Rajesh Gawande Becomes First IFS Officer Appointed as Secretary for Protocol, FDI, and Diaspora Affairs in Maharashtra
In a landmark administrative development, Indian Foreign Service officer Rajesh Gawande (2009 batch) has been appointed Secretary for Protocol, Foreign Direct Investment (FDI), and Diaspora Affairs in the Maharashtra government. This marks the first time a career diplomat has been posted to the Mantralaya—the state’s central administrative hub—in such a multifaceted role.
From Passport Services to State-Level Diplomacy
Before this assignment, Gawande served as the Regional Passport Officer in Mumbai, where he was instrumental in modernizing passport issuance and managing sensitive consular documentation in one of the country’s busiest jurisdictions.
His transition to the state secretariat reflects Maharashtra’s growing focus on fostering international partnerships, attracting foreign capital, and engaging with the global Indian community.
A Strategic Appointment to Strengthen Global Outreach
According to senior officials, the creation of this new position and the decision to entrust it to an IFS officer signals the state’s intent to deepen its international footprint. Gawande’s diplomatic experience is expected to enhance Maharashtra’s ability to host foreign dignitaries, facilitate cross-border investments, and build enduring ties with the diaspora.
Breaking New Ground in State Bureaucracy
This is the first instance of an IFS officer being deputed to Mantralaya in a role traditionally held by IAS or senior state service officers. The move sets a precedent for integrating foreign policy expertise into state-level governance, especially as subnational diplomacy gains momentum across India.
A Diplomat with Global Experience
Originally from Ahilyanagar district, Gawande has previously served in Indian missions in Nairobi, Kampala, and Berlin. He is currently posted as Branch Secretariat Officer for the Ministry of External Affairs in Mumbai. His new responsibilities in Maharashtra include overseeing protocol, facilitating FDI, and coordinating diaspora engagement—three portfolios that align with the state’s ambition to become a global investment and cultural hub.
Passing the Torch: Reflections from the Outgoing Officer
The role was previously held by Mhaiskar, who served as Chief Protocol Officer for nearly six years. In a heartfelt farewell shared on social media, Mhaiskar reflected on his tenure:
“After 5 years and 8 months as Chief Protocol Officer, Government of Maharashtra, it is now time to pass on the baton. It has been an amazing journey and a humbling experience, representing Bharat and the shining diamond in her crown, Maharashtra. I have met remarkable people, extraordinary diplomats, and made a few good friends for life. I realized that at the heart of international relations—in both letter and spirit—is Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam. I will always cherish my days in protocol, with fond memories and deep gratitude.”
