Ajit Doval UPSC Rank: From UPSC Topper to India’s National Security Advisor

Personal Information – The Man Behind India’s Security

Little-Known Stories and Trivia (That Matter More Than Ajit Doval UPSC Rank)

1. Language Expert: Fluent in 7 languages – a skill worth more than any UPSC rank
2. Master of Disguise: Lived as a Muslim cobbler in Lahore – bravery that transcends ajit doval upsc rank
3. Book Lover: Avid reader of history, strategy, and philosophy – continuous learning beyond rank
4. Simple Living: Drives his own car, lives modestly – character not dependent on ajit doval upsc rank
5. Fitness Enthusiast: Practices yoga daily even at 80 – discipline more important than initial rank
6. Minimal Social Media: No personal social media presence – privacy and security awareness
7. Family Man: Maintained strong family bonds despite dangerous career
8. Ajit Doval old photos show transformation from young IPS officer to distinguished NSA
9. Vegetarian: Maintains strict vegetarian diet
10. Spiritual: Regular temple visitor, believes in karma
11. Close to PM Modi: Trusted advisor – selected for wisdom, not ajit doval upsc rank
12. IIT Madras Connection: Frequently delivers lectures at premier institutions
13. No Controversies: Spotless reputation throughout 50+ year career
14. Film Interest: Several Bollywood films inspired by his operations
15. Who is Ajit Doval?: Called “India’s Chanakya” – reputation built on deeds, not rank

The overwhelming message: His fascinating life story has nothing to do with ajit doval upsc rank and everything to do with choices, courage, and character.

Detailed Biography – The Complete Life Story

Early Life: Roots in the Himalayas (1945-1963)

Ajit Kumar Doval was born on a cold January morning in 1945 in the remote village of Ghiri Banelsyun in the Pauri Garhwal district of what is now Uttarakhand. The region, known for its martial tradition and contribution to the Indian Army, shaped young Ajit’s worldview from an early age.

His father, Major G.N. Doval, served in the Indian Army, and the family moved across various military postings. This nomadic childhood exposed Ajit to different cultures, languages, and perspectives. The disciplined military environment at home instilled values of duty, honor, and patriotism.

Growing up in post-independence India, young Ajit witnessed the nation’s struggles with partition, poverty, and security challenges. Stories of soldiers and their sacrifices fascinated him, but unlike many army children, he developed a keen interest in strategy and intelligence rather than direct combat.

Educational Struggles and Triumphs (1960-1968)

Ajit Doval’s educational journey began at Ajmer Military School, where he excelled in academics and sports. The rigorous military school environment honed his discipline and leadership qualities. Classmates remember him as a quiet but sharp student who asked penetrating questions.

After school, he joined St. John’s College, Agra, pursuing a Bachelor of Science degree. The choice of science reflected his analytical mindset. However, during his graduation years, he developed a deep interest in economics and social sciences, realizing that national security was as much about economic strength as military might.

He continued to Agra University for his Master’s in Economics, an unusual choice for someone aspiring to join police services. But this economic understanding would later prove invaluable in his intelligence career, especially in understanding Pakistan’s economic vulnerabilities and terrorist financing.

UPSC Journey: The IPS Route (1965-1968)

The question “what is ajit doval upsc rank” often confuses aspirants. In the 1960s, the civil services examination pattern was different from today. Ajit Doval joined the Indian Police Service (IPS) in 1968 through direct recruitment, not through a unified civil services examination as exists now.

His preparation was marked by:

• Deep study of history and geopolitics
• Focus on border security issues
• Understanding of communal and regional conflicts
• Physical fitness and mental toughness

He was allocated the Kerala cadre, which initially seemed like a peaceful posting far from the security hotspots. Little did anyone know that this young IPS officer would soon embark on one of the most dangerous careers in Indian intelligence history.

The Intelligence Bureau Years (1972-2005): 33 Years of Shadow Warfare

Recruitment into Intelligence (1972)

Just four years into his IPS career, Ajit Doval was identified for his exceptional analytical skills, language aptitude, and courage. The Intelligence Bureau (IB), India’s internal intelligence agency, recruited him for special operations.

His first major assignment was studying cross-border terrorism and infiltration patterns along India’s borders. This work took him to sensitive areas in Punjab, Jammu & Kashmir, and later, international assignments.

