Into the Brush

Earlier today the boss announced what had been in the works for a couple weeks: my reassignment from the Environment, Climate, and Science Unit to the emerging North India office.  He honored me by saying some nice things about me during the morning meeting. I am scheduled to stay in my current position until my departure for R&R in September; upon my return I will be responsible for covering economic, environment, science, and technology affairs in the seven states (and two union territories) that constitute our post's consular district: Rajasthan, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh, Punjab, Jammu & Kashmir, National Capital Territory of Delhi, and Chandigarh. I am not thrilled to leave the EEST Section and there are some real downsides of the move, namely leaving a portfolio I have worked so hard to manage well; but I am also sad to move away from my peers (one of whom wrote this book on Afghanistan) and the people in my unit.

However there are pluses too. My position is new and I will be able to shape it to a much greater extent than I do now. I was assured the new office has travel and programming money. This means I will get to help execute programs all over north India and report on a broad array of issues that affect over 350 million people. I will be able to refine my reporting skills and learn about the country where I reside. As hard as it is for me to leave, I am optimistic about the new job. And to celebrate, I am growing my beard out.