Periyar University is a public state university in Salem, Tamil Nadu, established by the Government of Tamil Nadu on 17 September 1997 under the Periyar University Act, 1997. Named after social reformer E. V. Ramasamy, widely known as Thanthai Periyar, the university was created to expand access to higher education and research in western Tamil Nadu. Its territorial jurisdiction covers the districts of Salem, Namakkal, Dharmapuri and Krishnagiri, giving it a substantial regional role through university departments, affiliated colleges and academic support systems. The university’s teaching and research profile extends across sciences, humanities, social sciences, commerce, management, computer studies and interdisciplinary fields. Official materials emphasize research, extension, technology-enabled administration and inclusive educational opportunity as important parts of its institutional mission. Periyar University also operates a postgraduate and research centre at Dharmapuri, extending advanced study beyond the main Salem campus. Several academic departments trace their origins to the university’s founding years, while newer departments and specialized areas have been added as academic demand has broadened. The university has recognition under Sections 2(f) and 12(B) of the University Grants Commission Act and has undergone successive cycles of institutional accreditation. Its motto, commonly translated as “Wisdom Maketh the World,” reflects an emphasis on knowledge creation and social development. Student life is supported through library resources, research infrastructure, digital initiatives, academic cells and campus services designed for a large public-university community. The university’s academic organization has progressively encouraged multidisciplinary study and collaboration across science, technology, health-related research, humanities and social-science disciplines. Its location in Salem positions the institution within a major educational and industrial region while its jurisdiction links urban centres with rural and semi-urban student communities. Research and extension are closely connected to regional issues, including human health, environment, entrepreneurship and community development. This continuity remains central to its academic identity.