A group of IAS officers from the 2023 batch, currently serving as Assistant Secretaries in various Union Ministries and Departments, called on President of India Droupadi Murmu at the Rashtrapati Bhavan Cultural Centre on Tuesday.
Addressing the young officers, the President commended their hard work and determination in joining the Indian Administrative Service, calling it a transformative milestone in their lives. She urged them to channel that same dedication toward bringing meaningful change in the lives of the people they serve.
“You have the opportunity to positively impact countless lives, even in your very first posting,” she said, emphasizing the importance of working for the upliftment of the underprivileged and revisiting past postings to observe the long-term impact of their initiatives.
Highlighting the responsibilities of civil servants, President Murmu stated that their duties must be viewed as responsibilities, and their rights as tools to fulfill them. She cautioned against seeking popularity through social media, stating, “Your real career story will be written by your work, not by your number of followers. Your real social net worth will be determined by the good you do.”
Underscoring the importance of values in public service, she noted that honesty, truth, and simplicity are cornerstones of a fulfilling and impactful career. “Honesty is the most desirable policy in public service,” she said, urging officers to lead by example in integrity and sensitivity.
In light of growing public awareness and rising aspirations in the digital age, the President advised the officers to stay connected with citizens, encourage community participation, and address public interest concerns raised by elected representatives. She concluded by stating that their work at the grassroots would contribute directly to national progress and public welfare.
