "After an exhaustive investigation, SEBI has reaffirmed what we have always maintained, that the Hindenburg claims were baseless". Indian stock market recovery with digital trading displays The stock market impact has been immediately positive, with several Adani Group companies showing strong recovery patterns. Recent trading sessions have witnessed significant rebounds, with some stocks gaining up to 54% in just three days following positive developments. Adani Green Energy, Adani Energy Solutions, and Adani Total Gas have been leading the recovery charge. India-US Trade Deal Breakthrough: Tariffs Set to Drop Dramatically India's Chief Economic Adviser V. Anantha Nageswaran has expressed strong optimism about resolving the ongoing India-US tariff dispute within the next 8-10 weeks. The current punitive tariffs, which effectively doubled import duties to 50% on Indian goods, could be significantly reduced in what would mark a major diplomatic and economic breakthrough. Current tariff structure and proposed changes: Additional 25% penalty tariff imposed by the US in August 2025 is "likely to be withdrawn after November 30" Reciprocal 25% tariff could be reduced to 10-15% This would bring total tariffs down from 50% to approximately 10-15% - a massive reduction benefiting Indian exporters US Tariff Impact on Indian Export Sectors: MSME Share and Export Dependency Analysis The tariff resolution comes as both nations engage in intensive trade negotiations. A US delegation recently met with Indian counterparts in daylong discussions lasting approximately seven hours. The talks are part of broader efforts to restore the strategic partnership that has been strained by trade disputes. Impact on Indian exporters and economy: Most affected sectors that stand to benefit significantly from tariff reduction include: Textiles and garments: 25% of India's total exports to US, with 70% MSME participation Gems and jewelry: 25% share in US exports, dominated by Surat's diamond industry with 80% MSME involvement Seafood products: 25% export share with 75% MSME participation Chemicals: 40% MSME share in this sector The economic benefits of tariff resolution are substantial. India's exports to the US account for $87 billion annually (equivalent to 2.5% of India's GDP). Industry estimates suggest the current tariffs could cause a $4-5 billion drop in engineering exports alone and reduce overall GDP growth by 0.2-0.5%. However, the negotiation process involves compromises from India's side. The US is likely to demand substantial concessions, particularly in defense procurement and technology transfers. India has reportedly proposed reducing its tariff differential with the US to under 4% from the current 13% - one of the most significant trade barrier reductions in recent history. Why Your Portfolio Performance Differs from Nifty Index Movements A common frustration among investors is witnessing Nifty and Sensex reaching new highs while their individual portfolios remain stagnant or decline. This disconnect has become particularly pronounced in recent months as indices touch record levels while many stocks underperform. Understanding the Index-Portfolio Gap: The Nifty 50 represents only 50 companies - the largest and most established firms in India - while the broader market contains over 1,500 listed companies. Most individual portfolios contain a diverse mix of mid-cap, small-cap, and sector-specific stocks that don't mirror the Nifty's composition. Key reasons for performance differences: Index concentration: Nifty 50 is heavily weighted toward large-cap stocks like Reliance, TCS, and HDFC Bank Portfolio diversification: Individual investors typically hold mid-cap, small-cap, and sector-specific stocks with different performance patterns Sectoral rotation: While banking and IT (major Nifty components) perform well, other sectors may lag Market breadth: Broader indices often underperform the headline Nifty 50 during certain market phases September 2024 market performance data shows this clearly: Nifty 50 gained 2.3% in September Mid-cap and small-cap indices showed mixed performance with different sectoral trends Nifty Metal gained 7% while PSU Banks declined 2% Professional investment advice suggests that comparing your portfolio directly to Nifty is often meaningless unless your portfolio mirrors the index composition. For investors seeking Nifty-like returns, the recommendation is to invest in Index ETFs or Index Mutual Funds that replicate the Nifty 50 performance exactly. Market Outlook and Investment Implications The convergence of these three developments creates a uniquely positive environment for Indian markets. The Adani clean chit removes a major overhang that had been affecting investor sentiment across multiple sectors, while the potential US tariff resolution could unlock significant export opportunities. Key investment themes emerging: Infrastructure and Power: Adani Group companies in ports, power transmission, and renewable energy could see renewed institutional interest following SEBI's clearance. Export-Oriented Sectors: Textiles, gems and jewelry, pharmaceuticals, and engineering goods companies could benefit substantially from reduced US tariffs. MSME-Focused Plays: Given that MSMEs comprise 70-80% of affected export sectors, companies and funds focused on this segment could outperform. The timeline for these developments suggests the next 2-3 months will be crucial for market direction. With tariff resolution expected by late November and Adani companies potentially regaining institutional investor confidence, the fourth quarter of FY25 could mark a significant turning point for Indian markets. Risk considerations remain around the actual implementation of tariff reductions and the terms of any India-US trade agreement. Additionally, global factors including US Federal Reserve policy and crude oil prices will continue influencing market performance regardless of these positive domestic developments.

