Daijiworld Media Network - Mussoorie
Mussoorie, Nov 29: Defence minister Rajnath Singh on Saturday hailed Operation Sindoor as a powerful example of civil–military collaboration, praising the seamless coordination between the administrative machinery and the Armed Forces in managing information flow and strengthening public confidence.
Speaking at the valedictory ceremony of the 100th Common Foundation Course at the Lal Bahadur Shastri National Academy of Administration (LBSNAA) in Mussoorie, he reminded the young civil servants of their essential role in protecting national interests. Just like soldiers, he said, administrators must remain prepared to respond to critical situations.
Reflecting on Operation Sindoor, the Minister stated that the Indian Armed Forces neutralised terror camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir with a measured and non-escalatory approach. He added, however, that tensions persisted along the border due to the hostile behaviour of the neighbouring nation.
Rajnath Singh also applauded the bravery of the soldiers and commended administrative officers for their effective communication, management of vital information, and execution of nationwide mock drills as part of the operation.
He highlighted the growing importance of synergy between governance and national security, essential for achieving the vision of Viksit Bharat by 2047.
Invoking Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s principles of Minimum Government, Maximum Governance and Reform, Perform, Transform, he underlined the pivotal role of civil servants in fast-tracking India’s transformation into a self-reliant, developed nation. Singh pointed out India’s rapid economic ascent—from 11th to 4th largest economy since 2014—and noted global projections of India becoming the world’s third-largest economy within the next few years.
Encouraging trainees to embrace their responsibilities with dedication, he said: “You are facilitators of empowerment. Your character must be incorruptible, your conduct rooted in integrity. Create a system where honesty becomes routine, not exceptional.”
The minister urged young administrators to innovate in a technology-driven era, stressing that technology should serve as an enabler of transparency, accessibility, and public welfare. He cited successful digital initiatives such as Jan Dhan Yojana, Direct Benefit Transfer, Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission, and the Income Tax Department’s Faceless Assessment Scheme.
He also highlighted the Ministry of Defence’s AI-driven SAMPURNA system, which enhances transparency in defence procurement and payment processes. Technology, he said, should support inclusivity and outreach, not become an end in itself.
Rajnath Singh further emphasised compassion in governance, reminding officers to understand the wider socio-economic contexts of the people they serve, especially the underprivileged. True governance, he said, is people-centric and empathetic.
Acknowledging the growing participation of women in the Civil Services—with women securing top positions in the latest UPSC exam—he expressed confidence that by 2047 many will rise to the nation’s highest administrative posts and help steer India’s developmental trajectory.