President of India Smt Droupadi Murmu addressed Officer Trainees of the Military Engineer Services (MES) from the 2023 and 2024 batches during their call at Rashtrapati Bhavan on June 25, 2026. The President characterized MES as forming the backbone of defence infrastructure in India, playing a vital role in strengthening the operational capabilities of the Armed Forces through the development and maintenance of strategic installations. She stated that the skill, dedication, and hard work of MES officers are fundamental to ensuring soldiers, sailors, and air warriors can perform their national defence duties effectively.
The President urged the young officers to uphold the highest standards of professionalism, integrity, technical excellence, and dedication to duty. She advised them to embrace innovation, leverage emerging technologies, and strive for excellence in every project. In the context of a world marked by conflicts and geopolitical tensions, the President framed self-reliance as a strategic necessity, enabling a nation to maintain economic stability and undertake developmental priorities during crises. She cited Operation Sindoor as an event that highlighted how indigenous defence capabilities, advanced technology, and a robust domestic industrial base are integral to enhancing a nation's operational readiness and strategic effectiveness, noting her satisfaction that MES is promoting and using Made in India products.
Addressing global challenges, the President stated that sustainable development is a necessity in the face of climate change and environmental challenges. She charged the MES officers with the responsibility to promote environmentally sustainable practices in planning, construction, and maintenance, stating that their efforts should contribute to both a strong, secure India and a clean, green, and sustainable India.