Vikram Misri: India's New Foreign Secretary

Appointment and Background

• Vikram Misri appointed as 35th Foreign Secretary of India
• Takes charge on July 15, 2024, succeeding Vinay Mohan Kwatra
• Currently Deputy National Security Advisor
• 1989-batch Indian Foreign Service (IFS) officer
• Born in Kashmir in 1964
• Known for expertise in India-China relations

Diplomatic Career Highlights

• Ambassador to China (2019-2021)
• Handled 2020 Galwan crisis negotiations
• Ambassador to Myanmar (2016-2018)
• Managed diplomatic relations during Rohingya crisis
• Ambassador to Spain (2014-2016)
• Deputy High Commissioner to Sri Lanka (2008-2011)
• Served in Indian missions in Pakistan, US, Belgium, and Spain
• Private Secretary to Prime Minister Manmohan Singh (2012-2014)
• Director in Ministry of External Affairs (2006-2008)
• Under-Secretary in MEA during I.K. Gujral government (1996-1997)

Significance and Expectations

• Appointment approved by Cabinet Committee chaired by PM Modi
• Brings expertise in China relations amid ongoing tensions
• Will head bureaucracy of Ministry of External Affairs
• Expected to focus on India-China issues
• Follows tradition since 1948; K.P.S Menon was first Foreign Secretary
• Chokila Iyer was first female Foreign Secretary (2001-2002)

Vikram Misri's appointment as India's new Foreign Secretary marks a significant development in the country's diplomatic leadership. With his extensive experience, particularly in handling India-China relations, Misri is poised to navigate complex international challenges. His background as Ambassador to China during the Galwan crisis and his role as Deputy National Security Advisor equip him with valuable insights for his new position. As he prepares to lead the Ministry of External Affairs, expectations are high for Misri to address ongoing regional tensions and strengthen India's global diplomatic standing.