Introduction:
– The Indian Council of World Affairs (ICWA) is a premier think tank established in 1943 by a group of Indian intellectuals.
– Located at Sapru House, New Delhi, it is named after Sir Tej Bahadur Sapru, the eminent Indian jurist and the founding president of the Council.
Purpose and Objectives:
– The council is dedicated exclusively to the study of international relations and foreign affairs.
– It aims to provide intellectual insights and perspectives on global events, shaping India’s foreign policy decisions.
Legal and Institutional Status:
– Initially registered as a non-official, non-political, and non-profit organization under the Registration of Societies Act 1860.
– In 2001, the Indian Council of World Affairs Act declared ICWA an INSTITUTION OF NATIONAL IMPORTANCE, recognizing its pivotal role in shaping India’s external engagements.
Leadership:
– The VICE PRESIDENT of India serves as the ex-officio President of ICWA, emphasizing the importance and prestige of the institution.
– The Minister of External Affairs acts as the Vice-President of the Council, further integrating the ICWA’s role in shaping India’s foreign policy initiatives.