Early Life and Education
Ajit Doval was born on 20 January 1945 in a small village in Pauri Garhwal district of Uttarakhand. His father served as an officer in the Indian Army, which deeply influenced Doval’s disciplined upbringing.
He studied at Ajmer Military School in Rajasthan, where he developed leadership qualities and interest in national service.
In 1967, he completed his Master’s degree in Economics, laying the academic foundation for understanding national and international policy issues.
Entry into IPS and Beginning of Intelligence Career
Ajit Doval joined the Indian Police Service (IPS) in 1968. Although assigned to the Kerala cadre, he moved early into the intelligence domain, where he spent the majority of his career.
His sharp observation skills, ability to blend in, and strategic mindset made him one of the most successful undercover officers of his generation.
He served in various sensitive regions including Punjab, Kashmir, and the Northeast, where his work significantly helped in stabilizing internal security challenges.
Undercover Operations and Intelligence Contributions
Doval is known for undertaking some of India’s most daring undercover missions. He spent years living among hostile groups, gathering intelligence from deep inside their networks.
In Punjab, he played a critical role in countering insurgency by infiltrating extremist circles and providing accurate information that saved lives.
One of his most remarkable operations was his involvement in gathering intelligence during the crisis at the Golden Temple, where he disguised himself to collect vital information needed to neutralize militants safely.
His work in Mizoram and the Northeast also helped restore peace in regions affected by insurgent activities.
Major National Security Missions
Ajit Doval’s contributions extend to several hijacking cases that threatened India’s security. Over the years, he was involved in resolving numerous hijack situations, negotiating, analyzing, and advising on critical decisions.
During the notorious 1999 Kandahar hijacking, Doval was part of the high-level team managing negotiations under immense pressure.
His strategic thinking, calm approach, and understanding of terrorist behavior earned him immense respect among India’s security leadership.
Leadership Roles and Institutional Reforms
Within the Intelligence Bureau, Doval rose through key operational roles and eventually became the Director of the agency.
He played a major role in establishing coordinated intelligence structures in India, including the Multi-Agency Centre and the Joint Task Force on Intelligence.
These institutions strengthened information-sharing among various intelligence bodies, helping India modernize its national security framework.
Appointment as National Security Advisor
In 2014, Ajit Doval was appointed National Security Advisor (NSA) to the Prime Minister of India.
As NSA, he became one of the most influential figures in the country’s security, diplomatic decision-making, and strategic planning.
He supervised critical counter-terrorism operations and drove India’s shift toward a more assertive national security posture.
Under his guidance, India adopted decisive measures including cross-border operations that demonstrated India’s ability to respond strongly to threats.
Awards and Recognition
Ajit Doval’s extraordinary service earned him the Kirti Chakra, one of India’s highest peacetime gallantry awards — a rare achievement for a police officer.
He has also received prestigious police medals for his courage, dedication, and outstanding service.
Universities across India have honoured him with honorary doctorates for his contributions to national security and strategic policy.
Post-Retirement, Think Tank Work, and Return to Government
After retiring from the Intelligence Bureau, Ajit Doval continued to be deeply involved in security studies and strategic affairs.
He helped develop research platforms focused on foreign policy, internal security, and national defense.
His extensive knowledge, decades of field experience, and global understanding eventually brought him back into government service as NSA, where he continues to influence India’s security architecture.
Legacy and Impact
Ajit Doval is widely regarded as India’s most impactful National Security Advisor. He is respected for his deep-rooted field experience, courage under pressure, and exceptional strategic thinking.
Doval’s journey from a small village in Uttarakhand to the highest levels of India’s security leadership is a story of dedication, intelligence, and extraordinary service to the nation.
His legacy lies in modernizing India’s intelligence systems, strengthening national security frameworks, and shaping a confident and proactive approach to protecting India’s interests.
Conclusion
Ajit Doval’s life reflects unmatched bravery, strategic brilliance, and unwavering commitment to national security. His leadership continues to guide India’s security policies with experience and clarity.
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