New Delhi: National Security Advisor (NSA) Ajit Doval turns 80 today. Often referred to as the “James Bond of India”, Doval was born on January 20, 1945 in Uttarakhand’s Pauri Garhwal. He is one of Prime Minister Narendra Modi trusted confidants.
Ajit Doval was born to an Indian Army officer, GN Doval. He pursued his education at King George’s Royal Indian Military School in Rajasthan’s Ajmer before obtaining a Master’s degree in Economics from Agra University in 1967. He joined the Indian Police Service (IPS) in 1968 as part of the Kerala cadre.
Stealth operations and intelligence work
Doval joined the Intelligence Bureau (IB) in 1972 and spent seven years undercover in Pakistan. He operated as a local resident in Lahore. His ability to blend in and gather critical intelligence earned him the reputation of a daring operative. Despite his Hindu identity nearly uncovered by a local cleric, Doval navigated the situation skilfully.
Doval has been involved in several high-profile missions over the decades.
- Operation Blue Star: Disguised as a rickshaw puller, Doval infiltrated the Golden Temple in Amritsar before the operation, collecting intelligence on Jarnail Singh Bhindranwale and his militants. The militants were allegedly supported by Pakistan’s ISI.
- Surgical strikes and Balakot airstrikes: As NSA, Doval oversaw the execution of cross-border strikes in Pakistan held terrotries.
- Hostage negotiations in Kandahar: During the 1999 hijacking incident, Doval played a critical role in negotiations which ensured the safe release of passengers.
From brokering the Naga peace accord to aiding in the safe rescue of Indian nurses held hostage by ISIS, his leadership has been pivotal in shaping country’s security apparatus, Doval’s influence extends beyond covert operations.
Also, he was instrumental in persuading militants to surrender in Jammu and Kashmir and has also played a major role in counter-terrorism operations.
Ajit Doval is the first police officer to receive the prestigious Kirti Chakra, a military honour. Appointed as country’s fifth NSA in 2014, his tenure under Prime Minister Modi has been marked by a strong emphasis on national security.
Tributes on his 80th birthday
On his milestone birthday, tributes have poured in from across the nation. Many have hailed him as a “silent guardian” whose behind-the-scenes efforts have safeguarded the country’s sovereignty.
“Heartfelt birthday wishes and warm regards to National Security Advisor Shri Ajit Doval ji. May you be blessed with good health, strength, and continued success in your service to the nation,” Union minister Pralhad Joshi wrote on X.
