List of National Security Advisors (NSA) of India

The position of National Security Advisor (NSA) in India is one of the most powerful bureaucratic roles within the Indian government. This position was established in November 1998, and individuals appointed as NSA are typically from the Indian Foreign Service (IFS) or the Indian Police Service (IPS), depending on the Prime Minister’s discretion.

An Overview of National Security Advisor (NSA)

The NSA is the senior official of the National Security Council (NSC) of India. Serving as the principal advisor to the Prime Minister on national and international security policy, the NSA plays a pivotal role in shaping India’s security landscape. The current NSA is Ajit Doval. The NSA is ranked seventh in the order of precedence in India and holds the status of a Cabinet Minister.

Historical Background of NSA

The NSA position was created in November 1998 by then-Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee. The primary responsibility of the NSA is to oversee the country’s security apparatus and provide strategic advice to the Prime Minister.

List of National Security Advisors in India

Check the list of National Security Advisors in India from the first NSA, Brajesh Mishra to current NSA, Ajit Doval.

Name	Tenure
Brajesh Mishra	November 1998 to 22 May 2004
J N Dixit	23 May 2004 to 03 Jan 2005
M K Narayanan	03 Jan 2005 to 23 Jan 2010
Shivshankar Menon	24 Jan 2010 to 28 May 2014
Ajit Doval	30 May 2014 to Present

Appointment Process of National Security Advisors

The NSA is appointed by the Appointments Committee of the Cabinet (ACC), which is chaired by the Prime Minister of India. This process ensures that the selection of the NSA aligns with the country’s broader strategic objectives and the Prime Minister’s vision.

Roles and Responsibilities of National Security Advisors

• Advisory Role: The NSA advises the Prime Minister on all matters concerning external and internal security threats. This includes assessing and interpreting intelligence reports, and presenting them to the Prime Minister for informed decision-making.
• Intelligence Coordination: The NSA receives all intelligence reports and is responsible for their synthesis and analysis before they reach the Prime Minister. This role is crucial for maintaining a comprehensive view of the security landscape.
• Special Envoy: The NSA often acts as the Prime Minister’s special envoy on strategic and sensitive issues, particularly concerning China, Pakistan, and Israel. The NSA’s involvement in these high-stakes matters underscores the importance of the role.
• Diplomatic Engagement: The NSA accompanies the Prime Minister on official foreign and state visits, participating in key discussions and negotiations that have security implications for India.