18-JULY-2025,02:15PM In a significant development in Indo-US relations, Taranjit Singh Sandhu, one of India’s most seasoned diplomats, has been appointed as Advisor to the Board and Chairman of the Geopolitical and Strategic Risk Institute at the US-India Strategic Partnership Forum (USISPF). Known for his impactful tenure as India’s Ambassador to the United States, this strategic appointment signals stronger cooperation in key global arenas, including defence, trade, and technology.
As global geopolitics becomes increasingly dynamic, the role of experienced diplomats like Taranjit Singh Sandhu is vital in guiding cross-national strategic frameworks. His inclusion at USISPF marks a pivotal moment for bilateral understanding between India and the United States.
Taranjit Singh Sandhu : Strengthening US-India Strategic Ties
Taranjit Singh Sandhu : A Diplomat with Decades of Experience
Taranjit Singh Sandhu brings over 35 years of diplomatic expertise to his new role. From representing India at the United Nations to leading bilateral relations in Washington D.C., Sandhu has been instrumental in shaping key foreign policy dialogues. His career reflects a deep commitment to democratic values, economic cooperation, and defence partnerships.
With this appointment, USISPF will benefit not only from his vast geopolitical understanding but also from his reputation as a bridge-builder between the world’s two largest democracies.
Taranjit Singh Sandhu : USISPF Welcomes Sandhu’s Strategic Vision
Taranjit Singh Sandhu : Driving the Mission of the Geopolitical and Strategic Risk Institute
The US-India Strategic Partnership Forum (USISPF) was established to deepen ties between the U.S. and India in economic, energy, healthcare, and strategic areas. By appointing Taranjit Singh Sandhu as Chairman of the newly launched Geopolitical and Strategic Risk Institute, the forum is making a decisive move toward proactive engagement in global strategic analysis.
This institute will play a critical role in:
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Analysing emerging global risks
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Supporting collaborative policymaking
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Enhancing mutual understanding in areas like the Indo-Pacific, supply chains, AI, and space cooperation
Sandhu’s stewardship is expected to bring balanced, insightful perspectives that can influence key policy decisions across sectors.
Why Taranjit Singh Sandhu : Appointment Matters
A Symbol of Trust and Expertise
The announcement has been met with praise from both U.S. and Indian stakeholders. Industry leaders and foreign policy experts have highlighted that Taranjit Singh Sandhu’s appointment strengthens USISPF’s credibility as a thought leader on global risk and India-U.S. dynamics.
During his diplomatic tenure, Sandhu played a crucial role in:
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Expanding India-US defence agreements
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Facilitating critical technology exchanges
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Coordinating pandemic-era support between nations
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Building the framework for QUAD cooperation
His transition to USISPF suggests continued momentum in strengthening institutional linkages between the two countries.
Key Reactions from Policy and Industry Leaders
Applauding a Visionary Diplomat
Mukesh Aghi, President and CEO of USISPF, welcomed Taranjit Singh Sandhu stating:
“Ambassador Sandhu’s deep understanding of global geopolitics and his unmatched diplomatic acumen make him an ideal leader for our Geopolitical and Strategic Risk Institute.”
Industry giants like Tata, Boeing, and Microsoft, who work closely with USISPF, also acknowledged this appointment as a step in the right direction. Many believe his insights will shape resilient strategies amid global uncertainties such as trade wars, military conflicts, and digital disruptions.
The Strategic Relevance of the Geopolitical Institute
Navigating a Rapidly Evolving Global Order
Under the leadership of Taranjit Singh Sandhu, the new geopolitical wing of USISPF will focus on:
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Analysing threats in the Indo-Pacific region
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Evaluating economic policy shifts and energy transitions
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Understanding cyber warfare and information integrity
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Facilitating expert dialogues on regional instability (e.g., South Asia, Middle East)
In a time where the global balance of power is shifting, the institute aims to provide policymakers, businesses, and scholars with the knowledge needed to navigate turbulent geopolitical waters.
A Look Back: Taranjit Singh Sandhu’s Diplomatic Legacy
From Colombo to Washington: A Journey of Statesmanship
Taranjit Singh Sandhu began his diplomatic career in the late 1980s. He held influential positions such as:
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India’s Deputy Chief of Mission at the Embassy in Washington
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High Commissioner to Sri Lanka
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Ambassador to the United States (2020–2023)
Notably, during his tenure as Ambassador to the U.S., bilateral trade hit record highs, defence ties expanded, and critical partnerships in semiconductors, green energy, and defence manufacturing were fortified.
His strong rapport with leaders across the U.S. political spectrum allowed for smoother dialogues, even during globally sensitive periods.
Future Outlook: What Sandhu’s Leadership Means for India-U.S. Relations
Deepening Strategic Cooperation
As Taranjit Singh Sandhu assumes this new role, it’s expected that he will act as a catalyst for deeper India-U.S. collaboration. His presence at USISPF will help:
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Shape global opinion on India’s rising geopolitical stature
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Enhance strategic autonomy for both nations
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Support multilateral engagement in bodies like the G20, Quad, and BRICS
Given the shared democratic values and growing interdependence between India and the U.S., Sandhu’s advisory role is likely to influence joint positions on major international forums.
Conclusion: Sandhu’s Next Chapter Is a Win for Strategic Diplomacy
The appointment of Taranjit Singh Sandhu to the USISPF board and as Chairman of its Geopolitical Institute is more than ceremonial—it is strategic. It represents an acknowledgment of his diplomatic legacy and a forward-looking approach to navigating the uncertain terrain of global politics.
As the world faces challenges from AI ethics to climate change, and military aggression to trade instability, having experienced minds like Taranjit Singh Sandhu in influential advisory roles ensures that collaboration between like-minded democracies stays strong and effective.
This new chapter is not just a personal milestone for the former diplomat, but a significant marker in the broader journey of India-U.S. relations.
Source : ANI
