Special field report from New Delhi for 'The Freelance'. At the centenary celebrations marking 100 years of the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC), Prime Minister Narendra Modi shared an inspiring account of how an Indian citizen averted a 9/11-style tragedy abroad.
Captain Smit Machhar and the Averted Tragedy
Addressing the gathering at Vigyan Bhawan, PM Modi referenced Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's remarks, revealing how Captain Smit Machhar displayed extraordinary courage and presence of mind to thwart a catastrophic disaster, bringing immense pride to the nation.
Commemorative Postage Stamp Released
To mark a century of administrative excellence, the Prime Minister released a special commemorative postal stamp honoring UPSC's journey in shaping India's democratic and bureaucratic framework over the past 100 years.
Redefining Governance: 'Naagrik Devo Bhava'
Emphasizing a paradigm shift in governance, PM Modi stated that the colonial mindset of the government being the 'mai-baap' (provider/master) is outdated. Instead, the modern mantra of the new India is 'Naagrik Devo Bhava' (Citizens are divine), prioritizing citizen-centric administration.

