PROFESSIONS, CHECKERED CAREER, AND LESSONS-PART FOUR (From Librarian to CPRO to CM KCR) ...... A Journey from Khangi School to Center for Excellence : Vanam Jwala Narasimha Rao

 PROFESSIONS, CHECKERED CAREER, 

AND LESSONS-PART FOUR

(From Librarian to CPRO to CM KCR)

A Journey from Khangi School to

Center for Excellence

Vanam Jwala Narasimha Rao

Prefatory Note

(These reflections arise from close observation and lived experience during a defining phase in the history of Telangana. They are offered with deep respect for Kalvakuntla Chandrashekhar Rao—a leader of rare intellectual depth, political courage, and unwavering commitment to the idea of Telangana. What follows is not merely recollection, but an attempt to record how vision, resolve, and governance converged to shape a people’s destiny.

While this narrative draws upon a professional journey that spans eleven organizations and multiple institutional settings, it consciously begins with the final and most consequential phase of that journey. A brief reference to my academic formation is included at the outset only to provide essential context, before the account moves directly into the concluding chapter of my professional life.}

KCR often described the long, untold, and miserable story of irrigation in Telangana as rivaling the great epics in sheer volume. From this understanding emerged his bold vision of bringing one crore acres under assured irrigation. This was not mere aspiration.

It was translated into execution through massive projects such as Kaleshwaram. His grasp of irrigation systems and capacity for re-engineering projects was unparalleled. His PowerPoint presentation in the State Assembly on March 31, 2016, outlining this vision, stands out in my memory as a landmark moment, contemporary history unfolding within the framework of independent India.

In administrative reforms, KCR reminded one of Salar Jung, the celebrated reformer of the Nizam era. The reorganization of districts, mandals, and other administrative units bore his personal imprint, rooted in geographical understanding, field realities, and continuous consultation. Before finalizing decisions, he adopted a transparent and methodical approach, constituting a committee headed by the Chief Secretary to collect data and examine regional specificities.

His depth of knowledge regarding the need, concept, evolution, and administrative logic of districts in India was striking. The same clarity guided his thinking on education, where he conceptualized a feasible policy aimed at improving quality and positioning Telangana as an emerging educational hub.

One of the priority flagship initiatives under KCR’s leadership was the action-oriented program to assess, survey, verify, correct, and correlate land records across the State, with the objective of putting every parcel of assigned land to proper and productive use. What struck me most was the sincerity and depth with which this exercise was approached. It reflected his comprehensive understanding of land and revenue administration, as well as systems that have evolved over centuries, with the village as the foundational unit.

This historical awareness informed a modern, technology-driven reform, giving the program both administrative legitimacy and practical effectiveness. The significance of this initiative was underlined during the visit of Arvind Subramanian, the internationally renowned economist and then Chief Economic Advisor to the Government of India, who met KCR in the third week of February 2018.

Subramanian described Telangana’s land records updating program as the ‘Heart of Good Governance’ and remarked that it merited study as a case at Harvard University. He also drew attention to the KCR Kits program, observing that its design and successful implementation should be shared with the Government of India as a learning model for other States and for the country as a whole.

KCR’s involvement extended equally to urban governance. He guided the Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation (GHMC) in conceptualizing and implementing the Strategic Road Development Program (SRDP) to address traffic congestion and meet the growing demands of the city. Here again, the emphasis was on balance, integrating infrastructure growth with environmental considerations, demonstrating a consistent approach across rural and urban development.

KCR consistently displayed restraint and statesmanlike maturity in his engagement with the Union Government. Even when the Prime Minister belonged to a different political party, he maintained institutional respect, while firmly asserting the rights of the State whenever required. This balance was evident at the Inter-State Council meeting held on July 16, 2016.

There, KCR endorsed the concept of Collaborative Federalism and a Strong Centre co-existing with Strong States, as articulated by the Punchhi Commission. At the same time, he argued persuasively for further strengthening States through greater devolution of financial resources, reflecting his belief that cooperative federalism must be matched by fiscal empowerment.

His political acumen was most visibly demonstrated in what became a historic set of inter-state agreements. On August 23, 2016, KCR and the Chief Minister of Maharashtra, Devendra Fadnavis, signed three agreements facilitating the construction of barrages across the Penganga, Pranahita, and Godavari rivers at Chanaka-Korata, Tambhidihatti, and Medigadda respectively.

These agreements stand out in the annals of inter-state cooperation for their scale, foresight, and mutual trust. In spirit, they belong to a rare tradition of water-sharing compacts, comparable in significance to landmark treaties such as the Indus Waters Treaty and the Ganga Water Treaty.

KCR’s commitment to social equity was reflected in his continuous expansion of Telangana Social Welfare Residential Educational Institutions, catering to Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes, Backward Classes, minorities, and other marginalized sections. These decisions were not static but evolved over time in response to need and demand.

His concern for inclusive welfare extended to the Brahmin community as well, leading to the formation of the Telangana Brahmin Samkshema Parishad, in which I was entrusted with the responsibility of Vice-Chairman. He also allotted ten acres of land for the construction of a Brahmin Sadan, which he personally inaugurated, underscoring his approach of addressing welfare without exclusion.

In February 2017, when Chief Minister K Chandrashekhar Rao, along with members of his family, had darshan of Lord Venkateswara Swamy at Tirumala and presented gold ornaments, I had the privilege of being present. It was a rare and moving experience. KCR ensured that every member of his team received darshan in the same manner and personally called each of us for Harati and Tirtha.

For me, the moment carried a deeper resonance, as it coincided with a similar experience twenty-six years earlier, in the same month of February, when I had accompanied Chief Minister Dr M. Chenna Reddy as his PRO. The continuity of those moments, across decades and leaderships, left a lasting impression.

A defining moment came on April 16, 2017, when the Telangana Backward Classes, Scheduled Castes, and Scheduled Tribes Reservation Bill was passed by both the Legislative Assembly and the Legislative Council. It marked a historic assertion of the State’s rights and opened a new chapter in Centre-State relations.

On that occasion, KCR articulated with clarity the strategy he intended to pursue to secure approval for enhanced reservation quotas, including the inclusion of Muslim minorities under the BC-E category and increased reservations for Scheduled Tribes. His resolve was unambiguous.

He stated that he would not plead for approval, but would fight for it, raising the issue at the NITI Aayog, and if necessary, pursuing it before the Supreme Court. This resolve was evident a week later at the NITI Aayog meeting held on April 23, 2017, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. KCR forcefully presented measures to pull Indian agriculture out of chronic distress.

He argued for reviving the rural economy by strengthening traditional occupations such as sheep rearing, fisheries, and dairy, alongside direct investment support to farmers through initiatives like Rythu Bandhu, aimed at stabilizing incomes and enabling sustainable growth. His intervention reflected a holistic understanding of rural livelihoods rather than a narrow sectoral view.

