Ajit Doval Reappointed NSA And PK Mishra To Continue As Principal Secretary To Prime Minister

Ajit Doval has been reappointed as the National Security Advisor and PK Mishra as the Principal Secretary to the Prime Minister with effect from June 10, 2024.

In statements announcing the appointments, the government said they will be “co-terminus with the term of the Prime Minister or until further orders, whichever is earlier”. This means that the officials will be in their posts until Narendra Modi is the Prime Minister, or until further orders.

Ajit Doval

Career Background:

• Former Director of the Intelligence Bureau (IB)
• A 1968-batch Indian Police Service (IPS) officer from the Kerala cadre
• Notably decorated with the Kirti Chakra, India’s second-highest peacetime gallantry award

Role: As the NSA since 2014, Doval is responsible for overseeing the national security apparatus, including all anti-terror and intelligence agencies. His position places him among the most influential officers in the Indian government, reflecting the trust and reliance placed on him by the Prime Minister.

PK Mishra

Career Background:

• A 1972-batch Indian Administrative Service (IAS) officer from the Gujarat cadre
• Previously served as the Additional Principal Secretary to the Prime Minister
• Holds a PhD in Economics/Development Studies from the University of Sussex, England

Role: As the Principal Secretary, Mishra plays a pivotal role in coordinating the Prime Minister’s office and ensuring the implementation of policies and directives. His academic background in economics and development studies complements his administrative expertise, making him a key advisor and facilitator in the Prime Minister’s team.

Both Doval and Mishra exemplify the high level of experience and specialized knowledge brought to the highest echelons of India’s administrative and security frameworks.