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September 27, 2024 08:13
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Indian Foreign Service Day is celebrated on October 09, every year. Learn more about Indian Foreign Service Day 2024 significance, and history.
Indian Foreign Service Day 2024 is observed annually on October 9 to honor the contributions of the Indian Foreign Service (IFS) officers. This day is dedicated to acknowledging the pivotal role that IFS officers play in shaping India’s foreign policy, maintaining diplomatic relations, and fostering international cooperation. The celebration highlights the importance of diplomacy in a rapidly changing world and emphasizes the professionalism and dedication of Indian diplomats.
Indian Foreign Service Day 2024 will be celebrated on October 09, 2024, to raise awareness about the significant contributions made by Indian diplomats in advancing national interests and ensuring India’s voice is heard in international forums. Here we have provided an overview of Indian Foreign service:
| Indian Foreign Service Day 2024 Overview | |
| Aspect | Details |
| Date | October 9, 2024 |
| Celebrated by | Indian Foreign Service (IFS) |
| First Observed | 1946 |
| Purpose | Honouring Indian diplomacy |
| Events | Seminars, cultural programs |
| Significance | Recognizes the global role of IFS |
Indian Foreign Service Day is celebrated to honor the service and commitment of IFS officers who work diligently to protect India’s interests abroad. These officers play a crucial role in maintaining and strengthening India’s relationships on the global stage. However, they also ensure that the country’s interests are protected and promoted.
Here are some key reasons for Celebrating Indian Foreign Service Day 2024:
Diplomatic Representation: IFS officers represent India in international forums, ensuring that India’s stance on global issues is well-articulated and respected.
Promoting Economic and Cultural Ties: The officers foster bilateral and multilateral relationships that enhance trade, investment, and cultural exchange between India and other nations.
Safeguarding Indian Citizens Abroad: IFS officers address concerns of Indian citizens living or traveling abroad, providing necessary assistance in times of crisis.
Managing Bilateral Relations: They play a pivotal role in navigating complex diplomatic situations, ensuring peaceful and mutually beneficial ties with other countries.
Contributing to National Interests: Through multilateral organizations and diplomatic channels, IFS officers advance India’s interests in global security, trade, environment, and political matters.
The history of Indian Foreign Service dates back to October 9, 1946, when it was formally established. After India gained independence, the need arose for a structured diplomatic service to manage foreign relations, and the Indian Foreign Service was created. Before the formation of IFS, India’s external affairs were handled by the Indian Political Service, primarily dealing with British interests.
Since its inception, the Indian Foreign Service has played an essential role in shaping India’s foreign policy and has grown to become one of the most respected diplomatic corps in the world. IFS officers have been instrumental in handling various global challenges, from peacekeeping missions to multilateral negotiations at the United Nations and other international platforms.
The Indian Foreign Service (IFS) is a prestigious civil service that is part of the Government of India. The primary responsibility of IFS officers is to represent India in international diplomacy, foster bilateral and multilateral relations, promote India’s economic interests abroad, and protect the welfare of Indian citizens residing or traveling abroad.
The Indian Foreign Service (IFS) is recruited through the Civil Services Examination (CSE) conducted by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC). It is one of the most competitive exams in India, and candidates who aspire to join the IFS must secure a top rank in this examination.
The Indian Foreign Service eligibility criteria are stringent and competitive, as becoming an IFS officer requires not only passing the UPSC CSE but also meeting certain academic and age requirements.
| Criteria | Details |
| Nationality | The candidate must be a citizen of India. |
| Age Limit | The age limit is generally between 21 and 32 years, with relaxation for reserved categories. |
| Educational Qualification | A bachelor’s degree from a recognized university is mandatory. |
| Attempts | General category candidates can attempt the exam six times; OBC candidates have nine attempts, while there is no limit for SC/ST candidates. |
The Indian Foreign Service (IFS) officers have consistently worked to safeguard and promote India’s interests globally, contributing to several key achievements in recent years. These accomplishments reflect their dedication to diplomacy, international relations, and global cooperation. Here are some of the most recent and notable achievements of the IFS:
Here’s a concise table summarizing the recent achievements of the Indian Foreign Service (IFS):
| Achievement | Details |
| India’s G20 Presidency (2023-2024) | Led global discussions on inclusive growth, digital transformation, and sustainability. |
| UN Security Council Membership (2021-2022) | Active participation in global security, peacekeeping, and counterterrorism discussions. |
| India-U.S. Strategic Partnership | Strengthened ties in defense, trade, and technology; key agreements like BECA signed. |
| Vaccine Diplomacy (COVID-19) | Supplied vaccines to over 90 countries under the Vaccine Maitri initiative. |
| Strengthening Quad Cooperation | Enhanced collaboration on maritime security, supply chains, and Indo-Pacific stability. |
| India-EU Free Trade Agreement (FTA) Negotiations | Revived discussions to boost trade and economic ties between India and the EU. |
| Chabahar Port Development | Strategic involvement in the development of Chabahar Port, boosting regional connectivity. |
| Vande Bharat Mission | Coordinated repatriation of over 7 million stranded Indians during the COVID-19 pandemic. |
| Increased Engagement with African Nations | Strengthened economic and diplomatic ties through the India-Africa Forum Summit. |
| Ties with ASEAN and Indo-Pacific Nations | Promoted security and economic cooperation under the Act East Policy. |
The Indian Foreign Service (IFS) has produced some of the finest diplomats who have played a key role in shaping India’s foreign policy and representing the country at important global forums. Below is a list of prominent IFS officers who have made significant contributions to Indian diplomacy.
| List of Prominent IFS Officers | |
| Officer Name | Post/Designation |
| S. Jaishankar | Minister of External Affairs (Former Foreign Secretary of India) |
| Vijaya Lakshmi Pandit | First Indian woman to become President of the United Nations General Assembly |
| T. S. Tirumurti | Former Permanent Representative of India to the United Nations (UN) |
| Shyam Saran | Former Foreign Secretary of India |
| Nirupama Rao | Former Foreign Secretary of India and Ambassador to the USA and China |
| Ranjan Mathai | Former Foreign Secretary of India and High Commissioner to the UK |
| Harsh Vardhan Shringla | Former Foreign Secretary and Chief Coordinator for G20 India |
| Sujatha Singh | Former Foreign Secretary of India |
| Syed Akbaruddin | Former Permanent Representative of India to the United Nations (UN) |
| K. P. S. Menon | First Foreign Secretary of Independent India |
For those interested in serving the nation on a global stage, a career in IFS offers both immense responsibility and rewarding opportunities. We must recognize the vital role of Indian diplomats in advancing the country’s global interests and promoting peace, development, and international cooperation.
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