National Civil Services Day is observed every year on April 21 to celebrate the dedication and contributions of civil servants in India's development.

The day commemorates Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel’s iconic 1947 address to IAS officers, where he called them the “steel frame of India.”

This year's theme “Empowering Citizens through Efficient and Transparent Governance,” highlights the focus on citizen-centric, accountable administration. 

Key Highlights

• Recognizes civil servants’ role in governance, policy implementation, and public service.
• Prime Minister’s Awards are presented for excellence in public administration.
• Nationwide events such as seminars, discussions, and exhibitions are held.

History

The date commemorates Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel’s historic address on April 21, 1947, to the first batch of Indian Administrative Service (IAS) officers at Metcalfe House, New Delhi. In his speech, he described civil servants as the “steel frame of India”, crucial to the unity and integrity of the country. The Government of India officially began observing this day in 2006.