Kunwar Natwar Singh, a distinguished Indian diplomat and politician, was a key figure in shaping India’s foreign policy. Serving as the External Affairs Minister in the early 2000s, his career spanned across diplomacy, politics, and writing. Known for his close association with the Nehru-Gandhi family, Singh’s life reflected his deep involvement in India’s geopolitical landscape and his enduring legacy in Indian politics.
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Natwar Singh Biography
Kunwar Natwar Singh, born on May 16, 1931, in Jaghina, Bharatpur, was an influential Indian diplomat and politician. He hailed from a royal Rajput family and pursued his early education at Mayo College, Ajmer. Later, he studied at St. Stephen’s College, Delhi, and Corpus Christi College, Cambridge, laying a strong foundation for his diplomatic career.
In 1953, Natwar Singh joined the Indian Foreign Service (IFS), where he served with distinction. His diplomatic assignments took him to various countries, including China, where he witnessed the turbulent period of the 1962 Sino-Indian War. Over the years, he represented India at the United Nations and served as India’s ambassador to Pakistan during a crucial phase in Indo-Pak relations.
After retiring from the IFS in 1984, Singh transitioned into politics. He joined the Indian National Congress at the suggestion of Indira Gandhi. He quickly rose through the ranks, becoming a trusted aide to the Nehru-Gandhi family. In 2004, under Prime Minister Manmohan Singh’s government, he was appointed as the External Affairs Minister, a role in which he played a pivotal part in shaping India’s foreign policy.
However, his political career faced challenges, particularly with the 2005 Oil-for-Food scandal, which led to his resignation. Despite this setback, Singh’s contributions to India’s diplomatic and political landscape remained significant.
Singh was also an accomplished author, known for his eloquent writings. His autobiography, One Life is Not Enough, offers insights into his political journey and personal experiences, providing a unique perspective on Indian politics and international relations.
Natwar Singh’s legacy lies in his extensive service to the nation, both as a diplomat and a politician. He passed away on August 11, 2024, at the age of 93, leaving behind a rich legacy of public service. His life reflects a deep commitment to India’s growth on the global stage.
Natwar Singh Age
Natwar Singh was born on May 16, 1929, and he was 95 years old at the time of his passing in 2024.
Natwar Singh Wife
Natwar Singh’s wife is Maharajkumari Heminder Kaur.
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Natwar Singh Grandson
The name of Natwar Singh’s grandson is Ratanveer Singh.
Natwar Singh Daughter in-law
Natwar Singh’s daughter-in-law was Natasha Singh.
Natwar Singh Net Worth
There is no publicly available information on Natwar Singh’s net worth.
Natwar Singh Children
Natwar Singh had two children, a son named Jagat Singh and a daughter named Ritu Singh.
Natwar Singh Family
Natwar Singh belonged to a prominent Rajput family from Bharatpur, Rajasthan. He married Maharajkumari Heminder Kaur, the eldest daughter of the last Maharaja of Patiala. Together, they had two children, Jagat Singh and Ritu Singh. His son, Jagat Singh, followed in his footsteps into politics, though his career was marked by ups and downs. The family maintained strong ties to Indian royalty, with deep connections to both political and royal circles. Despite challenges and controversies, the Singh family remained influential, blending tradition with public service.
Natwar Singh Wikipedia
- Early Life: Born on May 16, 1929, in Bharatpur, Rajasthan, into a prominent Rajput family.
- Education: Studied at Mayo College, Ajmer, and St. Stephen’s College, Delhi, before attending Cambridge University.
- Diplomatic Career: Joined the Indian Foreign Service in 1953, serving in key diplomatic roles globally.
- Ambassador to Pakistan: Served as India’s ambassador to Pakistan during a critical period in the 1980s.
- Political Transition: Entered politics in 1984, joining the Indian National Congress under Indira Gandhi’s leadership.
- External Affairs Minister: Appointed as India’s External Affairs Minister in 2004 under Prime Minister Manmohan Singh.
- Oil-for-Food Scandal: Resigned in 2005 due to the Oil-for-Food scandal, though he denied all allegations.
- Literary Contributions: Authored several books, including his autobiography One Life is Not Enough.
- Family: Married to Maharajkumari Heminder Kaur; father of Jagat Singh and Ritu Singh.
- Death: Passed away on August 11, 2024, at the age of 95
Natwar Singh Education
Natwar Singh received a well-rounded education, beginning at Mayo College in Ajmer, one of India’s premier boarding schools. He then attended St. Stephen’s College, Delhi University, where he developed a keen interest in literature and history. His academic journey continued at Corpus Christi College, Cambridge, where he further honed his intellectual capabilities. This educational foundation prepared him for a distinguished career in diplomacy and politics, equipping him with the knowledge and perspective that would later influence his roles in both the Indian Foreign Service and the Indian National Congress.
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Natwar Singh Cause of Death
Natwar Singh passed away on August 11, 2024, at the age of 95. His death occurred due to natural causes related to his advanced age. Throughout his final years, he faced several age-related health challenges, which eventually led to his passing. Singh’s death marked the end of a long and influential career in Indian diplomacy and politics.