Ajit Doval is regarded as one of the most notable national security specialists in India and has spent several decades in the field of intelligence and strategic matters. Known by some as the “James Bond of India,” Ajit has been a key figure in formulating internal and external safety policies of the country. Along with his impressive career history, people wonder about Ajit Doval’s salary and government perks. Being in one of the most powerful positions of the country does not mean Ajit’s pay would be huge.
Ajit Kumar Doval was born on January 20, 1945, in the village of Ghiri of Pauri Garhwal in Uttarakhand. Growing up in a military atmosphere under the supervision of his father, Major Guman Singh Doval, who served in the Indian Army, Ajit picked up the values of patriotism and bravery at an early age. He studied at the famous Rashtriya Military School in Ajmer and graduated from Agra University. He has also obtained a degree from the National Defence College in New Delhi. In 1968, he successfully cleared the highly competitive UPSC Civil Services Examination and joined the Indian Police Service (IPS) under the Kerala cadre.
Extraordinary Career in Intelligence
Ajit Doval began his career as a police officer in Kerala; however, his life took a unique turn when he became a part of the Intelligence Bureau (IB) in 1972. Subsequently, he emerged as one of the most talented intelligence officers in India over a period of three decades, Doval’s work mainly included several covert operations, counter-terrorism work, and intelligence work in high-risk areas. One of the most interesting phases of his life included spending years in Pakistan while trying to collect vital information.
His adaptation skills are what made him a prominent figure in India and won him the title of the “Spymaster of India”.
Besides, Doval has also participated in various other significant historic moments, including Operation Black Thunder, the IC-814 hijacking crisis, counter-insurgency activities in Mizoram and Kashmir, and many other dangerous national security missions. Doval played a significant role in Operation Black Thunder and received the Kirti Chakra for his bravery, being the first police officer to get this award. After retiring from work as the Director of the Intelligence Bureau in 2005, Doval created a think tank called Vivekananda International Foundation to deal with strategic affairs. In 2014, he was appointed as India’s National Security Advisor (NSA) and has continued to serve in the role through multiple terms.
Ajit Doval, in his capacity as the National Security Advisor and a Cabinet minister, draws a salary of about ₹2 lakh per month, which includes his basic salary and some other government allowances. It is said that his annual income ranges from ₹24 lakh to ₹43 lakh, which can change according to the benefits and allowances available to him. Despite the high salary, the Indian government provides him with several amenities, including a house provided by the government, a car, and security cover. Although these amenities symbolize the importance of Doval’s position as an NSA, it is widely believed that his contributions to the country’s security are far greater than what he has earned.
Awards, Achievements and Legacy
Ajit Doval has been a public servant for more than 50 years. He was the Director of the Intelligence Bureau and has conducted many intelligence operations. He has also been appointed the longest-serving National Security Advisor to India.
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