<h3 data-start="203" data-end="267">Governance at the Core of National Strength, Says Ajit Doval</h3>
Addressing an audience on the occasion of Rashtriya Ekta Diwas, India&rsquo;s National Security Advisor Ajit Doval underlined that governance remains the most decisive element in shaping a nation&rsquo;s destiny. He spoke of governance not merely as administration, but as a potent force of national security, development, and unity.
Doval noted that the common man has evolved, becoming more conscious, aspirational, and demanding of the state. "Governments today must earn trust by fulfilling these aspirations," he said, adding that public satisfaction has become essential for political stability.
He warned that weak governance can trigger regime shifts, citing historical changes in countries such as Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, and Nepal. &ldquo;Countries do not just fall to external aggression; they collapse from within when governance fails.&rdquo;
The NSA praised the current administration&rsquo;s approach, describing it as an &ldquo;orbital shift&rdquo; in India&rsquo;s governance and global posture. He pointed to institutional reforms targeting corruption, signalling that more such measures may unfold.
Doval urged clarity of purpose in times of change: &ldquo;One must not be blinded by chaos nor subdued by adversity.&rdquo; Referring to Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel&rsquo;s example, he lauded his dual role as a freedom fighter and national unifier who merged over 500 princely states into modern India.
He also highlighted women&rsquo;s empowerment and technological adoption as cornerstones of good governance. &ldquo;Effective systems must go beyond laws&mdash;they must deliver outcomes, especially for women,&rdquo; he stressed. Technology, he added, needs to be harnessed for transparency, accountability, and security, especially against emerging cyber threats.

NSA Ajit Doval says effective governance is key to nation-building and public trust

Doval Stresses Governance as Power Pillar

NSA Ajit Doval says effective governance is key to nation-building and public trust

November 1, 2025 | 09:00 IST