Hyderabad: Tourism and Culture Minister Jupally Krishna Rao urged government staff to pursue sports and arts while performing their official duties efficiently. He said Secretariat employees sports and cultural activities could improve physical and mental well-being. Such programmes could also help employees manage workplace pressure, he added.
Jupally attended the Secretariat Cultural Festival organised by the Dr B.R. Ambedkar Telangana Secretariat Association. Special Chief Secretary Mahesh Dutt Ekka also attended the programme.
The minister said government employees regularly worked under busy schedules and considerable pressure. Therefore, their physical and mental health was as important as their professional efficiency. He said sports, literature, music, dance and other arts offered physical and mental relaxation.
Secretariat employees sports and cultural talent
Jupally said cultural programmes could identify hidden artistic talent among Secretariat staff. He urged employees not to restrict themselves to files, official duties and responsibilities. Instead, they should also find opportunities to demonstrate their creativity.
Participation was more important than winning or losing, he said. Employees could display their talent and share enjoyable experiences with colleagues through such events. Jupally suggested holding cultural programmes regularly to improve enthusiasm among employees.
He said efficient work by government employees had a direct impact on government performance and public services. The minister said an interest in games, sports and music could bring fresh energy to the workplace.
Jupally said India had ancient traditions, culture and diverse art forms that needed preservation. He noted that Indians living abroad were also teaching their children about Indian arts and culture.
Employees had a responsibility to preserve the arts, culture and traditions inherited from earlier generations, he said. They could fulfil that responsibility while continuing their professional duties.
The minister also recalled the movement for a separate Telangana state. He said songs and cultural performances had inspired him during his padayatra for statehood in 2011. At the time, he had resigned as an MLA and minister, he added.
Jupally recalled those who had sacrificed their lives during the Telangana movement. He urged people to remember their sacrifices and follow their ideals. The minister said the government was committed to employee welfare. He assured support from the Culture Department for cultural programmes organised by employees.
Music director Radhakrishna also attended the programme. Telangana Secretariat Employees Association president Giri Srinivas Reddy and general secretary J. Prem were present. Association vice-president Naveen Kumar, cultural secretary Yamini Kanakatara and others also participated.