New Delhi, August 18: Union Minister of State for Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions, Dr Jitendra Singh, on Tuesday said emerging technologies such as Artificial Intelligence, quantum technology, cybersecurity and digital tools are rapidly transforming governance, making continuous learning essential for civil servants.
Addressing participants of the 15-day Refresher Course for Lateral Entry Joint Secretaries, Directors and Deputy Secretaries, the Minister said officers must remain curious learners and continuously upgrade their knowledge and skills to keep pace with the rapidly evolving administrative and technological environment.
Dr Jitendra Singh said the refresher course should serve as a platform for two-way communication, dialogue and feedback rather than merely a series of lectures. He encouraged participants to actively engage in discussions and share their professional experiences and training requirements.
He emphasised that civil servants have an added responsibility to harness emerging technologies and digital tools for effective delivery of flagship government programmes while upholding constitutional responsibilities and the institutional sanctity of government.
Referring to the course curriculum, he highlighted areas including policy analysis, digital transformation, municipal finance, public health, cybersecurity, education and government communication. He said communication skills have become increasingly important for government officers, particularly in the era of social media.
The Minister identified four key areas of communication for civil servants—engagement with government functionaries and colleagues, political representatives, the media and citizens. He stressed that officers must develop the ability to communicate effectively with diverse stakeholders.
Dr Jitendra Singh also highlighted the importance of bringing fresh talent, ideas and work culture into governance through institutionalised lateral entry. He said around 63 officers have so far entered government service through the mechanism and described the refresher programme as a mid-career learning opportunity.
He called for wider outreach of institutions such as the Indian Institute of Public Administration and greater collaboration with institutions and agencies working in related areas. He said such programmes should cater not only to Central and State Governments but also public institutions, elected bodies and, where appropriate, corporate and private-sector participants.
Emphasising the importance of feedback, the Minister urged participants to suggest improvements in course content and teaching methods, including mechanisms for obtaining candid and anonymous feedback.
Describing the participants as important “architects of India ’47”, as envisaged by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Dr Jitendra Singh urged them to approach the programme with an open and learning-oriented mindset and stressed that continuous professional development would remain essential to effective public administration.
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