Medchal-Malkajgiri District (మేడ్చల్-మల్కాజ్ గిరి జిల్లా) | Telangana State PSC (TSPSC): Preparation Course - TSPSC (Telangana) PDF Download

Formation of the Medchal-Malkajgiri District

• Following his appointment as the Chief Minister of Telangana, Sri KCR made a significant decision to restructure the state into 31 smaller districts from the previous 10 larger ones. This move aimed to enhance decentralized administration for the populace.
• The Medchal-Malkajgiri District was officially established as one of the 31 districts in Telangana on October 11, 2016. Keesara serves as the district's headquarters. It was separated from the Ranga Reddy district and currently spans 1,089 square kilometers. According to the 2011 Indian census, it stands as the state's second most populous district, with a population of 2,460,095 residents.
• At the time of its formation, the district comprised two revenue divisions: Keesara and Malkajgiri. These divisions were further divided into 14 mandals. Subsequently, Muduchintalapally was carved out from Shamirpet, resulting in a total of 15 mandals. The mandals include Alwal, Bachupally, Balanagar, Dundigal-Gandimaisamma, Kukatpally, Quthbullapur, Malkajgiri, Keesara, Ghatkesar, Medipally, Uppal, Kapra, Shamirpet, Medchal, and Muduchintalapally.

The Silent Feature of the District

District Overview

• This district is recognized as the most urbanized among the new districts established on October 11, 2016. It is surrounded by the Outer Ring Road (ORR) and boasts thriving industrial, educational, pharmaceutical, agricultural, and IT sectors.

Geographical and Administrative Structure

• The district comprises one Parliamentary Constituency, namely Malkajgiri, and five Assembly constituencies: Malkajgiri, Uppal, Kukatpally, Quthbullapur, and Medchal. Additionally, it includes partially two Assembly Constituencies, L.B Nagar and Sherilingampally.
• The district's landscape is divided into rural (8.6%) and urban (91.4%) areas. The Outer Ring Road serves as a boundary, splitting the district into two sections. Spanning an area of 1089 square kilometers, it is bordered by Siddipet District to the north, Yadadri District to the east, Hyderabad and Rangareddy Districts to the south, and Sangareddy & Rangareddy Districts to the west.

Demographic Insights

• The total population of the district amounts to 24,60,095 individuals, with 5,98,112 households recorded in the 2011 census. According to the SKS census of 2014, the number of households increased to 7,68,525.

Industrial Landscape

• Prominent industries in the district include Bulk Drug & Pharmaceutical units, Automobile, and Construction-based companies.
• Key public sector units include Nuclear Fuel Complex, ECIL, HAL, CCMB, NGRI, Dundigal Air Force Academy, and BEL (Production Unit) Division.
• The district is home to prestigious institutions such as the Institute of Public Enterprise (IPE), BITS PILANI – Hyderabad Campus, JNTU, NALSAR LAW University, Hakimpet Air Force Academy, Dundigal Airport, and CISF Headquarters.

Irrigation and Agriculture

• The district lacks major and medium surface irrigation projects but boasts 7540 Minor Irrigation Tanks.
• A significant producer of Horticulture, Vegetables, and Floriculture products, the district primarily serves the daily needs of Hyderabad – Secunderabad cities.

Healthcare Services

• Medical and health services are accessible through 7 Urban Primary Health Centers (UPHCs) and 2 Community Health Centers.
• Women & Child care services are facilitated via 793 Anganwadi centers.

Education Landscape

• There are 415 Primary, 467 UPS, 993 High Schools in both Government & Private sectors, with a total enrollment of 552,547 students. Additionally, there are 64,431 Junior Colleges, 248 Degree Colleges, 248 Engineering Colleges, 13 Polytechnic Colleges, and 2 Medical Colleges in the District.
• Sri Ramalingeshwara Swamy Temple, situated at Keesagiri in Keesara, stands as an ancient and renowned pilgrimage site within the District.

District Development

• The establishment of smaller districts and the Integrated Collectorate Complex near ORR Keesara have significantly enhanced public services by enabling better coordination among government departments.
• Notably, the District comprises 162 Revenue Villages, 15 Mandals, and 2 Revenue Divisions. It also includes 8 GHMC Circles, 13 Municipalities, and 61 Gram Panchayats.

Places of Interest

• Sri Ramalingeswara Swamy Temple, also known as Kesaragiri Kshetram, located in Keesaragutta, Telangana, is a venerable and historically significant temple in the state. It is situated in Keesara, Medchal Malkajgiri District, a mere 35 km away from the capital city of Hyderabad. According to traditional accounts, the temple dates back to the era of THRETHAYUGA. 
• Legend has it that after defeating Ravana, Lord Ramachandra wished to install 101 Shivalingams at this sacred site. To fulfill this, he instructed Sri Bhakta Hanuman to procure 101 Shivalingams from Varanasi. However, Sri Hanuman couldn't return in time for the auspicious moment, leading Lord Shiva to intervene. 
• Lord Shiva presented a self-manifested Shivalingam to Lord Ramachandra for installation at the designated place and time. Upon his delayed return, Sri Bhakta Hanuman, feeling disheartened, discarded the 101 Shivalingams he had brought from Varanasi. Over time, Kesarigiri transformed into "Keesara Gutta." The temple, housing the Swayambhu Swamy Shivalingam, was consequently named Sri Ramalingeshwara Swamy Devasthanam.

