'Faith in Decentralization of Power'; Sarada Muraleedharan talks to Kerala Kaumudi

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Sarada Muraleedharan, who will succeed her husband V Venu as Chief Secretary, believes in decentralization. Here is her interview with Kerala Kaumudi.

How to overcome the financial crisis in the state?

Turn crisis into opportunities. Fundraising should be enhanced through innovative means. There should also be an intervention to improve the GDP of the state. Will try that.

You will be in this post for eight months, what will be your priorities?

Wayanad rehabilitation, Garbage-free Kerala mission project and extreme poverty alleviation are priorities. Improving the quality of 'ease of doing business' is important. Kerala is doing better in sustainable development.

How will Wayanad rehabilitation be implemented?

Today I am visiting Wayanad. Will participate in consultations with people in Kalpetta and Muttil. As it is an environmentally sensitive area, the master plan should be prepared very carefully. What is needed is an environment-friendly intervention that includes the needs and aspirations of the affected population. A detailed plan is required for the rehabilitation of each family.

Fifth woman to become Chief Secretary in Kerala. How do you see it?

When I joined the service, Female representation was just 8 to 10 per cent. When the new generation came in, it rose above 30 per cent. At one time there were women collectors in all 9 districts of the state. Change is always good.

Any message to IAS aspirants?

You will see many interesting things at work. However, the emphasis should be on the long-term impact. We create a system that should work fine even in our absence.

What advice have you received from Current Chief Secretary V Venu?

We have been trading advice and opinions, since the day we met.