Mussoorie
Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh today hailed Operation Sindoor as a “brilliant example of civil–military fusion” and commended the synergy between the administrative machinery and the Armed Forces in safeguarding national security and building public confidence. He was addressing the valedictory ceremony of the 100th Common Foundation Course at the Lal Bahadur Shastri National Academy of Administration (LBSNAA) in Mussoorie.
Addressing young civil servants, Shri Rajnath Singh urged them to understand their crucial responsibility in protecting national interests and remain prepared for critical situations “just like our brave soldiers.”
Highlighting the conduct of Operation Sindoor, he said the Armed Forces neutralised terror camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir through a “balanced and non-escalatory response.” While applauding their courage, he equally praised the work of civil administration in disseminating vital information and enabling large-scale mock drills across the country, which played an essential role in maintaining public trust.
Civil Servants as Catalysts of Viksit Bharat
Emphasising the government’s vision of ‘Minimum Government, Maximum Governance’ and ‘Reform, Perform & Transform’, the Raksha Mantri said civil servants are at the forefront of India’s transformation toward Viksit Bharat by 2047.
He noted India’s economic rise—from the 11th largest economy in 2014 to the 4th today—and stated that leading global financial institutions such as Morgan Stanley expect India to become the world’s third-largest economy within two to three years.
“You are not platonic guardians but people’s servants,” he told the officer trainees. “Your character must be incorruptible. Create a system where honesty is not rare, but the norm.”
Technology With Compassion
Calling upon civil servants to innovate in the technology-driven era, he cited success stories such as Jan Dhan Yojana, DBT, Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission, and the Faceless IT Assessment Scheme. He also referred to the Ministry of Defence’s SAMPURNA initiative, an AI-based system ensuring transparency in defence procurement and payments.
“Technology should be a medium, not the final goal,” he stressed, adding that officers must use it to enhance accessibility, transparency, and inclusivity.
He further reminded officers to approach every citizen with empathy and understanding, especially the underprivileged, stating that true administration is both people-centric and compassionate.
Rise of Women in Civil Services
Shri Rajnath Singh acknowledged the increasing participation and success of women in the Civil Services, noting that a woman topped the latest UPSC examination and three of the top five positions were secured by women. He expressed confidence that by 2047, many women will lead the nation’s development journey as Cabinet Secretaries and key administrators.
Commitment to Building a Strong Governance Framework
Calling the Foundation Course not just a training programme but “a commitment to building an efficient, sensitive, and capable governance system,” the Raksha Mantri lauded LBSNAA for nurturing professional excellence and strengthening India’s administrative setup.
With Operation Sindoor demonstrating the strength of civil-military integration, Shri Rajnath Singh affirmed that collaboration, integrity, technology, and empathy will be the driving forces of India’s journey toward becoming a developed nation.