In a historic stride, Ambassador Ruchira Kamboj took charge as India's permanent representative to the United Nations in 2022, becoming the country's first woman envoy at the UN headquarters in New York.
In a tweet, she expressed gratitude and honour for being the first Indian woman in this esteemed position, delivering an inspiring message to young girls, “To the girls out there, we all can make it!”
Kamboj's impact transcends borders. In July 2023, she assumed the chairship of the 62nd Session of the Commission for Social Development, marking India's first stint in this leadership role within the UN agency after nearly 50 years. She emphasised India's commitment to global welfare and prosperity, leading with core principles.
Highlighting the crucial intersection of technology, education, and women's empowerment, Kamboj, in partnership with UN Women India, organised a high-level panel discussion at the UN Headquarters during the 67th Commission on Status of Women session in March 2023. Reflecting on the progress for women in India, Kamboj remarked, “Today, I think it is perhaps the best time to be a woman in India. I mean that very sincerely.”
Before her role at the United Nations, Kamboj distinguished herself during a stellar three-year tenure at UNESCO. Her achievements ranged from securing UNESCO World Heritage status for Indian sites to steering India's victory in declaring Yoga as the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.
Under her leadership, India established its first UNESCO Chair on Gender Equality and Women's Empowerment at the Amrita Vishwavidyapeetham, Kerala, showcasing a commitment to advancing gender equality globally.
This was not her first time working for India at the UN as she previously served as a counsellor at India's Permanent Mission to the UN between 2002 and 2005. Born in Lucknow, Kamboj’s long career in foreign and diplomatic affairs comes with a passion she has had for the field since a very young age. A 1987-batch Indian Foreign Service (IFS) officer, Kamboj has consistently been at the forefront of diplomatic endeavours. Her diplomatic journey, spanning various international posts, includes being India's envoy to Bhutan, where she continued to carve a path of excellence.
Ambassador Kamboj's journey, marked by achievements, leadership, and a dedication to gender equality, underscores India's impactful presence on the global stage. As she paves the way at the United Nations, her legacy resonates as an inspiration for future diplomats and a beacon of India's diplomatic prowess.