Why is Indian Foreign Service (IFS) Day Celebrated? Looking at Legacy of India's Global Diplomacy

Indian Foreign Service (IFS) Day, observed annually on October 9th, marks a significant milestone in India's diplomatic history. It commemorates the day in 1946 when the Indian Cabinet officially created the Indian Foreign Service to establish India's diplomatic, consular, and commercial presence worldwide. This step was pivotal in India's journey towards asserting itself on the global stage, even before gaining independence in 1947.

Before independence, the Foreign Department under British rule handled India’s foreign relations, primarily dealing with European powers. With India's independence, the transition from the British-led Foreign and Political Department to what is now the Ministry of External Affairs was nearly complete, establishing India’s autonomy in foreign relations. Since then, the Indian Foreign Service has played a crucial role in representing India's interests globally, shaping its foreign policy, and fostering international cooperation.

Key Roles in the Indian Foreign Service

The Indian Foreign Service encompasses a range of prestigious roles, including:

Ambassadors and High Commissioners: They represent India in foreign countries, working towards strengthening diplomatic relations. Consul Generals: Focus on promoting trade, investment, and supporting Indian nationals abroad. Permanent Representatives to the United Nations: These officers voice India’s perspectives in international forums. Foreign Secretaries: As the top civil servants in the Ministry of External Affairs, they play a pivotal role in policy-making and administration.

The Role of IFS Officers in Shaping India’s Global Image

Indian Foreign Service officers are the backbone of India's diplomatic efforts worldwide. They project India’s national interests on a wide array of issues, including political and economic cooperation, trade promotion, cultural exchange, and handling media relations. They also work on multilateral platforms, ensuring that India's voice is heard on global concerns such as climate change, peace and security, and human rights.

In times of global crisis, IFS officers have often risen to the occasion, showcasing remarkable resilience and leadership. One notable example is Operation Ganga, which took place during the Russia-Ukraine war in 2022. The operation aimed to evacuate Indian citizens stranded in Ukraine, and the efforts of Indian diplomats in coordinating the safe return of thousands of nationals were lauded across the country. Similarly, under the Vande Bharat Mission, one of the largest repatriation missions globally, lakhs of Indians were brought back home during the COVID-19 pandemic, thanks to the tireless work of IFS officers.

Notable Achievements and Legacy of the Indian Foreign Service

Over the decades, the Indian Foreign Service has nurtured some of the finest minds, many of whom have gone on to serve in top positions within India and internationally. Several former IFS officers have become Presidents, Vice Presidents, Speakers of the Lok Sabha, Ministers, and even distinguished authors, scholars, and historians. Their contributions have shaped not only India's foreign relations but also its domestic political and intellectual landscape.

As India continues to grow as a global power, the role of IFS officers remains crucial in forging alliances, promoting peace, and ensuring that India's interests are safeguarded in an increasingly interconnected world.

Indian Foreign Service Day is a reminder of the vital role played by diplomats in securing India's place on the global stage. It is a day to honor the dedication, intelligence, and diplomacy that have defined the IFS for over seven decades. As the world becomes more complex, the Indian Foreign Service will undoubtedly continue to serve as a beacon of India's values, interests, and aspirations.

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