PM Modi Elevates 'Overlooked' Jaishankar to Global Diplomatic Leader

• S. Jaishankar, a career diplomat with no electoral background, became External Affairs Minister under PM Modi.
• His journey highlights merit and experience, contrasting with past Congress leadership that overlooked him for Foreign Secretary.
• Born in Delhi, Jaishankar joined the IFS in 1977, serving in Moscow, Washington D.C., China, and other key global centers.
• UPA 2.0 bypassed him for Foreign Secretary in 2013 due to political interference, despite PM Manmohan Singh's preference.
• Modi government appointed him Foreign Secretary in 2015 and External Affairs Minister in 2019, retaining him in the third term.

Why It Matters: Jaishankar's rise under PM Modi showcases meritocracy in India's foreign policy, strengthening its global image.