NEWS

September 18, 2025

SEBI Grants Clean Chit to Adani Group in Hindenburg Saga

The Indian financial markets experienced significant developments this week with three major announcements that could reshape investor sentiment and economic…

NEWS

September 18, 2025

Kelly Brook’s Journey From Strictly Come Dancing to Marriage: The Truth Behind Her Cancelled Engagements

Kelly Brook, the English model and actress who captivated audiences on Strictly Come Dancing in 2007, has experienced one of the most…

The Communist Party of India (Maoist), commonly known as CPI (Maoist), represents one of the most persistent and complex insurgencies in contemporary India. This Marxist-Leninist-Maoist organization has been at the center of what former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh once described as the country's "biggest internal security challenge." As India approaches the government's self-imposed deadline of March 2026 to completely eradicate Maoist influence, understanding this organization's history, ideology, structure, and impact becomes crucial for comprehending modern India's security landscape. Map showing India's Red Corridor which highlights states affected by Maoist insurgency in dark red The CPI (Maoist) emerged from decades of revolutionary movements rooted in agrarian discontent and class struggle. Since its formation in 2004 through the merger of two major Maoist groups, the organization has challenged the Indian state across vast swathes of the country, particularly in the mineral-rich tribal belt known as the "Red Corridor." Despite significant government counter-insurgency efforts, the movement continues to operate across multiple states, adapting its strategies while maintaining its core objective of overthrowing the existing democratic structure through armed revolution. Historical Genesis and Evolution Roots in Peasant Uprisings The ideological foundations of CPI (Maoist) can be traced back to the Telangana Uprising (1946-1951), an armed peasant rebellion led by the Communist Party of India against feudal landlords and the princely state of Hyderabad. This uprising, along with the Tebhaga movement in Bengal (1946), established the precedent for communist-led agrarian struggles in India. However, both movements were eventually terminated following decisions by communist leadership in the USSR and India. The modern Maoist movement in India gained momentum with the 1967 Naxalbari uprising in West Bengal. On May 25, 1967, an armed peasant uprising led by Kanu Sanyal of the Communist Party of India (Marxist) erupted in Naxalbari village in Siliguri district. This 72-day rebellion, though crushed by police action, sparked a revolutionary movement that would eventually evolve into today's Maoist insurgency. Historical photo from the 1967 Naxalbari uprising, marking the beginning of the Naxalite movement in India Formation of CPI (Marxist-Leninist) and Subsequent Splits The Naxalbari movement led to the formation of the All India Coordination Committee of Communist Revolutionaries (AICCCR) in 1967, which later became the Communist Party of India (Marxist-Leninist) or CPI (ML) on April 22, 1969, under the leadership of Charu Mazumdar. The party adopted a strategy of armed struggle, rejecting parliamentary democracy in favor of revolutionary violence. However, the movement faced severe repression during the early 1970s. Operation Steeplechase, conducted jointly by the army and police from July 1 to August 15, 1971, resulted in the arrest of approximately 8,400 Naxalites, including top leadership. The death of Charu Mazumdar in police custody on July 28, 1972, led to the collapse of central authority and the fragmentation of the movement into numerous factions. The Path to Unification The 1980s witnessed the emergence of two major Maoist groups: the People's War Group (PWG) formed by Kondapalli Seetharamaiah in 1980, and the Maoist Communist Centre (MCC), which evolved from the earlier Dakshin Desh group. These organizations operated independently across different regions, with PWG primarily active in Andhra Pradesh and MCC concentrated in Bihar and Jharkhand. The 1990s marked a significant phase of reunification efforts. In September 1993, the MCC, PWG, and CPI (ML) Party Unity formed the All India People's Resistance Forum (AIPRF) to coordinate their activities. This collaboration eventually culminated in the historic merger of September 21, 2004, when the Communist Party of India (Marxist-Leninist) People's War and the Maoist Communist Centre of India united to form the Communist Party of India (Maoist). Organizational Structure and Leadership Hierarchical Command Structure The CPI (Maoist) operates through a sophisticated hierarchical structure designed to maintain discipline while ensuring operational flexibility. At the apex sits the Party Congress, convened every five years, which serves as the highest decision-making body. Between congresses, the Central Committee (CC) consisting of 37 members functions as the supreme authority, with a 14-member Politburo (PB) handling day-to-day affairs. The organizational hierarchy descends