Founder Chairman
Padma Bhushan Dr. B. V. Raju
1920–2002 · Founder Chairman, Sri Vishnu Educational Society
The story of Sri Vishnu Educational Society (SVES) is deeply rooted in the vision, values and extraordinary contributions of its Founder Chairman, Padma Bhushan Dr. B. V. Raju, a distinguished industrialist, philanthropist and educationist who firmly believed that education was the most powerful instrument for individual empowerment and societal transformation.
Born in Kumudavalli, near Bhimavaram in Andhra Pradesh, Dr. B. V. Raju rose from humble beginnings to become one of India’s respected industrial leaders. His remarkable professional journey included leadership of the Cement Corporation of India and the establishment of successful industrial enterprises, including the Raasi Group. His contributions to industry and society earned him the prestigious Padma Shri in 1977 and Padma Bhushan in 2001.
Despite his achievements in industry, Dr. B. V. Raju remained deeply committed to the development of his native region. He recognised that access to quality technical and professional education, particularly in semi-urban and rural communities, could transform the aspirations and economic prospects of generations of young people.
With this conviction, he established Sri Vishnu Educational Society in 1992, laying the foundation for an educational movement that would bring high-quality professional education closer to students in Andhra Pradesh and Telangana.
Under his visionary leadership, the Society established institutions in engineering, pharmacy, polytechnic education, computer education and women’s engineering education. His decision to establish institutions in locations such as Bhimavaram and Narsapur, rather than limiting them to metropolitan cities, reflected his belief that geographical location should never determine access to educational opportunity.
One of his most significant contributions was his commitment to women’s education and empowerment. The establishment of Shri Vishnu Engineering College for Women in Bhimavaram in 2001 reflected his progressive vision of enabling women to pursue professional careers, achieve economic independence and contribute to society.
Beyond education, his philanthropic initiatives through the Dr. B. V. Raju Foundation extended to rural development, healthcare and community welfare, demonstrating his conviction that institutions must serve a larger social purpose.
- 1977Padma Shri
- 1992Founded SVES
- 2001Padma Bhushan
- 2001Women’s engineering
college, Bhimavaram