New Delhi: The Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI) has appointed Anant Swarup as its Secretary General, strengthening the apex industry body’s leadership at a crucial time for India’s economic and trade policy landscape.
The appointment, effective April 15, 2026, comes as Jyoti Vij continues in her role as Director General.
Strengthening FICCI’s Leadership
With over three decades of experience in public policy, trade, and governance, Anant Swarup’s appointment is expected to bolster FICCI’s role in policy advocacy, industry engagement, and global economic dialogue.
He brings deep expertise in:
- Trade remedies and international negotiations
- Logistics and supply chain management
- Regulatory reforms and governance
Who Is Anant Swarup?
Anant Swarup is a 1992-batch Indian Railway Personnel Service (IRPS) officer who recently transitioned from government service to leadership roles in the policy and industry domain.
Early Life and Education
- Date of Birth: September 28, 1967
- Hometown: Prayagraj (formerly Allahabad), Uttar Pradesh
Academic Qualifications:
- B.Sc. and M.Sc. in Zoology
- Bachelor of Laws (LLB)
- Master of Business Administration (MBA)
- Certificate in Sustainable Infrastructure & Finance (Schulich School of Business)
Distinguished Career in Government
Over a long and diverse career, Swarup has held several key positions in the Government of India:
Commerce and Trade
- Additional Secretary, Department of Commerce
- Director General of Trade Remedies (DGTR)
- Managed key international trade engagements, including India-ASEAN FTA and relations with North America and Latin America
International Representation
- Served as First Secretary at India’s Permanent Mission to the World Trade Organization in Geneva
Indian Railways
- Executive Director to the Union Railway Minister
- Executive Director (Public Grievances), contributing to the Railways’ digital outreach initiatives
Transition to Leadership Role
Anant Swarup took voluntary retirement in July 2024 after an illustrious career in public service. His move to FICCI marks a transition from government to a strategic leadership role in India’s premier industry body.
Family Background
He is related to prominent public figures, being the son-in-law of Murli Manohar Joshi and connected to senior diplomat Vikas Swarup.
Expertise and Policy Influence
Swarup is widely regarded for his expertise in:
- Trade policy and intellectual property rights
- Multilateral negotiations and WTO frameworks
- Logistics and infrastructure planning
- Public policy and governance reforms
His appointment is expected to enhance FICCI’s engagement with both government and global stakeholders.
Looking Ahead
With India playing an increasingly significant role in global trade and economic forums, Anant Swarup’s leadership at FICCI is likely to contribute to shaping industry perspectives and policy discourse in the years ahead.
