Vikas Swarup to replace Syed Akbaruddin as MEA spokesperson

Best-selling novelist Vikas Swarup whose book Q&A formed the basis for Slumdog Millionaire, the movie which swept 8 Oscars in 2009, is the new spokesperson for India's Ministry of External Affais (MEA).
Swarup will take over from incumbent Syed Akbaruddin on April 18, a day after the return of PM Narendra Modi from his 3-nation Link West tour to France, Germany and Canada.Akbaruddin, who is being promoted to the rank of additional secretary, will for the time being work as the chief coordinator for India Africa Forum Summit which will be held in October this year.
An IFS officer of 1986 batch, Swarup is currently heading the UN Political division of the ministry. Swarup has served in several countries including Turkey, US, UK, Japan and South Africa. He has also served as a director of the sensitive PAI (Pakistan, Afghanistan and Iran) division earlier.
Swarup made a name for himself as a novelist with only his first novel Q&A which was published in 43 languages. He followed up the novel with 2 more well received ones - Six Suspects and The Accidental Apprentice.
Chosen by foreign secretary S Jaishankar to head the external publicity and public diplomacy divisions, Swarup's larger-than-life persona is expected to help him execute the high-profile responsibility given to him. Akbaruddin made an impression with accessibility and quick responses and Swarup can be expected to continue with the same tradition of disseminating information over significant foreign policy issues.
Swarup describes himself as a champion debater on his personal website and many of his colleagues vouch for his proficiency in that area. He has regularly participated in major literary events and book fairs like Oxford Literary Festival and Jaipur Literature Festival.