Slumdog novelist Vikas Swarup is new MEA spokesperson

Senior diplomat Vikas Swarup, whose debut novel was made into the Oscar-winning movie Slumdog Millionaire, has been appointed as spokesperson in the external affairs ministry.

A 1986  Indian Foreign Service-batch officer, Swarup will succeed Syed Akbaruddin, who has been promoted as additional secretary in the external affairs ministry and will also be the chief coordinator for the India Africa Summit in October.

Swarup is the author of internationally acclaimed novel Q&A which was made into Slumdog Millionaire, which won eight Academy Awards in 2009, including Best Picture, Best Director, and Best Adapted Screenplay.

He is currently holding the charge of joint secretary (United Nations- Political) in the external affairs ministry will take over on April 18, officials said.

Akbaruddin, known for his efficiency and professionalism, has been on the post for last over three years.