In the vibrant tapestry of India’s diplomatic corps, few threads shine as brightly as Anurag Srivastava, a seasoned Indian Foreign Service (IFS) officer of the 1999 batch, who has recently been appointed as India’s next High Commissioner to the Republic of Mauritius. With a career spanning over two decades, Srivastava embodies the perfect blend of intellect, resilience, and a deep commitment to fostering India’s global relationships. His journey—from a promising young diplomat to a key figure in India’s foreign policy landscape—is nothing short of inspiring, a tale of ambition meeting purpose on the world stage.
Born into a family that valued education and service, Srivastava’s early years were shaped by a curiosity about the world and a drive to make a difference. Hailing from a culturally rich region of India, he grew up with an appreciation for diversity, a trait that would later define his diplomatic finesse. Academically brilliant, he pursued higher education with a focus that hinted at his future calling—international relations and governance. It was no surprise when he cleared the prestigious Civil Services Examination, joining the IFS in 1999, ready to carry India’s voice to distant shores.
Srivastava’s career kicked off with a whirlwind of assignments that tested his mettle and honed his skills. His initial postings took him across continents, exposing him to the intricacies of diplomacy in a rapidly changing global order. From navigating complex bilateral negotiations to representing India at multilateral forums, he quickly earned a reputation as a sharp, dependable officer with an eye for detail and a knack for building bridges. Colleagues recall his calm demeanor under pressure—a quality that became his trademark as he climbed the ranks.
One of the defining chapters of his career came during his tenure as Joint Secretary in the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) in New Delhi. Here, Srivastava was at the heart of India’s foreign policy machinery, shaping strategies and steering dialogues on critical issues. His role demanded not just expertise but also an ability to anticipate global shifts—whether it was strengthening ties with neighboring nations or amplifying India’s presence in the Indo-Pacific. His contributions during this period were pivotal, earning him respect as a thinker and a doer in equal measure.
But Srivastava’s story isn’t just about boardrooms and policy papers—it’s about people. His stints abroad showcased his ability to connect on a human level. Whether it was engaging with the Indian diaspora or forging partnerships with foreign governments, he brought warmth and authenticity to his work. His postings in diverse nations—from bustling capitals to quieter corners—gave him a panoramic view of the world, enriching his perspective and deepening his understanding of India’s role in it.
The announcement of his appointment as High Commissioner to Mauritius on March 16, 2025, marks a thrilling new chapter. Mauritius, a jewel in the Indian Ocean, holds a special place in India’s heart, bound by shared history, culture, and a vision for a secure, prosperous region. For Srivastava, this is more than just a posting—it’s a homecoming of sorts, a chance to nurture a relationship steeped in centuries of connection. With India’s ambitious SAGAR (Security and Growth for All in the Region) vision guiding his mission, he steps into this role at a time when the Indo-Mauritian partnership is poised for a leap forward.
What sets Srivastava apart is his dynamic approach. He’s not one to rest on protocol alone; he’s a strategist who sees diplomacy as an art of possibilities. Expect him to champion initiatives that go beyond the traditional—think economic collaborations powered by digital innovation, maritime security pacts that safeguard the Indian Ocean, and cultural exchanges that celebrate the shared heritage of India and Mauritius. His recent remarks hint at this vision: strengthening trade ties, boosting tourism through tools like RuPay and UPI, and fostering grassroots development projects that touch lives directly.
At 50-something, Srivastava is in his prime—energetic, experienced, and brimming with ideas. Those who know him describe a man who balances gravitas with a disarming sense of humor, a leader who listens as keenly as he speaks. His appointment comes on the heels of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Mauritius, a testament to the high stakes and higher hopes pinned on this partnership. From inaugurating India-funded projects to deepening maritime cooperation, Srivastava inherits a vibrant legacy—and the chance to make it his own.
Beyond the titles and accolades, there’s a personal side to Anurag Srivastava that endears him to those around him. A lover of literature and history, he’s often found unwinding with a good book or exploring the stories behind the places he visits. His family—his anchor through the whirlwind of diplomatic life—keeps him grounded, a reminder that even as he shapes nations, it’s the small joys that fuel him.
As he prepares to take up his assignment in Port Louis, the anticipation is palpable. Mauritius awaits a diplomat who brings not just credentials but a vision—a man ready to weave the next chapter of an extraordinary friendship. Anurag Srivastava isn’t just India’s next High Commissioner to Mauritius; he’s a storyteller, a bridge-builder, and a beacon of what modern diplomacy can achieve. The Indian Ocean is about to witness a master at work.