S. Jaishankar, an influential Indian diplomat and politician, has served as the Minister of External Affairs since 2019. He has had a distinguished career, including roles as Ambassador to the US, China, and the Czech Republic. Learn about his early life, career journey, and personal life.
S. Jaishankar is one of India's most respected diplomats who transitioned into a prominent political figure. Serving as the current Minister of External Affairs since May 31, 2019, Jaishankar has played a crucial role in shaping India’s foreign policy. A member of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), he was elected to the Rajya Sabha from Gujarat in July 2019. His career spans over four decades of diplomatic service, culminating in his appointment as the Foreign Secretary of India, followed by his current cabinet role.
Early Life and Education
Subrahmanyam Jaishankar was born on January 9, 1955, in New Delhi, into a family deeply rooted in civil services and strategic affairs. His father, K. Subrahmanyam, was a well-known analyst and commentator, and his brother, Sanjay Subrahmanyam, is a historian, while another sibling, S. Vijay Kumar, has held a senior government position as the Rural Development Secretary of India.
Jaishankar attended Cambridge School in Srinivaspuri, New Delhi, before graduating from St. Stephen's College at the University of Delhi. His academic journey continued with a Masters in Political Science, followed by an M.Phil and a Ph.D. in International Relations from Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU), where he focused on nuclear diplomacy.
A Distinguished Diplomatic Career
Jaishankar's diplomatic career began when he joined the Indian Foreign Service in 1977. His early years in diplomacy saw him taking important assignments in Tokyo, the Czech Republic, and Singapore. Between 2009 and 2013, Jaishankar served as India's Ambassador to China, marking a significant period of engagement with one of India’s largest neighboring powers.
His expertise and leadership in international relations were evident when he played a pivotal role in negotiating the landmark Indo-US civilian nuclear agreement. Jaishankar’s time as India’s Ambassador to the United States (2013–2015) further solidified his reputation as an adept negotiator.
In 2015, he was appointed as India’s Foreign Secretary, succeeding Sujatha Singh. Jaishankar’s tenure as Foreign Secretary (2015-2018) was marked by strategic policy shifts and major international engagements, including strengthening India’s ties with key global powers.
S Jaishankar Age, Biography, Wikipedia, Net Worth, Education & Qualification, Caste, Children, Wife
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Subrahmanyam Jaishankar |
| Date of Birth | 9 January 1955 |
| Place of Birth | New Delhi, India |
| Current Position | Minister of External Affairs, Government of India |
| Political Party | Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) |
| Education | St. Stephen's College, University of Delhi Masters in Political Science M.Phil and Ph.D in International Relations from Jawaharlal Nehru University |
| Notable Diplomatic Roles | Foreign Secretary of India (2015-2018) Ambassador to US (2014-2015) Ambassador to China (2009-2013) Ambassador to Czech Republic (2001-2004) High Commissioner to Singapore (2007-2009) |
| Awards | Padma Shri (2019) |
| Books | The India Way: Strategies for an Uncertain World (2020) Why Bharat Matters (2024) |
| Personal | Married to Kyoko Somekawa in 1998 Three children Interests: Squash, badminton, history, international relations |
S. Jaishankar in Politics
After retiring from the Indian Foreign Service, S. Jaishankar continued to contribute to India’s growth in the corporate sector, joining Tata Sons as the President of Global Corporate Affairs. However, his passion for public service led him back to the political arena in 2019. He joined the BJP and was sworn in as the Minister of External Affairs in the second Modi ministry, on May 31, 2019. His political entry was marked by a notable victory in the 2019 Rajya Sabha elections from Gujarat.
As the Minister of External Affairs, Jaishankar has played an instrumental role in India’s foreign policy, enhancing bilateral ties with multiple countries and leading India's response to global challenges. His diplomatic acumen continues to be a driving force in shaping India’s global standing.
Awards and Recognition
In recognition of his exceptional service to India, Jaishankar was conferred the Padma Shri, one of India’s highest civilian honors, in 2019. His contributions to diplomacy, international relations, and public service have earned him global respect and numerous accolades.
Personal Life
Jaishankar’s personal life is marked by his marriage to Kyoko Somekawa, a Japanese national, in 1998. The couple has three children—two sons, Dhruva and Arjun, and a daughter, Medha. Jaishankar’s linguistic abilities are noteworthy, as he speaks multiple languages, including Russian, English, Tamil, Hindi, Japanese, and even some Hungarian. Outside of work, he enjoys playing sports such as squash and badminton and has a deep interest in history and international relations.
Books Authored by S. Jaishankar
Jaishankar has shared his diplomatic insights through his written works. His book, The India Way: Strategies for an Uncertain World (2020), presents India’s strategic approach to navigating global challenges. His latest book, Why Bharat Matters (2024), delves into India’s emerging role in the international arena.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is S. Jaishankar’s role in the Indian government?
S. Jaishankar is the current Minister of External Affairs in India. He has been serving in this capacity since May 31, 2019.
2. What diplomatic roles has Jaishankar held before becoming a politician?
Jaishankar has held significant positions, including India’s Ambassador to the United States, Ambassador to China, and Foreign Secretary of India.
3. What awards has S. Jaishankar received?
In 2019, S. Jaishankar was conferred the Padma Shri, one of India’s highest civilian honors.
4. What are S. Jaishankar’s academic qualifications?
He holds a degree in Political Science from St. Stephen’s College, University of Delhi, and an M.Phil and Ph.D. in International Relations from Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU).
5. Is S. Jaishankar married?
Yes, S. Jaishankar is married to Kyoko Somekawa, and they have three children.
S. Jaishankar’s career has been defined by his deep commitment to public service and diplomacy, shaping India’s global image and strengthening its international relationships. His work continues to have a profound impact on India’s foreign policy and political landscape.