The Lok-Sabha was today informed that more than 500 new positions will be operationalised in Indian Foreign Service, IFS, by the year 2018.

In a written reply, Minister of External Affairs, Mrs. Preneet Kaur said that IFS strength is being enhanced in keeping view the expanding global role of India.

She said that Naresh Chandra Task Force has also pointed out the shortage of manpower and need for enhanced strength of
diplomats.