New Delhi: The Officer Trainees of the Indian Foreign Service (IFS) 2023 Batch had the honor of meeting President Droupadi Murmu at Rashtrapati Bhavan today. During the interaction, President Murmu imparted crucial insights on the responsibilities and expectations that come with representing India on the global stage.
In her address, President Murmu emphasized that foreign policy is not merely an abstract exercise or an elitist pursuit. “Foreign policy is an extension of domestic policies, aimed at securing a country’s political, economic, and security interests, and territorial integrity,” she stated. She underscored that it is the duty of IFS officers to not only protect India’s interests but also to actively shape the global agenda with the strategic objective of achieving ‘Viksit Bharat’ (Developed India) by 2047.
Highlighting the significance of their roles, the President reminded the officer trainees that they represent not just the Government of India, but 1.4 billion Indians, along with their diverse hopes and aspirations. “You embody the richness of our 5000-year-old civilization and the pluralistic culture of India. As representatives of a society that stands as a force for good and stability in an unpredictable world, this places great responsibility on each of you,” she said.
President Murmu also outlined the essential qualities of an effective diplomat, stressing the need for strong communication skills and strategic thinking. She encouraged the trainees to develop a deep political and cultural understanding of both their host countries and India. As the officers prepare for their first postings abroad, particularly for foreign language training, she advised them to learn as many languages as possible and to embrace new cultures, people, and technologies.
“These skills and sensibilities will make you not just effective diplomats, but well-rounded individuals who can navigate the complexities of international relations,” President Murmu added.
The meeting at Rashtrapati Bhavan marks a significant milestone in the journey of these future diplomats as they prepare to embark on their careers representing India on the world stage. The guidance and expectations set forth by President Murmu are expected to inspire and steer them towards contributing effectively to India’s global presence and strategic objectives.