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S M Krishna, who served as India's Minister of external affairs from June 2009 to October 2012, passed away at the age of 92. A seasoned politician with a wealth of experience, his tenure was marked by notable accomplishments in global diplomacy, despite a few public gaffes that would define parts of his legacy. Krishna’s calm demeanor and methodical approach to foreign policy shaped India's global standing during his time in office.
A Politician with Experience and Vision
Krishna's journey into the role of India's Foreign Minister began unexpectedly. In 2009, while heading out for a tennis match, he received a call from then Prime Minister Manmohan Singh asking him to take on the responsibility. With a wealth of experience—he had previously served as the Chief Minister of Karnataka, where he was instrumental in transforming Bengaluru’s infrastructure—Krishna was brought in to handle India’s foreign affairs with a steady hand. His reputation for competence and expertise in governance made him an ideal choice.
Yet, his tenure wasn’t without controversy. A damaging news report revealed that he had stayed in a luxurious five-star hotel in the midst of the Congress party's austerity drive, a decision that led to public criticism. However, Krishna's old-school approach to politics meant that he never held grudges, even when the matter led to his public rebuke from Pranab Mukherjee, then Finance Minister, and his early troubles with the media.
A Diplomat at Heart
One of Krishna’s standout qualities was his dedication to reading and understanding global geopolitics. Whenever I met with him, our discussions invariably turned to books—particularly those on foreign relations and international politics. His intellectual curiosity informed his diplomatic approach, allowing him to navigate the complexities of global relations with finesse.
Krishna’s tenure was also characterized by an emphasis on diplomacy and dialogue, especially in the face of rising tensions with neighboring countries. After the 2008 Mumbai attacks, his focus shifted toward re-establishing dialogue with Pakistan, a difficult task given the strained relations between the two nations. In his meetings with Pakistani officials, including Foreign Minister Hina Rabbani Khar, Krishna sought to build bridges and advance dialogue on unresolved issues.
He also played a pivotal role in securing India’s non-permanent seat at the United Nations Security Council in 2010, a feat that bolstered India's standing on the global stage. His tireless efforts—meeting over 100 foreign dignitaries—helped India secure 187 out of 192 votes.
Legacy in Foreign Affairs and achievements
Despite a few memorable gaffes, Krishna's foreign policy achievements were substantial. His interactions with international leaders, from U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton to Iran’s Foreign Minister Manouchehr Mottaki, reflected his ability to maintain India’s diplomatic standing in a shifting world order. Under his leadership, India fostered stronger ties with several countries and played an active role in global geopolitics.
One of Krishna's most significant achievements was the successful evacuation of Indian nationals from Libya during the 2011 Arab Spring. This operation was the largest evacuation of Indians since the 1991 Gulf War, with 16,000 people flown back to safety in a coordinated effort by the Ministry of external affairs.
His leadership also saw the implementation of the Passport Seva Project, which modernized India’s passport system. By cutting through red tape and streamlining the process, the project was a success story that continues to benefit citizens today.
A Career Marked by Controversies and Triumphs
While Krishna was criticized for some diplomatic missteps, such as his failure to defend an Indian official during a joint press conference with Pakistan, his diplomatic successes outweighed these incidents. His steady hand helped India maintain a balanced foreign policy amidst global challenges. He is also remembered for his involvement in key international discussions and his strong relationships with figures like U.S. President Barack Obama and Russian President Vladimir Putin.
As foreign minister, Krishna was a key player in shaping India's response to global crises, from the 26/11 Mumbai attacks to the rise of the Arab Spring. His ability to manage delicate situations with diplomacy and tact, particularly in high-stakes negotiations, speaks to his skill as a diplomat.
A Graceful Exit
Krishna’s tenure as Foreign Minister ended gracefully when he stepped down at the age of 80. His retirement marked the end of an era, but his impact on Indian diplomacy remained profound. Krishna left behind a legacy that will be remembered for his intellectual depth, diplomatic acumen, and contributions to strengthening India’s global position.
While his tenure wasn't without its challenges and controversies, the comprehensive and effective foreign policy initiatives he championed—combined with his intellectual approach to global politics—make him a towering figure in India’s diplomatic history.
Conclusion: S M Krishna’s Enduring diplomatic legacy
S M Krishna may have had his share of public gaffes, but his diplomatic legacy speaks volumes about his commitment to India's global standing. A man of intellect, calm demeanor, and deep dedication to his country, Krishna's legacy continues to inspire those in the world of foreign policy.
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By incorporating S M Krishna’s diplomatic efforts and achievements, this blog aims to offer readers a comprehensive understanding of his role in shaping modern India's foreign policy while maintaining a balance between professionalism and personal reflections on his journey.
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