HT Correspondent
ITANAGAR, Oct 14: Emphasising the vital role of transparent and accountable governance in public administration, Arunachal Pradesh Chief Secretary Manish K. Gupta, IAS, on Tuesday delivered an extensive lecture on “Procurement Guidelines” at the Administrative Training Institute (ATI), Naharlagun.
The session formed a key part of the Induction Training Programme for newly recruited Arunachal Pradesh Civil Service (APCS) officers (Entry Grade), Arunachal Pradesh Police Service (DySP), and allied services.
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Addressing the young officers, Gupta said that procurement — the process by which government agencies acquire goods, works, and services — lies at the heart of public administration.
He explained that sound procurement practices ensure that public funds are spent efficiently and that development projects achieve the intended benefits for citizens.
The chief secretary’s lecture provided an in-depth overview of the government procurement process, covering its guiding principles, legal framework, and sequential stages, including planning, tendering, evaluation, contract award, and implementation.
Gupta elaborated that transparency, fairness, competition, and value for money form the four cardinal principles governing public procurement, adding that strict adherence to these ensures not just financial propriety but also credibility in governance.
He said procurement constitutes a significant portion of government expenditure and directly affects the quality of public service delivery, infrastructure development, and fiscal discipline.
“As future decision-makers, you must understand that every procurement decision impacts people’s lives. Integrity and procedural discipline are non-negotiable in maintaining public trust,” Gupta remarked.
The chief secretary also reminded the officers that lapses or shortcuts in procurement could erode confidence in institutions and hinder developmental goals.
He urged them to ensure compliance with established norms, maintain detailed documentation at every stage, and uphold ethical standards in dealing with contractors and vendors.
“Accountability is not a bureaucratic burden but the foundation of good governance,” he added.
The session concluded with an interactive question-and-answer round, during which the trainees sought clarifications on various practical aspects of procurement management, such as tender evaluation methods, e-procurement systems, and the handling of disputes.
The participants expressed their gratitude for Gupta’s comprehensive and practical insights, noting that the session had deepened their understanding of one of the most critical aspects of administrative functioning.
Secretary (AR & Training) Rajesh Kumar and ATI Director Pate Marik were also present during the session to encourage and motivate the new entrants to the state civil and police services.
The lecture marked a key component of the induction training, aimed at nurturing a new generation of officers committed to integrity, efficiency, and public accountability in governance.
