The Association of Indian Diplomats, a gathering of former Ambassadors / High Commissioners of India, was formed in November 1980 by a group of retired ambassadors, High Commissioners and Secretaries to the Government of India in the Ministry of External Affairs and was registered in 1981 at New Delhi under the Societies Registration Act of 1960

Having devoted the major part of their active lives to promoting the objectives of India's foreign policy, and having contributed, each in their own way, to the formulation and implementation of this policy, they believed that by keeping abreast of issues and developments relating to foreign and domestic affairs, they could continue to help in such ways as may be appropriate, in the promotion of a better understanding of India's role on the international stage.

It was also relevant that, after retirement, services of some of the retired Ambassadors have been availed by Government from time to time or on a regular basis, for obtaining assessments on areas of their specialisation or for special assignments in the area of foreign affairs.

It was felt that a Formal but Voluntary Association that brings together such persons would also provide an useful forum for study, discussion and debate of relevant issues. It was envisaged that such a forum would also encompass interaction with academic personalities, experts and commentators in the field of international affairs as well as with other institutions with similar interests.