Ajit Doval appointed for third time as National Security Advisor

Mr Doval, 79, has been reappointed as the National Security Adviser. He previously held the position a decade ago when PM Modi came into power. During his tenure, he became the country’s key interlocutor for neighboring countries and also managed the Research and Analysis Wing (RAW), the external intelligence agency.

Mr Doval is known for his formidable reputation as the country’s premier security expert. His extensive experience in the intelligence field, including involvement in counter-terrorism operations and negotiations for the release of hijacked passengers, has made him a legendary figure in the intelligence circuit. Mr Mishra retains his position as the Principal Secretary to the Prime Minister.

Mr Doval’s appointment as the chief of the Strategic Policy Group in 2018 further solidified his influence as the most powerful bureaucrat in the country. Over the last decade, Mr Doval has played a significant role in countering the face-off with China in Ladakh and Doklam, as well as representing India in resolving the boundary issue with China. His reappointment comes at a time when the Centre is dealing with a series of terror attacks in Jammu and Kashmir following the Union Territory’s first election after the scrapping of Article 370 in 2019.

His new term as the NSA will involve addressing the ongoing security challenges, particularly in Jammu and Kashmir, as well as continuing his role in managing India’s relations with neighboring countries and resolving boundary issues with China.