Pune: National Security Advisor (NSA) Ajit Doval was honoured with the prestigious Lokmanya Tilak National Award 2026 on Saturday in Pune, with Union Home Minister Amit Shah describing him as one of the key architects of India’s modern security framework. Speaking at the award ceremony held on the 106th death anniversary of Lokmanya Bal Gangadhar Tilak, Shah drew striking parallels between Tilak’s fearless nationalist ideals and Doval’s contributions to safeguarding the country’s internal and external security.
The Home Minister said Doval’s remarkable service to the nation has secured him a permanent place in India’s history. According to Shah, any future assessment of the country’s security architecture would be incomplete without acknowledging the decisive role played by the veteran intelligence officer.
He remarked that historians examining India’s internal and external security in the years to come would inevitably reserve a “golden page” for Ajit Doval because of his immense contribution to national security and strategic policymaking.
Beginning his address by paying tribute to Lokmanya Bal Gangadhar Tilak, Shah hailed the freedom fighter as a visionary leader who transformed India’s struggle for independence. He noted that Tilak’s famous declaration, “Swaraj is my birthright, and I shall have it,” awakened the spirit of self-rule among millions of Indians and inspired generations to participate in the freedom movement.
Describing Tilak as a scholar, fearless journalist, philosopher and karmayogi, Shah said the nationalist leader gave a new direction to India’s independence movement through his writings, speeches and educational reforms. He praised Tilak’s unwavering commitment to national awakening and observed that his influence on the country’s freedom struggle remains unparalleled.
The Home Minister also highlighted Tilak’s role as the founder of the newspapers Kesari and Mahratta, stating that his fearless journalism reflected extraordinary courage in challenging colonial rule. Shah further credited Tilak with introducing public Ganesh Utsav and Shivaji festivals as instruments of cultural nationalism, saying these initiatives united society and strengthened the spirit of national identity.
Drawing a comparison between Tilak’s fearlessness and Doval’s strategic leadership, Shah recounted a personal experience from his tenure as Gujarat’s Home Minister. Referring to the Ahmedabad serial bomb blasts, he recalled that then Gujarat Chief Minister Narendra Modi had advised state officials to consult Ajit Doval for guidance during the investigation.
Shah said Doval shared crucial strategic insights that enabled Gujarat Police not only to crack the Ahmedabad blasts but also to unravel investigations linked to nearly thirteen bomb blast cases across the country. He described it as a landmark achievement that showcased Doval’s exceptional expertise in intelligence and counter-terrorism operations.
Highlighting the transformation of India’s foreign and security policies over the past decade, Shah said the country had witnessed a significant shift after Prime Minister Narendra Modi assumed office in 2014 and appointed Ajit Doval as National Security Advisor.
According to Shah, India’s foreign policy, which he described as lacking firmness in earlier years, has evolved into one backed by confidence, strategic clarity and national self-respect. He asserted that under the leadership of Prime Minister Modi and with Doval’s guidance on national security matters, India has strengthened its global standing and adopted a more decisive approach to protecting its national interests.
The Home Minister further observed that national honours such as the Lokmanya Tilak National Award are not merely ceremonial recognitions but serve as enduring sources of inspiration for society. He said individuals who dedicate their lives to the service of the nation deserve public gratitude, and recognising their achievements motivates future generations to contribute selflessly to the country’s progress.
Shah expressed confidence that the honour bestowed upon Ajit Doval would inspire citizens from every profession to place national service above personal interests and continue working towards a stronger and more secure India.
Instituted in memory of freedom fighter Lokmanya Bal Gangadhar Tilak, the Lokmanya Tilak National Award is presented annually to individuals who have made exceptional contributions to the nation and society. The award has previously been conferred on several distinguished personalities from diverse fields, recognising their outstanding service and commitment to national development.
