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Hindustan Times
2 days ago
- Business
- Hindustan Times
India's envoy to Japan Sibi George appointed Secretary (West), MEA
New Delhi, India's ambassador to Japan Sibi George was on Tuesday appointed as the Secretary in the Ministry of External Affairs , according to a Personnel Ministry order. India's envoy to Japan Sibi George appointed Secretary (West), MEA Indian envoy to Bhutan Sudhakar Dalela has been appointed as the Secretary in the MEA. Both George and Dalela are 1993-batch Indian Foreign Service officers. The Appointments Committee of the Cabinet has approved George's appointment as Secretary in the MEA in place of Tanmaya Lal, who is due to superannuate on August 31, 2025, the order said. George, a career diplomat, has earlier served as the country's Ambassador to Switzerland, the Holy See and the Principality of Liechtenstein and to Kuwait. At the MEA headquarters here, he served in the East Asia Division and also as coordinator of India-Africa Forum Summit. George later headed administration, establishment and welfare divisions in the ministry. Dalela has been appointed as Secretary in the Ministry of External Affairs, another order issued by the Personnel Ministry said. He will succeed Dammu Ravi, who superannuated next month end. Dalela began his diplomatic career in Tel Aviv, Israel. He has since served in Indian Missions in Brasilia, Chicago, Geneva, Dhaka, Washington DC. Ambassador Dalela has served in critical roles in New Delhi, including Director in the Prime Minister's Office , focusing on India's engagement with its South Asian neighbours, East Asia, and countries in the Indo-Pacific region, Gulf, Middle East, Africa. Having served as Director North and subsequently as Joint Secretary in the Ministry of External Affairs , overseeing India's relations with Bhutan and Nepal, and also as the Counsellor at the High Commission of India in Dhaka , he comes with extensive experience and an understanding of India's engagement in the neighbourhood, according to his official bio data. Dalela brings a wealth of experience in trade and economic policy to his role, having served in the Department of Commerce in New Delhi as Director and twice at the Permanent Mission of India to the World Trade Organisation , including as India's Deputy Permanent Representative from 2014-2016. This article was generated from an automated news agency feed without modifications to text.
News18
2 days ago
- Business
- News18
Indias envoy to Japan Sibi George appointed Secretary (West), MEA
Agency: PTI Last Updated: New Delhi, Jul 29 (PTI) India's ambassador to Japan Sibi George was on Tuesday appointed as the Secretary (West) in the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), according to a Personnel Ministry order. Indian envoy to Bhutan Sudhakar Dalela has been appointed as the Secretary (Economic Relations) in the MEA. Both George and Dalela are 1993-batch Indian Foreign Service (IFS) officers. The Appointments Committee of the Cabinet has approved George's appointment as Secretary (West) in the MEA in place of Tanmaya Lal, who is due to superannuate on August 31, 2025, the order said. George, a career diplomat, has earlier served as the country's Ambassador to Switzerland, the Holy See and the Principality of Liechtenstein and to Kuwait. At the MEA headquarters here, he served in the East Asia Division and also as coordinator of India-Africa Forum Summit. George later headed administration, establishment and welfare divisions in the ministry. Dalela has been appointed as Secretary (Economic Relations) in the Ministry of External Affairs, another order issued by the Personnel Ministry said. He will succeed Dammu Ravi, who superannuated next month end. Dalela began his diplomatic career in Tel Aviv, Israel. He has since served in Indian Missions in Brasilia, Chicago, Geneva, Dhaka, Washington DC. Having served as Director North (2006-2007) and subsequently as Joint Secretary (North) in the Ministry of External Affairs (2016-2019), overseeing India's relations with Bhutan and Nepal, and also as the Counsellor at the High Commission of India in Dhaka (2007-2009), he comes with extensive experience and an understanding of India's engagement in the neighbourhood, according to his official bio data. Dalela brings a wealth of experience in trade and economic policy to his role, having served in the Department of Commerce in New Delhi as Director (Trade Policy) and twice at the Permanent Mission of India to the World Trade Organisation (WTO), including as India's Deputy Permanent Representative from 2014-2016. PTI AKV AKV SKY SKY view comments First Published: July 29, 2025, 22:15 IST Disclaimer: Comments reflect users' views, not News18's. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.
