New Delhi, Mar 8: The Dao Division of the Indian Army’s Spear Corps successfully conducted a five-day orientation programme for Indian Foreign Service (IFS) officer trainees from March 2 to 6, 2026. The initiative aimed to provide trainees with first-hand exposure to the operational environment, challenges, and daily life of personnel stationed along India’s frontiers.

During the programme, the IFS trainees visited forward areas under the division’s responsibility, interacting with soldiers and gaining insights into the strategic significance of these regions. The orientation included briefings on border security, operational readiness, logistics, and the functioning of Army units in difficult terrain. Trainees also observed training exercises and demonstrations, which highlighted the rigorous preparation and discipline required in these high-altitude and sensitive sectors.
In addition to official sessions, the trainees celebrated Holi with the troops, participating in cultural and recreational activities. This fostered camaraderie and allowed the officers to experience the human side of military life, building an appreciation for the morale, motivation, and resilience of soldiers serving in remote locations.
The programme emphasized the importance of inter-service understanding, equipping future diplomats with a nuanced perspective on defence and security matters. By exposing IFS officers to the operational realities of the Indian Army, the Dao Division and Spear Corps aim to strengthen civil-military coordination and support the officers’ roles in international and strategic engagements.
The orientation concluded with a valedictory session, during which trainees expressed gratitude for the opportunity to learn from the frontline personnel and acknowledged the critical role of the Army in safeguarding the nation’s borders.
This initiative is part of the Indian Army’s ongoing efforts to enhance cooperation and understanding between civilian administrators, diplomats, and the armed forces, ensuring that officers from other services gain practical insights into defence operations and challenges.