The National Academy of Administration is India’s premier training institution for senior civil services. Our mission is to establish good governance by building efficient and accountable civil services through quality training, while fostering a collaborative, ethical, and transparent environment.

Civil service training was initially conducted at Metcalfe House in Delhi. In 1959, it was shifted to the Charleville Hotel in Mussoorie, where the Academy was established. In July 1973, the Academy was renamed after Lal Bahadur Shastri, India’s second Prime Minister—a symbol of humility and integrity—and the embodiment of the noble ideal, “Sheelam Param Bhushanam” (Character is the highest virtue).

Good conduct and character are our highest values and permeate the Academy’s functioning. For us, sheel is not merely a word; it represents self-discipline and sacrifice, harmony and humanity, empathy and equality, teamwork and empowerment, learning and leadership. These are essential foundations for transforming ideas into action and meeting people’s expectations from the Indian Administrative Service and other civil services. As a force that balances ethical boundaries with performance, this motto guides officers in fulfilling their roles and responsibilities with vitality and a spirit of collaboration.

Our faculty includes senior administrators, academicians, and researchers who combine administrative experience with high academic distinction, creating an inspiring environment on campus. Since 2007, multi-level mid-career training programmes for IAS officers and Centres of Excellence focused on key areas of public service have formed the foundation for continuous learning and relearning.

We take pride in our world-class infrastructure, including quality accommodation for all participants; the Gandhi Smriti Library, one of the country’s finest libraries, with a collection of more than 170,000 books and subscriptions to over 400 journals; modern classrooms and lecture halls; campus-wide Wi-Fi supporting paperless operations; a fully equipped sports complex; and a distinctive equestrian facility.

Set amidst oak and deodar trees at an altitude of 2,000 metres above sea level, the picturesque National Academy of Administration in Mussoorie is nestled in nature’s lap. Its mist-covered valleys in the soft, cool mornings, and the snow-clad mountains gleaming in the first rays of sunlight, offer an exceptionally beautiful sight. This natural splendour makes the Academy feel like a true paradise—aptly named “Happy Valley.” Its enduring charm leaves an indelible impression on the mind and continues to stir the heart.

From the perspective of alumni, the Academy reveals many dimensions. It is a unique platform where young people develop broad perspectives and capabilities; learn to govern harmoniously; cultivate the spirit of working together in an open environment; strengthen their communication skills through introspection and review of ideas; understand the importance of speaking appropriately when needed; and appreciate the value of being good listeners. The Academy is a place where officers embrace core values through friendly interaction and reflect on their responsibility to serve the nation and its people. As a continuously evolving institution, it remains connected with officers as a shared platform—advancing with conviction and courage, staying ahead of its time, and progressing rapidly.

Over its six decades of existence, the Academy has trained every IAS officer and many officers from other civil services. It is a vibrant place where young officers from every part of India—and from other countries—have arrived over the years, bringing diverse languages, educational qualifications, and socio-economic backgrounds. They meet, interact, learn from one another, and grow as individuals. Through academic rigour and experience-based learning, the Academy has proudly played an effective role in nation-building by training the country’s administrators.

The Academy’s core purpose has remained relevant since its establishment. India is moving steadily and confidently on the path of economic growth, and a professional, citizen-centric, and humane civil service plays a central role in our national strategy. With the objective of building a New India, we continuously strive to train civil servants and equip them with the skills and values required to assume leadership roles in public service, with a focus on performance, reform, and transformation.

As our nation celebrates the remarkable achievements of its 75th year of independence, the challenges and expectations ahead are equally great. We and our trainees always strive to remain fully focused and steadfast in our goals; to be positive and proactive in carrying out our responsibilities; and to remain honest and fearless. This is the essence of our anthem, which keeps us committed and inspires us to realise excellence in civil service.

I welcome you to our website, www.lbsnaa.gov.in. It is an effort to share information about the Academy and its activities, as well as a platform for sharing experiences and gaining knowledge in the field of public administration.

Dr. B. Rajender, IAS (BH:95)