← Today's Edition

Balanced

Indian diplomacy needs envoys with a wider pool of experience and talent than the IFS can summon

India's diplomacy requires greater diversity beyond the IFS. Converging global dynamics in politics, capital, technology, security, and trade necessitate envoys with deep political conviction, specific domain expertise (e.g., finance, tech, defence), and practical world experience. While the IFS provides an essential backbone, India should strategically deploy political appointees and specialists throughout its missions. This inclusive approach, from ambassadors to counsellors, will maximize national advantage, ensure measurable diplomatic returns, and adapt statecraft to contemporary global engagements by leveraging tailored expertise.

LiveMint · Srinath Sridharan, Arjun Raghavendra M. · Aug 12, 2026 at 10:31 AM

More summaries by Srinath Sridharan, Arjun Raghavendra M.

Related Insights