Ajit Doval, a name synonymous with strategic brilliance in India's national security framework, boasts a career marked by daring and critical interventions that have shaped the country's defense posture. Born in Uttarakhand's Pauri Garhwal, Doval is the son of a Major in the Indian Army and the cousin of the former Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh, H.N. Bahuguna. His academic journey led him from Ajmer's Indian Military Boarding School to Agra University, where he completed his master's degree in economics in 1967.
Doval's illustrious career began when he cracked the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) exam on his first attempt in 1968 at the age of 22. His initial assignment as an Assistant Superintendent of Police in Kerala's Kottayam district quickly turned into a litmus test of his capabilities during the communal riots in Thalassery, Kannur. Employing a combination of strategic intelligence gathering and negotiation, Doval successfully quelled the violence that had overwhelmed local law enforcement.
This operation not only established his reputation as a master tactician but also led to his rapid ascent within India's intelligence agencies, ultimately leading to a pivotal role in the Intelligence Bureau (IB). Doval's contributions to national security are vast and varied, including critical roles in the resolution of conflicts in Mizoram and the integration of Sikkim into India during the 1970s, showcasing his adept handling of complex insurgencies and diplomatic intricacies.
Perhaps one of Doval's most audacious undertakings was his undercover operation in Mizoram in the early 1970s. Posing as a covert operative, he infiltrated the ranks of insurgents, leading to significant breakthroughs that eventually facilitated the peaceful resolution of the insurgency. His strategies not only neutralized immediate threats but also fostered long-term stability in the region.
Doval's strategic foresight was again on display during his tenure in Pakistan, where he gathered critical intelligence on nuclear developments. His deep cover operations, often fraught with personal risk, provided India with invaluable insights into regional security threats.
The saga of Ajit Doval's career is punctuated with instances where his interventions have directly influenced the outcome of national crises. His leadership during Operation Black Thunder in 1988 to flush out militants from the Golden Temple without violating its sanctity demonstrated his tactical genius and respect for cultural sensitivities.
After a brief retirement, Doval returned to the forefront of national security by founding the Vivekananda International Foundation, a think tank aimed at enhancing India's strategic thinking and policy orientations. His return to active duty as the National Security Advisor (NSA) under Prime Minister Narendra Modi's government marked another significant chapter in his career. Under his stewardship, India has adopted a more assertive national security posture, addressing both internal and external challenges with a new level of strategic coherence.
Doval's career is not without controversy. His connections and actions have sometimes drawn criticism from various political quarters, particularly the Congress party, which has scrutinized his and his family's activities. Despite such challenges, Ajit Doval remains a pivotal figure in India's national security architecture, embodying the spirit of strategic acumen and resilience. His story is not just a testament to his personal bravery and intellect but also a reflection of India's evolving approach to national security, navigating through complex geopolitics with an eye firmly on safeguarding national interests.
