In a significant development, Indian Foreign Service (IFS) officer Nidhi Tewari has been appointed as the Private Secretary to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, as per an official order issued by the Personnel Ministry.
A 2014-batch IFS officer, Tewari has been serving as Deputy Secretary in the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) since November 2022. Her appointment as Private Secretary has been approved by the Appointments Committee of the Cabinet (ACC) on a co-terminus basis, as mentioned in the Department of Personnel & Training (DoPT) order dated March 29, 2025.
Who is Nidhi Tewari?
Nidhi Tewari began her career after clearing the Civil Services Examination in 2013. Prior to securing a place in the IFS, she served as an Assistant Commissioner (Commercial Tax) in Varanasi, while simultaneously preparing for the Civil Services. Her perseverance and dedication led her to secure a position in the IFS, paving the way for a remarkable career in foreign service.
Career Highlights:
- Under Secretary, Ministry of External Affairs: Before her tenure at the PMO, Tewari served as Under Secretary in the Disarmament and International Security Affairs Division of the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA).
- Deputy Secretary, PMO: Since November 2022, she has been associated with the PMO, where she worked in the ‘Foreign and Security’ vertical, reporting directly to National Security Advisor (NSA) Ajit Doval. Her role involved handling critical assignments related to foreign affairs, nuclear energy, security matters, and Rajasthan-related issues.
Appointment and Responsibilities:
With over three years of experience in the PMO, Nidhi Tewari is well-prepared to assume the responsibilities of Private Secretary to the Prime Minister. Her expertise in handling complex issues in foreign and security domains has equipped her with the necessary skills to navigate this crucial position.
Her appointment takes effect immediately, following the approval of the Appointments Committee of the Cabinet, ensuring a smooth transition in her new role.
A Remarkable Achievement
Nidhi Tewari’s appointment reflects her dedication, expertise, and significant contributions in her previous roles, making her a deserving choice for this esteemed position. As she takes on this new responsibility, her expertise in foreign and security affairs is expected to further strengthen the functioning of the Prime Minister’s Office.
