Govt reshapes National Security Advisory Board, names ex-R&AW chief Alok Joshi as chairman after Pahalgam attack

Following the tragic Pahalgam terror attack on April 22, which claimed 26 lives, including one Nepalese national, the Indian government has revamped the National Security Advisory Board (NSAB). Former Research and Analysis Wing (R&AW) chief Alok Joshi has been appointed as the chairman of the reconstituted board. The decision was made during a Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) meeting chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

The revamped NSAB now includes seven distinguished members from various fields, such as former Western Air Commander Air Marshal P.M. Sinha, former Southern Army Commander Lieutenant General A.K. Singh, Rear Admiral Monty Khanna, retired IPS officers Rajiv Ranjan Verma and Manmohan Singh, and retired IFS officer B. Venkatesh Varma. This diverse composition aims to strengthen India’s security framework and address cross-border terrorism effectively.

The CCS meeting also discussed the security preparedness and cross-border linkages of the Pahalgam attack. The government announced a series of measures, including holding the Indus Water Treaty in abeyance, as a strong message to Pakistan for its support of terrorism. Prime Minister Modi expressed confidence in the Indian armed forces, granting them operational freedom to decide on the mode, targets, and timing of India’s response.

This development underscores India’s commitment to enhancing its national security and addressing the challenges posed by terrorism. The revamped NSAB is expected to play a crucial role in shaping India’s security policies and strategies in the coming years.