Nidhi Tewari, a 2014-batch Indian Foreign Service (IFS) officer, has been appointed as the new Private Secretary to Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Currently serving as the Deputy Secretary in the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO), her appointment has been approved by the Appointments Committee of the Cabinet. The Ministry of Personnel issued an official order confirming her new role, which will be at Level 12 of the pay matrix. Her tenure in this position will be co-terminus with her existing role or will continue until further orders are issued.
Nidhi Tewari’s appointment as the Prime Minister’s Private Secretary marks a significant milestone in her career. Her selection for such a crucial role highlights her expertise in governance and international relations. Born and raised in Mehmurganj, Varanasi, the constituency represented by Prime Minister Modi in Parliament since 2014, her connection to the city adds a unique dimension to her appointment. Her rise to this position has been marked by dedication, competence, and a deep understanding of diplomatic affairs.
Before joining the Indian Foreign Service, Nidhi Tewari had a brief but impactful career in administrative services. She worked as an Assistant Commissioner (Commercial Tax) in Varanasi before clearing the prestigious Civil Services Examination. Her exceptional academic and professional record secured her the 96th rank in the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) exam, setting the stage for her journey in the IFS.
Her expertise in international affairs played a significant role in her rapid ascent within the bureaucratic framework. Before joining the PMO, she worked in the Ministry of External Affairs, serving in the Disarmament and International Security Affairs Division. Her tenure in this department helped her develop a strong understanding of critical global issues, including foreign diplomacy, international security, and nuclear disarmament.
In 2022, she joined the Prime Minister’s Office as an Under Secretary, where she handled key aspects of foreign policy and security. Her performance in this role led to her promotion as Deputy Secretary in 2023. Within the PMO, she served in the ‘Foreign and Security’ section, dealing with areas such as foreign affairs, security policies, and atomic energy. Her knowledge and efficiency in handling complex diplomatic matters earned her recognition and trust among senior officials.
One of the significant aspects of her career has been her close association with National Security Advisor Ajit Doval. Reporting directly to him, she played a crucial role in formulating and executing security and foreign policy strategies. Her contributions were particularly instrumental during India’s presidency of the G20, where she helped navigate international diplomatic engagements and negotiations.
With her appointment as Private Secretary to the Prime Minister, Nidhi Tewari becomes one of the youngest officers to hold this prestigious position. Her journey from being a civil servant in Varanasi to becoming a key figure in the PMO is a testament to her dedication, intelligence, and leadership. As she steps into this role, she is expected to bring her expertise in international relations and security to support Prime Minister Modi’s vision on both national and global platforms.