National Security Advisor (India)

The National Security Advisor (NSA) to the Prime Minister of India is the senior official on the National Security Council (NSC) of India. Acting as the principal advisor to the Prime Minister on national and international security matters, the NSA helps coordinate India's foreign and security policies. This role holds significant influence within the Indian government.

The NSA is a senior officer of the Indian Administrative Service (IAS) or the Indian Foreign Service (IFS), although retired military officers have also held the position. There is no fixed tenure for the NSA; the position is held at the pleasure of the Prime Minister.

Responsibilities and Functions:

• Principal Advisor: The NSA serves as the primary advisor to the Prime Minister on all matters relating to national security, including internal security, external affairs, defense, intelligence, and strategic affairs.
• Strategic Planning: The NSA is responsible for formulating and coordinating long-term strategic plans related to national security. This includes assessing threats, identifying vulnerabilities, and developing strategies to address them.
• Coordination: The NSA plays a crucial role in coordinating the activities of various government agencies involved in national security, such as the Ministry of Defence, Ministry of External Affairs, Ministry of Home Affairs, and intelligence agencies.
• Crisis Management: During times of crisis, the NSA acts as the central point of contact for the government and coordinates the response efforts of different agencies.
• Policy Formulation: The NSA assists in the formulation of national security policies and ensures their effective implementation.
• Special Assignments: The NSA may be entrusted with special assignments by the Prime Minister, such as leading negotiations with foreign governments or overseeing sensitive operations.
• Chairman of the National Security Council Secretariat: The NSA heads the National Security Council Secretariat, which provides administrative and analytical support to the NSC.
• Liaison: The NSA acts as a key liaison between the Prime Minister and various stakeholders, including intelligence agencies, military leadership, and foreign governments, on matters of national security.

Reporting:

The NSA reports directly to the Prime Minister of India.

Appointment:

The NSA is appointed by the Prime Minister.

List of National Security Advisors:

• Brajesh Mishra (1998–2004)
• Jyotindra Nath Dixit (2004–2005)
• M. K. Narayanan (2005–2010)
• Shivshankar Menon (2010–2014)
• Ajit Doval (2014–Present)