National Security Advisor and Principal Secretary Reappointed in Modi’s Third Term

Prime Minister Narendra Modi‘s third term has commenced with the reappointment of Ajit Doval and PK Mishra to key positions within his administration. The government announced on Thursday that Doval will continue his role as the National Security Advisor (NSA), overseeing national security, military affairs, and intelligence. On the other hand, Mishra has been reinstated as the Principal Secretary to the Prime Minister, responsible for administrative matters.

Ajit Doval, a former IPS officer and retired director of the Intelligence Bureau, has been a crucial figure in India’s security landscape for years. He founded the Vivekananda International Foundation, a prominent public policy think tank, and has been serving as the NSA since Modi’s initial term in 2014, solidifying his position as an experienced strategist.

PK Mishra, a retired IAS officer who previously served as the Union Agriculture Secretary, has been a long-standing member of the PMO and has been closely associated with Modi since their tenure together in Gujarat. His reappointment signifies a continuation of the efficient administrative structure within the administration.

The Appointments Committee of the Cabinet authorized the reappointments, granting Doval the rank of Cabinet Minister and aligning Mishra’s term with that of the Prime Minister or until further notice. Apart from these key figures, Amit Khare and Tarun Kapoor have also retained their advisory roles for the PM for the next two years, ensuring continuity in the leadership’s decision-making process.

Throughout his tenure, Doval has been instrumental in handling delicate situations such as the standoffs in the Doklam plateau and Jammu and Kashmir, as well as being the Government’s representative for negotiations with China on boundary disputes. With a wealth of experience in intelligence and security matters, Doval remains a pivotal figure in shaping India’s strategic direction.