Daijiworld Media Network – Udupi (TP)
Udupi, Jun 18: Swaroopa T K officially assumed charge as the new deputy commissioner of Udupi district on Wednesday, June 18 taking over from outgoing DC Dr K Vidyakumari.
On June 17 evening, the state government had issued orders transferring Dr Vidyakumari and appointing Swaroopa T K, a 2012 batch IAS officer, as her successor.
Addressing the gathering after taking charge, Swaroopa T K acknowledged the contributions of her predecessor and said, “The highlight of today’s event is Dr K Vidyakumari. I have known her for a long time and have always admired her deep involvement and foresight—she is always prepared. I’ve heard that in Udupi, one doesn’t need to refer to law books, as the people themselves are so well informed that they guide you. Many told me that even a short tenure in Udupi is enough to understand good governance, and I now have that opportunity.
“Udupi is a temple town that attracts many visitors. Tourism is significant here, and it is important that all departments work in coordination. I sincerely seek the cooperation of every department. The large gathering here today shows the respect and popularity Dr Vidyakumari has earned. All of us here represent the government—of the people and for the people. If we do not respond to the needs of the people, our roles lose their meaning. We must be sensitive in administration and responsive in approach if we are to serve the purpose of governance.”
In her farewell address, Dr K Vidyakumari described her tenure in Udupi as fulfilling and collaborative. She said, “Udupi is truly one of the best districts in the state. I received the full cooperation of dedicated officials and all departments, including heads of institutions, whose selfless efforts helped maintain the district’s top ranking.
“Whenever I received crucial information, I would pass it on to Zilla Panchayat CEO Pratheek Bayal, who ensured action, even during labour shortages. Though there were financial constraints in the DC office—where at times we could not even arrange snacks for meetings—I always received support from the Zilla Panchayat. The executive officer was consistent in attending every meeting.
“The police department worked tirelessly on the ground, especially during elections. Over the past two years, there have been no law and order issues. While Udupi once had a reputation for communal tensions, the police department has worked hard to change that image. Former SP Arun tackled issues at the root level and prevented their escalation.”
Swaroopa T K holds an MTech in Textile Engineering from IIT Delhi. Since February 2025, she has served as director of e-governance in the Rural Development and Panchayat Raj (RDPR) department. She has earlier served as CEO of Dharwad zilla panchayat, and held the roles of COO and assistant director in the National Rural Livelihood Mission (NRLM).
Dr Vidyakumari, who had taken charge as DC of Udupi on July 14, 2023, has now been transferred to Bengaluru. Her new posting is yet to be announced.
Additional deputy commissioner Abid Gadyal, district superintendent of police Hariram Shankar, ASP Karkala Harsham Priyam Vadha, Kundapur assistant commissioner Rashmi and other officials were present on the occasion.