Among the many initiatives that left a personal imprint on me was the announcement and successful conduct of the first Telangana World Telugu Conference in Hyderabad. Organized under the aegis of the newly constituted Telangana Sahitya Academy, the conference was historic in both conception and execution. It celebrated linguistic and cultural identity with confidence and dignity, and for me, it was a moment of deep satisfaction and lasting memory.

KCR’s engagement with culture and language was equally personal and informed. A connoisseur of Telugu literature, he personally chaired several preparatory meetings for organizing the First World Telugu Conference in Hyderabad. I recall one such meeting on November 20, 2017, attended by over sixty eminent Telugu scholars with deep command over language, literature, and allied disciplines.

The manner in which KCR raised issues during the deliberations reflected his mastery of Telugu in its many dimensions. He envisaged the Conference not as a ceremonial event, but as a vibrant mosaic encompassing language, literature, culture, folk traditions, fine arts, and diverse creative expressions.

I vividly recall May 24, 2017, when KCR publicly demanded an unconditional apology from the BJP National President, Amit Shah, for what he described as blatant falsehoods and for insulting the State of Telangana and its people. Responding point by point with detailed statistics, KCR systematically countered the allegations, demonstrating that the statements were baseless and misleading.

He accused the BJP leadership of indulging in malicious propaganda aimed at portraying Telangana in poor light and undermining its growth trajectory. The episode underscored his readiness to confront national political leadership when the dignity and interests of the State were at stake.

Equally significant was KCR’s personal initiative in enacting the Right to Fair Compensation and Transparency in Land Acquisition, Rehabilitation and Resettlement framework tailored to the State’s requirements. The objective was to prevent delays in land acquisition while ensuring timely and just compensation to displaced persons. This reform assumed particular importance as Telangana embarked on multiple large-scale irrigation projects, where land acquisition was critical to execution. The emphasis on transparency and rehabilitation reflected a conscious effort to balance development with social justice.

KCR also demonstrated consistency between promise and performance. During the Telangana statehood movement, he had repeatedly asserted that once formed, the State would emerge as one of the most prosperous in the country, drawing strength from its natural resources that had long remained underutilized during the unified Andhra Pradesh period.

At the celebration of the third Telangana Formation Day in June 2017, he pointed to measurable outcomes. Citing the Comptroller and Auditor General’s report for 2017-18, he announced that Telangana had recorded the highest revenue growth rate in the country, an achievement realized within just three years of Statehood.

One of KCR’s far-reaching decisions was the launch of the Seed Village Program and the emphasis on certified seed production through identified seed villages. The objective was to ensure the timely availability of quality seed to farmers at affordable prices, delivered directly at their doorstep. This model also enabled the rapid multiplication of newly developed seed varieties within a mandal or district, based on local crop patterns.

To support this, the State strengthened seed regulation mechanisms, including analytical services, seed testing laboratories, quality assurance programs, licensing of seed marketers, and the deployment of special squads for surprise inspections. Together, these measures brought discipline, reliability, and farmer confidence into the seed supply system.

On June 20, 2017, KCR launched the first-ever large-scale sheep distribution scheme in a manner that was both symbolic and transformative. Dressed in a Gongadi, wearing a crimson-red turban, and playing the Oggodolu like a traditional shepherd, he formally inaugurated the program aimed at economically empowering Yadavas and Kurumas.

The initiative went beyond welfare, fundamentally transforming the livestock economy and revitalizing allied traditional occupations. Over time, it significantly enhanced incomes and social standing, making the Yadava community among the most prosperous pastoral groups in the country. On that day, I could not help but describe him as a ‘Good Shepherd.’

Equally decisive was KCR’s response when land grabbers in Hyderabad, using fabricated General Power of Attorney documents and collusion within the registration system, attempted to alienate government land as private property. Acting swiftly, he ordered the cancellation of such registrations and withdrew the existing Anywhere Registration Policy. This was followed by the promulgation of the Telangana Rights in Land and Pattadaar Pass Book (Amendment) Ordinance, 2017, reinforcing transparency and restoring public trust in land administration.

PROFESSIONS, CHECKERED CAREER, AND LESSONS-PART THREE (From Librarian to CPRO to CM KCR) ...... A Journey from Khangi School to Center for Excellence : Vanam Jwala Narasimha Rao

 PROFESSIONS, CHECKERED CAREER, 

AND LESSONS-PART THREE

(From Librarian to CPRO to CM KCR)

A Journey from Khangi School to

Center for Excellence

Vanam Jwala Narasimha Rao

Prefatory Note

(These reflections arise from close observation and lived experience during a defining phase in the history of Telangana. They are offered with deep respect for Kalvakuntla Chandrashekhar Rao—a leader of rare intellectual depth, political courage, and unwavering commitment to the idea of Telangana. What follows is not merely recollection, but an attempt to record how vision, resolve, and governance converged to shape a people’s destiny.

While this narrative draws upon a professional journey that spans eleven organizations and multiple institutional settings, it consciously begins with the final and most consequential phase of that journey. A brief reference to my academic formation is included at the outset only to provide essential context, before the account moves directly into the concluding chapter of my professional life.}

IN MY VERY FIRST MEETING with Kalvakuntla Chandrashekhar Rao (KCR) on June 17, 2014, I received an early and enduring lesson in how a Chief Minister must articulate the vision of a new State. Telangana, he said, did not merely require administration, but it needed to be reinvented and reoriented. That articulation was not rhetorical.

Over the next ten years, through continuous review meetings that covered every sector of governance and welfare, I watched this vision translate into practice. What unfolded before me was not governance in the routine sense, nor even the textbook notion of Good Governance, but a distinctly different model, the one driven by long-term thinking, institutional clarity, and a statesman’s perspective.

The context in which KCR assumed office made this approach all the more significant. Telangana had emerged after a fourteen-year, largely peaceful and conscious mass movement under his leadership. As the first Chief Minister of the new State, he confronted formidable challenges, such as institutional uncertainty, acute shortages of experienced officers, unresolved administrative divisions, and persistent non-cooperation from the residual State.

The situation bore comparison to the circumstances faced by Jawaharlal Nehru at the dawn of independent India, in terms of the responsibility of shaping governance structures, while simultaneously giving a fractured polity a sense of direction and confidence.

Like Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru who in his own style laid direction, action plan and a road map for the young country, Chandrashekhar Rao also formulated plans, roadmap for the new State, which was undergone injustices and sufferings under 60 years of Andhra Rulers Misrule. KCR defined, designed, and delivered what all that the young state needed during the ten years of his governance, in two consecutive terms and ensured their execution with consistency and purpose.

