This Programme is an initiative of SSIFS and follows a series of Familiarization Programmes for Resident Heads of Missions conducted in 2018 and 2019. These latter Programmes proved to be so popular with the diplomatic missions in New Delhi that SSIFS regularly received requests from them to conduct familiarization programmes for their resident diplomats (not just limited to HOMs), including the newly arrived ones. Responding to these requests and in continuation of the Familiarization Programmes for Resident Heads of Missions, SSIFS conducted the 1st, 2nd and 3rd editions of the Familiarization Programme for Resident Diplomats in January, February and March 2021 respectively. These Programmes have received an overwhelming response from resident diplomatic missions.
The week-long programme has 10/15 sessions over 05 working days in the afternoons. The Programme is aimed at giving an introduction and perspective on India and its foreign policy including contemporary dimensions and challenges, strategic issues, relations with neighbouring countries and major powers, economic initiatives, development partnership and health diplomacy etc. to foreign diplomats resident in India. The sessions are addressed by senior serving/retired officers of the MEA and domain specialists.
The 1st Familiarization Programme for Resident Diplomats was conducted at the SSIFS from 18-22 January 2021. Thirty-one (31) diplomats from as many countries participated.
The 2nd Familiarization Programme for Resident Diplomats was conducted at the SSIFS from 22-26 February 2021. Thirty-four (34) diplomats from as many countries participated.
The 3rd Familiarization Programme for Resident Diplomats was conducted at the SSIFS from 22-26 March 2021. Thirty-two (32) Diplomats from 26 countries participated.
4th Familiarization Programme for Resident Diplomats was conducted at the SSIFS from 26-30 July 2021. Twenty five diplomats from 19 countries participated.
5th Familiarization Programme for Resident Diplomats was conducted at the SSIFS from 13-17 June 2022. Thirty three diplomats from 23 countries participated in the course.