Indian Chamber of Commerce organizes an exclusive session with Harsh Vardhan Shringla
The session discusses his biography “Not an accidental rise”
Kolkata, 25th June:
The Indian Chamber of Commerce conducted an interactive session with Harsh Vardhan Shringla, Former Foreign Secretary and Ambassador to the USA, G20 Chief Coordinator, Government of India on his newly released biography “Not an Accidental Rise” at the Taj Bengal hotel in the city on Sunday, 25th June 2023. The session was attended by eminent personalities such as Dr. Rajeev Singh, Director General, Indian Chamber of Commerce, Mr. Vikash Agarwal, Past President, Indian Chamber of Commerce & President, Rupa Company Ltd, Dipankar Chatterjee, Chairman, Luxmi Group.
Delivering the welcome address Vikas Agarwal, Past President, of the Indian Chamber of Commerce & President, of Rupa Company Ltd., said, “Mr. Harsh Vardhan Shringla has a distinguished career as a member of the Indian Foreign Service. His biography, written by Dr. Dipmala Roka, chronicles the two intertwined facets of Shringla’s personal and professional life starting from his childhood to his contributions to India’s foreign policy. It also gives a vivid description of his educational journey followed by his remarkable career.”
Speaking about the G20 and its impact on India, Shringla said, “We have hosted a presidency which is unique and exceptional. It is an opportunity for us to place our narrative on the global agenda, and showcase our rich cultural heritage and diversity and our potential for tourism. Hence, the G20 through the universe connect programme has turned into a brand.” Highlighting the Indo-US relationship during his career as an ambassador, Shringla said, “During my stay, times were challenging as the US was undergoing a transition from a democratic to republican government. It was important to understand how the new system would work. Nonetheless, presently there have been some far-reaching developments, especially in the defence sector. And it is time to take the relationship to the next level.” The interaction also witnessed excerpts from the book. One such was about how the erstwhile foreign secretary met his wife. Speaking on the issue, he quipped, “My first posting was in Paris. And the city has its own aura for singles. Fortunately, I met my wife there.”
Delivering the vote of appreciation, Dr. Rajeev Singh, Director General, of the Indian Chamber of Commerce, described Shringla as “a man of honour born in the foothills of Darjeeling.” He continued, “Shringla is a real son of the earth, with a heart full of love for his people and an unbreakable spirit. As a proud son of Indian ancestry, he rose to the pinnacle of diplomacy, becoming a master of international affairs and serving his country with distinction. His voice could be heard from Delhi to Washington, DC. A diplomat’s leader, a sincere champion of his country. With his origins in Darjeeling and his passion for his people, he now stands at the helm of the G20, carrying the weight of his nation and leading with courage and pride. So let us all lift our voices and chant this wonderful man’s praises. A true representative of India’s charm. May his legacy live on in perpetuity and his name never be forgotten.”
