NOV 29:Defence Minister Shri Rajnath Singh praised Operation Sindoor as an outstanding demonstration of civil–military collaboration, highlighting how administrative systems and the Armed Forces worked together seamlessly to deliver critical information and maintain public confidence. Addressing the valedictory ceremony of the 100th Common Foundation Course at the Lal Bahadur Shastri National Academy of Administration (LBSNAA) in Mussoorie, he urged young civil servants to recognise their pivotal responsibility in protecting national interests and to remain as prepared as soldiers during challenging moments.
The Raksha Mantri noted that during Operation Sindoor, the Armed Forces successfully neutralised terror infrastructure in Pakistan and PoK through a precise and carefully calibrated response. While the courage of soldiers ensured operational success, he emphasised that administrative officers played an equally vital role by disseminating crucial updates and managing nationwide mock drills. This synergy, he said, is essential for India’s journey toward becoming Viksit Bharat by 2047.
Shri Rajnath Singh reiterated the government’s guiding principles of “Minimum Government, Maximum Governance” and “Reform, Perform, Transform.” He reminded the trainees that they are not distant guardians but public servants responsible for enabling empowerment and cultivating integrity at every level of administration. With India rising from the world’s 11th largest economy in 2014 to the 4th today, he encouraged officers to uphold honesty, transparency, and accountability.
Calling for innovation in a rapidly evolving technological era, he highlighted initiatives such as Jan Dhan Yojana, DBT, Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission, and the Defence Ministry’s AI-based SAMPURNA system. Technology, he said, must be used to enhance accessibility, inclusivity, and public outreach—not as an end in itself but as a tool for welfare.
He also emphasised empathy in governance, reminding officers that genuine administration requires understanding the social and economic struggles of citizens. Appreciating the increasing representation of women in civil services, he expressed confidence in their growing leadership roles by 2047.
Concluding, he lauded LBSNAA’s role in shaping capable, ethical, and compassionate administrators and paid tribute to Lal Bahadur Shastri and Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel during the event.
