Officer trainees of Military Engineer Services (MES) on Thursday called on President Droupadi Murmu to uphold the highest standards of professionalism, integrity and technical excellence while contributing to the country’s defence preparedness and sustainable development.
The President was addressing officer trainees of the 2023 and 2024 batches of the Military Engineer Services who called on her at Rashtrapati Bhavan.
Describing the MES as the backbone of India’s defence infrastructure, President Murmu said the organisation plays a critical role in creating and maintaining strategic installations that strengthen the operational capabilities of the Armed Forces.
She noted that the dedication and expertise of MES officers ensure that soldiers, sailors and air warriors are able to carry out their responsibilities effectively in safeguarding the nation.
“As young officers, you are the custodians of a proud legacy and the architects of India’s future defence infrastructure,” the President said, urging them to embrace innovation, adopt emerging technologies and strive for excellence in every project they undertake.
Highlighting the growing importance of self-reliance in an increasingly uncertain global environment marked by conflicts and geopolitical tensions, President Murmu said that a strong domestic industrial base and indigenous capabilities are vital for national security and economic stability.
Referring to Operation Sindoor, she said the operation underscored the importance of indigenous defence capabilities, advanced technologies and a robust domestic manufacturing ecosystem in enhancing operational readiness and strategic effectiveness.
The President expressed satisfaction that the Military Engineer Services is promoting the use of Made-in-India products and contributing to the vision of an Atmanirbhar Bharat. She encouraged young officers to actively develop and implement advanced technologies in construction and maintenance activities.
President Murmu also highlighted the increasing participation of women in the Armed Forces and defence establishments, noting that women are excelling in roles across the Army, Navy, Air Force and other supporting organisations. She expressed hope that more women officers would join future batches of the Military Engineer Services, emphasizing that diversity and inclusion strengthen institutions and foster innovation.
Addressing environmental concerns, the President stressed that sustainable development has become a necessity rather than a choice in the face of climate change and other global challenges.
She urged MES officers to incorporate environmentally sustainable practices in planning, construction and maintenance activities by adopting green technologies, conserving energy and water, increasing green cover and minimizing waste.
“Infrastructure that is resilient, efficient and environmentally responsible will not only serve the needs of today but also safeguard the interests of future generations,” she said.
The President appreciated the MES for its commitment to sustainability through the adoption of GRIHA-compliant building practices, energy-efficient designs, rainwater harvesting systems and other green initiatives.
Expressing confidence in the abilities of the young officers, President Murmu said their dedication, innovation and commitment to service would help uphold the finest traditions of the Military Engineer Services and contribute significantly to the vision of a Viksit Bharat.
She extended her best wishes to the officer trainees for a successful career dedicated to national service and development.
