Probationers of the Indian Defence Accounts Service (IDAS) of the 2024 batch called on President Droupadi Murmu at Rashtrapati Bhavan on Tuesday.
Addressing the young officers, the President highlighted the critical role played by the Indian Defence Accounts Service in managing the financial resources of the Armed Forces and allied organisations. She said IDAS officers are central to budgeting, accounting, audit, payments and financial advisory functions, and their work has a direct bearing on operational readiness and the development of defence infrastructure.
As the principal accounting and financial authority of the Defence Services, President Murmu said IDAS officers are expected to understand the unique challenges, hardships and operational realities faced by the Armed Forces and respond with sensitivity and efficiency.
Noting that many officers would be handling high-value and strategically significant proposals early in their careers, the President stressed the importance of integrity, transparency and accountability. “Trust is the foundation of public service and it should be protected with unwavering commitment,” she said.
President Murmu also drew attention to the rapidly changing geopolitical environment and emerging security challenges, which demand quicker, smarter and more accurate decision-making. She said that as business processes become increasingly complex and technology-driven, the Defence Accounts Department must continuously adapt, innovate and modernise.
Emphasising the government’s Atmanirbhar Bharat Abhiyan, the President urged IDAS officers to actively support indigenous defence production, strengthen local supply chains and promote domestic industry to help build a self-reliant and resilient defence ecosystem.
She welcomed the Defence Accounts Department’s adoption of technology-driven systems using artificial intelligence, machine learning and data science for automated accounting, procurement oversight and payment processing. Such initiatives, she said, reduce manual intervention, speed up approvals and enhance real-time financial transparency. The President encouraged officers to acquire new skills and use AI-driven financial analytics to support evidence-based decision-making and efficient fund utilisation.
“The true measure of service lies not in position or recognition, but in the steady contribution you make to the effective functioning of institutions and the welfare of citizens,” President Murmu said, urging the probationers to remain lifelong learners and embrace change with confidence.
The President congratulated the officers on their selection to the prestigious service and wished them a career marked by professionalism, excellence and meaningful service to the nation.
