Wed Oct 22 13:12:37 UTC 2025: Here’s a summary of the text and a rewritten version as a news article:
Summary:
A memorial event was held in Vijayawada, Andhra Pradesh, on October 22, 2025, to commemorate the 91st birth anniversary of the late S.R. Sankaran, a highly respected IAS officer known for his dedication to the poor and marginalized. Former Chief Secretary of Kerala, Vijayanand, along with other prominent figures, spoke about Sankaran’s integrity, moral authority, and commitment to social justice, emphasizing his contributions to abolishing bonded labor and eradicating manual scavenging. Speakers urged civil service aspirants and students to emulate Sankaran’s principles and dedication to serving the people.
News Article:
‘A Saint Among Civil Servants’: S.R. Sankaran Remembered on 91st Birth Anniversary
VIJAYAWADA, October 22, 2025 – The legacy of the late S.R. Sankaran, an IAS officer widely revered as a champion of the poor, was celebrated today at a memorial event held at Andhra Loyola College. Speakers at the event, marking Sankaran’s 91st birth anniversary, lauded his unwavering commitment to social justice and his profound impact on the lives of marginalized communities.
“Sankaran was a saint among civil servants,” declared Vijayanand, former Chief Secretary of Kerala, urging civil service aspirants to follow in his footsteps. He highlighted Sankaran’s incorruptibility and dedication to serving the people.
The event, organized by the S.R. Sankaran Memorial Trust in association with Andhra Loyola College, featured several prominent figures, including G. Haragopal, a renowned intellectual from the National Law School of India University (NLSIU); G. Narendra Kumar, director-general of the National Institute of Rural Development, Hyderabad; and P.M. Sowjanya, assistant regional director at Indira Gandhi National Open University, Hyderabad.
Speakers highlighted Sankaran’s significant contributions to abolishing bonded labor and eradicating manual scavenging in India. His simplicity, humaneness, and courage to challenge the status quo were repeatedly emphasized.
“Sankaran never fell for the temptations of money and power,” Vijayanand recalled. G. Haragopal added that while many administrators derive power from their positions, Sankaran’s power stemmed from his moral authority. G. Narendra Kumar encouraged students to view Sankaran’s life as an example and to adopt a strong set of principles and a purpose in life.
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