Tripura CM Dr. Saha praised civil servants as the true executors of governance during the foundation ceremony of the Civil Service Officers’ Institute in Agartala, highlighting their role in implementing policies, ensuring transparency, and managing crises.
Tripura Chief Minister Dr. Manik Saha has lauded the crucial role played by civil service officials in implementing government policies and programs, calling them the “backbone of governance.” Speaking at the foundation stone-laying ceremony of the Civil Service Officers’ Institute at Kunjaban, on the outskirts of Agartala, Saha emphasized that while elected representatives may conceive various welfare schemes, it is the civil servants who ensure their execution on the ground.
In his address, the Chief Minister urged civil servants to approach their responsibilities with sincerity and depth. “You have to go into the core of the issues and understand them properly,” he said, stressing that governance is effective only when officials are truly engaged with the problems faced by people.
Reflecting on his own journey from a dental surgeon to holding multiple public posts, Saha remarked, “I never had any specific ambition, but if you have the desire to work for the people, you will reach your destination.”
Highlighting the need for infrastructure for officers, Saha said he was inspired by similar institutes in other parts of the country. “Why not in Tripura? We must think of officers coming from outside the state. If I go to another state and don’t get proper accommodation or facilities, I would also prefer to return to Agartala,” he reasoned.
Quoting Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, who described civil servants as the “steel frame” of India, the Chief Minister reiterated that officials are central to the execution of government initiatives. “Public representatives may plan schemes and policies, but it is the officials who ensure that benefits reach the people,” he said.
Saha also drew a contrast between the current BJP-led government and previous administrations. “After our government came to power in 2018, we never created pressure on officials, which was common in earlier governments. If such a non-pressurizing work culture continues, a healthy administrative atmosphere will develop in the state,” he observed.
He proudly mentioned that due to the transparent recruitment policies and positive governance, talented individuals are now more inclined to join the civil services in Tripura. Currently, the state has 59 IAS officers, 42 IPS officers, 40 IFS officers, 470 Tripura Civil Service officers, 152 Tripura Police Service officers, and 50 Tripura Forest Service officers.
Recalling the success of the North Eastern Council (NEC) Plenary session held in Tripura, Saha attributed its smooth execution to the efficient efforts of civil service officials. He also praised their hard work during last year’s flood-like situation.
“If we work together, we can resolve the core issues faced by our people and ensure effective implementation of both central and state schemes,” he said, concluding that successful governance is only possible because of the relentless work of civil servants.
The event was attended by Chief Secretary J.K. Sinha, Director General of Police Anurag, Secretaries Kiran Gitte and R.K. Shamal, among other senior officials.
