PM Modi to civil services probationers: Move from ‘government to governance’

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday (October 31) advised civil services’ probationers to follow the mantra of “minimum government and maximum governance”.

Through video conference from Kevadia in Gujarat, PM Modi addressed the IAS probationers and told them that they would be serving the country when it celebrates 100 years of Independence. The trainees are undergoing the foundation course at Lal Bahadur Shastri National Academy of Administration (LBSNAA) in Mussoorie.

“A government does not run on policies alone. People for whom the policies are meant need to be involved. People are not the receiver of the government’s policies and programmes. They are the real driving force,” he said.

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“So we should move from government towards governance. You will be faced with two ways, one of comfort, name and fame, another of struggle, difficulties, problems. But I can tell you from my experience that you will face real difficulties when you choose an easy way out,” he added.

Further, he stated, “You are the officers who will be serving the country when it celebrates 100 years of Independence. From 2022, the 25 years ahead are very important for the country. You have a huge responsibility.”

“I would also request that whatever decision a civil servant takes should be in the national interest and meant to strengthen the unity and sovereignty of the country and keep India’s constitutional spirit high,” the prime minister said.

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Earlier in the day, PM Modi participated in the Ekta Diwas celebrations to commemorate the birth anniversary of “Loh Purush” Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel in Kevadia. He offered floral tributes at the Statue of Unity, administered the Ekta Pledge and witnessed the Ekta Diwas Parade on the occasion.

Speaking on the occasion, Modi said the various projects inaugurated for the integrated development of Kevadia will help in increasing the tourism of the region. He said tourists will now have the option to visit the Statue of Unity to get the “darshan of Sardar Saheb” through a sea-plane service as well.

(With inputs from agencies)