National Security Adviser (NSA) Ajit Doval has been chosen for the Lokmanya Tilak National Award for 2026. He is being recognised for his contribution to India's national security over a long career in intelligence and strategic affairs. The award is named after Bal Gangadhar Tilak, the freedom fighter popularly known as Lokmanya, who is remembered for the slogan on Swaraj being a birthright. As NSA, Doval heads the advisory structure that guides the Prime Minister on internal and external security matters.