My mothers reaction when I cracked UPSC exam | Getting into the IFS - Indian Foreign Service

Naman is the Co-CEO of the Global Governance Initiative, and a co-investor in leading early-stage ventures in agri-tech, and education. He has worked as an advisor to senior public officials in India. Naman has also been part of the United Nations - Office of Internal Oversight Services and has also been a Special Advisor to the Governments of Serbia, Albania, and North Macedonia in matters of their Foreign Policy.

He is also a recipient of the prestigious Harry Ratliffe Memorial Award - awarded by the Fletcher School of Law and Diplomacy's Alumni Executive Board. (FACA).

Naman is on a mission to create a world that is better led, better served, and better governed via the Global Governance Initiative.

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The Indian Foreign Service (IFS) is the diplomatic civil service under Group A and Group B of the Central Civil Services of the executive branch of the Government of India. The IFS represents India in its foreign relations, in its embassies and consulates around the world and in multilateral organizations such as the United Nations. It is one of the most prestigious and high-profile jobs in India, along with the Indian Administrative Service (IAS) and the Indian Police Service (IPS).

Members of the IFS are recruited by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) through the Civil Services Examination, which is considered one of the toughest competitive exams in India. After selection, new entrants undergo comprehensive training, which includes a study of various subjects such as international relations, law, India's foreign policy, trade and diplomacy, and a mandatory foreign language.

IFS officers serve at the headquarters of the Ministry of External Affairs in New Delhi and in Indian diplomatic missions around the world. They are responsible for formulating and implementing the government's foreign policy, negotiating agreements on various issues with foreign governments, promoting India's economic and commercial interests, managing diplomatic protocol, offering consular services, and fostering cultural relations. In addition, they also play a critical role in shaping and executing India's response during crises such as wars, evacuations, and natural disasters.

Indian Foreign Service (IFS) officers contribute to various areas of diplomacy, international relations, and India's global interests. Here are some of their key contributions:

1. **Formulating and Implementing Foreign Policy**: IFS officers are responsible for advising on and implementing India's foreign policy. They play a key role in the decision-making process related to India's relations with other countries and international organizations.

2. **Promoting Economic Interests**: IFS officers work to promote India's economic interests abroad. This includes boosting trade, attracting foreign investments, enhancing technological cooperation, promoting tourism, and advocating for India's positions on economic matters in international forums.

3. **Protecting Indian Citizens Abroad**: One of the main duties of IFS officers is to provide assistance to Indian citizens living or traveling abroad. This includes helping with passport and visa issues, providing consular services, and ensuring the welfare of Indians overseas.

4. **Crisis Management**: During times of international crisis, such as wars, evacuations, and natural disasters, IFS officers play a critical role in coordinating India's response. They work to safeguard the interests of India and its citizens in the crisis region.

5. **Cultural Diplomacy**: IFS officers also play a crucial role in promoting Indian culture and values abroad. This helps to improve mutual understanding and foster friendly relations between India and other countries.

6. **Negotiations and Agreements**: IFS officers are involved in negotiating international treaties, agreements, and conventions that are in India's interests. They also represent India in various international forums such as the United Nations, the World Trade Organization, and others.

7. **Intelligence Gathering**: As diplomats, IFS officers also have a role in gathering intelligence related to matters that can affect India's national security and interests.

The contributions of IFS officers are varied and significant, spanning the gamut from diplomacy to crisis management to the promotion of India's global interests.