The **Ministry of External Affairs (MEA)** is the government agency responsible for formulating and implementing India's foreign policy and managing its international relations. Established in 1948, the MEA oversees diplomatic engagement, represents India in global forums such as the United Nations, and administers over 200 diplomatic missions worldwide[2][5]. It is headed by the Minister of External Affairs, supported by junior ministers and the Foreign Secretary, the senior administrative officer[2]. The MEA’s core functions include protecting the interests and welfare of Indian citizens abroad, negotiating international treaties, advancing India's trade and cultural ties, and advising other government bodies on foreign affairs[1][3][5]. It plays a crucial role in safeguarding national interests through strategic diplomacy, bilateral cooperation, and multilateral engagement. Historically, the MEA evolved from the merger of the Foreign and Political departments during British India into an independent diplomatic service (Indian Foreign Service) in 1946, with the first officers joining in 1948[4]. This has ensured a continuous stream of skilled diplomats representing India globally. Key foreign policy initiatives led by the MEA include: - **Neighborhood First Policy**, focusing on stronger ties with neighboring countries for regional stability. - **Act East Policy**, enhancing economic and strategic relations with Southeast Asia and the Indo-Pacific. - **Link West Policy**, strengthening cooperation with West Asian and Gulf countries for energy security. - Leadership in the **International Solar Alliance (ISA)**, promoting solar energy worldwide[1]. In technology and public service, the MEA launched the **Passport Seva Project** in 2010, a public-private partnership with Tata Consultancy Services, to provide efficient passport services to Indian citizens[4]. Currently, the MEA manages approximately 850 Indian Foreign Service officers staffing diplomatic missions and headquarters divisions. They work across various domains, including political, economic, consular, cultural, and multilateral issues, ensuring India’s global engagement is robust and adaptive to changin