Hyderabad: Senior IAS officer Smita Sabharwal, who served as the Finance Commission Secretary, shared a thoughtful message after being shifted out of the Tourism Department.
On social media platform X, she quoted a verse from the Bhagavad Gita: “Karmanye vadhikaraste, ma phaleshu kadachana”—which means, “You have control over your actions, not the outcomes.” Her post hinted at her acceptance of the decision while reflecting on her recent work.
Sabharwal revealed that she spent the last four months working hard to improve the Tourism Department. She emphasized her efforts in bringing in accountability and transparency. One of her key achievements was introducing the Tourism Policy 2025–2030, which the state had never had before.
She explained that this new policy would help guide investments and development in less-explored tourist areas. She also restructured how the department functioned and began planning for a major international event, which she believes will boost tourism in the region.
In her words, “Did my best! Brought in the long-pending Tourism Policy 25–30… Revamped the working style of the dept and tried to infuse accountability. Laid the foundation for logistics and planning for a global event. Pleasure and honor.”
However, her transfer came shortly after she shared a post expressing concern over a controversial land allotment issue in Kancha Gachibowli, located on the outskirts of Hyderabad. Her comment sparked discussions, and many believe it led to her removal.
She had also received a police notice for re-sharing a post related to the same land dispute. Sources suggest that her public remarks may have prompted the government to act.
Despite the sudden change, Sabharwal remained composed and focused on her commitment to public service, choosing to let her work speak for itself.
