Decolonise governance, infuse Indian values: TN Governor Arlekar

CHENNAI: Calling for a decisive shift in the country's administrative outlook, Governor Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar on Saturday said that governance in modern India must be rooted in Indian values, national priorities, and a spirit of public service rather than the remnants of colonial-era thinking.

He urged civil services aspirants to view administration not merely as a career but as an opportunity to contribute to nation-building.

Addressing the inaugural ceremony of the Coimbatore chapter of Samkalp IAS Academy, the Governor said India's march towards Viksit Bharat 2047 would require a dedicated, efficient and people-centric administrative system capable of translating public aspirations into effective governance and inclusive development. "Civil services occupy a pivotal position in transforming the aspirations of the people into meaningful governance," he said.

Arlekar said institutions such as Samkalp IAS Academy should aspire to produce not just successful candidates but ethical and committed public servants devoted to public welfare, national development and the protection of the country's resources. "The true spirit of public service lies in working selflessly for the welfare of every citizen while safeguarding the nation's assets and institutions," he said.

Emphasising that India's rich civilisational heritage should guide administrative leadership, the Governor said future civil servants must draw inspiration from the nation's timeless traditions while discharging their constitutional responsibilities. He expressed confidence that institutions like Samkalp IAS Academy would nurture capable officers who would strengthen democratic institutions and contribute meaningfully to India's development journey.

During the programme, seven Memoranda of Understanding were exchanged between Samkalp IAS Academy and educational institutions to strengthen civil services coaching, academic collaboration and youth empowerment in the State.