Anuj Tripathi 
In a significant loss to Indian politics, former External Affairs Minister K. Natwar Singh passed away on Saturday at the age of 93. Singh, who was undergoing treatment at Medanta Hospital in Gurugram, succumbed to a prolonged illness. His demise marks the end of an era, as he was one of the last surviving links to the early years of independent India’s diplomatic history.
A Distinguished Career in Diplomacy and Politics
K. Natwar Singh was born on May 16, 1931, in Bharatpur, Rajasthan, into a family with a rich legacy of public service.
Educated at prestigious institutions like St. Stephen’s College in Delhi and Cambridge University, Singh began his illustrious career in the Indian Foreign Service (IFS) in 1953. Over the years, he held several key diplomatic positions, representing India in various capacities across the globe.
Singh’s tenure in the IFS saw him serve in China, where he witnessed the early years of Sino-Indian relations. He was also part of the Indian delegation at the United Nations during a period of intense geopolitical activity.
His diplomatic acumen was recognized early on, and he became a close confidant of several Indian Prime Ministers, including Jawaharlal Nehru and Indira Gandhi.
Transition to Politics
After nearly three decades of distinguished service in diplomacy, Natwar Singh transitioned to politics in 1984, joining the Indian National Congress (INC).
His entry into the political arena was marked by his election as a Member of Parliament from Bharatpur. Singh quickly rose through the ranks and was appointed the Minister of State for External Affairs in Rajiv Gandhi’s government.
As a politician, Singh was known for his deep understanding of international affairs and his ability to navigate complex geopolitical landscapes.
His most prominent role came when he served as India’s External Affairs Minister from 2004 to 2005 during the UPA government led by Prime Minister Manmohan Singh.
During his tenure, Singh played a pivotal role in strengthening India’s relations with several countries, particularly in the context of India’s growing global influence.
A Life of Controversy and Legacy
Natwar Singh’s career was not without controversy. In 2005, his name was linked to the Iraqi oil-for-food scandal, which led to his resignation from the Cabinet. Despite this setback, Singh remained a respected figure in Indian politics and continued to contribute to public discourse through his writings and speeches.
Singh was also a prolific author, penning several books that provide valuable insights into India’s foreign policy and his experiences as a diplomat and politician. His autobiography, “One Life is Not Enough,” offers a candid account of his life and the tumultuous times he witnessed.
The Passing of a Statesman
K. Natwar Singh’s passing marks the end of a significant chapter in India’s diplomatic and political history.
He was not just a witness to history but an active participant in shaping India’s role on the global stage. His contributions to the country, both as a diplomat and a politician, will be remembered for years to come.
As India mourns the loss of one of its distinguished statesmen, K. Natwar Singh’s legacy will continue to inspire future generations of diplomats and politicians.
His life, marked by dedication to public service and a deep commitment to India’s national interests, serves as a reminder of the values that have shaped the nation’s foreign policy
