Thiruvananthapuram: “Bureaucracy is not about routine administration but also about transformation,” said Sarada Muraleedharan, an IAS officer of 1990 batch and Former Chief Secretary of the Government of Kerala, while addressing an audience at an event in Technopark, Thiruvananthapuram. The talk was part of a private company’s ‘Inspired Talks’ series, recently held to foster dialogue between technology innovators and leaders from diverse fields.
Transformative Role of Bureaucracy
Reflecting on her distinguished career, Ms Muraleedharan emphasized that bureaucrats are entrusted with the mandate to drive change. “Systems have constraints, but it is for you to innovate and continuously reinvent,” she said, urging the audience to look beyond routine governance towards transformative impact.
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Lessons from Kudumbashree Mission
Answering questions from the tech community, she recounted her experience leading the Kudumbashree Mission, Kerala’s acclaimed poverty eradication and women empowerment programme. “The women themselves were my biggest motivators,” she said, adding that understanding, listening, and acting as facilitators were critical factors in the mission’s success.
Breaking Stereotypes and Embracing Identity
Ms. Muraleedharan also shared personal reflections on overcoming subtle discrimination related to her dark skin tone, highlighting the importance of self-confidence and breaking stereotypes. “The key is finding beauty in what you are,” she said, encouraging others to embrace their identity while balancing professional responsibilities.
The Importance of People-to-People Connect
She stressed the significance of connecting with people at a human level, stating that such relationships are fundamental to effective leadership. On being asked about an occasion where she danced, she remarked, “Dance is an expression of freedom and happiness,” urging women to embrace such forms of joyful expression.
Diverse Career Highlights
Throughout her career, former IAS Muraleedharan has served in various prominent roles, including with the National Rural Livelihood Mission, the Ministry of Panchayati Raj, and the National Institute of Fashion Technology. Her multifaceted experience underlines the diversity of challenges and opportunities in public service.
