Smita Sabharwal, a senior Indian Administrative Service (IAS) officer, has been transferred from her position as Secretary of the Telangana Youth Advancement, Tourism & Culture Department to the role of Member Secretary of the Telangana State Finance Commission. This move follows a significant reshuffle of 26 IAS officers by the Telangana government in January 2024.
During her tenure in the Tourism Department, Sabharwal introduced the 2025–30 Tourism Policy, marking a significant milestone in the state’s tourism development. She also laid the groundwork for the upcoming Miss World event in Hyderabad, aiming to enhance the city’s global profile. Her contributions have been widely acknowledged, with many praising her efforts to revitalize the state’s tourism sector.
In response to her transfer, Sabharwal expressed her gratitude and commitment to her new role through a post on X (formerly Twitter), quoting the Bhagavad Gita verse: “Karmanye Vadhikaraste, Ma Phaleshu Kadachana,” emphasizing her dedication to duty. She also highlighted her personal connection to the tourism initiatives, noting that her family had visited Kashmir, reinforcing her belief in the unity and integrity of the nation.
Political analysts suggest that her transfer may be linked to a recent controversy involving land allocation in Kanch Gachibowli, where Sabharwal had publicly questioned the government’s stance. This incident has sparked discussions about the factors influencing administrative decisions in the state.
As Member Secretary of the Telangana State Finance Commission, Sabharwal is expected to play a crucial role in advising the state government on financial matters, contributing to the formulation of fiscal policies that impact the state’s development.
For more detailed information on her new responsibilities and the context of her transfer, you can refer to the official reports and analyses provided by Telangana’s administrative sources.
