Ajit Doval, one of the most influential figures in India’s intelligence and security landscape, is often referred to as the “Indian James Bond” due to his storied career in espionage, intelligence gathering, and national security. As the National Security Advisor (NSA) to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, he plays a pivotal role in shaping the country’s foreign and defense policies. But beyond his official titles, Ajit Doval’s life is full of remarkable stories that illustrate his extraordinary skills, courage, and vision.
Early Life and Education
Ajit Doval was born on January 20, 1945, in a small village in Uttarakhand, India. From an early age, he demonstrated a keen interest in national security and defense matters. Doval completed his graduation in economics from the prestigious National Defence Academy (NDA), Pune, and later attended the prestigious Indian Police Service (IPS) training at the Lal Bahadur Shastri National Academy of Administration in Mussoorie.
A Career Built on Intelligence
Doval joined the Indian Police Service (IPS) in 1968, and his career in intelligence began with the Intelligence Bureau (IB) in 1972. However, his breakthrough moment came in 1988 when he was sent on an undercover mission to Pakistan. He spent seven years undercover in Pakistan as a deep-cover agent, gaining critical intelligence during one of the most sensitive times in Indo-Pak relations.
Doval’s most famous covert operation involved a daring rescue mission in 1988 during Operation Black Thunder. He infiltrated the Golden Temple in Amritsar, Punjab, disguised as a Sikh militant. His role in the operation was pivotal in neutralizing the threat posed by militants within the Golden Temple complex.
Ajit Doval’s Courageous Operations
Ajit Doval’s espionage missions are the stuff of legend, one of the most dramatic being his role during the Kargil War in 1999. As India faced a covert invasion by Pakistani forces, Doval, as the Director of the Intelligence Bureau, played a crucial role in gathering intelligence, conducting military strategy, and shaping India’s response to the conflict. His efforts ensured that India had the upper hand in crucial intelligence and defense operations, which ultimately led to Pakistan’s withdrawal from the conflict.
One of his most extraordinary feats was during the hijacking of Indian Airlines Flight IC-814 in 1999. Doval was directly involved in the negotiation process with the hijackers, carefully orchestrating the release of hostages. Even though the hijacking ended with the release of three notorious terrorists, Doval’s strategy and calmness in the face of a critical situation saved many lives.
A Visionary National Security Advisor
In 2014, Ajit Doval was appointed as the National Security Advisor to the Prime Minister of India, a position that allows him to oversee and coordinate the country’s intelligence agencies, defense strategy, and foreign policy. His leadership during this time has been transformative. Doval is often credited with designing and implementing India’s “proactive” national security strategy, which seeks to not just react to security threats but to preemptively neutralize them.
Surgical Strikes and a New Era in Counterterrorism
Under Doval’s guidance, India has taken a more assertive stance against cross-border terrorism. A major highlight of his tenure as NSA was the 2016 surgical strikes against terrorist launch pads in Pakistan-administered Kashmir, which was a response to the Uri attack. This operation was a game-changer, sending a clear message to Pakistan that India would no longer tolerate acts of terrorism on its soil. Doval’s strategic thinking and meticulous planning were instrumental in ensuring the success of these strikes, and they were widely praised for their precision and effectiveness.
Doval’s approach to counterterrorism is unique because it blends intelligence gathering, psychological warfare, and international diplomacy. His belief in strategic diplomacy as a tool to fight terrorism was evident during the 2019 Pulwama attack and the subsequent airstrike in Balakot, Pakistan, which further cemented India’s resolve to stand firm against terror.
Personal Life and Unconventional Style
Ajit Doval’s personal life is just as fascinating as his professional career. He is known for his humility and sharp focus on national security, yet he also possesses an uncanny ability to connect with people from all walks of life. His disciplined, almost ascetic lifestyle, and ability to blend into any environment make him a truly unconventional leader.
Doval’s deep commitment to his work can be seen in his daily routine. Despite his intense workload, he is known for maintaining physical fitness, often practicing yoga and meditation to stay calm under pressure. He is also an avid reader, with a deep interest in history, philosophy, and geopolitics. Doval is a family man with a son who is also in the Indian Police Service.
Interesting Facts About Ajit Doval
- Longest Serving NSA: Ajit Doval is one of the longest-serving National Security Advisors in India’s history. His tenure began in 2014 and continues to this day, shaping the country’s security policies for nearly a decade.
- The Man Who Negotiated with Hijackers: Doval was one of the key negotiators during the hijacking of Indian Airlines Flight IC-814, where he used his keen intelligence and negotiation skills to bring about the release of passengers.
- The Secret Agent: Doval’s undercover work in Pakistan is legendary. He worked as a spy in Pakistan for over seven years, gathering critical information that helped India during some of its most dangerous times.
- Pioneering the Surgical Strikes: Under his leadership, India carried out the 2016 surgical strikes, which marked a major shift in India’s policy toward cross-border terrorism. It showcased a more aggressive approach to national security.
- A Strategic Thinker: Doval’s expertise lies not just in intelligence and counterterrorism but also in grand strategy. He played a crucial role in shaping India’s foreign policy, focusing on building strategic alliances with key global powers.
Conclusion
Ajit Doval is a man of mystery and brilliance, whose contributions to India’s national security are immeasurable. From his daring undercover operations to his strategic foresight as NSA, Doval has proven time and again that he is a mastermind in the world of espionage, intelligence, and national security. His stories are not just inspiring but also demonstrate a commitment to India’s safety and sovereignty. Whether as a spy or a statesman, Ajit Doval continues to be a driving force in India’s global stature, setting the stage for the country’s future security landscape.
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