In this process, I found myself involved, directly or indirectly, actively, or passively, at different stages of decision-making. Often, soon after the announcement of a new scheme, policy, or program, I was either consulted or kept informed in tune with the need, enabling me to observe closely how decisions evolved from conception to public articulation. At the same time, KCR adopted a distinctive leadership strategy when circumstances demanded.

On select occasions, he chose to keep his deliberations confined to himself until the moment of public announcement. Even senior officers in the Chief Minister’s Office were sometimes not formally briefed in advance, though discreet consultations may have taken place. This approach, while unusual, reflected his preference for decisiveness and control over timing in sensitive matters.

From this close association, I learnt how a comprehensive and integrated policy framework must precede governance. KCR insisted that overall development could not be achieved through isolated initiatives. Each department was required to evolve a clear policy framework as a prerequisite for meaningful and credible budget proposals. Inclusive growth, as he defined it, was not limited to economic expansion but extended to empowerment across social sections.

Industrialization was viewed as the key driver for higher and sustainable growth, while equal emphasis was placed on maintaining ecological balance and environmental protection. Attracting investment, both domestic and international, was treated as a strategic necessity rather than a peripheral activity. This approach was reflected in execution as well. From the meticulous planning and conduct of Pushkaras to major rivers, to ensuring public participation in community development programs, governance was designed to be both participatory and structured.

 Agriculture received focused attention, with clearly defined roles for the department and agricultural universities to enhance productivity. Education was conceptualized on an ambitious scale, leading to the formulation of a free and compulsory KG-to-PG model, irrespective of caste, creed, or religion. Even while preparing for brief international interventions, such as his address at the World Economic Forum on Emerging Markets at Crossroads, KCR took the CMO team into confidence, ensuring that the content, that was concise but very precise and descriptive, rose above partisan politics and reflected the aspirations of a new State.

On sensitive and complex issues such as farmers’ suicides, I observed in KCR a distinctly statesmanlike approach. Rather than responding superficially, KCR insisted on going to the root of the problem through in-depth analysis. Where established systems had gone astray, he was willing to think afresh and attempt course correction, as seen in his vision of developing Telangana into the seed bowl of India.

Schemes and programs were not merely announced, but they were defined, designed, and delivered through time-bound action plans aligned with the needs and aspirations of the people. In this sense, his leadership qualities closely matched the attributes described by Jim Collins in his book on Leadership, Good to Great, marked by clarity of purpose, disciplined execution, and long-term institutional thinking.

The transition to a new government, particularly in the context of a newly formed State like Telangana in 2014, demanded a rethinking of established administrative methods. I learnt from KCR how crucial the planning stage was, especially in the preparation of budgets. The first ten months after KCR was sworn in, it was all confusion. Budget had to be prepared based on ‘No Precedence, No Blue Print and No Specimen.’

It was difficult to arrive at right fiscal resources. KCR envisaged, evolving an inclusive policy for formulating Budget Proposals for the financial year 2014-2015 based on the nature and size of state’s economy vis-à-vis country economy, dovetailing both to generate wealth.

Fourteen ‘Expert Task Force Committees’ were constituted. Based on their reports, the first budget was prepared based on available information. In the second financial year it was bit of better understanding about positive and negative aspects of state finances.

It was only after the income and expenditure under ‘Plan and Non-Plan Schemes’ from 31^st March 2015 to 31^st March 2016 (One Full Year) was known clearly, ‘Factual Basis for Telangana State Budget Calculation’ was arrived. By the time 2022-23 and 2023-24 budgets were prepared, State’s wealth increased in a significant way due to fiscal prudence. Telangana became ‘Role Model for Entire Country,’ and followed by rest of the states.

KCR always used to say that ‘Funds Raised or Managed for Leveraging Economy’ shall not be construed as ‘Loans and Debts.’ Once announcing in Assembly, KCR said that, Loans taken by Telangana were the lowest when compared to other states. He further said that, to transform State as ‘Golden Telangana,’ required loans only were taken, and not beyond. However, the borrowings were within the limits of ‘Fiscal Responsibility and Budget Management (FRBM)’ and Centre’s guidelines, strictly adhering to ‘Fiscal Prudence Norm.’

Whether the Budget was presented by the Finance Minister or by KCR himself, without exception each presentation was inspirational and message-oriented, designed to reach every section of society. Budgets were treated not merely as financial statements but as instruments of communication.

The welfare architecture evolved during his tenure reflected a cradle-to-grave approach, grounded in the principles of equality of opportunity, equitable distribution, and the State’s responsibility towards those unable to access even the minimum conditions for a dignified life.

His oft-repeated observation that ‘Good Plan is half the success’ was not a slogan but a working principle. He questioned the mechanical continuation of obsolete schemes and emphasized the need to replace the mindset of ‘Government gives and people take’ with a more purposeful approach, with ‘how the Government could serve people better than before.’ Nowhere was this approach more evident than in his handling of agriculture and irrigation.

PROFESSIONS, CHECKERED CAREER, AND LESSONS-PART TWO (From Librarian to CPRO to CM KCR) ....... A Journey from Khangi School to Center for Excellence : Vanam Jwala Narasimha Rao

 PROFESSIONS, CHECKERED CAREER, 

AND LESSONS-PART TWO

(From Librarian to CPRO to CM KCR)

A Journey from Khangi School to

Center for Excellence

Vanam Jwala Narasimha Rao

Prefatory Note

{These reflections arise from close observation and lived experience during a defining phase in the history of Telangana. They are offered with deep respect for Kalvakuntla Chandrashekhar Rao—a leader of rare intellectual depth, political courage, and unwavering commitment to the idea of Telangana. What follows is not merely recollection, but an attempt to record how vision, resolve, and governance converged to shape a people’s destiny.

While this narrative draws upon a professional journey that spans eleven organizations and multiple institutional settings, it consciously begins with the final and most consequential phase of that journey. A brief reference to my academic formation is included at the outset only to provide essential context, before the account moves directly into the concluding chapter of my professional life.}

Before assuming charge as Chief Public Relations Officer to the first Chief Minister of the newly formed State of Telangana, K Chandrashekhar Rao, my professional life had already entered a phase that ran parallel to, and often intersected with, history in the making. This phase was neither sudden nor accidental. It evolved organically over decades, rooted in reading, writing, public communication, and sustained engagement with political and social currents.

My parallel career as an independent journalist began modestly in the second half of the 1970s while I was working as Librarian at BHEL Higher Secondary School. My deep reading habits, professional discipline as a librarian, and voluntary assumption of Public Relations responsibilities wherever I worked gradually exposed me to diverse, interconnected domains of public life. Writing followed reading quite naturally. I began by sending letters to editors, experiencing the quiet thrill of seeing my name in print. Encouraged by this response, I moved on to writing articles in both English and Telugu.