The Pakistan Mission (1978-1988): Seven Years in Enemy Territory

The most extraordinary chapter of Ajit Doval history unfolded when he volunteered for a near-suicidal mission: going undercover deep inside Pakistan for an extended period.

The Mission Details:

• Duration: Approximately 7 years (intermittent)
• Cover identities: Muslim cobbler, small trader, laborer
• Locations: Lahore, Karachi, Rawalpindi, Peshawar
• Objectives:
  • Gather intelligence on Pakistan’s nuclear program
  • Infiltrate terrorist training camps
  • Map ISI operations against India
  • Establish intelligence networks

Challenges Faced:

• Living among people who would kill him if discovered
• Learning perfect Urdu and local dialects
• Adopting Muslim customs and religious practices
• Constant risk of exposure
• No contact with family for months
• Operating without diplomatic protection

Key Achievements:

• Provided critical intelligence on Pakistan’s nuclear facilities
• Identified terrorist leaders and training camps
• Prevented multiple terrorist attacks on India
• Established long-term intelligence assets

This mission earned him the Kirti Chakra, awarded for exceptional courage. Few details of these operations remain classified even today, but Ajit Doval in Pakistan became legendary in intelligence circles worldwide.

Punjab Operations (1988-1991): Combating Khalistani Terrorism

After his Pakistan assignment, Doval was posted to Punjab during the height of Khalistani insurgency. The state was bleeding with daily terrorist attacks, political assassinations, and communal violence.

Ajit Doval’s strategy in Punjab:

• Intelligence-led operations: Identifying terrorist leadership and financial networks
• Psychological operations: Creating divisions among militant groups
• Winning local support: Working with communities to isolate terrorists
• Selective targeting: Focusing on key leaders rather than foot soldiers

His operations significantly weakened the Khalistani movement, contributing to the restoration of peace in Punjab by the mid-1990s.

Kashmir Assignment (1990-2004): The Long War

Kashmir became Ajit Doval’s longest and most complex assignment. As militancy erupted in the valley post-1989, Doval was tasked with understanding and countering the insurgency.

Strategies Implemented:

• Source development: Building intelligence networks in the valley
• Counter-infiltration: Stopping terrorists at the Line of Control
• Targeting foreign elements: Focusing on Pakistani and Afghan terrorists
• Political engagement: Working with local politicians and civil society
• Surgical precision: Minimizing civilian casualties

During this period, he rose through IB ranks, becoming Special Director and finally Director of Intelligence Bureau (2004-2005), the highest position in India’s internal intelligence.

The IC-814 Hijacking (1999): Crisis Management

One of Ajit Doval’s most visible roles came during the Indian Airlines IC-814 hijacking crisis in December 1999. The aircraft with 154 passengers was hijacked by Pakistani terrorists and taken to Kandahar, Afghanistan.

Doval’s Role:

• Part of the crisis management team
• Negotiating with Taliban authorities
• Assessing rescue operation feasibility
• Advising government on options

Though the hijacking ended with release of three terrorists in exchange for passengers—a decision still debated—Doval’s crisis management skills were widely recognized.

National Security Advisor (2014-Present): The Architect of New India’s Security

First Appointment (2014)

When Narendra Modi became Prime Minister in 2014, one of his first decisions was appointing Ajit Doval as National Security Advisor. This decision signaled a shift in India’s security approach from reactive to proactive.

Key Responsibilities as NSA:

• Advising PM on all security matters
• Coordinating between intelligence agencies (RAW, IB, Military Intelligence)
• Strategic planning for defense and internal security
• Managing India’s relationship with neighboring countries on security issues
• Counter-terrorism policy formulation

Major Operations Under NSA Ajit Doval

1. Myanmar Operations (2015)

• Cross-border strikes against insurgents in Myanmar
• First such operation made public
• Sent strong message about India’s willingness to act

2. Surgical Strikes (September 2016) After the Uri attack that killed 19 Indian soldiers, Ajit Doval planned and executed surgical strikes across the Line of Control in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir.

