New Delhi. 33 Officer Trainees
of the 2024 batch of the Indian Foreign Service (IFS) met Prime Minister Shri
Narendra Modi today at his residence 7, Lok Kalyan Marg. The meeting was not
just a formal occasion but an in-depth dialogue focused on India's changing
diplomacy, global role and the responsibilities that fall on the shoulders of
future diplomats.
India (Vishwabandhu and "First Responder" Country):
During the interaction, Prime Minister Modi said that India has established
itself as a true "Vishwabandhu" (Vishwabandhu) in front of the world.
He explained by giving examples that whenever any country needs help - be it a
natural disaster, humanitarian crisis or capacity building initiative, India
has always stood as the first country to provide help. He further said that
India has consistently prioritized cooperation with the Global South and this
partnership will become even stronger and more effective in the times to come.
Developed India by 2047 (Important role of future diplomats): The
Prime Minister said that as India moves towards the goal of becoming a
developed nation by 2047, the role of young diplomats will be extremely
important. He reminded the trainees that they are not just officers, but will
strengthen India's identity all over the world by becoming the face and voice
of India in the times to come.
Call to arouse curiosity about India in the younger generation: PM
Modi suggested that the trainees should generate curiosity about India among
the youth of different countries. For this, he emphasized on organizing 'Know
Your Bharat' quiz and debate.
He said that the questions of
the quiz should be updated from time to time and contemporary topics should be
included in them like - Maha Kumbh, celebration of 1000 years of Gangaikonda
Cholapuram temple, and cultural heritage of India.
Importance of communication in a technology-driven world: The Prime
Minister reminded the trainees that today's world is based on technology-based
communication. He advised to work towards making the websites of all missions
more effective and interactive so that a strong image of India can reach the
Indian diaspora and the world.
Opportunities for private players in the space sector: Prime
Minister Modi also talked about the space sector during this time. He said that
India has opened the space sector to the private sector and now Indian startups
have a great opportunity to work globally. The PM expressed confidence that
India has the potential to play a big role in this space sector.
Trainees shared their experiences: The trainees shared their
experiences with the Prime Minister, which included topics like - Maritime
Diplomacy, AI & Semiconductor, Ayurveda, cultural engagement, food and soft
power. The Prime Minister appreciated their research work and gave them a
message to maintain the spirit of innovation and learning.