Amit Shah Honors Ajit Doval with Lokmanya Tilak National Award 2026

Amit Shah Presents Award to National Security Advisor

On Saturday, Union Home Minister Amit Shah awarded the prestigious 'Lokmanya Tilak National Award 2026' to National Security Advisor Ajit Doval in Pune. During the ceremony, he drew parallels between the fearless nationalist ideology of Lokmanya Bal Gangadhar Tilak and the modern security framework established by Doval. Speaking on the 106th death anniversary of Tilak, Shah emphasized that Doval's contributions to India's security and foreign policy have secured him a lasting legacy in the nation's history. He remarked that future historical accounts will undoubtedly reserve a golden page for Ajit Doval when analyzing internal and external security.

Beginning his speech with a tribute to Tilak, Shah referred to him as a 'Yug-Purush' who transformed the freedom struggle. He noted that Tilak gave a new direction and meaning to the fight for independence, famously declaring, 'Swaraj is my birthright.' No one can grant the people of this country Swaraj; it is their inherent right, and they will achieve it. Tilak ignited the mantra of Swaraj in the hearts of millions. As a great teacher, fearless journalist, thinker, and Karma Yogi, no one can match Tilak's connection to the entire freedom struggle; he held the highest position.

Shah compared Tilak's historical bravery to Doval's operational capabilities. He highlighted that Tilak was not only a teacher and a staunch advocate for national education but also a passionate journalist. The fearlessness of a journalist can be felt through the writings in 'Kesari.' As a profound thinker, Tilak showcased India's soul to the world. He further stated that Tilak initiated the Ganapati and Shivaji festivals to give birth to 'cultural nationalism,' a path that the country continues to follow today.

Reflecting on his direct association with the NSA, Shah recalled his time as Gujarat's Home Minister and how Doval's expertise proved crucial. He recounted a series of bomb blasts that occurred in the country during that period, noting that he had no prior acquaintance with Doval. At that time, Narendra Modi was the Chief Minister of Gujarat, who had suggested that the police investigate not just the bomb blast but also the individuals behind it and the other blasts across the country. Shah remembered Doval visiting his home one afternoon, providing critical information that enabled the Gujarat police to solve not only the Ahmedabad bomb blast but also 13 other bombings nationwide—a significant achievement.