Telangana Tribal Welfare Residential Degree College for Women, Devarakonda, stands as a beacon of empowerment and education for Tribal communities, especially for the Banjara, Chenchu, Koya, and other primitive tribal groups. Established in 2017 under the jurisdiction of Mahatma Gandhi University, Nalgonda, the institution has been dedicated to creating vibrant centres for learning, fostering a congenial atmosphere for tribal students to excel academically, and nurturing them into ethically strong, independent individuals for a better tomorrow.

One of the distinctive features of this institution is its 90% accessibility for primitive tribal communities, ensuring that education reaches those who need it the most. In July 2022, the college achieved a significant milestone by being granted UGC 2F status, a testament to its commitment to quality education.

The institution's mission goes beyond traditional academic pursuits. It focuses on holistic development, aiming to create well-rounded individuals. A key strategy in achieving this vision was the introduction of Student Self Help Groups (SSHGs) in March 2022. Despite the rural background of the students, the institution has witnessed remarkable creativity in various aspects among its students.

SSHGs play a pivotal role in the college's educational landscape. These groups serve as valuable communities where students share experiences, support each other, and develop essential life skills through various activities. The institution recognizes the importance of empowering women and promoting vocational education and workmanship skills. The SSHGs have become platforms for the exchange of ideas, enhancing decision-making capacity, and fostering a sense of discipline, responsibility, cooperation, mutual trust, and human relations among the students.

The college has successfully organized five women's self-help groups, each with a specific focus, namely the Garden Cell, Creativity Cell, Commerce Cell, Entrepreneur Cell, and Community Outreach Cell. These cells consist of a mentor, president, vice president, treasurer, and members, working together to achieve common goals.

Under the umbrella of SSHGs, a variety of activities have been conducted, showcasing the diverse talents and interests of the students. The Community Outreach Cell, for instance, contributed to environmental sustainability by creating eco-friendly Ganesha. The Creativity Cell engaged in artistic endeavours by crafting greeting cards, while the Commerce Cell ventured into entrepreneurial activities by organizing food stalls. The Entrepreneur Cell showcased talents through a mehndi stall and a hairdressing show, contributing to experiential learning.

These activities not only serve as platforms for students to showcase their talents but also provide practical experiences in entrepreneurship and community engagement. The initiative to involve the community in these endeavours adds a layer of inclusivity, creating a positive impact beyond the college campus.

In summary, Telangana Tribal Welfare Residential Degree College for Women, Devarakonda, has not only become a centre for academic excellence but also a hub for fostering creativity, entrepreneurship, and community engagement. The institution's commitment to empowering tribal women and providing them with opportunities for holistic development is evident in the successful implementation of Student Self Help Groups and the diverse range of activities conducted under their purview. As the institution continues to shape the future of its students, it serves as a model for inclusive education and community-driven initiatives.

Evidence of success of Self- Help Groups:

Self-Help Groups (SHGs) have demonstrated remarkable success through their multifaceted initiatives, leaving an indelible mark on both the community and the environment. One noteworthy achievement lies in the funds generated through SSHGs were not amassed for personal gain but were selflessly donated to charitable causes.

• Amount collected in Mehandi art, hair styling was given for charity.
• Amount collected in commerce food fest was donated to college for pots during summer.
• Amount collected by selling eco-friendly Ganesha idol was given to college treasury.
• Amount collected in selling silk thread jewellery was given to college.

The involvement of SHGs in the National Service Scheme (NSS) special camp at Mainampally village underscores their dedication to community service. Offering free Mehandi art to villagers exemplifies their philanthropic ethos, showcasing a commitment to giving back to society beyond monetary contributions. Moreover, their active participation in college events, crafting invitations, diyas, and origami flowers, illustrates their versatility and readiness to engage in diverse activities.

A defining feature of these SHGs is their overarching goal of fostering sustainability. The focus on developing empathy, aesthetic sense, and coordination among students reflects a holistic approach to education, transcending traditional academic boundaries. The emphasis on sustainable practices, evident in initiatives like selling eco-friendly Ganesha idols, aligns with broader environmental concerns, fostering a sense of responsibility towards the planet.

In essence, the success of these SHGs lies not only in the tangible outcomes of their fundraising efforts but also in the intangible impact on the community and the collective consciousness of participating students. Through their diverse activities and unwavering commitment to societal and environmental well-being, these SHGs serve as exemplars of positive change within the college ecosystem and beyond.

Institutional Distinctiveness Proofs