The Central Universities (Amendment) Bill, 2023, passed by the Lok Sabha last week, seeks to amend the Central Universities Act, 2009, which governs the establishment of central universities dedicated to teaching and research across various states. The bill was moved by the Union Minister for Education Dharmendra Pradhan for further consideration and passage and passed through a voice vote.

The proposed legislation aims to establish a central tribal university in the State of Telangana, to be named 'Sammakka Sarakka Central Tribal University'. Key highlights of the bill include the establishment of the 'Sammakka Sarakka Central Tribal University' in Telangana, with territorial jurisdiction extending to the state. The envisioned institution is poised to serve as a hub for higher education and research, with a specific focus on empowering the tribal communities of India. It is worth noting that the Andhra Pradesh Reorganisation Act, 2014, which carved out Telangana from Andhra Pradesh, mandates the central government to establish a tribal university in the newest Indian state.