Indian Public Schools' Conference, formed in 1939 is known for its glorious traditions. The Indian Public Schools' have a distinct identity and it should not be confused with the large number of schools, which have liberally adopted the words 'Public School' with their name. The Indian Public Schools are 'private, independent and secular institutions of secondary education. The Sainik and Military Schools, which form part of the public school complex have been established by the government and receive annual grants-in-aid. They are, however considered to be 'private' and 'independent' because they are managed by the autonomous Boards of Governors and are not obliged to follow the regulations of the grant-in-code.

Technically, an Indian Public School is one, which is a member of the IPSC. The IPSC which started in 1939 with a few residential schools has now strength of 79 schools including Sainik Schools and Military Schools. The conference has deliberated on the educational problems of residential schools and it endeavors to promote the efficiency of such schools keeping in mind the changing trends in the educational technology and maintaining our age old traditions and heritage. IPSC is considered as an "integrative" organisation in the sense that directs "Motivation to the fulfillment of institutional expectation". The primary aim of Public School as stated in the IPSC Articles of Association is, "To prepare students of ability for positions of service and responsibilities in all walks of National Life".

The Indian Public Schools are mainly residential schools with an independent Board of Governors. Their aim is to provide boys/girls with opportunities for training in responsibility, leadership and service. Extensive facilities are available for a wide range of extra curricular activities, games, athletics, physical education, crafts, arts, music, dramatics and a variety of hobbies. The central emphasis in both academics and extra curricular activities is on the "All Round" development of character by the cultivation of academic skills and the qualities of initiative and responsibility, self discipline, team-spirit, sportsmanship, fair-play, refined taste and the spirit of Public Service.