A decisive turn came through the support of my cousin and schoolmate, Bhandaru Srinivasa Rao, then Correspondent at the All-India Radio (AIR) News Unit, and his senior colleague Akiri Ramakrishna Rao. With their guidance, I began associating with AIR, initially with the News Unit and later with other programs. I was further encouraged by VV Sastry, who rose from Assistant Director to Station Director, and by Dr P Madhusudan Rao, who later retired as Director of Doordarsan Kendra, Hyderabad. Over time, there was scarcely a program format at AIR in which I did not participate. Apart from the professional satisfaction, this association also provided a modest additional income.

While still serving at BHEL Higher Secondary School, and guided by Dr AP. Ranga Rao who was none other than my wife’s own brother or my brother-in-law, I took a more institutional step in journalism by founding a bilingual news feature service, National Information Services (NIS), in 1983. Registered as a Society, NIS had senior IAS officer Jandhyala Harinarayan as its President and Dr AP Ranga Rao as its Secretary, with a small executive committee.

Veteran journalist G Krishna agreed to serve as Editor, while journalism student P Ramesh and I worked as correspondents. Our articles were widely published and well received. In due course, the Government of Andhra Pradesh granted accreditation to all three of us, a facility I continue to enjoy even today. I also became a member of the Hyderabad Press Club during this period. Later, after I joined Raj Bhavan, Governor Kumud Ben Joshi graciously consented to become the Honorary Advisor of NIS.

This background, combined with my experience as PRO to Chief Minister Dr Marri Channa Reddy in 1989-90 and my subsequent role at the Dr MCR HRD Institute, widened my engagement beyond print journalism into broader public communication. I started getting more and more exposures as an independent and freelance journalist. A significant milestone in this journey was the emergence of TV9 Telugu, one of the earliest 24-hour Telugu news channels, which formally went on air in February 2004.

At a time when continuous regional-language television news was still evolving, TV9 played a pioneering role in reshaping Telugu news consumption. Its founding CEO, Ravi Prakash, articulated a vision of fast-paced, socially relevant journalism, with particular emphasis on youth and women audiences. TV9’s early growth was aided by major political events, which provided the channel an opportunity to demonstrate its dexterity and on-ground reporting strength. TV9 began steadily to build credibility and visibility across the state. My daughter, Prema Malini Vanam, joined the channel even before it went on air, beginning her career in Delhi before moving to Hyderabad.

Among TV9’s early innovations was the live morning program News Watch, the first of its kind in Telugu television. Instead of merely reading headlines, the program critically examined how newspapers reported events, offering interpretation, comparison, and analysis. Through in-depth discussion of print media narratives, TV9 set a new benchmark for analytical journalism in Telugu television and significantly influenced morning news consumption habits.

I was among the earliest guests invited to participate in News Watch, and my maiden appearance marked the first time I was addressed on television as a ‘Senior Journalist,’ a description that stayed with me thereafter. Having associated with this formative phase of TV9, it remained a meaningful professional experience. For nearly a decade until June 2014, when I joined CMO as CPRO to CM KCR, for 10 years, I appeared regularly as a political analyst across almost all Telugu news channels that emerged during that period.

Meanwhile, history itself took a dramatic turn. During my stay in San Francisco from late September 2009 to late March 2010, following termination of my EMRI assignment, Andhra Pradesh witnessed unprecedented political developments triggered by the sudden demise of Chief Minister Dr YS Rajasekhara Reddy in a helicopter crash on September 2, 2009. Ironically, I had met him just the previous afternoon at the MCR HRD Institute, where I was conducting a training program as guest faculty.

In the run-up to the 2004 Assembly and Parliamentary elections, the Congress Party, led in the state by Dr YS Rajasekhara Reddy (YSR), and the Telangana Rashtra Samithi (TRS), led by K Chandrashekhar Rao, entered into an electoral alliance with an understanding to consider the long-pending demand for a separate Telangana State. However, after assuming office, YSR categorically stated in April 2006 that Andhra Pradesh would remain a united state. This position marked the first major rupture in expectations.

Three years later, in February 2009, the State Government declared that it had no objection in principle to the formation of Telangana and that the time had come to move forward decisively, though without clarity on the path ahead. As the 2009 General Elections approached, Telangana emerged as a central political issue. Almost all major parties publicly supported the formation of the new state. The BJP announced that it would create Telangana if voted to power.

The Congress reiterated its commitment, though with qualifications. The Telugu Desam Party promised to work towards statehood. TRS, TDP, and other parties formed alliances to defeat the Congress. Despite this, the Congress returned to power both at the Centre and in the State. In Telangana region, it won 50 of the 119 Assembly seats and 12 of the 17 Lok Sabha seats, while TRS secured only 10 Assembly seats out of the 45 it contested and two parliamentary seats.

The sudden demise of YSR in a helicopter crash on September 2, 2009 created a leadership vacuum within the Congress and a wider political uncertainty in the state. KCR seized this moment to re-energize the Telangana movement. On November 29, 2009, he launched a fast-unto-death demanding the formation of a separate Telangana State. His arrest intensified public reaction. Student organizations, employee unions, and a wide spectrum of social groups joined the agitation, and almost all major opposition parties extended their support to the cause.

On December 9, 2009, Union Home Minister P Chidambaram announced that the Government of India would initiate the process of forming a separate Telangana State, subject to a resolution being passed by the Andhra Pradesh Legislative Assembly. KCR ended his eleven-day fast following this announcement. However, within weeks, the political climate shifted once again. On December 23, 2009, the Union Government stated that no further action on Telangana would be taken until a consensus was reached among all political parties, triggering renewed protests and deepening public distrust.

What followed was an unprecedented and prolonged phase of mass mobilization. From December 2009 until the passage of the Andhra Pradesh Reorganization Bill in February 2014, the state witnessed general strikes, large-scale resignations by legislators, the formation of the Joint Action Committee (JAC), rallies, hunger strikes, relay fasts, peaceful agitations, tragic suicides, a 500-kilometre human chain, million march, non-cooperation movements, Sakala Janula Samme involving all sections of society, road and rail blockades, the Telangana March in Hyderabad, the Chalo Assembly program, and countless other forms of protest.

The Srikrishna Committee was constituted during this period, but its ambiguous report only intensified the agitation rather than resolving it. These sustained movements culminated in a decisive political shift. On July 30, 2013, the Congress Working Committee unanimously resolved to create Telangana. This was followed by fresh agitations in the Seemandhra region, popularly known as the Samaikya Andhra movement.

On October 3, 2013, the Union Cabinet approved the creation of Telangana and constituted a Group of Ministers, headed by Union Home Minister Sushil Kumar Shinde, to address issues relating to Telangana and the residual Andhra Pradesh. After a series of deliberations, the draft Telangana Formation Bill was sent to the President of India on December 6, 2013, who in turn referred it to the Andhra Pradesh Assembly for eliciting its views. The Bill was introduced in the State Assembly on December 16, 2013, amidst unprecedented disruptions.

