ADDRESS BY THE HON’BLE PRESIDENT OF INDIA, SMT DROUPADI MURMU ON THE OCCASION OF CALL ON BY THE PROBATIONERS OF INDIAN CORPORATE LAW SERVICE

At the outset, I congratulate you all for clearing the civil services examination and joining this prestigious service. As India progresses through the Amrit Kaal, officers like you have a great responsibility to give your best for creating a more transparent, accountable, and efficient governance system in the country.

We know that the Indian Corporate Law Service officers act as regulators of the corporate world. You also are facilitators for the growth and development of business and industry in India. Ease of doing business, 'Start up India’, ‘Stand up India’ along with ‘Digital India’ and ‘Make in India’, are some of the programmes for strengthening the business ecosystem in the country. Therefore, your job is extremely important as you have to ensure good corporate governance while encouraging and promoting the development of industry and entrepreneurship.

Dear officers,

In a rapidly changing national and global economic landscape, you must gain expertise in your domain and keep yourself abreast of the latest developments in the field of commerce, industry, and corporate governance. As you step into your roles, always remember that your actions will have a significant impact on the industrial and governance ecosystem of the country. You should maintain integrity while you navigate your way through the framework of corporate governance.

Good corporate governance is of great relevance and significance today. It would be your duty to ensure that companies are managed in the best interests of shareholders and other stakeholders. Through efficient governance models, you must ensure that the corporate entities follow an ethical culture and respect the rights of stakeholders. Effective corporate governance is also necessary for long-term sustainable growth and inclusive development of the country. Various regulations are in place in our country to ensure that enterprises follow good Corporate Governance practices. You must do hard, smart and sincere work to enforce these regulations for the larger good of the citizens.

An important aspect of good governance in any field, is gender equality. I am told that Ministry of Corporate Affairs and SEBI have brought out regulations that encourage the presence of women directors in top management positions but the Corporate Sector should promote gender equality at all ranks in the companies.

As young and bright civil servants, you must work with a sense of responsibility towards the citizens of the country. The expertise in Companies Act or knowledge of financial laws is fundamental for your efficient functioning. You must also imbibe a spirit of service towards the nation and its people. As you embark on your journey, remember that your commitment to the well-being of the fellow citizens should be unwavering. You should uphold the principles of transparency, fairness, and accountability.

Dear young officers,

As you take your first steps into this noble profession, you should be inspired by the legacy of those who have served before you. You should remember that the country has reposed faith in you and your actions should reflect the values and aspirations of our nation. In a few days, India will be hosting the G20 summit which showcases India’s rising stature at the global level. You must be proud that you will be contributing in a big way in the efficient and transparent functioning of India’s corporate sector. The world is looking upon India and you have to live up to the expectations of the country.

I am confident that, with your dedication and commitment, you will work towards the making of a prosperous and developed India. May you contribute significantly to the progress of our great nation during this Kartavya Kaal.

In the end, I extend my best wishes to you all for your bright and productive future.

Thank you! 
Jai Hind!