Minister of External Affairs (India)

The Minister of External Affairs (MEA) is the cabinet minister in charge of the Ministry of External Affairs in the Government of India. This ministry is responsible for conducting India's foreign relations. The Minister is a high-ranking official responsible for representing India in international forums, negotiating treaties and agreements with other countries, and overseeing the operations of Indian embassies and consulates around the world.

The primary responsibilities of the Minister of External Affairs include:

• Formulating and implementing India's foreign policy: This involves identifying India's national interests and developing strategies to promote them in the international arena.
• Representing India in international organizations and forums: The Minister attends international conferences, summits, and meetings, representing India's views and interests.
• Managing diplomatic relations with other countries: This involves maintaining communication with foreign governments, negotiating agreements, and resolving disputes.
• Overseeing the operations of Indian embassies and consulates: The Minister is responsible for the effective functioning of India's diplomatic missions abroad.
• Providing consular services to Indian citizens abroad: This includes assisting Indian citizens who are traveling, working, or living in foreign countries.
• Promoting India's economic and cultural interests abroad: The Minister works to promote Indian trade, investment, tourism, and cultural exchange with other countries.

The Minister of External Affairs is a key member of the Cabinet and reports directly to the Prime Minister of India. They play a crucial role in shaping India's foreign policy and representing the country on the global stage. The office holder is supported by Ministers of State in the Ministry of External Affairs who assist in the day-to-day functioning of the ministry and may be assigned specific portfolios or regions.