After extending the deadline for the Assembly’s views, the Speaker announced on January 30, 2014 that the debate had concluded and that the Assembly had rejected the Bill. Thereafter, the Group of Ministers cleared the Bill on February 4, the Union Cabinet approved it on February 7, and it was introduced in the Lok Sabha on February 13. Parliament passed the Bill in the Lok Sabha on February 18 and in the Rajya Sabha on February 20, 2014. The President gave his assent on March 1, and on March 4, 2014, the Government of India formally declared June 2, 2014 as the Telangana Formation Day.

Throughout this entire phase, even while serving as Consultant with HMRI after my return from the USA, I remained an active and vocal supporter of Telangana statehood. I participated in television debates, wrote articles and blog posts, and publicly articulated my views, often facing criticism but also receiving appreciation. In the process, though not through frequent personal interaction, I came to the attention of K Chandrashekhar Rao. On several occasions, while watching panel discussions in which I participated, he intervened live to support and elaborate upon my analysis.

Once, after I wrote an article in Andhra Jyothi questioning the relevance of repeated all-party meetings, he personally called to congratulate me. My first substantive personal interaction with KCR occurred in early August 2013, when he addressed a marathon press conference at Hotel Taj Krishna. Invited at his instance, I posed a question after the briefing. Before answering, he publicly acknowledged my consistent support for the Telangana cause, a moment that left me deeply moved. After the press meet, he held my hand and took me to a small lunch table with only a handful of journalists.

Subsequently, after the Telangana Bill was passed and during his stay in Delhi, I spoke to him over the phone to convey my congratulations. When debates arose over whether TRS should contest the 2014 elections alone or in alliance with the Congress, I met him for the first time at his Nandinagar residence and expressed my views, fully agreeing with his decision to go it alone.

After the TRS secured a decisive mandate in both the Assembly and Lok Sabha elections, and before his swearing-in on June 2, 2014, I met KCR again at Nandinagar, facilitated by J Santosh Kumar. I made no request of any kind. Before I left, he enquired about my journalistic background. I clarified that though often described as a senior journalist, I had never worked formally for any media organization, but had served as PRO to Dr Marri Channa Reddy during his second term as Chief Minister, and worked closely with Governor Kumud Ben Joshi. I also briefly mentioned my wider political contacts.

I attended his swearing-in ceremony at Raj Bhavan on June 2, 2014, upon a special invitation, though I did not meet him there. The invitation was sent to me through his close confidante, and a contemporary historian especially on Telangana including phases of moments.  For the next two weeks, there was no communication. Meanwhile, I continued to work for HMRI and had been on trips to Tirumala once.

On June 16, 2014, while returning from my native village after temple visits, I received a call from Santosh Kumar, who connected me to KCR. He informed me that I would be his Chief Public Relations Officer and asked me to come for lunch. That afternoon, he took me in his car to the Secretariat, introduced me to his office and security, and instructed his Principal Secretary, S Narsing Rao, whom I personally knew, to issue appointment orders.

Formal orders came into effect on June 19, 2014. Thus began my tenure as the first Chief Public Relations Officer to the first Chief Minister of Telangana, a role I continued uninterrupted for 114 months until December 3, 2023, marking a record in that position. Including my earlier tenure as PRO to Dr Marri Channa Reddy, my total service as PRO/CPRO to Chief Ministers amounted to 126 months. Initially I was paid a monthly remuneration of Rs 80,000, few months after increased to Rs 1,00,000, and four years later without even a request from me, KCR enhanced by Rs 1,50,000.

This twelfth phase did not represent a rupture from my earlier journey, but its culmination, a convergence of public communication, journalism, institutional experience, and lived history. The experiential dimensions of this phase, still unfolding at the time of writing, form the substance of the chapters that follow.

Ashwa Medha, the Sacred Prelude to Putrakameshti ...... SIMPLIFIED AND FAITHFUL RENDERING OF THE ADI KAVYA-8 : Vanam Jwala Narasimha Rao

 Ashwa Medha, the Sacred Prelude to Putrakameshti

SIMPLIFIED AND FAITHFUL RENDERING OF THE ADI KAVYA-8

Vanam Jwala Narasimha Rao

Dasharatha, who wished to beget progeny to sustain his royal lineage, desired to perform the Vedic Horse Ritual, the Ashva Medha Yajna. He requested the Rishyasringa to conduct it on his behalf. In accordance with Rishyasringa’s requirements and following the hierarchy of ritual priorities, Dasharatha instructed Minister Sumantra to invite eminent Vedic Scholars and ritual conductors like Suyajna, Vaamadeva, Jabali, Kashyapa, and the venerable Vashishta, along with learned Brahmans. When they arrived, the king received them with reverence, offering worship and reaffirming his noble intention. In this sacred yearning for continuity through rightful means lies the eternal human quest to blend personal desire with cosmic order, a lesson still relevant to leaders who seek legacy without violating dharma.

Dasharatha outlined the plan of action to his officials: releasing the ritual horse, guarded by valiant men and accompanied by teachers on its journey; selecting the ritual site on the northern banks of the Sarayu River; and performing peace invocations as prescribed in scriptures and tradition. All ministers responded with commitment and promptly began executing their duties phase by phase. Such collective discipline and unity of purpose in governance, rooted in sacred duty rather than personal gain, reflects the coordination that any righteous administration must uphold even today.

After a full year, when spring returned, Dasharatha entered the grand ritual hall. Having completed all preliminary rites during the preceding year, he became eligible to perform the final act. He greeted Vashishta with humility and requested him to shoulder the sacred responsibility. Vashishta then summoned learned Brahman Scholars, skilled architects, construction supervisors, carpenters, sculptors, earth-diggers, accountants, and performers. Each was briefed on their responsibilities with meticulous precision. In this blending of intellect, art, and devotion lies a timeless model of integrated leadership, where no task is small and no participant insignificant, a harmony modern institutions often seek yet seldom achieve.

For performing the Vedic Ritual, a vast area was identified as prescribed in architectural science, with provision for constructing the Homa Kund, the altar of fire, at its center. The space was kept open to the sky so that the fragrant vapors of ghee and sandalwood offerings could ascend heavenward. Around the sacred fire, large sheds were erected for thousands of participants and observers. Mammoth kitchens and dining halls were built to feed everyone for the entire duration of the ritual. The idea that heaven must be open to receive human aspiration reminds us even today that true spiritual or civic undertakings must be transparent, inclusive, and unroofed from the limits of selfishness.

