The Rashtrapati Bhavan bore witness to a significant event on Sunday as S Jaishankar, a stalwart of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), was sworn in as Union Cabinet Minister. This follows his impactful stint as External Affairs Minister during Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s second term from 2019 to 2024.
Before the oath-taking ceremony, a high tea was hosted by the PM-designate at his residence at 7 Lok Kalyan Marg. This gathering saw the participation of members of Parliament who were likely to join the Cabinet and Council of Ministers. Among the attendees was Jaishankar, marking his presence with his characteristic grace and poise.
Jaishankar, a man of words and wisdom, has been a key figure in shaping India’s foreign policy over the last decade. His journey from being India’s Foreign Secretary from 2015 to 2018 to becoming the External Affairs Minister in 2019 is a testament to his dedication and prowess. He holds the distinction of being the first Foreign Secretary to be appointed as External Affairs Minister.
His tenure as India’s EAM was marked by global turbulence and conflicts. The world witnessed the Russia-Ukraine conflict, the Israel-Hamas war, and the devastating Covid pandemic. These events had far-reaching impacts on the global economy, including India.
Yet, in the face of these challenges, India’s response was guided by the principle of ‘Nation First’. This approach, a hallmark of Jaishankar’s leadership, ensured that India navigated these crises with resilience and fortitude.
As Jaishankar embarks on his journey as Union Cabinet Minister, the nation anticipates his continued commitment to India’s progress and stability. His vast experience and insightful leadership are expected to steer the country through future challenges with confidence and determination.