through Special Area Committees, State Committees, Regional Committees, Zonal Committees, Area Committees, and finally to the basic unit—the Party Cell comprising three to five members. This structure ensures both centralized ideological control and decentralized operational capability across diverse geographical regions. Central Military Commission and Armed Wing A crucial component of the CPI (Maoist) structure is the Central Military Commission (CMC), responsible for military strategy and the People's Liberation Guerrilla Army (PLGA). The CMC oversees several specialized departments including the Technical Research and Arms Manufacturing Unit (TRAM), Regional Commands, Special Action Teams, Military Intelligence, and the Tactical Counter Offensive Campaign. The PLGA, formed on December 2, 2000, represents the military arm of the organization with an estimated strength of 9,000-12,000 cadres. It operates through a three-tier structure: Main Force (companies and platoons), Secondary Force (guerrilla squads), and Base Force (people's militia and self-defense squads). In regions like Bastar, the people's militia alone is estimated to number 30,000 personnel. Leadership Evolution and Current Status Muppala Lakshmana Rao, alias Ganapathy, served as the General Secretary from 1992 until 2018, when he stepped down due to ill health and advancing age. His successor, Nambala Keshav Rao (alias Basavaraju), led the organization until his death in a security forces encounter on May 21, 2025. The current leadership structure remains largely secretive, though intelligence sources suggest that senior commanders from Andhra Pradesh or Telangana are likely to assume key positions. Ideological Framework and Strategic Vision Marxism-Leninism-Maoism as Guiding Ideology The CPI (Maoist) adheres to Marxism-Leninism-Maoism (MLM) as its ideological foundation, viewing it as the highest stage of communist thought. The organization's theoretical framework is based on Mao's Theory of Contradiction, which identifies four fundamental contradictions in Indian society: imperialism versus the Indian people, feudalism versus the broad masses, capital versus labor, and internal contradictions among ruling classes. According to CPI (Maoist) analysis, the contradiction between feudalism and the broad masses represents the principal contradiction requiring resolution through New Democratic Revolution (NDR). This theoretical framework justifies their strategy of armed struggle as the only viable path to social transformation. Strategic Objectives and Long-term Vision The organization's strategic vision encompasses both immediate and long-term objectives. Their Party Programme outlines several key goals: declaring India's 1947 independence as "fake," establishing political power through armed struggle, following the Chinese model of encircling cities from countryside, uniting with South Asian Maoist forces, supporting nationality struggles, and ultimately establishing a "People's Democratic Federal Republic of India". The CPI (Maoist) envisions their struggle progressing through three strategic stages: Strategic Defensive (current phase), Strategic Stalemate, and Strategic Offensive. In the current defensive phase, their immediate objectives include transforming guerrilla zones into liberated base areas and converting the PLGA into a full-fledged People's Liberation Army. Compact Revolutionary Zone Concept A central element of Maoist strategy involves creating a Compact Revolutionary Zone (CRZ) or "Red Corridor" extending from Pashupati (Nepal) to Tirupati (Andhra Pradesh). This ambitious plan aims to establish contiguous liberated territories across the mineral-rich tribal belt of central and eastern India, providing a secure base for expanding revolutionary activities nationwide. Current Operational Status and Geographical Presence The Shrinking Red Corridor The geographical extent of Maoist influence has undergone dramatic reduction in recent years due to sustained government counter-insurgency efforts. From a peak of 182 affected districts across 20 states in 2013, the number has steadily declined to just 38 districts in 2024, with projections indicating further reduction to 18 districts by 2025. Decline in Left Wing Extremism (LWE) affected districts in India from 2013 to 2025, showing the government's successful counter-insurgency efforts against CPI (Maoist) Currently, the CPI (Maoist) maintains significant presence in only six "most affected" districts: four in Chhattisgarh (Bijapur, Kanker, Narayanpur, and Sukma), one in Jharkhand (West Singhbhum), and one in Maharashtra (Gadchiroli). Additionally, six "districts of concern" require continued vigilance, spread across Andhra Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Odisha, and Telangana. Operational Capabilities and Tactics Despite territorial losses, the CPI (Maoist) continues to demonstrate sophisticated operational capabilities. The organization employs asymmetric warfare tactics including guerrilla attacks, improvised explosive devices (IEDs), abductions of government officials, and targeted assassinations of perceived "class enemies". Their strategy emphasizes mobility, local support, and exploitation of difficult terrain to evade security forces. The Maoists have developed expertise in manufacturing explosives using ammonium nitrate, often acquired through pilferage from mining operations. Intelligence reports indicate they have stockpiled significant quantities of weapons and explosive devices, including an estimated 6,000 rocket launchers. Their technical capabilities are enhanced by the Technical Research and Arms Manufacturing Unit, which focuses on indigenous weapons development. Government Response and Counter-Insurgency Strategy Evolution of Counter-Insurgency Approach The Indian government's response to the Maoist challenge has evolved from purely security-focused operations to a comprehensive strategy combining development initiatives with targeted military action. Initially, operations like the controversial Salwa Judum in Chhattisgarh (2005-2011) relied heavily on civilian militia, but these were disbanded by Supreme Court order due to human rights violations. The current approach, formalized under Operation SAMADHAN (launched in 2017), emphasizes a multi-pronged strategy encompassing security, development, infrastructure, public perception management, and coordination between various agencies. The government has set an ambitious target of completely eliminating Maoist influence by March 31, 2026. Recent Operational Successes Government forces have achieved significant tactical successes in recent years. In 2024 alone, 219 Maoist cadres were eliminated compared to just 22 in 2023 and 30 in 2022, marking a sharp escalation in counter-insurgency effectiveness. By March 2025, security forces had killed 90 Maoists, arrested 104, and facilitated the surrender of 164 others. The establishment of 280 new security camps since 2019, creation of 15 Joint Task Forces, and deployment of six additional CRPF battalions has significantly enhanced the government's operational capacity. These measures have been complemented by National Investigation Agency actions targeting Maoist financing networks and logistics support systems. Development and Infrastructure Initiatives Recognizing that security operations alone cannot address the root causes of insurgency, the government has substantially increased development spending in affected areas. Under the Special Central Assistance scheme, the most affected districts receive ₹30 crore annually while districts of concern receive ₹10 crore for infrastructure development. The "Dharti Aaba Janjatiya Gram Utkarsh Abhiyan" launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in October 2024 represents a comprehensive rural development initiative targeting over 15,000 villages and benefiting nearly 1.5 crore people in LWE-affected areas. The program focuses on improving connectivity (roads, mobile networks, and financial services) to integrate remote tribal areas into the mainstream economy. Human Rights Concerns and Civil Society Impact Violations by Both Sides The Maoist conflict has resulted in serious human rights violations by both insurgents and security forces, with civilian populations bearing the brunt of violence. According to government data, since 2001, Maoists have killed 5,811 civilians and 2,081 security personnel, with the overwhelming majority of civilian casualties being tribals whose cause the Maoists claim to champion. Maoist abuses include targeted killings, public executions through "people's courts," forced recruitment of children, sexual exploitation of women cadres, and coerced abortions. The organization's system of "levies" (extortion) and violent punishment of suspected informers has created a climate of fear in affected areas. Security forces have also committed significant violations, including arbitrary arrests, torture, extrajudicial killings, and collective punishment of villages suspected of Maoist sympathies. The now-disbanded Salwa Judum and Special Police Officers (SPOs) were particularly criticized for human rights abuses, leading to their prohibition by the Supreme Court in 2011. Impact on Civil Society and Development Civil society activists working in Maoist-affected areas face threats from both sides, with Maoists labeling them as police informers while security forces demand intelligence cooperation. This environment has severely constrained humanitarian work and development activities in affected regions. The insurgency has significantly hindered economic development in mineral-rich tribal areas, with Maoists targeting infrastructure projects, schools, and health centers as symbols of state authority. The disruption of governance structures and intimidation of local officials has created a vacuum that Maoists exploit to establish parallel administrative systems. International Context and Global Maoist Networks South Asian Connections The CPI (Maoist) has consistently pursued regional connections with other Maoist groups across South Asia. The organization's program explicitly calls for uniting with Maoist forces in the region to overthrow the Indian state. While concrete evidence of