Om Birla to IAS Trainees: Be Agents of Change
At the 127th Induction Training Programme of the Lal Bahadur Shastri National Academy of Administration (LBSNAA) in Mussoorie, Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla delivered a powerful message. He told new civil servants that their duty is to change lives, not just implement policies.
He said civil servants must act with fairness, compassion, and a strong sense of duty. They must adopt transparency and innovation to bring real benefits to society.
“People trust officers to solve problems. Especially the poor and marginalized look up to them with hope,” he said.
LBSNAA: Cradle of Karmayogis
Birla called LBSNAA a place of simplicity, values, and democratic integrity. He reminded trainees of Lal Bahadur Shastri’s legacy of honesty and service.
He addressed the young officers as Karmayogis—those who serve without self-interest. Their mission, he said, is to uplift the last person in society.
India’s Strength Lies in Unity and Service
India’s diversity is unmatched—in language, culture, and geography. Despite this, Birla said, India has built a unified and cooperative administration.
He reminded trainees that their role is not just to enforce law but also to inspire change. A good officer can shape behavior, solve local issues, and improve governance on the ground.
Public Trust Comes from Honest Work
True leadership comes from integrity and consistency, Birla said. Officers who serve people sincerely gain deep trust. That trust remains, even after they are transferred.
“I’ve seen people stand by honest officers—even when political challenges arise,” he recalled.
He urged officers to treat every problem as important. Solving even one person’s issue can give energy to continue serving with commitment.
Adapt and Keep Learning
The Speaker emphasized the need for lifelong learning. Civil servants must evolve with new technologies and changing public expectations.
He encouraged trainees to learn from each other, reflect often, and stay grounded in reality.
Public Service Brings True Fulfillment
Birla closed his speech with a heartfelt reminder. Success in civil service is not about personal gain. It’s about meaningful work.
“Real happiness comes from solving people’s problems, not from position or power,” he said.
He urged officers to ensure that no citizen feels ignored or helpless.