Kevadiya (Gujarat), Nov 03: Union Minister Dr Jitendra Singh on Friday highlighted the democratization of Civil Services in recent years, attributing it to technology-driven accessibility to preparatory material, enabling aspirants from remote parts of India to qualify for prestigious services like IAS.
Speaking at the 98th Foundation Course of Lal Bahadur Shastri National Academy of Administration (LBSNAA), where 560 Officer Trainees, including IAS and Civil Services of Bhutan, gathered, Dr Singh noted the significant changes in governance and civil service grooming introduced under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership.
The minister highlighted that this trend has diversified the demography of the Civil Services, with toppers emerging from various states, including Punjab and Haryana. He emphasized the role of technology in leveling the playing field, making preparatory materials and resources accessible to candidates from all backgrounds.
Dr. Jitendra Singh made these observations while addressing the IAS Probationers at the 98th Foundation Course of the Lal Bahadur Shastri National Academy of Administration (LBSNAA), which brought together 560 Officer Trainees from the IAS and other Civil Services of India, as well as Bhutan. The course is currently taking place in Kevadiya, Gujarat.
The Minister underscored that Prime Minister Narendra Modi has introduced significant changes in governance and the training of Civil Servants over the past decade. He highlighted that PM Modi’s approach has shifted India’s focus from Delhi to various parts of the country, representing a new dimension and aligning with global benchmarks and parameters.
Dr. Jitendra Singh stressed the government’s emphasis on transparency, accountability, and timely delivery of services to citizens. He noted that the age of working in silos is over, and a “Whole of Government” approach is now integral to the functioning of various ministries and departments.
He cited examples like India’s vaccine success, Chandrayaan and Aditya-L1 solar missions, and the SVAMITVA Land Mapping scheme, where government, scientific laboratories, academia, startups, and industry collaborate to achieve success.
Dr. Jitendra Singh urged Civil Services officers to become instruments of public service delivery, particularly in the implementation of government’s citizen-centric schemes.
The Minister highlighted the significance of the three-month mandatory stint of new IAS Officers with Central Ministries/Departments, an initiative introduced by PM Modi in 2015. This exposure at the outset of their training allows these officers to gain insights into the functioning of the Government of India, interact with senior Secretaries and Ministers, and contribute their inputs to improve flagship programs.
Dr. Jitendra Singh also acknowledged the evolution of the Indian Administrative Service over the years and the changing roles and priorities in independent India. He mentioned the shift from revenue generation for the Empire during British rule to revenue generation for the welfare State in contemporary times.
The Minister praised PM Modi’s vision for the PM Excellence Awards, which promotes constructive competition, innovation, and best practices at the district level, as well as the recent amendment to the Prevention of Corruption Act to protect honest officers.
In conclusion, he encouraged the young IAS officers to harness the power of disruption in governance and contribute to the country’s progress, particularly as India celebrates its centenary of independence in 2047.
