New Delhi, April 20: Prime Minister Narendra Modi will address the nation’s civil servants during the 17th Civil Services Day celebrations on April 21, 2025, at Vigyan Bhawan, New Delhi, the PMO said on Sunday. The event commemorates the invaluable contributions of civil servants to public administration and citizen welfare.

PM Modi will present the Prime Minister’s Awards for Excellence in Public Administration, which recognize exemplary initiatives in priority programs such as the Holistic Development of Districts, Aspirational Blocks Programme, and Innovations. From 1,588 nominations, 14 outstanding projects and organizations have been selected for this honor. Awardees will receive a trophy, scroll, and Rs. 20 lakh to support welfare projects.

The event will also see the release of e-books highlighting success stories in public administration and innovation, alongside a film screening featuring award-winning initiatives. Following the awards, Dr. T.V. Somanathan, Cabinet Secretary, will chair a plenary session on “Civil Services Reforms - Challenges and Opportunities.”

The program includes four thematic breakaway sessions focusing on urban transportation, healthcare via Ayushman Bharat, nutrition for women and children through Mission Saksham Anganwadi and Poshan 2.0, and the Aspirational Blocks Programme. These discussions will be chaired by senior Union Ministers and officials, ensuring robust dialogue on key governance areas.

Civil Services Day commemorates Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel’s iconic address to Administrative Service probationers in 1947. The event inspires civil servants to renew their dedication to citizen welfare and governance excellence. Senior officials from the Central and State Governments will join this prestigious celebration.