Shiv Sena MP Shrikant Shinde Named President of India-Indonesia Parliamentary Friendship Group
In a significant development for parliamentary diplomacy, Shiv Sena MP Shrikant Shinde from the Kalyan Lok Sabha constituency has been appointed as the president of the India–Indonesia Parliamentary Friendship Group. At 39 years old, Shinde becomes the youngest Member of Parliament currently chosen to lead one of India's parliamentary friendship platforms, marking a notable milestone in his political career.
A Boost for India's Parliamentary Outreach
Shrikant Shinde, a three-term Lok Sabha member from Maharashtra, also serves as the Shiv Sena’s group leader in Parliament. His nomination is widely viewed as a substantial boost to India’s parliamentary outreach efforts, which are aimed at strengthening ties with partner nations across the globe. This appointment underscores the government's commitment to enhancing diplomatic engagement through parliamentary channels.
Reacting to his new role, Shinde described the move as a “moment of pride” for his party and the people of Maharashtra. In a post on social media platform X, he elaborated on the importance of Parliamentary Friendship Groups, noting that they act as vital channels for advancing India’s diplomatic engagement while promoting democratic exchanges and fostering people-to-people connections.
Commitment to Bilateral Cooperation
Shinde expressed his enthusiasm for the task ahead, stating that he looks forward to working with colleagues across party lines to deepen cooperation between India and Indonesia in various spheres. He emphasized a focus on cultural, economic, and social domains, highlighting the potential for mutual growth and collaboration.
The India–Indonesia Parliamentary Friendship Group comprises 10 MPs from multiple political parties, ensuring a diverse and representative approach. Among its members is Trinamool Congress MP Sagarika Ghose, reflecting the cross-party nature of such initiatives. This composition is designed to facilitate bipartisan support for strengthening India-Indonesia relations.
Shinde's Experience in International Parliamentary Delegations
This appointment marks the second time Shrikant Shinde has been selected to lead an international parliamentary delegation. Previously, he headed an all-party delegation formed after Operation Sindoor. During that outreach in May 2025, the delegation visited several countries, including the United Arab Emirates, Sierra Leone, Liberia, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo.
In those visits, members articulated India’s position on key strategic and diplomatic issues, showcasing Shinde's capability in handling international parliamentary affairs. His experience in such roles is expected to benefit the India-Indonesia group, bringing a seasoned perspective to the table.
Political Background and Family Legacy
Shrikant Shinde is the son of Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, adding a layer of political legacy to his profile. His rise within the Shiv Sena and his increasing involvement in parliamentary diplomacy highlight his growing influence in both state and national politics.
As he takes on this new responsibility, observers are keen to see how Shinde will leverage his position to enhance India-Indonesia relations. His youth and experience position him uniquely to bridge gaps and foster stronger bilateral ties through parliamentary dialogue and cooperation.
