Thiruvananthapuram: Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan paid glowing tribute to outgoing Chief Secretary Sarada Muraleedharan, praising her for a career marked by integrity, courage, and administrative excellence, during her official farewell at the Secretariat’s Durbar Hall.
Describing her tenure as a benchmark for public service, the CM said Sarada rose to the top post during challenging times and left behind a legacy of impactful leadership in projects like the Wayanad resettlement, Vizhinjam seaport planning, and the state’s anti-drug drive. “She upheld personal integrity while demonstrating high professional competence,” he noted.
In a male-dominated bureaucratic space, Sarada stood out as a powerful example of women’s leadership, pushing back against social injustices and discrimination. The CM commended her activism and bold stands on sensitive issues like caste and racial inequities.
From palliative care to tribal upliftment, waste management to women’s empowerment through Kudumbashree, Sarada’s contributions reshaped governance in Kerala. Her grassroots-focused, humane approach to administration, coupled with swift policy decisions at the state and central levels, won wide appreciation.
Accepting a commemorative memento from the CM, Sarada said she was proud to be part of Kerala’s transformative journey. “To work on causes I deeply care about, including decentralized planning and women’s rights, has been truly fulfilling,” she said. She emphasized that Kerala’s model of sustainable, inclusive development is gaining global recognition.
Newly appointed Chief Secretary A. Jayathilak welcomed guests, while Additional Chief Secretary K.R. Jyothilal delivered the vote of thanks. The event was attended by ministers, top bureaucrats, and well-wishers from across departments.
