Chandrashekhar Dasgupta (b.1940-d.2023), an Indian diplomat and scholar known for his expertise in international relations and strategic affairs was a prominent figure in Indian diplomacy. He dedicated his life to advancing India's interests on the global stage.
Dasgupta embarked on a distinguished career in the Indian Foreign Service (IFS) that spanned several decades (1962-2000). His deep understanding of international relations and strategic affairs propelled him into key roles within the Ministry of External Affairs, where he made significant contributions to shaping India's foreign policy.
One of Dasgupta's notable achievements was his role in nuclear diplomacy. He played a crucial part in India's negotiations on nuclear disarmament and non-proliferation, advocating for India's interests while navigating complex international dynamics. His diplomatic acumen was instrumental in shaping India's stance on nuclear issues.
Dasgupta served as India’s High Commissioner to Singapore (1981-1983), High Commissioner to Tanzania (1983-1986), Ambassador to China (1993-1996), and Ambassador to the European Union (1996-2000) representing India's interests and fostering diplomatic relations. He also served as Vice-President of ECOSOC (1988-89); and Vice-Chair, UNICEF Executive Board (1988-89). His diplomatic assignments provided him with valuable insights into global affairs, enabling him to contribute meaningfully to policy formulation and decision-making processes.
A distinguished fellow of The Energy and Resources Institute (TERI), Dasgupta gave many important speeches about Climate and Climate policies. He served as a member of the United Nations Committee on Economic, Social, and Cultural Rights and also chaired the China Task Force.
As an author and scholar, Dasgupta shared his knowledge and insights through books War and Diplomacy in Kashmir, 1947-48 (2002), and India and Bangladesh Liberation War (2021), articles, and lectures. His writings on international affairs, security challenges, and strategic dynamics were widely acclaimed for their depth and analytical rigour.
Chandrashekhar Dasgupta made a lasting impact on Indian diplomacy and global relations throughout his career. His legacy as a diplomat, scholar, and strategic thinker continues to inspire upcoming generations of Indian diplomats and policymakers. In recognition of his contributions to Indian civil service, the Government of India honored him with the Padma Bhushan, the third-highest civilian award, in 2008.
About the Collection: The papers of Chandrashekhar Dasgupta have been donated by his wife Mrs. Devika Dasgupta. The collection contains handwritten notes, articles, addresses, press clippings on Indo-China relations, history of Panchsheel, Indo-Pak war (1965), Kashmir, South Asia and NATO. There are offprints of articles by various scholars on climate change and Rio conference. Besides his notes, there are photocopies of a lot of material collected from various research libraries/archives in India and abroad for his two highly acclaimed books, India and Bangladesh Liberation War and War and Diplomacy in Kashmir, 1947-48.
Donor: Devika Dasgupta
Acquisition: 2023