Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh shared inspiring words with the 2021 batch of IAS officers commencing their roles today as Assistant Secretaries in the Government of India. In his address, he emphasized their unique position as the architects of India’s future at the centenary mark of its independence in 2047.
Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science & Technology, MoS PMO, Personnel, Public Grievances, Pensions, Atomic Energy, and Space, noted that these officers will play a pivotal role in witnessing India’s rise to prominence, envisioned for the nation’s 100th year of independence. He encouraged them to envision their careers in top leadership positions, highlighting the opportunity to celebrate India’s 100th Anniversary.
The Union Minister stressed that many government programs under Prime Minister Narendra Modi are technology-driven, such as the PM Gati Shakti and Svamitva schemes. He urged civil servants to become proficient in emerging technologies, including Artificial Intelligence, to promote citizen-centric governance and achieve Good Governance.
He highlighted the importance of breaking down silos and fostering a collaborative approach to development, aligning with Prime Minister Modi’s vision. Dr. Jitendra Singh also discussed the competency framework for the Civil Services under Mission Karmayogi, aimed at preparing civil servants for the future by making them more innovative, proactive, and technology-enabled.
Dr. Jitendra Singh praised the Assistant Secretaries program as a novel experiment initiated in 2015 by Prime Minister Modi. This program offers young IAS officers exposure to the functioning of the Government of India early in their careers, following their Phase II training at LBSNAA, Mussoorie.
He highlighted that Assistant Secretaries have the opportunity to contribute to flagship programs and make presentations before the Prime Minister, a privilege their senior colleagues may not have had.
Dr. Jitendra Singh shared that this batch of 182 officers consists of 61 women and 121 men, with diverse educational backgrounds. He expressed confidence that officers with varied qualifications, including engineering, arts, pure sciences, and medicine, will contribute to technology-based and technology-driven government initiatives in sectors like health, agriculture, sanitation, education, skills, and mobility.
As these young IAS officers embark on their careers, Dr. Jitendra Singh urged them to embrace the opportunity to shape India’s future as it approaches its historic 2047 milestone.
