Belliappa Muthamma hailed from Coorg (now Kodagu) in Karnataka, India. She was one of the first women to qualify for the Indian Civil Services (ICS), a remarkable feat during a time when Indian women had limited access to such opportunities. Muthamma joined the Indian Foreign Service (IFS) in 1949, becoming a pioneer for women in diplomacy.
Career Highlights: Indian Foreign Service (IFS): Chonira Muthamma joined the Indian Foreign Service (IFS) in 1949, an era when it was extremely rare for women to be recruited into the diplomatic corps. She rose through the ranks of the IFS, demonstrating exceptional diplomatic skills and representing India in multiple international assignments.
Muthamma served in France, representing India’s interests and forging connections between the two nations. She was stationed in the UK, working in the Indian Embassy and strengthening Indo-British relations. She also served in Burma (now Myanmar), further extending her diplomatic experience in Southeast Asia.
Ambassadorships: Muthamma was appointed as India’s Ambassador to Hungary and Ghana, where she was responsible for advancing India’s diplomatic ties with these nations. Her ambassadorships were milestones, as they marked her as one of the most distinguished women in Indian diplomacy during her time.
Pioneering Role and Challenges: Breaking Barriers: Chonira Belliappa Muthamma was one of the earliest women to serve in the Indian Foreign Service, an institution dominated by men at the time. Her entry into the service challenged gender norms and opened doors for future generations of women in diplomacy.
Professional Obstacles: As a woman in a high-profile diplomatic career, Muthamma faced several challenges related to both gender bias and the often demanding nature of foreign postings. Despite these challenges, she rose to prominence due to her competence and dedication.
Advocacy for Women’s Rights: Muthamma was a vocal advocate for women’s rights within the foreign service. Her success served as an example of how women could perform at the highest levels of government service, breaking stereotypes and pushing for gender equality in India’s public sector.
Legacy: Chonira Belliappa Muthamma’s career was a pioneering one, and she is remembered as a trailblazer for women in the Indian diplomatic corps. Her contributions to India’s foreign policy, especially her time as an ambassador, have left a lasting impact on India’s international relations. She was instrumental in establishing diplomatic ties with countries in Europe and Africa, reflecting India’s growing global presence in the post-independence era.
Conclusion: Chonira Belliappa Muthamma’s story is one of determination and achievement. She was a groundbreaking figure in Indian diplomacy, paving the way for women in foreign services and achieving high ranks in India’s international diplomatic missions.
