On June 13, Prime Minister Narendra Modi appointed Ajit Doval as the National Security Advisor (NSA) for a third consecutive term, granting him the rank of cabinet minister for an additional five years. Based on the reports from Organiser, Doval’s reappointment highlights his significant influence on India’s national security strategies over the last ten years. The Appointments Committee of the Cabinet sanctioned Doval’s appointment, stating, “His tenure will align with that of the Prime Minister or continue until further directives, whichever comes first.” The notification from the Center also mentioned, “Throughout his term, he will hold the rank of Cabinet Minister in the Table of Precedence.”
Doval, a renowned counter-terrorism expert and a 1968 batch IPS officer, took on the role of NSA in May 2014, shortly after Prime Minister Modi assumed office in his first term. Doval’s tenure has been marked by significant contributions to India’s national security, particularly in counter-terrorism, intelligence, and strategic affairs. Under his leadership, India’s security framework has seen substantial strengthening and modernization, addressing the complex challenges posed by neighboring Pakistan and China.
Counter-terrorism efforts
Doval’s expertise in counter-terrorism has been pivotal in reducing terror incidents across India. His strategic approach, which includes enhanced intelligence gathering, robust operational frameworks, and international cooperation, has effectively dismantled numerous terrorist networks. Statistics from Jammu & Kashmir underscore the success of these measures. In 2022, there were 107 terror incidents, which decreased to 27 in 2023 and further down to 8 so far in 2024, with most occurring in the Jammu region. Additionally, the number of terrorists neutralized has also declined significantly, from 186 in 2022 to 76 in 2023, and 6 so far in 2024.
Strategic shifts and adaptations
The shift in terrorist activities from the Kashmir Valley to the Jammu region, particularly the Pir Panjal Range, has required different operational adaptations by security forces. Doval has played a key role in implementing grid locking techniques suitable for this changing terrain, ensuring that security forces remain effective despite evolving threats. His strategic initiatives have also involved re-training and recalibrating security forces to adapt to these new challenges.
Navigating the twin threats of Pakistan and China
Doval’s strategic acumen has been crucial in managing the twin threats from Pakistan and China. With Pakistan, his approach has included strengthening border security and counter-infiltration measures to prevent cross-border terrorism, along with diplomatic efforts to isolate Pakistan internationally on the issue of terrorism. In dealing with China, Doval has enhanced surveillance and defense mechanisms along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) to counter China’s aggressive posturing. This includes strategic redeployment of troops and infrastructure development in border areas.
On September 29, 2016, India announced that it had conducted surgical strikes deep within Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, targeting the “launch pads” of Pakistani terrorist groups responsible for infiltrations into Jammu and Kashmir. Additionally, in 2019, the Balakot airstrike resulted in the deaths of 150–170 Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) terrorists at a Pakistani terrorist base. Ajit Doval played a significant role in both of these operations.
Statistical overview: A decline in threats
The period from 2000 to 2015 saw a high number of terror incidents and cross-border threats, with significant casualties and disruptions. However, from 2015 onwards, under Doval’s tenure, there has been a notable decline in such activities, reflecting improved security measures and strategic initiatives. The reduction in terror incidents and improved management of cross-border tensions are indicative of the robust security framework established during Doval’s tenure.
Ajit Doval’s reappointment as NSA reaffirms the government’s confidence in his ability to navigate the complex security landscape faced by India. His contributions over the past decade have not only mitigated immediate threats but have also laid the groundwork for a resilient and adaptive security framework. As India continues to confront security challenges from its neighbors, Doval’s expertise and leadership will remain indispensable in ensuring the nation’s safety and stability against terrorism.
