Lok Sabha Speaker Shri Om Birla interacted with IAS Officer Trainees of the 2024 batch under the "Assistant Secretaries Programme" organized by the Parliamentary Research and Training Institute for Democracies (PRIDE) of the Lok Sabha Secretariat at Parliament House on June 10, 2026. Birla described civil servants as agents of change who hold the key to translating citizen aspirations into tangible outcomes, emphasizing that governance success depends on effective grassroots implementation of laws and policies.
Birla stated that Parliament represents the supreme expression of people's aspirations, expectations, and concerns, and urged trainees to use their parliamentary attachment to deepen their understanding of public administration and democratic accountability. He emphasized that while Parliament enacts laws, the administrative machinery translates legislative intent into meaningful outcomes for citizens, noting that civil servants play a decisive role in ensuring public policies achieve their intended objectives.
The Speaker advised trainees to remain closely connected with the public and develop a deep understanding of India's diverse social, cultural, and geographical landscape. He stated that administrators require not only thorough knowledge of laws and rules but also empathy, sensitivity, and appreciation of local realities. Birla highlighted that officers who engage directly with the public, understand grievances, and communicate in local languages are better equipped to earn public trust and deliver meaningful change.
Birla lauded the growing participation and success of women in civil services, observing that their increasing contribution is significantly strengthening governance across the country. He highlighted integrity, compassion, accountability, and unwavering commitment to public service as essential qualities for every civil servant. The Speaker called upon trainees to uphold the highest standards of transparency and integrity, noting that people repose immense trust in the Indian Administrative Service as an institution. He urged them to remain dedicated to the welfare of the last person in society, ensuring that development benefits reach every citizen, with responsibility and accountability as the cornerstones of good governance.