Who Is Nachiketa Jha? 2003-Batch Uttar Pradesh Cadre IPS Officer Appointed Joint Secretary at National Security Council Secretariat
Nachiketa Jha, a 2003-batch Indian Police Service (IPS) officer of the Uttar Pradesh cadre, has been appointed as Joint Secretary in the National Security Council Secretariat (NSCS), Government of India. The appointment takes effect from 19 December 2025 and places him in a strategically significant role at the core of India’s national security architecture, where he will work in close coordination with the National Security Advisor (NSA) on matters related to both internal and external security.
Extensive Policing and Administrative Experience in Uttar Pradesh
Prior to his elevation to the central government, Mr. Jha was serving as the Home Secretary of Uttar Pradesh, a position he assumed in December 2024. Earlier in his career, he held several senior field and leadership assignments, including postings as Inspector General of Police in the Meerut Range (March 2023 to December 2024) and the Agra Range. His tenure in these sensitive jurisdictions earned him recognition for firm leadership, professional integrity, and effective handling of complex and high-profile law-and-order challenges.
Central Exposure and Intelligence Bureau Background
Mr. Jha is no stranger to central deputation. At an earlier stage of his career, he served in the Intelligence Bureau (IB) as a Deputy Director, gaining deep exposure to intelligence gathering, internal security assessment, and inter-agency coordination. This background in intelligence operations is expected to significantly enhance his contribution at the NSCS, where strategic analysis and long-term security planning are key responsibilities.
Early Life and Academic Credentials
Born on 29 August 1977 in Ranchi, Jharkhand, Nachiketa Jha is the son of Prem Prakash Jha. His academic journey reflects a strong multidisciplinary foundation. He pursued a Master’s degree in Economics, followed by a Bachelor of Laws (LLB), demonstrating how a grounding in social sciences and legal studies can effectively complement a career in the Indian Police Service.
From Civil Services Aspirant to National Security Policymaker
Mr. Jha cleared the UPSC Civil Services Examination in 2002 and was allocated the Uttar Pradesh cadre the following year. His progression from a civil services aspirant with an arts and law background to a senior IPS officer entrusted with national-level security responsibilities stands as a testament to perseverance, intellectual rigor, and sustained commitment to public service.
Decorations and Professional Recognition
Over the course of his distinguished career, Mr. Jha has received multiple honors for exemplary service and dedication to duty. His accolades include:
Police Special Duty Medal (2019)
Police Antrik Suraksha Seva Padak
PM-26/01/2022
Director General’s Commendation Disc – Silver (15 August 2022)
Director General’s Commendation Disc – Gold (15 August 2023)
Director General’s Commendation Disc – Platinum (26 January 2025)
These awards underscore his sustained contribution to internal security and professional excellence.
Role at NSCS and Immediate Relieving Orders
As Joint Secretary at the NSCS, Nachiketa Jha will be closely involved in the formulation, coordination, and execution of policies related to national security, strategic risk assessment, and inter-ministerial cooperation. In view of the importance of his new assignment, the Union Ministry of Home Affairs has directed the Uttar Pradesh government to relieve him immediately, enabling him to assume charge without delay.
A Source of Inspiration for Future Civil Servants
Nachiketa Jha’s professional journey—marked by academic versatility, operational competence, and ethical leadership—serves as a powerful source of motivation for young civil services aspirants across the country. His rise highlights the enduring principle that discipline, dedication, and intellectual depth can pave the way to roles of national importance, irrespective of one’s initial academic stream.