• Nature: Special Forces operations across LoC
• Targets: Terrorist launch pads
• Impact: Psychological blow to Pakistan; boosted national morale
• Significance: Breaking the pattern of restraint after Pakistani attacks

3. Doklam Standoff (2017) When Chinese troops entered the Doklam plateau in Bhutan, threatening Indian territory, Ajit Doval managed the 73-day standoff through:

• Diplomatic channels with Chinese counterparts
• Military preparedness for conflict
• Strategic patience and de-escalation
• Successful resolution without territorial loss

4. Balakot Airstrike (February 2019) Following the Pulwama terror attack, NSA Ajit Doval was the chief architect of India’s response:

• Air strikes deep inside Pakistani territory (first since 1971 war)
• Targeting Jaish-e-Mohammed terrorist camps
• Managing international diplomacy during crisis
• Preventing escalation into full-scale war

5. Kashmir Reorganization (August 2019) Doval played a crucial role in the government’s decision to:

• Abrogate Article 370
• Reorganize J&K into two Union Territories
• Managing security during the transition
• Personally visited Kashmir to oversee operations

6. Galwan Crisis (2020) During the Chinese aggression in Ladakh:

• Managed military and diplomatic response
• Coordinated with Defense Ministry for troop deployments
• Held talks with Chinese counterpart
• Ensured no territorial loss while avoiding war

Cabinet Rank and Second Term (2019)

In 2019, recognizing his exceptional service, the government re-appointed Ajit Doval as NSA and gave him Cabinet Minister rank—the first NSA to receive this status. This elevated position gave him greater authority in policy-making and inter-ministerial coordination.

Health and Fitness Regime

How Ajit Doval Maintains Vitality at 80

At age of ajit doval being 80 years, his fitness is remarkable:

Aspect	Details
Daily Routine	Wakes up at 5 AM, yoga and meditation for 1 hour
Diet	Strict vegetarian, minimal oil and spices, home-cooked food
Exercise	Walking, light weights, breathing exercises
Mental Fitness	Reading, strategic games, continuous learning
Sleep	5-6 hours (often interrupted by security calls)
Stress Management	Meditation, detachment from outcomes
Medical Checkups	Regular health monitoring
Habits	No alcohol, no smoking, simple living

Awards and Recognition Timeline

Complete Honors List

Year	Award/Recognition	Category	Awarded By
1988	Kirti Chakra	Gallantry	President of India
1990s	Police Medal for Meritorious Service	Service	Government of India
2000s	President’s Police Medal for Distinguished Service	Distinguished Service	President of India
2014	Padma Shri	Civil Honor	Government of India
2019	Padma Bhushan	Civil Honor	Government of India
2019	Cabinet Minister Rank	Administrative	Prime Minister’s Office
Various	Appreciation from Foreign Governments	International	Multiple countries

Conclusion: Legacy and Future Vision

Ajit Doval’s legacy is defined by his role in shaping India’s national security framework, his intelligence operations, and his commitment to ensuring the safety of the nation. His story serves as an inspiration for generations to come, particularly those preparing for the UPSC and aiming for leadership roles in government and security services.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is Ajit Doval UPSC rank?

A: Ajit Doval did not clear the unified civil services examination as we know it today. He joined the Indian Police Service (IPS) through direct recruitment in the 1968 batch, Kerala cadre. The examination pattern in the 1960s was different, with separate exams for IPS.

Q2: What is Ajit Doval’s current position?

A: As of 2025, Ajit Doval serves as the National Security Advisor (NSA) to the Prime Minister of India, a position he has held since 2014. He was re-appointed in 2019 with Cabinet Minister rank.

Q3: Is Ajit Doval married? Who is Ajit Doval wife?

A: Yes, Ajit Doval is married to Mrs. Shanti Doval. They have two sons: Shaurya Doval (Director at VIF) and Vivek Doval (Hedge Fund professional in London).

Q4: What is Ajit Doval’s age?

: Ajit Doval was born on January 20, 1945, making him 80 years old as of 2025.

Q5: What is Ajit Doval salary?

A: As NSA with Cabinet Minister rank, Ajit Doval’s salary is approximately ₹2.5 lakhs per month, totaling around ₹30-35 lakhs annually, plus allowances and pension from his IPS service.

Q6: What is Ajit Doval’s height?

A: Ajit Doval height is approximately 5 feet 9 inches (175 cm).

Q7: What awards has Ajit Doval received?

A: Ajit Doval has received the Kirti Chakra (1988), Padma Shri (2014), and Padma Bhushan (2019), along with various police service medals.

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