Nidhi Tewari, a 2014 batch Indian Foreign Service (IFS) officer, has been appointed as the new Private Secretary (PS) to Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The appointment, confirmed by the Department of Personnel and Training (DoPT) on March 29, 2025, marks a significant development within the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO), bringing a foreign policy and security expert into a critical administrative role.
The decision was approved by the Appointments Committee of the Cabinet (ACC), reinforcing the government’s emphasis on strategically placing seasoned professionals in key decision-making positions. With extensive experience in international relations, security affairs, and governance, Tewari is set to play a crucial role in assisting the Prime Minister with diplomatic engagements, policymaking, and administrative coordination.
A diplomat turned strategist: Who is Nidhi Tewari?
Born and raised in Varanasi, Prime Minister Modi’s parliamentary constituency, Nidhi Tewari has steadily ascended the bureaucratic ranks through dedication and expertise. She cleared the UPSC Civil Services Examination in 2013 with an All India Rank (AIR) of 96, securing a place in the prestigious Indian Foreign Service (IFS).
Her career trajectory reflects her deep commitment to India’s foreign policy and national security. Before her tenure in the PMO, Tewari served in the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) under the Disarmament and International Security Affairs Division, where she was instrumental in shaping India’s stance on critical global security issues. Her diplomatic acumen and understanding of strategic affairs made her a key asset in government circles.
From the MEA to the PMO
Tewari’s association with the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) began in 2022, where she served in multiple roles before being promoted to Deputy Secretary on January 6, 2023. Within the PMO, she was entrusted with the ‘Foreign and Security’ vertical, directly reporting to National Security Advisor (NSA) Ajit Doval.
Her portfolio included:
- External Affairs: Assisting in India’s global diplomatic engagements, international summits, and bilateral relations.
- Atomic Energy & Security Affairs: Coordinating key policy initiatives on nuclear security and defense strategies.
- State-Specific Issues: Handling critical concerns related to Rajasthan and other strategic regions.
Her extensive involvement in India’s G20 presidency further solidified her reputation as a capable and strategic policymaker. She played an integral role in coordinating high-level diplomatic discussions, facilitating India’s engagements with world leaders, and ensuring smooth execution of India’s international commitments.
From Varanasi to New Delhi
Tewari’s roots in Varanasi add a symbolic dimension to her appointment. Her first assignment in government service was as an Assistant Commissioner (Commercial Tax) in Varanasi, before transitioning into the IFS. This journey underscores her unwavering commitment to public service and governance.
Her rigorous UPSC preparation and stellar performance in foreign affairs propelled her career forward, culminating in her selection as the Private Secretary to the Prime Minister. This position, considered one of the most sensitive and demanding roles in Indian governance, requires an individual with exceptional administrative skills, policy expertise, and diplomatic insight—qualities that Tewari has consistently demonstrated.
Tewari succeeds Vivek Kumar (2004 batch IFS) and Hardik Satishchandra Shah (2010 batch IAS officer from Gujarat cadre), who previously served as Private Secretaries to PM Modi. Her selection signals a shift towards appointing officials with strong international relations and security backgrounds in key administrative roles.
As Private Secretary, Tewari will be responsible for:
- Assisting the Prime Minister in daily operations and decision-making processes.
- Coordinating inter-ministerial communications, ensuring seamless policy execution.
- Managing foreign policy initiatives, security briefings, and international collaborations.
Her expertise is expected to enhance India’s diplomatic efficiency, particularly in an era where global geopolitics is undergoing rapid transformation. With India’s increasing role in world affairs—ranging from defense partnerships to economic alliances—Tewari’s experience will be invaluable in shaping India’s strategic direction.
Tewari’s appointment comes at a time when India is navigating complex geopolitical challenges, including:
- Evolving Indo-Pacific security dynamics
- Strengthening strategic partnerships with the U.S., EU, and ASEAN nations
- Addressing tensions with China and Pakistan
- Boosting India’s leadership in multilateral organisations like the UN, BRICS, and QUAD
With her deep understanding of international security and diplomacy, Tewari is expected to play a pivotal role in advising the Prime Minister on these pressing global issues.
