President Murmu has urged 2023 Batch IAS officers to serve with integrity and a sense of purpose.
President Droupadi Murmu interacted with Indian Administrative Service (IAS) officers from the 2023 batch, currently serving as Assistant Secretaries in various Union Ministries and Departments, at the Rashtrapati Bhavan Cultural Centre.
In her address, the President extended congratulations to the officers on joining the esteemed ranks of the civil service, acknowledging the dedication and perseverance that brought them to this milestone. She emphasized that while their personal journeys have already been transformed, they now hold the power—and responsibility—to positively impact the lives of millions.
“Lead with Integrity, Humility, and a Strong Sense of Duty”
President Murmu highlighted that the influence of an IAS officer begins from their very first posting, urging them to remain grounded and committed to the upliftment of marginalized communities. She encouraged them to revisit their initial postings in the future to observe the lasting impact of their work.
She remarked, “The development and public welfare efforts you carry out at the grassroots level will play a vital role in achieving the nation’s larger goals,” stressing the significance of local governance in national progress.
“Let Your Work Define You—Not Social Media”
In a powerful message about public service ethics, the President reminded the officers that their true legacy would not be shaped by social media visibility, but by the quality and sincerity of their contributions to society. “Your real social net worth will be measured by the good you do,” she stated.
She underscored the importance of upholding values such as honesty, integrity, and simplicity, urging officers to be role models both in their official roles and personal conduct. “Honesty remains the most sought-after virtue in public service,” she added.
Embracing Digital Governance and Public Expectations
Acknowledging the rapidly evolving governance landscape, President Murmu noted that today’s citizens are well-informed and expect accountability from administrators. She encouraged the young officers to maintain close engagement with the public, promote inclusive development, and respond actively to concerns raised by elected representatives.
“The erosion of moral values is as grave a concern as environmental degradation,” the President said, concluding her address with a call for every public servant to act with sincerity and purpose in these challenging times.
