Who is Hardeep Singh Puri? - Indian Politician and Diplomat
| Overview | |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Hardeep Singh Puri |
| Current Roles | Union Minister of Housing and Urban Affairs & Petroleum and Natural Gas |
| Previous Roles | Minister of State with Independent Charge for Housing and Urban Affairs, Civil Aviation, and Commerce and Industry |
| Education | MA in History, BA in History from Hindu College, University of Delhi |
| Notable Publications | "Separating the Wheat from the Chaff", "Delusional Politics", "India's Trade Policy Dilemma and the Role of Domestic Reform", "Perilous Interventions" |
| Languages | English, Hindi, Punjabi |
Hardeep Singh Puri was born into a middle-class Sikh family in New Delhi, India. He pursued his higher education at Hindu College, University of Delhi, where he completed his Bachelor of Arts (BA) and Master of Arts (MA) in History. Hindu College is renowned for its academic rigor and has produced many notable alumni who have excelled in various fields including politics, arts, and sciences.
Diplomatic Career
Puri joined the Indian Foreign Service (IFS) in 1974, marking the beginning of a notable career in diplomacy that spanned nearly four decades. He served in various capacities both in India and abroad, including as India's ambassador to Brazil and the United Kingdom, and as the Permanent Representative of India to the United Nations in Geneva and New York.
During his tenure at the United Nations, Puri was instrumental in negotiating significant international agreements and represented India on important global platforms. Notably, he facilitated the first-ever public health treaty, the Framework Convention on Tobacco Control, and played a pivotal role in the establishment of the Human Rights Council.
Transition to Politics
After retiring from the IFS, Puri entered politics and joined the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). He was inducted into the Council of Ministers in 2017 and has since held several key portfolios, including Housing and Urban Affairs, Petroleum and Natural Gas, Civil Aviation, and Commerce and Industry. His political career is marked by his efforts to drive significant urban development and energy projects in India.
Contributions as a Minister
As the Union Minister, Puri has been involved in major projects like the Central Vista redevelopment and the Smart Cities Mission. He has been a strong advocate for sustainable urban development and has implemented policies aimed at enhancing urban infrastructure and governance.
Publications and Thought Leadership
Puri is also an accomplished author, with several books and articles on international relations, security, and governance. His works provide insights into global diplomacy and policy-making, reflecting his extensive experience and deep understanding of complex global issues.
Personal Life and Interests
Hardeep Singh Puri is married and speaks multiple languages, including English, Hindi, and Punjabi. He is known for his articulate speeches and has been a guest speaker at various academic institutions around the world, sharing his expertise on foreign policy and international relations.