Arindam Bagchi, currently serving as Additional Secretary in the Ministry of External Affairs, has been appointed as India’s next Ambassador/Permanent Representative to the United Nations and other International Organisations in Geneva. This significant appointment marks a key change in India’s diplomatic representation in Geneva.
Arindam Bagchi is set to succeed the incumbent Indian envoy to the UN in Geneva, Indra Mani Pandey, who assumed the role in July 2020. After a three-year tenure, Pandey is now scheduled to return to New Delhi, paving the way for Bagchi to take the helm.
Arindam Bagchi, A Seasoned Diplomat
Arindam Bagchi, a seasoned Indian Foreign Service (IFS) officer from the 1995 batch, has a rich and diverse background in the foreign service. He took on the pivotal role of MEA spokesperson in March 2020 during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, a time when India was grappling with various international and national challenges.
Key Responsibilities as MEA Spokesperson
During his tenure as MEA spokesperson, Arindam Bagchi demonstrated adept handling of media discussions on critical issues such as the Sino-Indian border dispute in eastern Ladakh, the Indian government’s strategy to combat COVID-19, and New Delhi’s role as the G20 presidency.
Varied Experience
Arindam Bagchi’s diplomatic career has encompassed various roles. He has served as a director in the Prime Minister’s Office, where he was involved in managing significant national and international affairs. Additionally, Bagchi has worked at India’s permanent mission at the United Nations in New York, gaining valuable experience in international diplomacy.
Replacement for MEA Spokesperson
While Bagchi’s move to Geneva has been confirmed, his replacement as MEA spokesperson is yet to be named. However, reports suggest that four senior diplomats, including K. Nandini Singla, the high commissioner of Mauritius, and Nagaraj Naidu Kakanur, the joint secretary (G20), are being considered for the pivotal position.
Arindam Bagchi’s appointment as India’s Ambassador to the UN in Geneva reflects his commendable diplomatic journey and expertise. This transition in diplomatic roles underscores India’s commitment to actively participating in international forums and enhancing its presence on the global stage.