Shamirpet Lake

• Shamirpet Lake, also known as 'Pedda Cheruvu', stands out as a well-designed tourist attraction in Hyderabad, situated approximately 27 km from Secunderabad.
• This picturesque artificial lake epitomizes serenity and tranquillity, offering visitors a peaceful retreat.
• Adjacent to the lake lies the 'Jawahar Deer Park', enhancing the overall charm of the area. The sight of deer quenching their thirst along the lake's banks adds to the allure.
• The surroundings of the lake are adorned with lush greenery, featuring a variety of plant species and trees, creating a serene ambiance.
• Renovation efforts have been focused on the area, resulting in the installation of forest cottages near the lake to accommodate tourists conveniently.
• Boating is a popular activity at Shamirpet Lake, providing a delightful way to explore its natural beauty and surroundings.
• Photographers and bird-watchers find Shamirpet Lake to be an exceptional destination, offering unique opportunities for capturing natural beauty and wildlife.
• Unlike typical lakes found in India, Shamirpet Lake is a distinctive combination of a water reservoir and a deer park, attracting visitors from various parts of the world.
• The lake was originally excavated about five decades ago by a local 'Jagirdar', adding a historical touch to its formation.
• Within the lake premises, twelve cottages have been constructed, along with the establishment of a restaurant, enhancing the overall visitor experience.
• The ample tree cover around the lake provides refreshing shade and cool breezes, making it an ideal location for picnics and relaxation.
• Shamirpet Lake is a well-liked destination among photographers who enjoy capturing images of deer and the natural environment. The lake is also a haven for a diverse range of bird species, making it a perfect spot for bird enthusiasts. Visitors can engage in activities such as exploration or picnicking on the rocky terrain adjacent to the lake.
• While Shamirpet Lake is accessible throughout the year, the optimal time to plan a visit is between October and March, following the monsoon season. This period offers the most favorable weather conditions for an enjoyable experience.
• Shamirpet Lake provides a serene environment for those seeking peace and quiet. Its picturesque landscape, characterized by lush greenery, makes it an ideal setting for relaxation and quality time with loved ones. The adjacent deer park stands out as a key attraction, drawing locals who appreciate the fresh atmosphere and opportunities for family outings.

Key Features of Shamirpet Lake

• Popular destination for photographers capturing wildlife and nature scenes
• Diverse bird population, ideal for bird-watching enthusiasts
• Opportunities for exploration and picnicking on the lake's rocky terrain
• Optimal visitation period between October and March for pleasant weather
• Tranquil ambiance suitable for relaxation and spending time with family and friends
• Adjacent deer park serving as a major attraction for visitors
• Local hotspot for enjoying the natural beauty and engaging in recreational activities

Keesaragutta Temple

• The Sri Ramalingeswara Swamy Temple, also known as Kesaragiri Kshetram, located in Keesaragutta, is an ancient and historically significant temple in Telangana State. Positioned in Keesara (V & M) of Medchal Malkajgiri District, it is conveniently situated just 35 km away from the capital city of Hyderabad. According to tradition, the temple has been in existence since the Tretayuga period. It is believed that Lord Ramachandra himself visited this site after defeating Ravana and expressed his desire to install 101 shivalingams here.
• Sri Hanuman, tasked with bringing 101 Shivalingams from Varanasi, couldn't return in time for the auspicious moment. In response, Lord Shiva is said to have appeared before Sri Ramachandra and provided a self-manifested Shivalingam for installation at the designated spot at the appointed auspicious time. Upon Sri Hanuman's belated return with the Shivalingams from Varanasi, he was disheartened to find the self-manifested Shivalingam already installed. In frustration, he cast aside the 101 Shivalingams he had brought from Varanasi. Over time, Kesarigiri transformed into "Keesara Gutta." As the Shivalingam in the temple was believed to be self-manifested, it was named Sri Ramalingeshwara Swamy Devasthanam.

How to Reach

• If you plan to visit Sri Ramalingeshwara Swamy Devasthanam - Keesaragutta, ensure that your train stops at Gatkesar town. The distance between Gatkesar Railway Station and Sri Ramalingeshwara Swamy Devasthanam is approximately 15km. You will find several buses and local auto-rickshaws to Keesaragutta.
• Numerous private and state-owned buses operate to Hyderabad. From Hyderabad, various local buses, taxis, and autos are available. The Telangana Government also arranges special buses for devotees and tourists. Below are the bus numbers from Hyderabad city to Keesaragutta: TSRTC bus: 16A/242, 211C, 242G, 280B/K, 3H/242