Former Foreign Secretary Harsh Vardhan Shringla made a notable proclamation on Saturday at Southfield College, Darjeeling, expressing his commitment to nurturing local talent for success in the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) examinations.
Shringla’s return to the public eye sparked discussions following recent political developments where he narrowly missed securing the BJP Darjeeling Lok Sabha ticket. Despite maintaining silence on his political aspirations, Shringla emphasised the importance of empowering the region’s youth and leveraging his experience for their benefit.
Addressing the interconnected nature of global affairs, Shringla highlighted India’s evolving image on the world stage. Encouraging students to refine their skills, he shared strategies for cracking the UPSC examinations, a gateway to top administrative positions in India.
In a proactive move, Shringla announced a partnership between the Darjeeling Welfare Society, a nonprofit organisation under his leadership, and Southfield College to establish UPSC coaching centres in Darjeeling. “The Darjeeling Welfare Society and Southfield College will soon be signing a MoU for establishing a coaching centre,” stated Shringla, who previously served as India’s foreign secretary and held key diplomatic positions.
Shringla’s supporters are enthusiastic about his potential entry into Parliament, with speculation suggesting a Rajya Sabha nomination. Despite his prior disinterest in politics, Shringla’s name had been strongly advocated by a section within the BJP for the Darjeeling candidature.
In addition to his diplomatic achievements, Shringla enjoys a rare honour in Bangladesh, with a road in Barisal district named after him as a symbol of Bangladesh-India friendship. The “Shree Harsh Vardhan Shringla Road” was inaugurated in 2023, recognizing his contributions during his tenure as the Indian High Commissioner to Bangladesh.
With Shringla’s announcement, hopes rise in Darjeeling for educational empowerment and community development, marking a significant step towards nurturing leadership and excellence in the region.
