IFS

 

The Indian Foreign Service (IFS)-

The Indian Foreign Service (IFS) is the diplomatic service of the Government of India, responsible for representing India in international forums and maintaining its relations with foreign countries. The IFS is part of the Ministry of External Affairs of India.

The training academy for the IFS is the Foreign Service Institute (FSI) located in New Delhi. The FSI is responsible for the training of IFS officers and other officials of the Ministry of External Affairs.

The training structure for IFS officers includes a comprehensive training program that spans over two years. The training is divided into three parts:

Foundation Course: This is a three-month-long course that introduces the trainees to the basics of the Indian Constitution, Indian history, and culture. It also includes courses on economics, public administration, and international relations.

Professional Course: The Professional Course is the main training program for IFS officers, which is conducted over a period of 21 months. The course is divided into three parts:

Phase I (nine months): This phase includes training in diplomatic and consular practices, political and economic reporting, foreign policy analysis, and protocol.

Phase II (six months): This phase includes specialized training in areas such as trade and commerce, international law, United Nations, regional studies, and languages.

Phase III (six months): This phase is dedicated to attachment training, where the trainees are attached to various ministries, missions, and institutions of the government.

Language Training: IFS officers are required to learn at least three foreign languages. The language training is conducted at the Central Institute of English and Foreign Languages (CIEFL) in Hyderabad.

Overall, the training structure for IFS officers is rigorous and comprehensive, with a focus on developing their diplomatic and analytical skills.