National Security Adviser Ajit Doval has recalled a tense episode from the early years of his intelligence career, when a mission near the China border in Sikkim went wrong and left him fearing that his career was over.
Speaking at the IIT Roorkee convocation, Doval said he was in his 20s and handling intelligence responsibilities in Sikkim during the period when the region was moving towards integration with India.
Agents Captured Near China Border
Doval recalled sending a team towards the border to gather intelligence on Chinese military activities. The team was expected to return within eight days, but there was no information even after 15 days.
He later learned from his headquarters that the Chinese Army had captured and interrogated the team. The agents were eventually released and returned in poor condition.
The incident led to an inquiry, and Doval believed his career had ended. However, investigators found that the maps and sketches provided to his team contained errors, clearing him of responsibility.
A Lesson That Stayed With Him
Doval said the episode left him deeply upset. A Tibetan Sherpa working with him offered advice that remained with him throughout his life: know where you are, know where you want to go, and know the route to reach there.
Doval said he later adopted these principles as a broader approach to life.