substantial material support remains limited, ideological exchanges and coordination with groups in Nepal and other countries have been documented. The organization's vision of revolution extends beyond national boundaries, viewing their struggle as part of a broader international communist movement. This perspective influences their strategic thinking and provides ideological justification for their activities within a global revolutionary framework. Learning from Global Insurgencies CPI (Maoist) strategy demonstrates adaptation of successful insurgency models from other countries, particularly drawing from Chinese communist revolution experiences and Vietnamese anti-colonial struggles. Their emphasis on protracted people's war, base area development, and gradual territorial expansion reflects classical Maoist strategic thinking adapted to Indian conditions. The organization has also studied more recent insurgencies, incorporating modern communication technologies, sophisticated explosive devices, and urban networks into their traditional rural guerrilla warfare approach. Future Prospects and Challenges Declining Influence and Structural Weaknesses Multiple factors indicate the CPI (Maoist) faces increasingly difficult circumstances. The dramatic reduction in affected districts, elimination of senior leadership, and improved security force capabilities suggest the movement's territorial control is contracting rapidly. The death of experienced leaders like Basavaraju has created leadership gaps that may be difficult to fill with equally capable successors. Ideological appeal appears to be waning, particularly among educated youth who historically formed an important recruitment base. Improved government development programs and better connectivity in tribal areas have reduced the organization's ability to exploit grievances and maintain local support. Persistent Challenges and Resilience Factors Despite setbacks, several factors suggest the Maoist challenge may persist beyond the government's 2026 deadline. The organization's decentralized structure, deep forest hideouts, and remaining sympathizer networks provide resilience against security operations. Persistent issues of tribal land rights, displacement due to mining projects, and inadequate development may continue providing recruitment opportunities. The CPI (Maoist) has demonstrated adaptive capacity throughout its history, surviving multiple leadership crises and security crackdowns. Their underground organizational structure and experience in clandestine operations suggest they may survive the current pressure and potentially resurge if conditions become favorable. Government Strategy Assessment The current government approach shows greater sophistication than previous purely security-focused strategies. The combination of targeted military operations, development spending, and infrastructure improvement addresses both immediate security threats and underlying socio-economic grievances. However, success requires sustained commitment across multiple administrations and continued coordination between central and state governments. The March 2026 deadline, while providing focus and urgency, may be overly optimistic given the complex nature of the challenge and historical resilience of the movement. Conclusion The Communist Party of India (Maoist) represents a unique phenomenon in contemporary insurgency movements—a Marxist-Leninist organization that has sustained armed struggle for over five decades while adapting to changing political, social, and security environments. From its origins in the 1967 Naxalbari uprising to its current incarnation as India's primary left-wing extremist group, the CPI (Maoist) has consistently challenged the Indian state's authority in some of its most marginalized regions. The organization's sophisticated ideological framework, hierarchical structure, and strategic vision demonstrate the complexity of addressing insurgency rooted in genuine socio-economic grievances. While recent government efforts have significantly reduced Maoist territorial control and operational capacity, complete elimination remains a formidable challenge requiring sustained multi-dimensional engagement. The conflict's resolution ultimately depends not merely on security operations but on addressing the underlying issues of tribal rights, economic development, and social justice that provide legitimacy to the Maoist narrative. As India approaches the government's self-imposed 2026 deadline, the success of counter-insurgency efforts will be measured not just by the absence of violence but by the integration of marginalized communities into the mainstream of Indian democracy and development. The CPI (Maoist) phenomenon serves as a reminder that in diverse democracies like India, ensuring inclusive development and responsive governance remains essential for maintaining internal stability and national unity. The organization's eventual fate will significantly influence India's security landscape and provide important lessons for addressing ideologically motivated insurgencies in other contexts worldwide.

