“With Great Power Comes Responsibility”: VP to Civil Servants
Radhakrishnan stresses ethics, tech readiness and inclusive governance
- VP addresses Civil Services Day at Vigyan Bhawan
- Calls officers backbone of governance and unity
- Urges adoption of AI, tech and specialization
- Highlights rise of women officers in services
GG News Bureau
New Delhi, 21st April: Vice President C. P. Radhakrishnan on Tuesday urged civil servants to uphold the highest standards of integrity and responsibility, stating that “with great power comes great responsibility,” while addressing the 18th Civil Services Day celebrations at Vigyan Bhawan.
Extending greetings to serving and retired officers, he recalled Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel’s description of civil servants as the “steel frame of India,” noting that successive generations have upheld this legacy and strengthened national unity.
The Vice President said civil servants remain the backbone of governance and key drivers of India’s development journey. He highlighted that their work, from policy execution to grassroots implementation, ensures that benefits reach citizens across regions.
Referring to recent developmental achievements, he pointed to poverty reduction, housing for the poor and initiatives like Aspirational Districts, stating that these successes are a result of dedicated administrative efforts.
In view of rapid technological changes, Radhakrishnan called on officers to remain future-ready by adopting emerging technologies such as Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning and Blockchain.
He also emphasised the need for continuous skill upgradation through platforms like iGOT Karmayogi and stressed that governance today requires specialised expertise alongside administrative experience.
Highlighting ethical governance, he urged officers to distinguish between legitimate guidance and undue pressure, and to remain committed to fairness, honesty and public interest at all times.
Quoting classical Indian thought, he said righteousness remains the highest form of strength in leadership.
The Vice President noted the growing participation of women in civil services, with representation rising from about 21% in 2016 to nearly 31% in 2025, calling it a reflection of changing societal attitudes and the power of Nari Shakti.
He stressed the importance of last-mile delivery and ensuring that no citizen is left behind in the journey towards Viksit Bharat 2047.
The Vice President also highlighted the symbolic importance of initiatives like Sewa Teerth and Kartavya Bhawan, describing them as embodiments of service, duty and national commitment.