First Post
10-07-2025
- Business
- First Post
PM Modi in Namibia: Diplomacy For Minerals, Diamonds & More On Agenda Firstpost Africa
PM Modi in Namibia: Diplomacy For Minerals, Diamonds & More On Agenda | Firstpost Africa | N18G PM Modi in Namibia: Diplomacy For Minerals, Diamonds & More On Agenda | Firstpost Africa | N18G Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is on his maiden visit to the southern African nation of Namibia. He is the third Indian Premier to visit Namibia after nearly three decades. PM Modi and the newly elected Namibian President held delegation-level talks over strengthening bilateral ties. PM Modi is also conferred with the highest civilian award of the country for his contributions to the ties. PM Modi laid a wreath at the Namibian war memorial, Heroes Acre, and paid homage to the country's founding father and first President, Dr Sam Nujoma. Earlier in the day, PM Modi received a ceremonial welcome while the Indian diaspora gathered at his hotel to greet him. Namibia is the fifth and final stop of PM Modi's five-nation tour, which aligns with India's push to voice concerns of the Global South. It also aims to shape the upcoming India-Africa Forum Summit. India eyes Namibia's vast reserves of critical minerals. See More
Indian Express
06-07-2025
- Business
- Indian Express
Daily subject-wise quiz : International Relations MCQs on Red Sea, Biofuture Platform and more (Week 117)
UPSC Essentials brings to you its initiative of subject-wise quizzes. These quizzes are designed to help you revise some of the most important topics from the static part of the syllabus. Attempt today's subject quiz on International Relations to check your progress. 🚨 Click Here to read the UPSC Essentials magazine for June 2025. Share your views and suggestions in the comment box or at Consider the following statements: 1. It is one of West Africa's fastest-growing economies; its relationship with India is marked by robust and expanding trade and investment. 2. India is the largest destination for this country's exports; gold accounts for more than 70% of India's imports from this country. The above mentioned statements refer to which country? (a) Nigeria (b) Benin (c) Senegal (d) Ghana Explanation — The Indian Prime Minister, Narendra Modi, visited nations in Africa and South America and attended the upcoming BRICS Summit in Rio de Janeiro. — He is the first Indian prime minister to visit the country in three decades. John Mahama, who was elected President in January, travelled to India in 2015 for the India-Africa Forum Summit. — Ghana is one of West Africa's fastest-growing economies; its relationship with India is marked by robust and expanding trade and investment. India is the largest destination for Ghanaian exports; gold accounts for more than 70% of India's imports from Ghana. Therefore, option (d) is the correct answer. Which of the following countries are members of the Quad Critical Minerals Initiative? 1. India 2. Australia 3. France 4. Russia 5. Japan Select the correct answer using the codes given below: (a) 1, 2 and 5 only (b) 2, 3, 4 and 5 (c) 1, 2, 4 and 5 (d) 1 and 2 only Explanation — The Quad countries established the new flagship 'Quad Critical Minerals Initiative' to improve economic security and collective resilience by working together to secure and diversify vital mineral supply chains. — 'This new flagship initiative, along with the high-impact programs and outcomes that the Quad is achieving, will enable our four countries to bring economic opportunity and prosperity to our people and the region,' said a readout of the meeting between External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong, and her Japanese counterpart Takeshi Iwaya. — The Quad consists of Australia, India, Japan, and the United States. Therefore, option (a) is the correct answer. The Indian Navy commissioned INS Tamal, a guided missile frigate manufactured by: (a) United States (b) France (c) Russia (d) United Kingdom Explanation — The Navy commissioned INS Tamal, a Russian-built guided missile frigate equipped with dual-role BrahMos supersonic cruise missiles. It is the final warship to be inducted from a foreign source, as India strives for self-reliance in defence. — INS Tamal's commissioning ceremony took place at the Yantar shipyard in Kaliningrad, Russia. The ship will shortly leave for her home port of Karwar, Karnataka, according to the Navy. — 'INS Tamal is a formidable moving fortress at sea and is designed for blue water operations across the spectrum of naval warfare in all four dimensions — air, surface, underwater and electromagnetic,' according to the Navy. — INS Tamal is the eighth multi-role stealth frigate of Project 1135.6, a