Vice-President Shri C. P. Radhakrishnan interacted with probationers of the Indian Defence Estates Service (2025 Batch) at Uprashtrapati Bhavan on September 30, 2026. He emphasized the critical role of the Defence Estates Organisation in managing nearly 18 lakh acres of defence land across the country, which involves safeguarding national assets, providing civic amenities, facilitating defence infrastructure, and supporting the operational readiness of the Armed Forces.
The Vice-President highlighted the organisation's digital governance initiatives, particularly the e-Chhawani initiative, which has strengthened smart governance and integrated public service delivery in cantonments. He noted that emerging technologies including AI, GIS, drone surveys, satellite imagery, automated change detection, and 3-D visualization can significantly enhance the accuracy, transparency, and efficiency of defence land management.
However, he stressed that technology must be accompanied by human responsibility, stating that "technology should strengthen accountability, not replace it." He urged probationers to remain firm in discharging their duties, observing that technology may fail but an officer's sense of responsibility and firmness should not. He emphasized the importance of continuous skill upgradation through platforms like iGOT Karmayogi and quoted Tamil poet Thiruvalluvar to emphasize that learning acquires true meaning only when reflected in conduct.
The Vice-President noted that many probationers come from smaller towns, demonstrating that dedication and hard work can overcome perceived barriers. He stated that civil servants have a crucial role in realising the vision of Viksit Bharat @2047 by ensuring inclusive development and taking governance to the last mile. Defence Secretary Shri Rajesh Kumar Singh and senior officers of the Ministry of Defence and Indian Defence Estates Service were present on the occasion.
This content may not be financially relevant.