Ajit Doval Reappointed as National Security Advisor for Third Consecutive Term

Ajit Doval has been reappointed as National Security Advisor for a third consecutive term, reflecting his significant contributions to India's national security. His tenure includes key operations such as the surgical strikes in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir and the Balakot air strike.

The Government of India has reappointed former IPS officer Ajit Doval as the National Security Advisor (NSA) for a third consecutive term. This historic appointment makes Doval the first NSA to hold the position across three consecutive terms, underscoring his critical role in national security.

Ajit Doval, a 1968 batch IPS officer, initially assumed the NSA role in May 2014, shortly after Prime Minister Narendra Modi began his first term. With his reappointment effective from June 10, 2024, Doval will continue in this pivotal role, aligning his tenure with the term of the Prime Minister. Doval's tenure as NSA has been marked by significant contributions to India's security strategy, earning him the rank of Cabinet Minister in the Table of Precedence.

Key Contributions and Background

Doval is widely recognized as a counter-terrorism expert and a specialist in nuclear issues. His notable achievements include orchestrating surgical strikes on terror launch pads in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir following the Uri terror attack and playing a crucial role in the Balakot air strike after the Pulwama attack. These operations were pivotal in reinforcing India's proactive stance on national security and combating terrorism.

In 1999, Doval was one of the main negotiators during the hijacking of Indian Airlines flight IC-814 to Kandahar. His extensive career in the Intelligence Bureau (IB) spanned over 33 years, during which he held various roles, including operational chief in Punjab. He has also served in sensitive areas such as the Northeast, Jammu and Kashmir, and had an assignment in the United Kingdom, contributing to his vast experience in security matters.

Additional Appointments

The Appointments Committee of the Cabinet has also reappointed Dr. PK Mishra as the Principal Secretary to Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Mishra's reappointment is similarly effective from June 10, 2024, and will last for the duration of the Prime Minister's term.

Additionally, the government has appointed two IAS officers, Amit Khare and Tarun Kapoor, as Advisors to Prime Minister Modi. These appointments reflect the government’s ongoing efforts to strengthen its administrative and advisory framework to support its strategic initiatives.

Conclusion

Ajit Doval's reappointment as NSA for a third term highlights his indispensable role in shaping India's national security landscape. His extensive experience and strategic acumen continue to be crucial in addressing the complex security challenges facing the nation.