Ajit Kumar Doval is one of the most influential and respected figures in India’s modern security and intelligence landscape. Widely known as the “James Bond of India,” Ajit Doval has played a crucial role in shaping India’s internal security, counter-terrorism strategies, and foreign intelligence operations. Serving as the National Security Advisor (NSA) of India, he is recognized for his sharp strategic thinking, decades of undercover intelligence work, and deep understanding of geopolitics.
This detailed Ajit Doval biography explores his early life, education, Indian Police Service (IPS) career, intelligence missions, achievements, awards, and his lasting legacy in Indian national security.
Early Life and Background
Ajit Doval was born on January 20, 1945, in Ghiri Banelsyun village, Pauri Garhwal district, in the present-day state of Uttarakhand, India. He comes from a humble yet disciplined family background. His father, Major G. N. Doval, served in the Indian Army, which greatly influenced Ajit Doval’s sense of patriotism, discipline, and commitment to national service.
Growing up in the hilly regions of Uttarakhand, Doval developed resilience, adaptability, and mental toughness—qualities that would later define his career in intelligence and security operations.
Education
Ajit Doval completed his schooling at Ajmer Military School in Rajasthan, one of India’s most prestigious military institutions. The military environment played a vital role in shaping his leadership skills, strategic thinking, and interest in national defense.
He later earned a Master’s degree in Economics from Agra University. His academic background in economics helped him develop a deeper understanding of policy-making, governance, and strategic resource management—skills that proved invaluable during his later role as National Security Advisor.
Indian Police Service (IPS) Career
In 1968, Ajit Doval joined the Indian Police Service (IPS) and was allotted to the Kerala cadre. His policing career soon stood out due to his intelligence acumen and operational brilliance.
Early in his service, Doval was involved in several challenging law-and-order situations. However, his exceptional skills quickly led to his induction into India’s intelligence framework, where he found his true calling.
Role in Intelligence and RAW
Ajit Doval spent the majority of his career working with India’s intelligence agencies, particularly the Intelligence Bureau (IB) and closely with RAW (Research and Analysis Wing).
Undercover Operations
One of the most remarkable aspects of Ajit Doval’s career was his ability to operate undercover. He reportedly spent seven years in Pakistan, posing as a local Muslim to gather intelligence. During this period, he lived among ordinary citizens, learned local dialects, and penetrated hostile networks—an extraordinary feat in intelligence history.
Counter-Terrorism Expertise
Doval played a key role in counter-terrorism operations in Punjab during the militancy era of the 1980s and 1990s. His strategies helped dismantle terrorist networks and restore stability in the region.
He was also involved in intelligence planning during the Kandahar hijacking crisis (1999) and contributed to India’s evolving counter-terror doctrine.
Kargil War and Strategic Contributions
During the 1999 Kargil War, Ajit Doval provided critical intelligence inputs that helped Indian forces understand Pakistani infiltration patterns. His insights strengthened India’s strategic response and long-term border security planning.
National Security Advisor of India
In May 2014, Ajit Doval was appointed as the 5th National Security Advisor of India by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. He later became India’s first NSA to be given Cabinet Minister rank in 2019.
Key Responsibilities as NSA
- Advising the Prime Minister on national security and foreign policy
- Coordinating between intelligence agencies
- Managing internal and external security threats
- Counter-terrorism and defense strategy formulation
Major Achievements as NSA
Surgical Strikes (2016)
Ajit Doval was one of the key architects behind India’s surgical strikes across the Line of Control (LoC) following the Uri terror attack. The operation marked a shift in India’s defense doctrine toward proactive deterrence.
Balakot Airstrike (2019)
He played a crucial strategic role in planning the Balakot airstrike, which targeted terrorist camps in Pakistan following the Pulwama attack.
National Security Reforms
Doval strengthened inter-agency coordination, modernized intelligence-sharing mechanisms, and emphasized indigenous defense capabilities.
Awards and Honors
Ajit Doval was awarded the Kirti Chakra in 1988 for his extraordinary bravery during counter-insurgency operations. Notably, he is the first police officer to receive the Kirti Chakra, India’s second-highest peacetime gallantry award.
Leadership Style and Ideology
Ajit Doval is known for his realist and strategic approach to national security. He strongly believes in:
- Proactive defense
- Intelligence-led operations
- Strategic deterrence
- Strong internal security as the foundation of national power
His speeches and lectures often emphasize that economic growth and national security are deeply interconnected.
Personal Life
Ajit Doval maintains a low-profile personal life. He is married and has children, including Shaurya Doval, who is involved in policy and strategic affairs. Despite his high-ranking position, Doval is known for his simplicity, discipline, and preference for staying away from public limelight.
Legacy and Impact
Ajit Doval’s legacy is defined by his fearless intelligence work, transformative role as NSA, and long-term impact on India’s security architecture. He is widely regarded as one of the most powerful strategists in contemporary India, whose decisions have reshaped the nation’s approach to terrorism and geopolitics.
FAQs about Ajit Doval
Q1: Who is Ajit Doval?
Ajit Doval is the National Security Advisor of India and a former IPS officer known for his intelligence and counter-terrorism expertise.
Q2: When was Ajit Doval born?
He was born on January 20, 1945.
Q3: What award did Ajit Doval receive?
He received the Kirti Chakra in 1988.
Q4: What is Ajit Doval famous for?
He is famous for undercover intelligence missions, counter-terrorism strategies, and shaping India’s national security policies.
Q5: Is Ajit Doval still NSA of India?
Yes, Ajit Doval continues to serve as India’s National Security Advisor.
Conclusion
Ajit Doval’s life story is a powerful example of dedication, courage, and strategic brilliance. From a small village in Uttarakhand to the highest levels of national security decision-making, his journey reflects unwavering commitment to India’s sovereignty and safety. As National Security Advisor, Ajit Doval remains a central figure in shaping India’s present and future security framework.