Staff Reporter
President Droupadi Murmu today said that a self-reliant country is better equipped to maintain its economic stability and undertake developmental priorities during times of crisis.
The President said this while addressing the Officer Trainees of Military Engineer Services (MES), 2023 and 2024 batches, at Rashtrapati Bhavan. She said that self-reliance has become a strategic necessity for nations. President Murmu said that this was evident during Operation Sindoor, which highlighted how indigenous defence capabilities, advanced technology and a robust domestic industrial base are integral to enhancing operational readiness and strategic effectiveness of a nation.
The President said that the MES forms the backbone of defence infrastructure in the country. President Murmu said that the skill, dedication and hard work of the Military Engineer Service officers are fundamental to ensuring that the country’s soldiers, sailors, and air warriors can perform their duties of defending the nation effectively and efficiently.
The President urged the young officers to uphold the highest standards of professionalism, integrity, technical excellence and dedication to duty. She also advised them to embrace innovation, leverage emerging technologies and strive for excellence in every project they undertake.
The President said that today, the world is facing climate change and various environmental challenges. In this scenario, sustainable development is no longer an option, but a necessity. As engineers, MES officers have the responsibility to promote environmentally sustainable practices in planning, construction, and maintenance. She said that their efforts should contribute not only to a strong and secure India but also to a clean, green, and sustainable India.