National Security Advisor Ajit Doval was conferred with the prestigious Lokmanya Tilak National Award 2026 at a solemn ceremony held in Pune. Union Home Minister Amit Shah presented the honor on behalf of the Tilak Smarak Trust. Delivering his address after accepting the award, Doval made a passionate appeal to India's youth, urging them to dedicate their lives to nation-building while putting national interest above personal gains and narrow motives. He stressed that every citizen must remain ready to set aside personal interests whenever they clash with the larger good of the country.
Focusing on Nation Building during a Pivotal Historical Era
Ajit Doval highlighted that India is currently passing through a vital and transformative phase in its history. He remarked that the country stands before an extraordinary window of opportunity that must not be squandered under any circumstances. According to him, nation-building must remain India's foremost priority at this juncture. Doval expressed strong confidence that with collective dedication, the nation will successfully accomplish its developmental objectives and write a glorious new chapter in its history.
Honoring Lokmanya Tilak and Remembering His Courage During Crisis
Paying rich tributes to Lokmanya Tilak, the National Security Advisor described him not merely as a freedom fighter, but also as an extraordinary social reformer and philosopher. Doval recalled a poignant episode from Tilak's life during the severe plague outbreak in Pune. Even when Tilak lost his own 21-year-old son to the deadly epidemic, he refused to abandon Pune and chose to stay back among the people to assist them through the crisis. Expressing profound humility while receiving the recognition, Doval noted that being honored in the name of Lokmanya Tilak was a matter of deep pride and privilege for him.
Key Reflections from NSA Ajit Doval's Address
During the award ceremony, National Security Advisor Ajit Doval expressed his gratitude to the Union Home Minister Amit Shah, the Chief Minister, the Deputy Chief Minister, and the organizers of the Tilak Smarak Trust. He outlined several key points during his speech
- Sacred Legacy of Pune: He acknowledged Pune as the workspace of Lokmanya Tilak and a historic land of social reformers and brave leaders.
- Tribute to Revolutionaries: He emphasized that India's freedom was achieved through the immense sacrifices of countless revolutionaries and freedom fighters rather than a single event.
- The Immortal Call of Swaraj: He highlighted Tilak's famous proclamation, "Swaraj is my birthright and I shall have it," calling it a timeless source of inspiration.
- Fearless Voice Against Colonial Rule: Tilak boldly challenged British authority and awakened national consciousness across the country.
- Blending Courage with Philosophy: Tilak's personality represented a unique harmony of valor, patriotism, social reform, and intellectual depth.
Reflections on Shrimad Bhagavad Gita and Childhood Memories
Ajit Doval made a special mention of Lokmanya Tilak's profound writings and reflections on the Shrimad Bhagavad Gita, highlighting how Tilak exemplified the spirit of selfless service. Doval also shared nostalgic memories from his early school days in Pune, where he first drew inspiration from Tilak's heroic life. He expressed deep gratitude that decades later, he was receiving a national award named after Lokmanya Tilak in the very same city where his inspiration began.
Civic Duty as the Foundation of a Developed India
Concluding his speech, NSA Ajit Doval asserted that safeguarding India's freedom and realizing the vision of a Developed India is the personal responsibility of every citizen. He urged young people to step forward with a spirit of sacrifice, duty, and service. He concluded that when citizens consistently prioritize the national interest over individual convenience, India will inevitably achieve its rightful stature as a developed and prosperous global leader.
