KEYLONG: From the quiet, snow-clad hamlet of Shansha in Lahaul-Spiti to the power corridors of Canberra, Irina Thakur has scripted a dream run.
The Indian Foreign Service (IFS) officer has been appointed as India’s Deputy High Commissioner in Australia, becoming the first tribal officer from Himachal Pradesh to achieve this feat.
Daughter of the rugged mountains, Irina cleared the UPSC exam in 2012 and steadily rose through the ranks, serving on several key assignments in the Ministry of External Affairs. Now, her posting in Australia places her at the forefront of India’s diplomatic presence in the Indo-Pacific region.
For the people of Lahaul-Spiti—cut off for half the year by heavy snowfall—her story is nothing short of inspirational.
“From a remote border village to representing India globally, Irina has shown what grit, hard work and ambition can achieve,” said a proud villager.
Irina’s journey is already being hailed as a beacon for the youth of the tribal belt, where opportunities are scarce but dreams run deep.
With her achievement, Lahaul’s daughter has truly flown high—carrying the name of Himachal and India to the world stage.
#InspirationFromLahaul #IFSOfficer #WomenPower #HimachalPride