Mr. Sunjay Sudhir has been one of the most popular Consul Generals of India in Sydney. As very well regarded Consul General of India Mr. Sunjay Sudhir raised the profile of India in many spheres such as Australia India relations , sports, trade & investment, promotion of arts and culture, engagement with community and responsible for new initiatives. It was rather a surprise to many in the community when Mr. Sunjay Sudhir announced his returning to India to take an important role in the Ministry of Petroleum & Natural Gas much before completing his term.
Indian Telegraph caught up with Mr. Sunjay Sudhir for an exclusive interview.
VV: Congratulations on your new role. Please share some details of your new role in India.
SS: After a very satisfying stint as Consul General of India in Sydney, I will return to India soon. I will join as Head of the Division for International Cooperation in the Ministry of Petroleum & Natural Gas. My job will essentially entail steps to achieve energy security in the hydrocarbon sphere. This includes acquisition of hydrocarbon assets abroad, diversification of sources of supply and building reserve capacity in India. It will also involve energy dialogue with several countries including Australia.
VV: How can Australian companies and Government assist in new energy initiatives by Government of India?
SS: An energy-surplus country like Australia can certainly assist an energy-deficient country like India both in terms of hydrocarbon resources such as LNG as well as technology which would help us use our resources in a more efficient way. India and Australia have an active energy dialogue which covers a broad energy agenda. The last meeting of this energy dialogue was held in Brisbane a few months back. Australian companies, over the years, have acquired high level of specialization and technological prowess which they could share with India on mutually beneficial terms.
VV: How the Indian community in NSW can contribute or assist?
SS: Indian community in Australia boasts of several high level professionals in the energy field. There could be opportunities for India to engage with them.
VV: Please share your thoughts on the Indian community in NSW.
SS: The Indian community in NSW numbering approximately 150,000 has done well for itself and has contributing in raising the image and profile of India in NSW. The average salary of Indian community members is higher than that of other communities. This speaks of their professional competence and value. The community is a microcosm of India since most States are represented in NSW as are most professions and age groups. The community is law abiding and has contributed significantly to the economy and way of life of NSW.
VV: Any messages to readers of the INDIAN TELEGRAPH?
SS: I wish your readers all success in their respective endeavours. I also wish to appreciate their achievements and wish to underline that the achievements of the community can increase manifold with better collaboration, coordination and unity of purpose. I also wish your readers a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year.
The INDIAN TELEGRAPH wishes Mr. Sunjay Sudhir all the very best in the new assignment.
Vish Viswanathan
