It’s more than just the preparation; it’s the aspiration and the risk you’re willing to take
“The main task before India today is to consolidate herself into a well-knit and united power.”
– Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel
National Civil Services Day is celebrated in India every year on April 21st. This is a day to honor the contributions and services of civil servants in the country to its citizens. The day was first observed in 2006, to mark when Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, the first Home Minister of India, addressed the first batch of civil servants in Independent India at Metcalfe House in Delhi, in 1947.
On National Civil Services Day, various events and seminars are organized across the country to recognize the efforts and contributions of civil servants. The government of India presents awards and commendations to civil servants who have made outstanding contributions in the field of public service. The day is an occasion to renew the commitment of civil servants towards serving the nation with honesty, integrity, and dedication.
In 2023, National Civil Services Day will be celebrated amidst the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, which has posed unprecedented challenges for civil servants. Despite the challenges, civil servants in India have played a vital role in ensuring the continuity of essential services and delivering relief and support to the people during these difficult times.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi will be addressing civil servants today, on the occasion of National Civil Services Day. PM Modi has been appreciative of the contributions made by civil servants toward nation-building and has encouraged them to work even harder. He will also be conferring the Prime Minister’s Awards for Excellence in Public Administration at the event.
These awards were established to recognise the work done by districts and organizations of the central and state governments for the welfare of its citizens. Awards will be given for outstanding performance in four priority programmes that include:
- Promoting Swachh Jal through Har Ghar Jal Yojana
- Promoting Swasth Bharat through health and wellness centers
- Promoting quality education with an equitable and inclusive classroom environment through Samagra Shiksha
- Holistic development through aspirational district programme – overall progress with a special focus on saturation approach.
National Civil Services Day 2023, therefore, is an occasion to celebrate and honor the spirit of civil servants and express gratitude for their service to the nation.
