10th September 2013  was a red letter in my life. It was on this day the Washington DC based Diplomatic Courier and Young Professionals in Foreign Policy publicly announced that I have been chosen as “99 Under 33,” an international list noting of 99 of the most influential foreign policy leaders under the age of 33.  I was also the only Indian citizen who was part of the list.

The 99 Under 33 recognizes the distinctive impact each of the honorees has on his or her community today and their promise of potential as a leader in the future.This list uniquely offers insight into the creativity, determination, and passion of the diverse young people who are already tackling the world's critical global challenges. By design, this list is broad and diverse, which reflects the belief that foreign policy in the 21st century is made by leaders from all sectors.

The “99 Under 33” recognizes seven leadership archetypes that define the list:

• A Catalyst is from a field not typically associated with foreign policy who has had an impact on international affairs.

• A Convener brings people together in creative ways to address a pressing international issue or enhance the foreign policy community.

• An Influencer mobilizes people in the foreign policy community with bold new ideas.

• An Innovator designs a new solution to a critical global challenge.

• A Practitioner changes foreign policy from the inside through extraordinary professionalism and skill.

• A Risk-taker takes a chance and sees it pay off.

• A Shaper changes the public discourse on an aspect of foreign policy or raises awareness on a critical issue.

I was recognised as the influencer for playing a major role in promoting trade and investment between the UK and South India and for taking the leadership role in holding regular Business Meets at the UK Parliament. through which various stakeholders were made aware of the enormous opportunities between the UK and India. 

Ana C. Rold, Editor-in-Chief of Diplomatic Courier. also highlighted that through British South India Chamber of Commerce, I have been able to create regular dialogue between British and South Indian businesses who are interested in utilizing British expertise and its world-class technology involvement in the Infrastructure, Waste Management, Education, Low Cost Housing in Urban and Villages, Power & Energy and IT Projects coming up in the South Indian states.  She concluded her comments by welcoming me to the 99 Under 33, group and wished me luck to further fuel India's future growth