New Delhi: Officer Trainees of the 2024 batch of the Indian Foreign Service (IFS) called on President Droupadi Murmu at Rashtrapati Bhavan on August 19, 2025.
The President congratulated the young officers on joining the diplomatic service and urged them to carry India’s timeless values of peace, pluralism, non-violence, and dialogue. At the same time, she encouraged them to remain open to new ideas, diverse cultures, and global perspectives.
Agility in a Changing World
Highlighting the rapid global transformations, the President pointed to geopolitical shifts, digital revolutions, climate change, and contested multilateralism as defining challenges. She stressed that the agility and adaptability of young diplomats would play a key role in navigating these transitions.
The President noted that India today forms an essential part of solutions to pressing global issues. These include disparities between the Global North and South, threats of cross-border terrorism, and climate change impacts. As the world’s largest democracy and a steadily rising economic power, India’s voice carries significant weight, she said.
Diplomats as India’s First Face Abroad
President Murmu reminded the trainees that IFS officers will serve as the first representatives of India to the world. Their words, actions, and conduct, she emphasized, would embody the nation’s values and global standing.
Also Read: Veteran Diplomat IFS Sandeep Arya Appointed as India’s Next Ambassador to Bhutan
Cultural Diplomacy as a Bridge
Underscoring the growing role of cultural diplomacy, the President said connections built through heritage and traditions leave lasting impact. She cited Yoga, Ayurveda, millets, and India’s artistic, linguistic, and spiritual legacies as key elements of soft power. She encouraged officers to pursue creative and ambitious efforts in promoting this heritage globally.
Alignment with National Vision
Linking diplomacy with national priorities, President Murmu stressed that foreign policy efforts must align with India’s domestic goals, including the vision of becoming Viksit Bharat by 2047. She called upon the young officers to see themselves not only as custodians of national interests but also as ambassadors of India’s soul.
Also Read: Indian Envoy Meets Yemen’s Top Leadership in Riyadh, Pushes for Stronger Diplomatic and Trade Ties
