In a significant diplomatic development, Nagma Mohamed Mallick, a distinguished officer of the 1991 batch of the Indian Foreign Service (IFS), has been appointed as India’s next Ambassador to Japan. The Ministry of External Affairs confirmed her posting on October 16, with her assumption of duties expected in the near future.
From Poland to Tokyo: A Career of Firsts
Mallick currently serves as India’s Ambassador to Poland and has long been recognized as a pioneering figure in Indian diplomacy. Among her many milestones, she became the first woman to hold the position of Deputy Chief of Protocol (Ceremonial) in the Ministry of External Affairs—an achievement that marked a turning point for gender representation in the service.
A Distinguished Journey Through Global Diplomacy
Her diplomatic career began in 1991 after completing her undergraduate studies in English Literature and a master’s degree in Sociology. Fluent in multiple languages including English, French, Hindi, Urdu, and Malayalam, Mallick quickly established herself as a versatile and capable envoy.
Her initial overseas assignment took her to Paris, where she served in both the Indian Embassy and India’s Permanent Mission to UNESCO. Upon returning to India, she worked in the West Europe Division and later joined the Prime Minister’s Office during the tenure of Prime Minister I.K. Gujral (1997–1998).
Extensive International Experience Across Continents
Over the past three decades, Mallick has held numerous high-profile diplomatic roles, including:
First Secretary in Nepal
Counsellor in Sri Lanka
Deputy Chief of Mission in Thailand (2010–2012)
Ambassador to Tunisia (2012–2015)
High Commissioner to Brunei Darussalam (2015–2018)
Ambassador to Poland (2021–present)
In addition to her foreign postings, she has served in key roles within the Ministry of External Affairs in New Delhi, such as:
Deputy Spokesperson
Director, Eurasia Division (Russia & CIS)
Head of the Policy Planning Division (2019–2020)
Additional Secretary for Africa (2020–2021)
Her diplomatic footprint spans Europe, South Asia, Southeast Asia, and Africa, encompassing ceremonial, strategic, and policy-oriented responsibilities.
Roots and Education: A Blend of Culture and Scholarship
Born in New Delhi to parents from Kasaragod, Kerala, Mallick is a graduate of St. Stephen’s College and the Delhi School of Economics. Her academic foundation in the humanities and social sciences has enriched her approach to international affairs and cross-cultural engagement.
Strategic Importance of Her New Role
Mallick’s appointment to Japan comes at a time when India is intensifying its diplomatic outreach in the Indo-Pacific region. With Japan being a key strategic and economic ally, her extensive experience and leadership are expected to play a vital role in deepening bilateral relations.
Her elevation to this prestigious post also represents another breakthrough for women in Indian diplomacy, reinforcing the growing presence of female leadership in global affairs.
