Vikram Misri, the Deputy National Security Advisor, has been named the new Foreign Secretary of India. A distinguished diplomat from the 1989 Indian Foreign Service batch, Misri is set to replace the current Foreign Secretary, Vinay Kwatra, with his appointment effective from July 15, as per a government order.
Previously, Misri has served as the private secretary to three Indian Prime Ministers: Inder Kumar Gujral, Manmohan Singh, and Narendra Modi. His most recent ambassadorial role was in Beijing, positioning him as a crucial player in India’s diplomatic dealings with China.
Following the 2020 Ladakh standoff and the Galwan Valley conflict involving Indian and Chinese troops, Misri was instrumental in sustaining diplomatic engagement with China.
Throughout his career, Misri has held the post of India’s ambassador to Spain and Myanmar and has been part of Indian missions in Belgium, Pakistan, the USA, Sri Lanka, and Germany.
Vinay Mohan Kwatra, the incumbent Foreign Secretary, received a six-month extension this March. There is a strong anticipation that Kwatra will be appointed as India’s next ambassador to the United States, filling the vacancy left by Taranjit Sandhu’s retirement in January.
The Appointments Committee of the Cabinet has confirmed Misri’s appointment to the role of Foreign Secretary starting July 15, as announced by the Ministry of Personnel.
