In a noteworthy development within the Indian government, Nidhi Tewari, an Indian Foreign Service (IFS) officer, has been appointed as the Private Secretary to Prime Minister Narendra Modi. This appointment comes following an official order from the Personnel Ministry and has been approved by the Appointments Committee of the Cabinet (ACC) on a co-terminus basis.
Nidhi Tewari, a 2014-batch IFS officer, has been serving as the Deputy Secretary in the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) since November 2022. Her new role as Private Secretary to the Prime Minister marks a significant advancement in her career, effective immediately as per the Department of Personnel & Training (DoPT) order dated March 29, 2025.
Tewari embarked on her professional journey after successfully clearing the Civil Services Examination in 2013. Initial stages of her career involved her serving as an Assistant Commissioner in Commercial Tax in Varanasi while she concurrently prepared for the Civil Services. Her determination and commitment led her to secure a prestigious position in the IFS, setting the stage for a notable career in foreign service.
In terms of her professional milestones, Tewari has held the position of Under Secretary in the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), where she was part of the Disarmament and International Security Affairs Division. Her preceding role at the PMO involved working in the ‘Foreign and Security’ vertical, where she reported directly to National Security Advisor Ajit Doval. This role included managing critical assignments relating to foreign affairs, nuclear energy, security matters, and issues pertaining to Rajasthan, further honing her expertise in complex and high-stakes environments.
With over three years of experience in the PMO, Nidhi Tewari is well-equipped to take on the responsibilities of Private Secretary to the Prime Minister. Her background and skill set in navigating intricate matters within the domains of foreign and security policy serve as a robust foundation for her new responsibilities.
Tewari’s appointment is not only a personal achievement but also a testament to her hard work and significant contributions in her previous positions. Her extensive experience and deep understanding of critical international relations are expected to enhance the functioning and effectiveness of the Prime Minister’s Office as she embraces her new role.