NEWS

September 16, 2025

Rise and Fall of Communist Party of India (Maoist)

The Communist Party of India (Maoist), commonly known as CPI (Maoist), represents one of the most persistent and complex insurgencies…

Private professional and degree colleges across Telangana have commenced an unprecedented indefinite strike from September 15, 2025, coinciding with Engineers Day, which they are observing as "Black Day" to protest the state government's failure to release pending fee reimbursement dues totaling ₹8,000 crore. The Federation of Associations of Telangana Higher Institutions (FATHI) announced this historic closure, affecting over 10 lakh students and 2,000 educational institutions across the state. College students sitting and raising fists in protest during a strike over fee reimbursement issues in Telangana The crisis represents a fundamental breakdown in Telangana's higher education financing system, where the Reimbursement of Tuition Fee (RTF) scheme has left private colleges struggling with unpaid dues dating back several years. Faculty and staff salaries remain unpaid for months, forcing institutions into severe financial distress while students face academic disruptions and uncertainty about their educational future. The Magnitude of Telangana's Education Financial Crisis The scope of the fee reimbursement crisis extends far beyond simple administrative delays. Private colleges in Telangana collectively face outstanding dues of approximately ₹8,000 crore accumulated over the past five years, with immediate demands focusing on ₹1,200 crore worth of already-generated tokens for which budgetary allocations have been made. Professional colleges, including engineering, pharmacy, MBA, MCA, and B.Ed institutions, bear the brunt of these financial pressures as they depend heavily on government reimbursements for their operational sustainability. Financial breakdown of outstanding fee reimbursement dues in Telangana's higher education sector The financial breakdown reveals multiple layers of the crisis affecting different educational sectors. Degree and postgraduate colleges separately demand ₹1,800 crore in pending reimbursements, with managements seeking immediate release of at least ₹750 crore for which tokens have already been generated. These institutions emphasize their inability to continue operations without government intervention, as most technical colleges rely predominantly on RTF funds for their survival. FATHI representatives have submitted detailed proposals to establish sustainable funding mechanisms, including a Fee Funding Bank with deposits worth ₹1 lakh crore, utilizing CSR funds and corpus contributions to generate annual interest of approximately ₹3,000 crore for clearing fee dues. However, the state government has not responded to these innovative funding proposals, forcing colleges into the unprecedented step of indefinite closure. Engineers Day Transformed into Black Day: A Historic Protest The decision to observe Engineers Day as Black Day carries profound symbolic significance for Telangana's educational community. September 15, traditionally celebrated as Engineers Day to honor the birth anniversary of Bharat Ratna Sir Mokshagundam Visvesvaraya, has been transformed into a day of protest and mourning for the state of professional education. Portrait of Mokshagundam Visvesvaraya, commemorated on Engineers Day in India Sir Mokshagundam Visvesvaraya, born on September 15, 1861, stands as one of India's most distinguished civil engineers whose contributions to infrastructure development, irrigation systems, and educational institutions earned him the title "Father of Modern Mysore". His pioneering work on major projects including the Krishna Raja Sagara Dam and the Khadakwasla Dam revolutionized water management and agricultural development across southern India. FATHI officials express that if Sir Visvesvaraya were alive today, he would be deeply saddened by the current state of professional education in Telangana. The transformation of his birth anniversary into a protest day underscores the severity of the crisis affecting institutions that should ideally honor his legacy of engineering excellence and educational advancement. The symbolic choice reflects broader frustrations within the educational community about the government's priorities and commitment to higher education. Private college managements emphasize that observing Black Day represents not just a protest against financial neglect, but a fundamental questioning of the state's commitment to technical education and professional development. FATHI's Comprehensive Demands and Government Response The Federation of Associations of Telangana Higher Institutions has presented a structured set of demands designed to address both immediate financial pressures and long-term sustainability concerns. The primary demands include immediate release of ₹1,200 crore in already budgeted amounts before Dussehra, release of all pending dues from previous years before December 31, 2025, and establishment of a new reimbursement system applicable from the 2025-26 academic year. FATHI's five-point demand framework encompasses release of the feasibility report on