In a significant development, Randhir Jaiswal, currently serving as India’s Consul General in New York, is poised to assume the role of the next spokesperson for the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA). This transition comes as part of a reshuffle in the Indian Foreign Service (IFS), with Jaiswal set to succeed the current spokesperson, Arindam Bagchi. Bagchi, in turn, has been appointed as India’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations (UN) in Geneva.
Randhir Jaiswal, an IFS officer from the 1998 batch, brings a wealth of experience to his new role. Over a diplomatic career spanning more than two decades, Jaiswal has undertaken crucial assignments in various parts of the world. His previous postings include serving in Portugal, Cuba, South Africa, and at India’s Permanent Mission to the UN in New York.
Jaiswal has also made substantial contributions to India’s foreign affairs in the past. He has served as the Deputy Secretary in the MEA, overseeing India’s relations with the United States, and as Joint Secretary, managing ties with countries in Western Europe.
In 2017, he took on the role of Joint Secretary responsible for international relations while serving the President. His appointment as Consul General in New York dates back to July 2020.
Notably, Randhir Jaiswal has been an integral part of the Indian delegation at international climate change conferences, where he has represented India’s interests on a global stage. He holds a master’s degree in history from Delhi University, underlining his strong academic foundation in addition to his extensive diplomatic experience.
Earlier speculations had suggested the names of several officials for the position of spokesperson, a high-profile role within the Ministry of External Affairs. Among these candidates were Nagaraj Naidu Kakanur, Joint Secretary (G20), and K Nandini Singla, High Commissioner to Mauritius. However, it is now expected that Randhir Jaiswal will take on this pivotal role in India’s foreign affairs landscape.
Arindam Bagchi, the current spokesperson, is anticipated to continue in his role for a little longer, with the official transition expected to take place towards the end of the year. As the new spokesperson, Randhir Jaiswal will play a crucial role in representing India’s foreign policy and diplomatic efforts on the global stage.
This transition marks an important chapter in India’s diplomatic service, with experienced officials taking on new and vital roles within the MEA, ensuring the nation’s voice is heard and represented effectively in international affairs.
Sources By Agencies
