Ex-R&AW Chief Alok Joshi Leads Revamped National Security Advisory Board
National Security Advisory Board Gets a New Look
The Indian government has shaken things up with the National Security Advisory Board (NSAB), appointing former R&AW chief Alok Joshi as its new chairman. This move comes after a series of high-profile incidents, including the deadly attack in Pahalgam.
New Faces on the Board
Alongside Joshi, the board now includes a mix of retired military and intelligence officials: Air Marshal PM Sinha, Lt Gen AK Singh, Rear Admiral Monty Khanna, Rajiv Ranjan Verma, Manmohan Singh, and B Venkatesh Varma.
What Does the NSAB Do?
The NSAB is a key think tank, bringing together experts from various fields to provide long-term security analysis to the National Security Council. They offer solutions and policy options to address the complex challenges facing India’s national security.
A Response to Recent Events
This revamp comes on the heels of the Pahalgam attack, which tragically killed 25 Indians and one Nepali citizen. The government has taken swift action, convening a series of high-level meetings, including the Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS), the Cabinet Committee on Political Affairs (CCPA), and the Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA).
The CCS, which last met on April 23rd, was briefed on the Pahalgam attack and the cross-border links revealed by the investigation. The attack occurred after successful elections in the Union Territory and amid its progress toward economic growth.
Prime Minister’s Strong Message
Prime Minister Modi has also held meetings with key defense officials, including Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan, and the three service chiefs. He expressed his unwavering faith in the Indian Armed Forces, assuring them of complete operational freedom in deciding India’s response to these threats.
