Every year on April 21, the Indian government celebrates Civil Services Day to honor the hard work of its civil servants and to remind them of their commitment to serving the citizens of the country. This year’s theme was “Viksit Bharat: Empowering Citizens and Reaching the Last Mile”. On this day, the Prime Minister awards districts/implementing units for their outstanding work in public administration. The Prime Minister also released e-books on the theme of the day. The first Civil Services Day was celebrated in 2006 to commemorate the first Home Minister of Independent India, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, who referred to civil servants as the “steel frame of India”. The Prime Minister’s Awards for Excellence in Public Administration were given to those who excelled in priority programs, including promoting cleanliness, health, education, and development. The awards were given based on a transparent selection process.
The Prime Minister emphasized the importance of the bureaucracy analyzing the use of taxpayers’ money and ensuring that it benefits the nation rather than just a political party. The role of civil servants is critical in managing government resources and making sure they reach people at the grassroots level effectively and efficiently.During the first Civil Services Day celebration, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel highlighted the importance of civil servants and encouraged them to work with the spirit of service and cultivate a shared feeling of pride among team or group members. He also emphasized the importance of upholding the dignity, integrity, and incorruptibility of the civil service.This year’s celebration of Civil Services Day recognized outstanding work done in promoting Swachh Jal, Swasth Bharat, quality education, and holistic development. The awards were given based on 2520 nominations, and the Department of Administrative Reforms and Public Grievances (DARPG) ensured a fair and transparent selection process for the awards.Overall, Civil Services Day celebrates the important role of civil servants in serving the citizens of India and recognizes their exemplary work in various priority programs. The day also reminds civil servants of their commitment to serving the nation with the spirit of service and integrity.
