ADDRESS BY THE HON’BLE PRESIDENT OF INDIA SMT DROUPADI MURMU ON THE OCCASION OF CALL ON BY THE PROBATIONERS OF INDIAN DEFENCE ESTATES SERVICE, MILITARY ENGINEER SERVICES AND CENTRAL WATER ENGINEERING SERVICE

I congratulate you all on your selection into the esteemed services. This achievement underlines your perseverance and hard work. It also marks the beginning of a journey of immense responsibilities. As you step into your roles, you should move ahead with the spirit of nation-first. Your actions will impact the nation's growth and quality of life of citizens.

Dear probationers of Indian Defence Estates Service,

The Directorate General of Defence Estates plays its role in managing and safeguarding national assets. Cantonment Boards have been recognized for their meticulous land use planning, providing civic amenities, and commitment to maintaining clean environments. As you enter this domain, it becomes imperative to give your best for delivering quality services that are efficient, citizen- centric and sustainable.

In this era of rapid technological transformation, the integration of digital solutions is a necessity. It is your duty to stay abreast of the technological advancements and apply them in your functioning.

Artificial Intelligence, drone-based land surveys, satellite imagery, and blockchain for property record maintenance are no longer futuristic concepts, they are becoming part of governance.

You should also embrace green practices in infrastructure development, adopt renewable energy solutions, reduce wastage, and ensure water conservation in cantonments. By combining technical expertise with innovation, you have the opportunity to make the Defence Estates a model of sustainable and smart urban

management. But by far the most important element for your job is a sense of service.

Dear probationers of Military Engineer Services,

The Military Engineer Services play a vital role in strengthening the operational readiness of our armed forces. By providing comprehensive engineering support, MES ensures that our troops are equipped with world-class infrastructure and facilities, enabling them to remain mission-ready under all conditions. MES is entrusted with the planning, design, and execution of a wide range of infrastructure projects across the nation. The organization is also responsible for the continuous upkeep and maintenance of these assets.

As emerging leaders in the field of military construction, young MES officers have a crucial responsibility not only to build but to build with responsibility. You should focus on the adoption of renewable energy sources to promote sustainable development and reduce carbon footprint of defense infrastructure. I am happy to know that aligned with the national vision of ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’, MES is actively promoting the use of indigenous materials and technologies under the ‘Make in India’ initiative. This supports local industries and also strengthens the domestic defense ecosystem.

MES must also become a pioneer in technological innovation. Integrating advanced tools such as Building Information Modeling (BIM), drone surveillance, and the use of Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning for predictive maintenance and project planning will enhance precision, and effectiveness.

Dear probationers of Central Water Engineering Service,

Water resources management has always been a challenging task. Your contribution towards water infrastructure development by providing engineering solutions will make the country more resilient against natural and man-made water crises.

Sustainable development of water resources and efficient management of water is key to water security and growth, especially

in the wake of changing climatic trends. Therefore, you are expected to play a key role in adopting a holistic approach to address the existing and upcoming challenges.

I am told that Central Water Commission has been developing and adopting state-of-the-art technologies for solving water-related problems. By providing clean water and promoting water conservation, India can improve public health, boost agricultural productivity, and ensure sustainable use of natural resources. Effective water management can play a huge role in securing a resilient future for generations to come.

Dear young officers,I am confident that you will always uphold the highest ideals of public service and work tirelessly to build a stronger, inclusive, and more prosperous India. I wish you all a bright future.

Thank you,
Jai Hind!
Jai Bharat!