series of Russian-built frigates for the Indian Navy, and the second of the additional Tushil class ships. The first ship of the Tushil class (INS Tushil) was commissioned in December last year. Therefore, option (c) is the correct answer. Which of the following countries is bordered by the Red Sea? 1. Egypt 2. Sudan 3. Jordan 4. Israel 5. Yemen 6. Djibouti Select the correct answer using the codes given below: (a) 1, 2, 3 and 4 (b) 1, 3, 4 and 5 (c) 3, 4, 5 and 6 (d) 1, 2, 5 and 6 Explanation — A ship was attacked in the Red Sea near Yemen's coast by armed individuals firing firearms and throwing rocket-propelled grenades, according to a group authorised by the British military. — The western boundary of the Red Sea is Egypt, Sudan, Eritrea, and Djibouti, while the eastern border is Saudi Arabia and Yemen. Furthermore, Israel and Jordan share coasts along the Gulf of Aqaba, a northern continuation of the Red Sea. Therefore, option (d) is the correct answer. The River Seine was in the news recently. It flows through the capital city of: (a) Belgium (b) Monaco (c) France (d) Switzerland Explanation — For the first time in over a century, Parisians and visitors will be able to take a cool plunge in the River Seine. Following a 1.4 billion euro ($1.5 billion) cleansing initiative that made it acceptable for Olympic competitions last year, the long-polluted canal is now ready for summer swims. — Swimming in the Seine has been prohibited since 1923, with a few exceptions, due to pollution and hazards associated with river navigation. Taking a dip outside of bathing facilities is still prohibited for safety reasons. — The Seine was a highlight of the Paris Olympics in 2024, serving as the site of the spectacular opening ceremony as well as the triathlon and marathon swimming events. Rainfall increased bacteria levels, postponing some competitions. Therefore, option (c) is the correct answer. Consider the following countries: 1. China 2. India 3. United States 4. Brazil 5. Japan 6. Russia Which of the above mentioned countries are the members of the Biofuture Platform? (a) 1, 2, 4, 6 (b) 3, 4, 5, 6 (c) 1, 2 , 3, 4 (d) All of the above Explanation According to the — The Biofuture Initiative evolved from the Biofuture Platform, a 23-country effort established in 2016 under the leadership of Brazil to accelerate the transition to a sustainable, low-carbon bioeconomy. — Member Countries: Argentina, Australia, Brazil, Canada, China, Egypt, Denmark, Finland, France, Hungary, India, Indonesia, Italy, Morocco, Mozambique, Netherlands, Paraguay, Philippines, Portugal, South Africa, United Kingdom, United States, Uruguay. — Observers: Japan Therefore, option (c) is the correct answer. With reference to 'Dustlik', consider the following statements: 1. It is a joint military exercise between India and Uzbekistan. 2. The exercise conducted in April 2025 in its sixth edition focussing on the counter-terrorism operations in sub-conventional domains and will include both Army and Air Force elements. Which of the above given statements is/are true? (a) 1 only (b) 2 only (c) Both 1 and 2 (d) Neither 1 nor 2 Explanation — Pune played host to the sixth edition of the joint military exercise 'Dustlik' between India and Uzbekistan, which was held at the Foreign Training Node (FTN) at Aundh from April 16 to 28. The exercise focused on the counter-terrorism operations in sub-conventional domains and included both Army and Air Force elements, said officials. — Exercise Dustlik, which means friendship in Uzbek, is an yearly event conducted alternatively in India and Uzbekistan. The last edition was conducted at Termez in Uzbekistan and at Pithoragarh in Uttarakhand in 2023. The aim of the exercise is to foster military cooperation and enhance combined capabilities to execute joint operations in various environments and terrains. The two-week long activities focus on high degree of physical fitness, joint planning, joint tactical drills and special arms skills. Therefore, option (c) is the correct answer. Which of the following is the only tripartite U.N. agency? (a) International Monetary Fund (b) United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (c) International Labour Organization (d) International Seabed Authority Explanation According to — 'The only tripartite U.N. agency, since 1919 the ILO brings together governments, employers and workers of 187 Member States, to set labour standards, develop policies and devise programmes promoting decent work for all women and men.' Therefore, option (c) is the correct answer. Daily Subject-wise quiz — History, Culture, and Social Issues (Week 115) Daily subject-wise quiz — Polity and Governance (Week 117) Daily subject-wise quiz — Science