Vikram Misri, currently the Deputy National Security Advisor (NSA), has been appointed as India's new Foreign Secretary, effective from July 15. A 1989 batch Indian Foreign Service (IFS) officer, Misri will succeed Vinay Kwatra in this key position.

Misri’s appointment comes at a crucial time as India faces various foreign policy challenges, particularly its tense relationship with China following the border dispute in eastern Ladakh. Misri, known for his expertise on China, served as India’s ambassador to China from 2019 to 2021.

Before his role as Deputy NSA, Misri had an extensive diplomatic career. He served as private secretary to three Indian Prime Ministers: Inder Kumar Gujral, Manmohan Singh, and Narendra Modi. His in-depth knowledge of China and experience in diplomacy are expected to be vital in his new role.

Born in Srinagar in 1964, Misri completed his early education in Gwalior. He earned a degree in history from Hindu College, Delhi University, and an MBA from XLRI. He began his diplomatic career with the Indian Foreign Service in 1989, with early postings in Brussels and Tunis.

Throughout his career, Misri held several important positions, including India’s ambassador to Spain (2014-2016) and Myanmar (2016-2018). He also served in Indian missions in Pakistan, the US, Germany, Belgium, and Sri Lanka. Misri played a significant role in discussions between India and China during the 2020 standoff in eastern Ladakh and the Galwan Valley clash.

Misri took up his current role in the National Security Council Secretariat in January 2022, reporting to NSA Ajit Doval.

India’s ambassador to France, Jawed Ashraf, is expected to replace Misri as the Deputy NSA. Additionally, the government needs to appoint new envoys to the US and the United Nations in New York, following the retirement of Ruchira Kamboj, the first woman to hold the UN position.

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