Vikram Misri, The Diplomatic Strategist Behind Operation Sindoor
Why in News?
The Indian Air Force’s tactical airlift of Indian citizens from Pakistan’s Punjab on May 7, 2024, as part of Operation Sindoor, showcased not only military precision but also strategic diplomatic excellence. At the heart of this high-risk mission stood Vikram Misri, India’s Foreign Secretary, whose role was pivotal. While his handling of the situation won him praise, it also exposed him to intense online trolling. 
Introduction
Operation Sindoor was India’s swift and powerful response to the release of Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) leaders, including high-profile terrorists like Masood Azhar, Omar Sheikh, and Mushtaq Zargar. As these individuals became national security threats once again, India undertook one of its most sensitive diplomatic and military missions, helmed by Vikram Misri.
Key Background and Role of Vikram Misri
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Misri was posted as India’s envoy to Pakistan from 2020 to 2023, gaining first-hand insights into the political and military landscape there.
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He is a seasoned diplomat, a Delhi University and Jawaharlal Nehru University alumnus, who joined the Indian Foreign Service in 1989.
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Misri’s prior roles included being:
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Deputy Chief of Mission in Beijing.
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Private Secretary to multiple Indian Prime Ministers (Inder Kumar Gujral, Manmohan Singh, and Narendra Modi).
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Indian Ambassador to China during the 2020 Galwan Valley clash.
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The Operation and Diplomatic Handling
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Operation Sindoor was launched to rescue 80 Indian pilgrims from the Kartarpur corridor, who were stranded amid escalating tensions.
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The successful evacuation was executed amid intense regional tension and under the radar of international scrutiny.
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Misri ensured coordination between the MEA, IAF, and diplomatic missions, even as online trolls accused him of being “soft” on Pakistan.
The Online Backlash
Despite his achievements, Misri was targeted online:
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Trolls accused him of religious bias based on his Kashmiri Pandit heritage.
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Some suggested he was part of a “secular cabal.”
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Accusations emerged from both sides of the political spectrum—some called him “soft on China” from his past role, others questioned his current stance on Pakistan.
However, those familiar with his record highlighted his diplomatic courage and strategic foresight.
Conclusion
Vikram Misri’s leadership in Operation Sindoor illustrates the complex role of diplomacy in modern statecraft. In times of escalating global tensions, quiet, calculated diplomacy backed by credible force is often the key to national interest. While critics may find reasons to attack, Misri’s track record speaks to a broader truth: in diplomacy, results matter more than rhetoric.
5 Questions and Answers
Q1: What was Operation Sindoor?
A: A tactical mission led by the Indian Air Force to airlift 80 stranded Indian pilgrims from Pakistan’s Punjab on May 7, 2024, following the release of JeM leaders.
Q2: Who led the diplomatic coordination for Operation Sindoor?
A: Vikram Misri, India’s Foreign Secretary, led the diplomatic efforts behind the operation.
Q3: What roles has Vikram Misri held before becoming Foreign Secretary?
A: Misri served as India’s ambassador to China, Deputy Chief of Mission in Beijing, and as Private Secretary to PMs Gujral, Manmohan Singh, and Narendra Modi.
Q4: Why was Misri trolled online?
A: He faced online abuse due to his religious background and alleged political inclinations, despite his success in coordinating Operation Sindoor.
Q5: What makes Vikram Misri’s diplomatic approach notable?
A: His ability to combine military coordination with high-level diplomacy while managing internal and external political pressures highlights his strategic strength.
