Indispensability is a Myth; Talent Abounds in India: VP Dhankhar

GG News Bureau
Bengaluru, 11th Jan. Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar delivered an impassioned address at the 25th National Conference of Chairpersons of All State Public Service Commissions in Bengaluru, emphasizing the need for fairness, institutional integrity, and harmony in governance.

Speaking on extensions in service, the Vice President stated, “Extensions in any form for a particular post set back those who are in line and defy the logical principle of expectation. Indispensability is a myth; talent abounds in this country.” He urged public service commissions to uphold transparency and fairness in appointments and avoid favoritism or ideological biases.

On the issue of post-retirement assignments, he expressed concern over ad-hoc roles and nomenclatures, stating they undermine constitutional principles. “Largesse of this kind is antithetical to what was visualized by the framers of the Constitution,” Dhankhar remarked.

The Vice President also highlighted the persistent menace of examination paper leaks, describing it as a commerce that jeopardizes the fairness of selection. “Young aspirants now face two fears—examinations and leakages. This must be curbed to uphold the credibility of the selection process,” he said.

Calling for political harmony, Dhankhar observed that divisive and polarized politics is detrimental to the nation’s progress. “India’s century can only be realized when we foster a calm political atmosphere. We need political fire extinguishers to address the vitiated political climate,” he asserted.

Dhankhar stressed the importance of dialogue and consensus in governance. “Problems faced by the nation must not be relegated to the background. Deliberation and consensual approaches are rooted in our civilizational ethos and must guide us,” he added.

Underscoring the role of intellectuals, Dhankhar criticized the formation of interest-driven groups and called for objectivity. “Intellectuals must serve as fire extinguishers in times of social disharmony. Their guidance should rise above political alignments and personal interests,” he emphasized.

The Vice President concluded with a call to strengthen institutions, warning that any weakening impacts the entire nation. “States and the Union must work in tandem for the national interest,” he said.

Dignitaries present included Karnataka Governor Thaawarchand Gehlot, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, UPSC Chairperson Preeti Sudan, and others.

This conference provided a platform for addressing key challenges in public service governance while emphasizing the values of fairness, transparency, and national unity.