NSA Ajit Doval To Receive Lokmanya Tilak National Award 2026 Today In Pune

New Delhi, Aug 1: National Security Adviser (NSA) Ajit Doval will be conferred with the prestigious Lokmanya Tilak National Award 2026 at a ceremony in Pune on Saturday, coinciding with the 106th death anniversary of freedom fighter Lokmanya Bal Gangadhar Tilak.

The award recognises Doval's outstanding contribution to strengthening India's national security through his leadership in counter-terrorism operations, covert missions, intelligence gathering and border security.

Amit Shah To Present Award
Union Home Minister Amit Shah will present the award to Doval at a function to be held at the Maharashtra Mandal Ground in Pune's Gultekdi area.

Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, Deputy Chief Minister Sunetra Pawar and several other dignitaries are expected to attend the ceremony.

Ahead of the event, Amit Shah and Fadnavis arrived in Pune, while elaborate security arrangements have been put in place around the venue.

Award Carries Cash Prize, Citation
The Lokmanya Tilak National Award comprises a memento, citation and a cash prize of ₹1 lakh.

Instituted by the Lokmanya Tilak Smarak Trust, the award is presented annually to individuals who have made exceptional contributions to the nation in their respective fields.

The announcement of Doval's selection was made by Trust President Dr Rohit Tilak.

Recognition For Decades Of National Service
Doval has been selected for the honour in recognition of his distinguished service in safeguarding India's national interests.

Over the course of his career, he has played a key role in several major security and strategic operations, including Operation Black Thunder, the Doklam diplomatic negotiations, and the Balakot air strike.

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India's Longest-Serving NSA
An Indian Police Service (IPS) officer of the 1968 Kerala cadre, Doval served in India's intelligence establishment for more than three decades before becoming Director of the Intelligence Bureau (IB).

During his career, he served in several sensitive regions, including Mizoram, Sikkim, Punjab, and Jammu and Kashmir, besides overseas assignments in Islamabad and London.

At 81, Doval is India's longest-serving National Security Adviser and continues to play a central role in shaping the country's national security and strategic policy.

About The Award
The Lokmanya Tilak National Award is regarded as one of India's distinguished civilian honours. It commemorates the legacy of freedom fighter and nationalist leader Lokmanya Bal Gangadhar Tilak and recognises individuals who have rendered exceptional service to the nation in diverse fields.