The trained and motivated human resource is the greatest asset that the State Administrative machinery can aspire to have, it not
only enhances the productivity and quality of service delivery but also creates a sense of self-pride in the whole administrative system. This is the precise reason that the role of the Academy becomes very important. The Uttar Pradesh Academy of Administration and Management (UPAAM) is the premier training institute for the State and is responsible for training the human resources not only from various Government Departments but also from public and private sectors, corporate entities, voluntaryorganisations, and civil society representatives.

Considering the fact that after the creation of Uttrakhand, the Academy began its journey in the year 2003, it has acquitted itself well to stand up to the challenges of training needs. The Academy has continued to impart the programmes whose relevance and utility have been well-acknowledged by user Departments over a period of time. I note with a degree of satisfaction that the Academy has taken some significant initiatives in formulation of well-structured in-service training courses for PCS (Executive)officers with 20 years or more service, named as Phase V in-service Training Course. The four-weeks capsule has two-weeks attachment with Duke University. Durham, USA. I am happy to know that the three-months Professional Course for the PCS (Executive) officers has been enriched by inclusion of army, and corporate sector attachments, and interface with State Institute ofRural Development. The capsules for Police Training College, Forest Training Institute and Land Survey Institute have also beenrestructured. The three-months Foundation Course for the PCS officers for Executive and Combined State Civil Services has alsobeen augmented by inclusion of village visit, case studies, syndicate work and U.P. Darshan.

The Academy has made a good beginning in sensitising the officers of various Departments to the mitigation and management ofvarious types of disasters as a nodal center for Disaster Management.

I am happy to note that RTI Cell of the Academy has prepared a 'Saral Puslika1 that was found useful by all the concerned stakeholders. The UPAAM has conducted regular training programmes in the provisions of R fl Act.

Considering the fast changing environment, skill updating is of utmost importance. I am confident that the Academy will keep pace with the national and global changes and continue to discharge its role with dedication. I am aware of the need forfurther strengthening of the Academy; it figures high on the State Government's agenda. I expect the State Government Departments to ensure that their human resources are spared for upgradation of their skills and desired attitudinal changes.

I wish all the best for the future endeavours of the Academy, and assure the required appropriate co-operation from the Government.