- Surender’s Comeback Bid Stirs Buzz
- His Planning Return to Oilfed, Say Insiders
Article Today, Hyderabad:
Speculation is high in government circles that Surender, currently serving as OSD to Deputy Chief Minister Bhatti Vikramarka, is making serious moves to return as the Managing Director of Telangana State Oilfed. Surender earlier held the MD position at Oilfed for over three years before moving to his current post. With the present MD, Yasmin Basha, reportedly overburdened with multiple responsibilities, discussions have begun about bringing Surender back to the helm.
Current MD Too Busy for Oilfed Focus…
Sources within the corporation say Yasmin Basha, apart from being the MD of Oilfed, is also heading critical departments such as Horticulture, the Seed Development Corporation, and the Minority Welfare Department. As a result, she’s unable to give full attention to Oilfed’s activities. This has raised concerns, especially at a time when the state government is focused on expanding oil palm cultivation across districts — a priority project requiring consistent oversight.
The ongoing expansion of oil palm plantations and the setting up of new processing factories are significant projects under Oilfed’s scope. But insiders claim the current lack of focused leadership is slowing things down. Several employees believe that the corporation now needs a full-time MD who can exclusively concentrate on its development plans. In this context, Surender’s name has re-emerged as a strong contender, reportedly with the backing of Agriculture Minister Tummala Nageswara Rao and other influential figures.
A Look Back at Surender’s Tenure as MD…
During Surender’s time as MD, Oilfed saw major developments. The initial push for oil palm cultivation began under his leadership. He oversaw large-scale purchases of saplings, the setup of nurseries, and initiated tender processes for a factory in Siddipet. His role extended beyond Oilfed as he also served as the MD of HACA (Hyderabad Agricultural Co-operative Association) while Macha Srinivasa Rao was its chairman.
That period, however, was not without controversy. The central government raised concerns over irregularities in the procurement and sales of sunflower seeds, which reportedly involved financial mismanagement. Internal inquiries were launched, and the shadow of these allegations lingered, ultimately forcing Surender to step aside and move to a quieter role as OSD.
Comeback Intentions Now Stronger Than Ever…
Now, with political and administrative conditions seemingly more favourable, Surender is said to be determined to return to Oilfed. A senior official from the corporation claimed that Surender believes the time is right for a comeback and that he continues to maintain strong ties with Minister Tummala, which could work in his favour. With Oilfed’s leadership needing fresh attention, and the current MD stretched thin, his reappointment is being seriously considered in some circles.
Resistance from Farmer Unions
Not everyone, however, is happy with the possibility of Surender’s return. Some farmer groups and unions have expressed concern over his past tenure. They fear that bringing him back might once again lead to controversies or stalled progress. These groups believe that Oilfed needs clean, transparent, and focused leadership, especially during this critical phase of agricultural expansion in Telangana.
What Lies Ahead for Oilfed?
As discussions intensify, the next few weeks may be crucial in determining whether Surender stages a comeback. With political equations favouring him and administrative challenges mounting at Oilfed, the government could be tempted to bring back a familiar face. But public perception and farmer sentiment may play a deciding role. All eyes are now on the corridors of power to see which way the decision swings.