To accommodate the Brahmans, hundreds of sanctified houses were built, furnished with ample food and drink. Separate arrangements were made for city dwellers and visiting kings, including stables for horses and elephants, and provisions for soldiers. Vashishta emphasized that guests must be treated with utmost respect and that all castes and classes should be honored alike. The ritual, he insisted, must be organized without negligence. Everyone collectively accepted his directives with humility. This emphasis on equality and restraint in conduct stands as a moral compass for modern societies, reminding that dignity and discipline, not dominance, are the true marks of civilization.

Sumantra was specially entrusted with the protocol of inviting righteous kings from across the earth and all people of the four orders; Brahmans, Kshatriyas, Vaishyas, and Shudras; honoring each alike. He was instructed to personally invite King Janaka of Mithila and the King of Kashi, both cherished allies of Dasharatha. The virtuous King of Kekaya, Dasharatha’s father-in-law, was to receive special attention. Others included Romapada of Anga, Kosala King Bhanumanta, Magadha King Praptijna, and rulers of Sindhu, Sauvira, Saurashtra, and the southern kingdoms. Sumantra dispatched illustrious envoys and himself set out to invite the most eminent guests. This act of inviting equals from distant realms reflects the essence of cooperative coexistence, an early echo of today’s diplomacy and inter-state collaboration grounded in mutual respect.

When all preparations were complete, artisans reported to Vashishta that the works were accomplished. Many kings arrived bearing precious gems as gifts for Dasharatha. Vashishta then advised the king to proceed to the ritual site. On an auspicious day, under a favorable constellation, Dasharatha entered the sacred hall as directed by Rishyasringa and Vashishta. The adherence to cosmic timing, the alignment of human will with universal rhythm, symbolizes a harmony that modern man, in his race against time, too often forgets to honor.

Vashishta, accompanied by Rishyasringa and Eminent Brahmans, entered the ritual hall first. Dasharatha and his queens undertook the sacred vows. Meanwhile, the ritual horse returned unharmed. The Ashvamedha commenced under Rishyasringa’s direction. A year earlier, the decorated horse was released with the royal insignia, challenging any king to capture it and face Dasharatha’s might. The unchallenged return of the horse mirrors the peace that prevails when power is acknowledged but not abused, a truth as vital in modern statecraft as in ancient kingship.

Had anyone seized the horse, a war would have ensued. Since it returned unopposed, Dasharatha’s valor and authority stood vindicated. The Vedic rituals were performed by learned Rithviks with scriptural precision. After performing the Pravargya and Upasada rites, other subsidiary rituals followed as ordained. Such fidelity to process underscores that true strength arises from discipline and adherence to law, whether in spiritual pursuit or governance.

The Savana Rituals followed at dawn, noon, and evening, with offerings to Indra and other deities. Rishyasringa and the Scholars chanted Sama Veda Hymns, invoking celestial blessings. The sacred recitations echoed like waves of cosmic order. This rhythmic invocation of divine harmony reminds us that civilization, too, thrives on cadence, between faith and reason, duty and compassion, silence, and sound.

During the intervals between rituals, Brahmans and scholars debated intellectual themes. When it was time to erect the wooden ritual posts (Yupa Sthambhas), they used select woods, six each of Bilwa, Khadira, Parnina, one Sleshmaataka, and two Devadaaru, twenty-one in all, each twenty-one cubits high, sheathed in gold and radiant like the seven sages of the heavens; Atri, Angiirasa, Pulastya, Pulaha, Kratu, Mariichi, and Vasishta. These luminous pillars stand as metaphors for enduring values, each generation must raise its own posts of virtue, scholarship, and sacrifice to hold aloft the structure of society.

The Altar, shaped like Garuda, the eagle of Vishnu, was layered with eighteen tiers of sacred bricks, threefold larger than ordinary Altars. Three hundred animals and the ritual horse, were tied to the Yupa Sthambhas for sacrifices. Queen Kausalya circumambulated the horse reverently, symbolically sacrificing it with three knives and residing near it overnight in ritual purity. This symbolism of sacrifice invites reflection: in every age, progress demands surrender, not of life, but of ego, luxury, and complacency, for a higher moral cause.

The priests prepared and offered the horse’s remains as prescribed. Dasharatha inhaled the sanctified smoke, a gesture of oneness with the ritual spirit. The ceremony continued for three days, following the Kalpa Sutras and Brahmanas, including the Chatuhstoma, Ukthyam, and Atiratra Rituals, and later Abhijit, Vishwajit, and Aptoryaama Rituals. Dasharatha donated vast lands to the priests. Charity that flows from gratitude rather than vanity ennobles both giver and receiver, a reminder to modern society that wealth finds purpose only when shared for collective good.

Finally, Dasharatha sought Rishyasringa’s counsel regarding continuation of his lineage. The sage advised the Putrakameshti Yajna, assuring him of four sons who would bring glory to the Ikshvaku Dynasty. Thus, the great Ashva Medha not only sanctified Dasharatha’s yearning for progeny but also reaffirmed the eternal law that, every rightful desire, when aligned with righteousness, becomes a seed for cosmic balance. From the ashes of sacrifice emerged the dawn of fulfillment, a truth echoing through all ages: that legacy is born not of possession, but of surrender to dharma and devotion to purpose.

{Photographs courtesy an anonymous Rama Bhakta}

 

PROFESSIONS, CHECKERED CAREER, AND LESSONS-ONE (From Librarian to CPRO to CM KCR) ... A Journey from Khangi School to Center for Excellence : Vanam Jwala Narasimha Rao

 PROFESSIONS, CHECKERED CAREER, AND LESSONS-ONE

(From Librarian to CPRO to CM KCR)

A Journey from Khangi School to

Center for Excellence

Vanam Jwala Narasimha Rao

{Prefatory Note

These reflections arise from close observation and lived experience during a defining phase in the history of Telangana. They are offered with deep respect for Kalvakuntla Chandrashekhar Rao—a leader of rare intellectual depth, political courage, and unwavering commitment to the idea of Telangana. What follows is not merely recollection, but an attempt to record how vision, resolve, and governance converged to shape a people’s destiny.

While this narrative draws upon a professional journey that spans eleven organizations and multiple institutional settings, it consciously begins with the final and most consequential phase of that journey. A brief reference to my academic formation is included at the outset only to provide essential context, before the account moves directly into the concluding chapter of my professional life.}

MY ACADEMIC CAREER

I am now 78 years old and volunteered to be the ‘Secretary, Center for Brahmin Excellence (CBE),’ an institution that was born out of a deep understanding of the need to preserve, nurture, and contemporize a community by sustaining and strengthening its vast intellectual capital. This role, at this stage of my life, is not merely an assignment but a continuation of a lifelong engagement with learning, people, and purpose.

