S R Shankaran’s life is Ideal: A Beacon of Service to marginalized communities

Vijayawada : Dalit and people’s organizations gathered at the Ambedkar Jagjivan Unity Building in Vijayawada on Monday, to pay tributes to the late S R Shankaran, a revered IAS officer known for his tireless work in uplifting marginalized communities. Leaders and activists lauded his contributions, calling for his legacy to be officially recognized and celebrated.

Floral tributes to S R Shankaran

In an emotional ceremony, leaders including former Legislative Council members Jelli Wilson and KVPS State Secretary Andra Malyadri alongside district members G Nataraju, Chinta Srinivas, G Arunamma, and Dalit Women’s Power Coordinator Gaddam Jhansi, DHPS State Organizing Secretary Butti Rayappa, Perayya, Ashok, Jaibheem Bharat Party leader G Kondalarao, Dr. Ankayya, Wilson, Retd. MEO Jayakumar, Kavi Subrahmanyam, Gupta, Sheshaiah and other attendees offered floral tributes to Shankaran’s statue.

Shankaran’s legacy of social welfare

Speaking at the event, KVPS State Secretary Andra Malyadri reflected on Shankaran’s extraordinary life. Born into a Brahmin family in Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu, Shankaran pursued higher education and joined the Indian Administrative Service (IAS).

He held key positions in Andhra Pradesh, including Nandyal Sub-Collector and Nellore Joint Collector. His most significant contributions came during his tenure as Secretary of the Social Welfare Department, where he introduced groundbreaking government orders (GOs) aimed at the development and empowerment of Dalit and tribal communities.

An inspirational life

“Some people gain recognition through their positions, while others make their positions recognizable. S R Shankaran belongs to the latter category,” Malyadri stated, emphasizing the officer’s lasting impact. He urged the government to officially celebrate Shankaran’s birthday and name welfare schemes in his honour.

Calls for official recognition

Leaders at the event stressed the importance of continuing Shankaran’s work, calling for increased funding for Dalit and tribal welfare. “His life is an inspiration, and the government must take steps to ensure that his legacy lives on through concrete actions that benefit the marginalized,” they added.

Shankaran’s commitment to social justice remains a guiding light for many, and his contributions to India’s most vulnerable communities serve as a reminder of the enduring power of selfless service.