Indian Foreign Service offers an exceptional career path, says Jeeva Maria Joy

Jeeva Maria Joy
| Photo Credit: SPECIAL ARRANGEMENT

The Indian Foreign Service (IFS) offers an exceptional career path where diplomacy, international relations, and national interests intersect, Jeeva Maria Joy, an IFS officer who cleared the Civil Services examination in her second attempt, said at The Hindu Civil Service Gateway Summit 2025 on Saturday.

Exploring the intricacies of the IFS was one of the most rewarding aspects of her preparation, she said. Observing that the role of an IFS officer is multifaceted, she said the diplomatic world requires a unique blend of skills- strategic thinking, effective communication and a keen understanding of global politics.

Shahansha K.S. IPS speaks at The Hindu Civil Service Gateway event in Thiruvananthapuram on Saturday.
| Photo Credit:
NIRMAL HARINDRAN

IPS officer Shahansha K.S. addressed a session on ‘Civil Services preparation and the scope of IPS.’ There’s no universal formula for success as each journey is unique, he said. According to Mr. Shahansha, who cleared the exams in the seventh attempt, persistence, adaptability and a well-designed strategy are extremely useful ingredients for acing the exams. He described each failure as a lesson that sharpened his strategy and strengthened his resolve. Also, trying to imitate someone else’s path would not work, he added.

Nandanaa G.P., ranked 47 in the UPSC 2024 exams, addressed a session on ‘How to read newspaper for cracking Civil Services.’ The time between Prelims and Mains is best spent on thoroughly reading newspapers. It is crucial to stay updated with current affairs, as they play a significant role in both the Mains and Interview stages, she said.