Hamid Ansari

Mohd Hamid Ansari, born on April 1, 1937, is a prominent Indian politician and a distinguished retired officer of the Indian Foreign Services (IFS). He served as the 12th Vice President of India, holding office from 2007 to 2017.

Ansari embarked on his diplomatic journey in 1961 when he joined the Indian Foreign Services. Over the course of an illustrious career spanning 38 years, he served in various key diplomatic roles, including as the Indian ambassador to Australia, Afghanistan, Iran, and Saudi Arabia. Notably, he also represented India as the Permanent Representative to the United Nations from 1993 to 1995, showcasing his diplomatic acumen on the global stage.

In addition to his diplomatic endeavors, Ansari made significant contributions to education and minority affairs in India. He served as the Vice Chancellor of Aligarh Muslim University (AMU) from 2000 to 2002, where he played a pivotal role in shaping the institution's academic landscape. Furthermore, he served as the Chairman of the National Commission for Minorities from 2006 to 2007, advocating for the rights and welfare of minority communities in India.

Ansari's distinguished career culminated in his election as the Vice President of India on August 10, 2007. He assumed office on August 11, 2007, and was re-elected to the position on August 7, 2012. His tenure as Vice President is notable for its longevity, tying with S. Radhakrishnan for the longest vice-presidential tenure in Indian history.

Throughout his tenure, Ansari upheld the principles of democracy, secularism, and social justice, leaving behind a legacy of service and dedication to the nation. His contributions to diplomacy, education, and minority affairs have earned him widespread respect and admiration, cementing his place as a revered statesman in Indian political history.