ADDRESS BY THE HON’BLE PRESIDENT OF INDIA, SMT. DROUPADI MURMU ON THE OCCASION OF CALL ON BY INDIAN DEFENCE ACCOUNTS SERVICE AND INDIAN TELECOMMUNICATIONS SERVICE PROBATIONERS

Dear probationers of Indian Defence Accounts Service and Indian Telecommunications Service,

I congratulate you all for your selection in the esteemed services through a rigorous process of examination. You are embarking on a journey of public service. While taking up different roles in your career, you are expected to set new benchmarks of integrity and professional excellence.

After listening to your training experiences, I am confident that you have gained a deep insight into the overall goals of the country and you would contribute your best in making India a developed nation.

Dear probationers of Indian Defence Accounts Service,

You will be playing a pivotal role in overseeing the financial aspects of our nation's armed forces. Your responsibilities will encompass ensuring seamless financial management, fostering a culture of accountability, and upholding the highest standards of transparency.

I am confident that you will be working with the spirit of ‘Nation First’ to promote fiscal discipline within the defence sector. Your contributions will have a profound impact on the nation-building process, since prudent financial management is essential for enhancing our defence capabilities and safeguarding national interests.

I urge you to leverage cutting-edge technologies and innovative methods to streamline auditing and accounting processes. You also need to foster synergy with other defence agencies to promote a culture of transparency and accountability while enabling them to upgrade and enhance their capabilities. You must provide actionable insights and expert advice to the defence policymakers, enabling them to take informed decisions.

In this age of information and technology, you should ensure a comprehensive management information system that studies and analyses the impact of defence expenditure on the country’s economy. By performing your job with utmost dedication, you will not only strengthen the financial management of our armed forces but also contribute significantly to the nation's security and prosperity.

Dear probationers of Indian Telecommunication Service,

Over the past two decades, India has witnessed a transformative telecom revolution, driven by the advent of mobile telephony and high-speed internet networks. This revolution has unlocked India's vast digital potential. In this context, your role extends beyond mere regulation and management. Digital inclusion is the essence of digital India. Digital inclusion, in turn promotes financial inclusion and boosts economic growth. India Stack has contributed to financial inclusion by providing secure digital infrastructure. By enhancing digital connectivity through telecom infrastructure, you can help in the inclusive development of the nation by using technology to empower citizens and enhance the overall quality of life. You should focus on rural and remote areas for bridging the digital divide, thereby facilitating the socio-economic development of the country.

You have an important role to play in achieving the vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat. You need to focus on research and development in telecom sector to ensure the safety and security of the telecommunication network. A competitive landscape, ensuring availability of new communications technologies, is central to our economic growth. Simultaneously, you should also ensure robust cyber-security measures to safeguard India's digital infrastructure.

India is moving ahead towards the development of 6G technology as part of “Bharat 6G Vision”, based on principles of affordability, sustainability and ubiquity. By boosting greater connectivity, 6G network will enable the development of smarter cities, transform healthcare delivery and boost productivity and competitiveness. You must keep pace with the advancing technologies and ensure seamless network coverage.

Dear young officers,

You are joining your services at a transformative moment in India's developmental journey. The convergence of emerging technologies, rapid information dissemination, and shifting global landscapes present a complex yet exciting environment. Your role will be vital in inclusive development of India and in making it globally more competitive. You should always adopt and promote the citizen-centric approach while performing your duties. You must keep in mind the needs and aspirations of the deprived and underprivileged sections of the society while taking decisions.

Your thoughts, decisions, and actions will significantly influence the future trajectory of the nation. I am confident that you will rise to the challenges, leveraging your skills, expertise, and creativity to make a meaningful impact.

I extend my best wishes to you all for a bright future.

Thank you!
Jai Hindi!
Jai Bharat!