Highlighting India’s position as the fastest-growing major economy, President Murmu stressed that maintaining law and order is essential for sustaining economic growth. She noted that effective policing not only ensures safety but also attracts domestic and foreign investments by fostering a secure environment for businesses.
“Law and order is a necessary pre-condition for attracting investment in any state or region. Effective policing is as important as economic incentives in promoting growth,” she remarked.
Integrity and Accountability: The Cornerstones of Policing
The President reminded the young IPS officers that with authority comes accountability. She urged them to uphold fairness and ethics in their professional duties, stating that moral integrity would earn them lasting respect and trust from citizens.
“While laws grant power, real authority stems from personal and professional integrity,” she emphasized, encouraging officers to make ethical choices even under pressure.
Compassion in the Face of Duty
Recognizing the challenging nature of police work, President Murmu cautioned that constant exposure to crime and conflict might desensitize officers over time. She advised them to preserve their empathy and humaneness, even as they maintain discipline and professionalism in difficult situations.
“In becoming an effective officer, one must make a conscious effort to retain a compassionate core,” she advised.
Adapting to the Digital Era in Policing
The President pointed out that emerging technologies like Artificial Intelligence (AI) are transforming the landscape of law enforcement. She noted that terms like “digital arrest,” once unheard of, have now become part of everyday policing vocabulary. As India expands its AI user base, she urged the officers to stay ahead in adopting new technologies to prevent misuse by those with malicious intent.
“Technology has substantially altered the space of policing. IPS officers must remain several steps ahead in adopting new technologies, including AI,” she said.
Building a Future-Ready Police Force
President Murmu said that the new generation of police leaders has a critical role in shaping India’s future. A technologically proficient, ethically grounded, and people-centric police force will be essential for achieving the national goal of Viksit Bharat by 2047.
She urged the probationers to view themselves as not only enforcers of the law but also as facilitators of justice, harmony, and development across society.
Empowering the Police for a New India
The President’s address aligns with India’s larger vision of reforming governance and public administration through digital innovation, skill-building, and transparency. With ongoing initiatives like Digital India and police modernization programs, young IPS officers are being equipped to lead policing in an era defined by technology, inclusivity, and citizen engagement.
The session concluded with the President extending her best wishes to the probationers, encouraging them to serve with courage, compassion, and conviction in safeguarding the nation’s democratic values.