the Trust Bank proposal by October 31, 2025, and clearance of all fee reimbursement dues for the academic year 2025-26 before March 31, 2026. These demands reflect a comprehensive approach to resolving both historical arrears and preventing future accumulation of unpaid dues. The state government's response has involved high-level meetings with Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy reviewing the issue with finance and education departments regarding phased clearance of fee reimbursement arrears. Deputy Chief Minister and Finance Minister Mallu Bhatti Vikramarka has held discussions with FATHI representatives, promising to meet again to work out solutions. However, college managements express skepticism about government assurances without concrete action. FATHI Chairman N. Ramesh Babu emphasizes that the strike will not be withdrawn based on assurances alone, demanding immediate release of at least partial arrears as proof of government commitment. The organization has set September 21 as a deadline for government response, warning of massive protests with lakhs of students on September 23-24 if issues remain unresolved. Impact on Faculty, Staff, and Academic Operations The fee reimbursement crisis has created a humanitarian disaster within Telangana's private higher education sector. Faculty and staff across institutions have not received salaries for several months, forcing many educators to struggle with basic daily needs and abandon their duties. This salary crisis directly impacts academic quality and institutional operations, as experienced faculty members leave their positions due to financial pressures. Educational institutions report severely disrupted academic activities as unpaid faculty members become unable to continue their responsibilities. The approaching Dussehra festival season intensifies the hardship for thousands of families dependent on college salaries, creating additional emotional and financial stress. College administrators describe the situation as reaching "unbearable levels" with faculty morale at "all-time lows". The crisis extends beyond immediate financial hardships to affect long-term institutional sustainability and academic standards. Private colleges emphasize their inability to maintain infrastructure, purchase essential equipment, or invest in educational improvements while struggling with basic operational costs. This deterioration threatens the quality of technical education that these institutions provide to students from diverse socioeconomic backgrounds. Students face multiple challenges including academic disruptions, uncertainty about examination schedules, and delays in certificate issuance. Many students who completed their education 1-2 years ago remain unable to pursue further studies or secure employment because colleges withhold original educational certificates due to unpaid government reimbursements. This situation forces students to approach courts merely to obtain their own academic credentials. The Fee Reimbursement Scheme: Structure and Challenges Telangana's Reimbursement of Tuition Fee (RTF) scheme represents a crucial welfare initiative designed to support students from SC, ST, BC, EBC, and minority communities in accessing higher education. The scheme covers non-refundable fees charged by colleges as fixed by universities and regulatory bodies, with reimbursement amounts ranging from ₹850 for intermediate courses to ₹6.90 lakh for medical courses per annum per student. The RTF system operates through different group classifications with varying fee ranges. Group-I professional courses receive reimbursements from ₹23,000 to ₹6,90,000, while Group-II postgraduate courses range from ₹3,610 to ₹92,000. Group-III degree academic courses receive ₹1,500 to ₹20,000, and Group-IV intermediate level courses range from ₹850 to ₹16,400. The scheme's eligibility criteria ensure comprehensive coverage for disadvantaged communities. All SC, ST, and minority students receive full tuition fee reimbursement regardless of college and course of study. Students from other communities who studied in government colleges or achieved specific EAMCET ranks up to 10,000 also qualify for full fee reimbursement. However, the implementation of this well-intentioned scheme has encountered significant administrative and financial challenges. The government's delayed release of allocated funds creates a cascade effect where colleges cannot pay faculty salaries, maintain operations, or provide quality education. The token generation system, designed to streamline payments, has become a source of frustration as generated tokens worth ₹1,200 crore remain unreleased despite budgetary allocations. Government's Proposed Solutions and Industry Reactions The Telangana government has proposed several measures to address the fee reimbursement crisis, including a college grading system that would prioritize fund disbursement based on institutional quality parameters. Chief Minister Revanth Reddy has directed that colleges be categorized into A, B, C, and D grades, with top-rated institutions receiving priority in fee reimbursement releases. This grading approach considers factors such as education