I was born on August 8, 1948, in a remote village Vanam Vari Krishnapuram, located in Mudigonda Mandal of Khammam District in present-day Telangana. Having born and brought up there, I spent my early childhood in an orthodox family, and received early education in the same village surrounded by Communist Party dominated villages. Thus, I imbibed a mix of ‘Socialist and Spiritual Ideologies’ and learnt lessons in ‘Humanism.’ My early life was shaped by simplicity, limited resources, and the quiet strength of rural values, which later became an enduring foundation for my personal and professional journey.

Since my late school days itself, and especially, after completion of bachelor degree studies, as I spent three years in my village engaging in Agriculture, Village Development, and Field Level Politics, I was ‘in quest of meaningful and acceptable Governance’ having witnessed the plight and exploitation of rural illiterate by Village Land Lords. Inadvertently, in my journey I had come across several Political Administrators, Public and Civil Servants, that included Legislators, Ministers, Chief Ministers, Chief Secretaries, Principal Secretaries etc. in some of whom I found few answers.

The Best ‘Thrilling and Cherishing Learning Experience of my Life’ was, my generation’s Pre-Primary, Primary, Higher Secondary School and College Education six-seven decades ago. I received my primary education in my native village. In Fact, inspiration for my writing this series came from my Grandchildren, in the hope that one day they evince keen interest, read them, and in the process, may be benefited to decide on what is worth emulating from the past. My Basic Education commenced in 1951, when I was three-year-old, in a ‘Khangi’ school, the ‘present day preschool’ kind of setup, though the teaching methodology and content differed a lot.

A characteristic style of discipline was inculcated to kids at that formative stage which seems to be absent these days. Memorizing and writing Telugu Alphabets, Numerals, Basic Mathematics like Addition, Subtraction, Tables, Multiplication, Days in a week, Months in Lunar Calendar Year, names of 60 Lunar Calendar Years, Star Signs, Seasons etc. were taught by an elderly knowledgeable person in the village, on his own volition, and not really for money. ‘Pedda Bala Shiksha’ considered as ‘Children Encyclopedia’ in the Telugu language, that covered literature, arts, culture, morals, games, mythology, and science was the source for the content.

Next year by advancing my date of birth by one year to be eligible for admission in First Class, I was put in the Local Single Teacher Government Primary School which was located in a Hut till it was moved to new (Small) buildings. That single Teacher whom I can never forget taught us to think everything with ‘Common Sense’ first. After fifth class, for sixth to eleventh class or Higher Secondary Class (HSC), my parents admitted me in Rickab-Bazar High School in Khammam Town. 

Thus, for my High School Studies and later for Pre-University Course, I moved to Khammam, which marked my first step away from the comfort of familiar surroundings and into a wider world of aspiration and challenge. Subsequently, I pursued my undergraduate studies (First year in SR and BGNR Government College, Khammam and last two years in New Science College, Hyderabad) at Osmania University, earning a BSc degree with Mathematics, Physics, and Chemistry as my subjects.

Being a student in the Higher Secondary School, was a ‘Lifelong Experience’ and every teacher taught to cherish forever. The standards were so high then, that, securing second and first-class marks was considered to be very difficult. Nevertheless, in HSC examination I passed in Higher Second Class. It was an ‘All-Round Development’ or developing us in multiple aspects, like physical, intellectual, emotional, and social. This type of all-round development was aimed at helping students become well-rounded and able to function effectively in all aspects of their life. Grateful to my School and to every Teacher by name.  

I was a School First student in my Higher Secondary Certificate in 1962, but ended up with third class and compartmental in PUC and BSc respectively. Even in my Nagpur University PG (MA Public Administration), I could secure only third class. I was never a ‘Brilliant Student.’ However, I secured University Second Rank in my Bachelor of Library and Information Science in 1974. I will brief them later.

Unlike present day 10+2 Schooling and College it was 11+1 Schooling and College then. It was one year Pre-University Course (PUC) in place of present two-year Intermediate. After HSC with Telugu Medium of Instruction, I enrolled in PUC with Mathematics, Physics and Chemistry as optional subjects, English, Telugu as languages and ‘General Studies’ as special subject in SR and BGNR Government College in Khammam, affiliated to Osmania University, with English as Medium of Instruction. SR and BGNR College, was the first college that was established in Khammam initially as a private college in 1956. 

Switching from Telugu to English Medium was slightly difficult, but quickly I adjusted. The methodology of teaching too was unique. Telugu, English, General Knowledge were taught to all the optional groups’ (MPC, BPC, Commerce, Economics and Geography) students in combined sessions. Physics and Chemistry subjects were taught commonly for MPC and BPC students. Mathematics was taught for only MPC students. Poetry, Prose, and Grammar (Conjugation of Verb etc.) were taught in English subject. Teaching staff consisted of Lecturers, Tutors, and Demonstrators.

Having secured only third division in PUC, and ineligible to get seat in Engineering Course, I took admission in the ‘Three Year Degree Bachelor of Science (BSc) Course’ with Mathematics, Physics and Chemistry as optional subjects; English, Telugu as languages; and General Studies, a ‘Broad-Based Approach’ subject that covered the whole gamut of science and humanities in brief. ‘First Year was Rest year’ as no University Examinations were held at the end of first year to go to second year. First one year of my degree study was in Khammam College and last two years in Hyderabad, New Science College.     

It was only after completion of second year University Examination was conducted in languages and General Studies, and at the end of final year for the optional subjects. For languages there were four papers two for each subject, and for optional subjects ten papers, three for each subject, and four in Physics, the extra being Modern Physics, to be cleared in one go. No holiday in between two examinations except for Sunday.

We had to memorize three years study for the final examination and two years study for Languages, and General Studies. Semester System and rest days between paper and paper, making it easy to remember was unknown to us. High Reputation New Science College under the leadership of C Sudarshan an eminent academician as the founder Principal, as well as SR and BGNR College, had the best teaching staff.

I secured second division in Languages and General Studies and appeared for final year examinations during April-May 1966, when my actual age was just seventeen and half years, but half-way-through withdrew. As I was propelled and engaged in village politics, I did not appear for the Supplementary exams also, and it was only in March 1968 I was able to clear Mathematics and Physics and later Chemistry in September. A compartmental graduate I am!!! My academic journey continued with a postgraduate degree in Public Administration from Nagpur University.

On completion of my Graduation in September 1968, married in April 1969, spent about three years in rural environment, among ‘Communist Friends-Relatives’ from neighboring villages, and engaged primarily in agriculture, as well as ‘Local Politics marred by Insinuations, Threats, and Casteism’ my interest turned towards studies once again, desiring to complete Post Graduation (PG). By then I was also vexed with village politics, that often took the form of murders, police camps in the villages, police harassment of innocent opposition cadre, hooliganism etc.

