Vikram Misri Takes Charge as India's New Foreign Secretary Amidst Tumultuous Times

Vikram Misri, a seasoned diplomat and China expert, has been appointed India's new foreign secretary, taking over from Vinay Kwatra. Misri, who previously served as deputy national security advisor, assumes his role during challenging geopolitical times. External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and MEA extended their congratulations.

Seasoned diplomat Vikram Misri, widely regarded as an expert on China and national security, assumed charge as India's new foreign secretary on Monday. Misri, a 1989-batch Indian Foreign Service officer and former deputy national security advisor, succeeded Vinay Kwatra. The 59-year-old took over at a time when India faces various geopolitical challenges, including strained ties with China following the eastern Ladakh border row and the repercussions of the Russia-Ukraine conflict.

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar congratulated Misri, saying, 'Wish him a productive and successful tenure.' Misri has served in multiple capacities in the Ministry of External Affairs, the Prime Minister's Office, and Indian missions globally. Notably, he has been a private secretary to three prime ministers and is set for a minimum tenure of two years in his new role.

Previously India's ambassador to China, Spain, and Myanmar, Misri played a key role in easing India-China tensions post-Galwan Valley clashes in 2020. Raised in Srinagar, Misri holds a history degree from the University of Delhi and an MBA from XLRI, Jamshedpur. The government is now focusing on appointing the next envoy to the US and New Delhi's permanent representative to the UN.