and Technology (Week 117) Daily subject-wise quiz — Economy (Week 117) Daily subject-wise quiz — Environment and Geography (Week 117) Daily subject-wise quiz – International Relations (Week 116) Subscribe to our UPSC newsletter and stay updated with the news cues from the past week. Stay updated with the latest UPSC articles by joining our Telegram channel – IndianExpress UPSC Hub, and follow us on Instagram and X. Manas Srivastava is currently working as Senior Copy Editor with The Indian Express (digital) and leads a unique initiative of IE - UPSC Essentials. He majorly writes on UPSC, other competitive exams and education-related projects. In the past, Manas has represented India at the G-20 Youth Summit in Mexico. He is a former member of the Youth Council, GOI. A two-time topper/gold medallist in History (both in graduation and post-graduation) from Delhi University, he has mentored and taught UPSC aspirants for more than four years. His diverse role in The Indian Express consists of writing, editing, anchoring/ hosting, interviewing experts, and curating and simplifying news for the benefit of students. He hosts the YouTube talk show called 'Art and Culture with Devdutt Pattanaik' and a LIVE series on Instagram and YouTube called 'You Ask We Answer'.His talks on 'How to read a newspaper' focus on newspaper reading as an essential habit for students. His articles and videos aim at finding solutions to the general queries of students and hence he believes in being students' editor, preparing them not just for any exam but helping them to become informed citizens. This is where he makes his teaching profession meet journalism. He is also the editor of UPSC Essentials' monthly magazine for the aspirants. He is a recipient of the Dip Chand Memorial Award, the Lala Ram Mohan Prize and Prof. Papiya Ghosh Memorial Prize for academic excellence. He was also awarded the University's Post-Graduate Scholarship for pursuing M.A. in History where he chose to specialise in Ancient India due to his keen interest in Archaeology. He has also successfully completed a Certificate course on Women's Studies by the Women's Studies Development Centre, DU. As a part of N.S.S in the past, Manas has worked with national and international organisations and has shown keen interest and active participation in Social Service. He has led and been a part of projects involving areas such as gender sensitisation, persons with disability, helping slum dwellers, environment, adopting our heritage programme. He has also presented a case study on 'Psychological stress among students' at ICSQCC- Sri Lanka. As a compere for seminars and other events he likes to keep his orating hobby alive. His interests also lie in International Relations, Governance, Social issues, Essays and poetry. ... Read More
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First Post
04-07-2025
- Politics
- First Post
How India-Ghana ties can guide Delhi's Africa strategy
Prime Minister Narendra Modi being greeted by the President of Ghana, John Mahama, at the airport, on Wednesday. Image courtesy: Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Ghana, en route to the Brics summit, stands out as a strategic use of an intercontinental journey. On the return leg, the Prime Minister is also scheduled to visit Namibia. With these visits, the PM will have engaged with two key countries on Africa's Atlantic coast, complementing his earlier outreach to nations in East and Southern Africa. There are several key takeaways from the Ghana visit that could shape India's future partnership through the upcoming India-Africa Forum Summit (IAFS IV). STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Symbolism and Diplomatic Signalling One notable gesture was Ghana's re-elected President John Mahama personally receiving PM Modi at the airport, breaking protocol, on Wednesday. This symbolic act underscores how countries like Ghana, irrespective of their current depth of ties with India, see India as a model for their own aspirations. Despite having substantial engagements with China, the EU, and others, Ghana's admiration for India's democratic, pluralistic, economic success is evident. This respect also explains why the PM was invited to address the Ghanaian Parliament. India-Ghana economic ties are characterised by a diversity of engagements, especially in agriculture, pharmaceuticals, vaccines, and skill development. These sectors not only reflect India's strengths but are also areas of immense interest across the African continent. They should serve as the fulcrum of India's wider Africa engagement. From India's perspective, there is growing interest in defence cooperation, counter-terrorism, de-radicalisation, and the