The Sixth ICCfG Sardar Patel Lecture on Governance, delivered by Shri Ajit Doval, National Security Advisor of India, was a remarkable and intellectually enriching event organized by the IC Centre for Governance on October 31, 2025, at the India International Centre, New Delhi.
On the occasion of the 150th birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, the IC Centre for Governance celebrated his birthday by organizing the 6th Sardar Patel Lecture on Governance. The lecture was delivered by Shri Ajit Doval, National Security Advisor of India. Dr. Harivansh, Deputy Chairman of the Rajya Sabha, presided over the session. Shri Prabhat Kumar, Former Cabinet Secretary and First Governor of Jharkhand in his welcome address mentioned about the emerging narratives of Governance in the International and National context.
In this presidential address Shri. Harivansh recalled the contribution of Sardar Patel not only to the integration of States but also laid the foundation of the new dispensation of governance in the country. He also referred to the good work being done by IC Centre for Governance.
In his address Shri Doval emphasized that governance plays a foundational role in nation-building, securing the state, and meeting national aspirations. Drawing on historical examples, he highlighted how poor governance, institutional decay, authoritarianism, and economic failures have led to the decline of empires and states, while strong governance under leaders like Sardar Patel ensured India’s integration and stability.
He noted that contemporary India is undergoing a transformational phase both domestically and globally, making clarity of vision, effective governance, and robust institutions more critical than ever. He stressed the importance of people-centric governance, protection of marginalized groups, women’s empowerment, and the need for efficient implementation of laws and policies. Technology, he observed, can enhance governance, ensure transparency, and improve service delivery, but it also introduces new security risks, especially in areas like artificial intelligence and cyber threats.
Shri Doval outlined India’s governance achievements over the past decade, including significant improvements in security, reduction of left-wing extremism, development of infrastructure in tribal regions, financial inclusion initiatives, digital governance, health coverage under Ayushman Bharat, tax reforms through GST, and overall economic growth from $2.15 trillion to nearly $4 trillion. However, he acknowledged gaps in perception and accountability, emphasizing the need to strengthen institutions to improve enforcement, and maintain public trust.
He concluded that achieving a developed, “Viksit Bharat” requires modernized governance structures, trained personnel, convergence in policymaking, and a whole-of-government approach. Shri Doval expressed confidence that, with the aspirations and efforts of India’s citizens, Sardar Patel’s vision of an integrated, strong, and prosperous India will be realized by the current generation.
Shri Mahesh Kapoor, Former Advisor, Planning Commission, welcomed the guests, and Shri Shanti Narain, Former Member (Traffic), Railway Board, proposed the vote of thanks.