I applied for MSc (Mathematics) in Nagpur University and obtained the seat. With the intimation that classes commenced, I went to Nagpur, and on the very first day of attending the MSc Mathematics Class, as I listened to the lectures, I was completely lost, since I could not understand a single bit of what was explained. The Mathematics I studied in my BSc in Osmania University in Hyderabad, three years before, had no connection whatsoever, with the MSc Mathematics in Nagpur University. I quickly realized that I do not suit to the course.

By taking help from a Telugu friend and fellow student, I went to the nearby ‘University Library Building’ in North Ambazari Road, met Head of Public Administration Department Professor VS Murthy (a Telugu Person) and secured seat in the MA (Public Administration) course. Thus, I changed over from ‘Science to the Humanities’ a completely new experience, which I admired lifelong.

During my two years of studies in Nagpur, I hardly stayed there, but whenever I was in Nagpur, I spent most of my time in the library, generally reading Karl Marx’s books or books related to communism. I came to know about ‘Encyclopedia Britannica’ in that Library only. Our professors included illustrious and remarkable professors, VS Murthy, NGS Kini, Deshpande, Dave, and Kulkarni. Kini taught Political Sociology, Murthy taught Public Administration, and Deshpande taught Local Self-Government.

Compared to the large batch of first year, in the second year we were just 14, and were socializing outside the classroom more frequently. Discussions on contemporary politics, often bit seriously was the interesting part of my Nagpur Studies. The venue, when I was in Nagpur, invariably was my room, where, even the other classmates, including Girls unhesitatingly, were visiting. The star attraction was always Arun Upadhyaya, who was a highly influenced person then and continues to be now, with his attractive Red Colored ‘Triumph’ Car with a white top, and double carburetors.

‘MA Public Administration’ provided me an intense and profound insight in to value system, imperatives, implications, and essentiality to ensure quality life to an ordinary person and affluent alike. That was how the fundamental principles of Public Administration were precisely, concisely, and comprehensively taught to us, by Professor VS Murthy who hailed from erstwhile Andhra Pradesh State. He had a unique style of his own in teaching his subject. None of us ever missed his classes, because of the enormous interest he created with his typical way of imparting knowledge, dovetailing syllabus part appropriately with current affairs, by contextualizing.

Professor VS Murthy always discussed contemporary politics, social developments, and many other interesting topics. He had an unwavering admiration for Indira Gandhi, while NGS Kini had intense animosity toward her. Both of them would passionately discuss contemporary politics in class. The conceptual framework of ‘In quest of meaningful and acceptable Governance’ time and again has been lingering in my mind, as a disciple student of Professor Murthy.  In fact, he was utmost happy, even happier than me, when I was drafted to work with Governor Kumud Ben Joshi and with Chief Minister Dr M Channa Reddy.

In addition to Professor VS Murthy, another distinguished and illustrious Teacher, Professor NGS Kini, who taught us Political Sociology enthused me a lot. Though both possessed conflicting ideologies (Views), they were very affectionate to me and always liked my interest of ‘Quest for knowledge of Administration.’ While, Professor Kini, always seriously decried my interest in Marxism, Professor Murthy, encouraged my responses on Indira Gandhi’s style of functioning. Those were the days when she was fighting the political battle with powerful Syndicate Group in Congress Party during VV Giri Election as President.

When I was leaving the Nagpur University after my studies, Professor Kini called me to his house and affectionately counseled me that, if I continue with the Marxism Path, one day I would be ‘in streets’ with none to support, and guided me to disconnect with it. I followed his advice in ‘Letter and Spirit’ all along my life. On the other hand, Professor Murthy gave me a Great ‘Testimonial’ incorporating an ideal and thought-provoking phrase, that, ‘Task Accomplishment and Target Fulfillment is more important to Jwala, than conforming to Rules and Regulations.’ Since that time, I have always been honestly self-assessing whether I could rise to his expectations.

Always I endeavored to be involved in the ‘Decision Making Process’ irrespective of my level in the hierarchy wherever I worked: Qualified Librarian in a School, Project (Administrative) Officer Chetana headed by Governor, PRO to Chief Minister Dr M Chenna Reddy, Senior Manager of Handicrafts Development Corporation, Faculty and Additional Director Dr MCR HRD Institute, Regional Director of Centre for Media Studies, Lead Partner and Advisor 108 Emergency Response Services, Consultant Health Management Institute, finally as Chief Public Relations Officer to first Telangana Chief Minister K Chandrashekhar Rao.

I sincerely believed that, prioritizing ‘Task Accomplishment and Target Fulfillment’ would lead to more ‘Efficient and Effective outcomes’ and minimal bureaucratic red tape. I also believed that, it encouraged innovative solutions and flexibility, allowing administrators to adapt to changing circumstances and find the best methods to achieve goals. As part of ‘Goal-Oriented Approach’ my focus in the ‘Decision Making Process’ was to ensure public resources were used to achieve tangible benefits for society, if necessary, through shortcuts, subject to accepted policies and procedures. ‘Public Interest’ was of more concern to me, whether I actively participated or participated passively in the decision-making process.

I never hesitated to dissent either openly or subtly to the ‘Ultimate Decision Maker Boss.’ I have been consciously aware that, ‘Task Accomplishment and Target Fulfillment’ though crucial, balancing this with adherence to rules and regulations for legality, procedures, and public trust is also correspondingly important. A balanced approach ensures that goals are met without compromising the foundational principles of governance. The whole idea is, Public Administration and Governance presupposes, come what may, that, ‘Task Accomplishment and Target Fulfillment’ needs to be pursued vigorously, though with a balanced approach.

When I was in Nagpur my complete focus was on studies, and spending time in Library for subject reference material. Village politics from which by then, I did not detach completely, due to few compulsions, time and again propelled me to visit Khammam and my village. Heart of Hearts, I was in a dispute of choosing between politics and job as of then. But something best was stored for me and hence preferred the latter. The PG Examinations were completed in March 1971. Confident that I would pass, I left Nagpur until the results were announced, when I had been there to collect necessary original certificates deposited in the University Department of Public Administration. 

During my first job as Librarian, I got admission in Bachelor of Library Science in Osmania University, to acquire professional qualification, during 1973-74. Though I was a student at Osmania University earlier too, I was not actually studied on campus. I pursued my degree at New Science College. Studying on the university campus itself was a unique thrill, and being at the Arts College building was an even greater one. After a couple of days of classes at the Arts College, we were shifted to the University Library building.

Followed by a Bachelor of Library Science (BLibSc) degree from Osmania University. Each stage of education added not only formal qualifications but also clarity of thought, discipline, and an appreciation for structured learning. My career and professional life began even before I did my B Lib Sc, as a ‘Graduate Librarian’ between 1971 and 1974, serving at the Government Junior College, Yellandu, and later at Khammam Shanti Nagar High School.