export of affordable defence equipment. Ghana, as a member of Ecowas, a regional bloc of 15 West African nations including Anglophone, Francophone, and Lusophone members, is strategically significant. Though Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso have recently exited Ecowas following military coups, India could still collaborate with Ghana on counter-terrorism efforts, especially considering the rise of extremism in the Sahel region. Building joint training and support initiatives in this area would benefit both nations and the broader region. Trade Potential and Investment Focus Bilateral trade stands at approximately $3 billion annually. While Ghana's exports to India, mainly gold, are limited in diversity, the discovery and development of critical minerals and oil reserves offer room for expansion. However, Ghana does not qualify as a Least Developed Country (LDC) and thus does not benefit from India's Duty-Free Tariff Preference (DFTP) scheme, introduced in 2008 to boost trade with African Least Developed Countries. As a result, India must explore new trade mechanisms beyond concessional preferences. Indian defence and project exports could emerge as promising growth areas. Importantly, what Ghana seeks most from India is investment. With about $2 billion in Indian investments, India is the second-largest investor in Ghana by number of projects. This success is largely driven by Indian small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and professionals who have established a robust presence in the country. The growing diaspora, now around 15,000 strong, warmly welcomed PM Modi. They reflect this investment-led engagement. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD India must now shift from its traditional development cooperation model, which emphasised Lines of Credit (LoCs), to a more sustainable and commercially viable model. Ghana, having approached the IMF for assistance 17 times, now faces limitations in borrowing and repayment. Hence, future cooperation should favour Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs) and support Indian investors without relying on sovereign guarantees. Leveraging Success Models for Capacity Building India's infrastructure contributions in Ghana, including government buildings and the Centre of Excellence in IT named after Kofi Annan, are noteworthy. Although established in 2002, before the India-Africa Forum Summit (IAFS) framework, this centre has been expanded under the IAFS and now stands as one of Africa's most successful and self-sustaining IT hubs. This model of capacity building, particularly through PPPs, should be replicated across the continent. Tapping into Continental Trade Integration Ghana hosts the Secretariat of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), which, despite Covid-era delays, has been implemented, albeit sporadically. The AfCFTA allows regional markets to flourish, and Indian investors, particularly those in populous countries, now find it easier to expand across borders. India should actively tap into this opportunity to boost FDI-led growth in Africa. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Strategic Multilateral Engagement Most African nations support India's bid for a permanent seat on the UN Security Council. However, the African Union's Ezulwini Consensus has not gained wide traction within the UN system. Ghana, as a member of the AU's Committee of Ten on this issue, plays a crucial role. Strengthening bilateral cooperation with Ghana could further India's multilateral objectives. Ghana has consistently supported the IAFS process, from President Kufuor's enthusiastic participation in the 2008 summit in Delhi to Ghana's attendance at IAFS-III in 2015, when all African heads of state were invited. Whether Ghana will participate in IAFS-IV depends on the format, whether it remains inclusive or reverts to the more limited Banjul format. Ghana remains a pivotal partner for India in West Africa. Its influence within Ecowas and the AU, combined with India's economic, diplomatic, and cultural engagement, offers a strong foundation to further elevate ties. India must capitalise on this momentum, not just through aid or lines of credit, but through sustainable investment, skill-building, innovation, and multilateral cooperation. Revitalising ties with countries like Ghana will be essential to shaping India's future in Africa. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD The author is a former ambassador to Germany, Indonesia, Ethiopia, ASEAN and the African Union. He tweets @AmbGurjitSingh. Views expressed in the above piece are personal and solely those of the author. They do not necessarily reflect Firstpost's views.