quality, infrastructure availability, and compliance with AICTE/UGC norms regarding staff salary payments. The government argues that this system would ensure better utilization of public funds while incentivizing institutional improvements. However, private college managements have criticized this approach as another diversionary tactic that fails to address the fundamental issue of delayed payments. FATHI representatives argue that introducing additional bureaucratic processes will further delay much-needed financial relief while institutions continue struggling with basic operational challenges. The government has also initiated discussions about implementing facial-recognition-based attendance systems linked to fee reimbursement schemes. College managements view this technological solution as inappropriate during a fiscal emergency, arguing that such measures only add to administrative burdens while failing to resolve the core financial crisis. Educational institutions emphasize that these proposed solutions, while potentially valuable for long-term improvements, do not address the immediate humanitarian crisis affecting faculty livelihoods and student welfare. They demand concrete action on pending arrears before engaging in discussions about future policy modifications. Student Organizations and Political Responses The Students Federation of India (SFI) Telangana Committee has extended full support to private professional and degree colleges in their indefinite closure decision. SFI President S. Rajinikanth and Secretary T. Nagaraju have criticized the Congress government for failing to fulfill pre-election promises regarding fee reimbursement dues and establishment of transparent systems. SFI highlights the additional challenges faced by students who are forced to approach courts merely to obtain their educational certificates while college managements withhold documents due to non-payment of government dues. The student organization describes the government's silence and inaction as "nothing short of outrageous" for an administration that claims to represent people's interests. Political responses have emphasized the broader implications of the educational crisis for Telangana's development and social welfare commitments. Opposition parties have criticized the Congress government's handling of education financing, arguing that the crisis undermines the state's commitment to accessible higher education for marginalized communities. The crisis has also drawn attention to the sustainability of welfare schemes that depend heavily on government funding without adequate fiscal planning. Political observers note that the fee reimbursement issue reflects broader challenges in balancing welfare commitments with available financial resources. Long-term Implications and Path Forward The indefinite strike by Telangana's private colleges represents more than an immediate financial dispute; it highlights fundamental questions about the sustainability of higher education financing and the state's commitment to educational access. The crisis affects over 10 lakh students across 2,000 institutions, creating long-term consequences for human capital development and social mobility. The situation threatens to undermine decades of progress in expanding higher education access for students from disadvantaged communities. The RTF scheme has enabled thousands of SC, ST, BC, and minority students to pursue professional education that would otherwise remain financially inaccessible. The current crisis jeopardizes this progress and may force many students to abandon their educational aspirations. Educational institutions emphasize that resolving the current crisis requires both immediate financial relief and long-term structural reforms. FATHI's proposal for establishing a Fee Funding Bank with corpus contributions and CSR funding represents an innovative approach to creating sustainable financing mechanisms that reduce dependence on annual government budget allocations. The strike's continuation depends on the government's willingness to provide concrete commitments rather than mere assurances. With the September 21 deadline approaching and planned massive protests on September 23-24, the situation may escalate further unless meaningful progress occurs in negotiations. The transformation of Engineers Day into Black Day serves as a powerful reminder that educational crises require urgent attention and sustainable solutions that honor the legacy of pioneers like Sir Mokshagundam Visvesvaraya. The resolution of Telangana's fee reimbursement crisis will ultimately determine whether the state can maintain its commitment to inclusive higher education while establishing fiscally sustainable systems for future generations. The current standoff represents a critical moment that will shape the landscape of private higher education in Telangana for years to come.

Telangana State

September 14, 2025

Private Colleges Strike: Engineers Day Marked as Black Day Over Fee Reimbursement Crisis

Private professional and degree colleges across Telangana have commenced an unprecedented indefinite strike from September 15, 2025, coinciding with Engineers…

Telangana State