NEW DELHI: National Security Advisor Ajit Doval has been reappointed with an elevated rank equivalent to that of a Union Cabinet minister, government officials said on Monday. In his previous tenure, he held the Minister of State rank. Doval’s is the first key posting announced by the Modi government after being sworn in on May 30. The Appointments Committee of Cabinet (ACC) has approved his appointment for a five-year period with effect from May 31, 2019, and it will be co-terminus with the term of the PM.
A 1968-batch IPS officer, who retired as Intelligence Bureau chief in 2005, Doval is the first NSA to be appointed for two consecutive terms. During his first tenure, Doval is believed to have played a pivotal role in the surgical strikes on terror launch pads in Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir after the Uri terror attack.
He has also been appreciated for his contribution in the national security domain, including his role in the Balakot airstrike after the Pulwama terror attack, officials said. The first police officer to receive Kirti Chakra, a military honour, Doval is expected to provide his deep insight into the threats faced by the country from within and outside. Doval worked with the IB for over 33 years.