Citizens First: PM Modi’s Message to Future IAS Officers

New Delhi, June 23, 2026 Highlighting the importance of public-centred administration, Prime Minister Narendra Modi encouraged IAS officer trainees to adopt the principle of “Nagrik Devo Bhava” as a guiding value in governance. His address focused on the larger vision of building a developed India, stressing that civil servants will play a defining role in connecting policies with people’s everyday lives. Speaking to the trainees, the Prime Minister underlined that governance should go beyond administration and reflect service, responsibility and responsiveness. He emphasised that officers entering public service must remain closely connected to citizens’ expectations and contribute actively to India’s long-term development goals. PM Modi also spoke about the need for innovation, efficiency and accountability in governance, stating that meaningful administration begins with understanding public needs. He encouraged the trainees to see their positions as opportunities to create lasting impact through effective decision-making and citizen engagement. Concluding his address, the Prime Minister called on the future officers to become active participants in India’s Viksit Bharat journey, saying that the values and choices of today’s administrators will influence the country’s growth in the years ahead.