This marks the first time in nearly a century that India will hold the prestigious presidency of the Belgium-based institute.
The election, held at the Extraordinary General Assembly meeting of IIAS in Brussels, saw Srinivas secure a decisive victory with 87 votes, surpassing Austria’s candidate who garnered 54 votes. This resounding mandate underscores the international community’s recognition of India’s recent strides in governance reforms and administrative modernisation.
India’s ascendancy to the IIAS presidency is a testament to the country’s evolving administrative capabilities and reform-driven governance model. Since becoming an institutional member in 1998, India has actively contributed to the institute’s mission of promoting innovation, transparency, and evidence-based policymaking in public administration worldwide.
Earlier this year, India hosted the IIAS-DARPG India Conference in New Delhi, themed “Next Generation Administrative Reforms – Empowering Citizens and Reaching the Last Mile,” which attracted over 750 delegates from 58 countries. This event highlighted India’s commitment to inclusive, technology-driven governance and its focus on ensuring equitable public service delivery to all citizens.
Read more: S Mahendra Dev appointed chairperson of Economic Advisory Council to PM
The victory also aligns closely with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s governance philosophy of “Maximum Governance, Minimum Government,” reflecting India’s efforts to streamline administration while enhancing citizen-centric service delivery through digital tools and localised solutions.
Under Srinivas’ leadership, IIAS is expected to emphasise fostering global cooperation in public administration reforms, capacity building in developing nations, and advancing sustainable, inclusive governance frameworks.
Experts view this presidency as a significant soft power milestone, providing India with a vital platform to showcase its governance innovations and strengthen its role as a credible partner in international institutional reforms.
As the world increasingly values thought leadership in public policy and administration, India’s leadership at IIAS signals a new era in global governance where emerging economies can influence international administrative practices and promote equitable development.
Read more: Is AI beginning to replace human jobs? 7 major layoff announcements raise concerns
