Amaravati: Chief Secretary G Sai Prasad on Tuesday stressed that civil servants must deliver efficient services while strictly adhering to the rule of law, as the state marked the 18th Civil Services Day at the Secretariat.

Addressing officials, Sai Prasad said governance must remain citizen-centric, with a clear focus on ensuring that welfare schemes reach the last mile. The celebrations were held under the theme "Viksit Bharat @ Swarnandhra 2047: Citizen-Centric Governance for Last-Mile Delivery."

He recalled that April 21 is observed as Civil Services Day to commemorate Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel's 1947 address to civil servants, in which he described them as the "steel frame of India." Sai Prasad said the day serves to recognise the role of officials in nation-building and public administration. The Chief Secretary urged officers to maintain high standards of conduct, adopt modern technology and continuously upgrade their skills. He said officials must balance firmness in decision-making with a humane approach, while working within established rules and procedures. He also advised younger officers to remain committed to public service and avoid actions that go against public interest.

Welcoming the gathering, Special Chief Secretary S S Rawat highlighted the importance of technology in improving governance and said Andhra Pradesh civil servants have built a strong reputation nationally. Several senior officials, including special chief secretaries, principal secretaries and departmental heads, addressed the event. Sai Prasad later administered the Civil Services Re-dedication Pledge, with officials committing to uphold integrity, transparency and impartiality, and to ensure that the benefits of government programmes reach every eligible citizen.