Nidhi Tewari, a 2014-batch Indian Foreign Service (IFS) officer, has made history by being appointed as the Private Secretary to Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The announcement was made on March 29, 2025, following approval from the Appointments Committee of the Cabinet, and her role is effective immediately.
Tewari is among the distinguished individuals to have held this prestigious position. Originating from Mehmurganj in Varanasi—PM Modi’s parliamentary constituency—she previously served as Deputy Secretary in the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO), where she managed critical areas related to foreign and security affairs under National Security Advisor Ajit Doval.
Her appointment reflects a growing trend of professionals stepping into influential roles in governance.
A Trailblazer in Governance
Nidhi Tewari’s ascent within the ranks of the Indian Foreign Service is noteworthy, particularly as she becomes one of the distinguished individuals to serve as Private Secretary to the Prime Minister. Tewari hails from Varanasi, a city known for its rich cultural heritage and significance in Indian politics.
She achieved an impressive All India Rank (AIR) of 96 in the highly competitive UPSC Civil Services Examination in 2013, which paved her way into the civil service. Prior to her current appointment, she worked as an Assistant Commissioner (Commercial Tax) in Varanasi before joining the IFS.
Her tenure at the PMO began in November 2022 when she was appointed Under Secretary, where her responsibilities included managing key aspects of foreign relations and security policy. In early 2023, she was promoted to Deputy Secretary, where she continued to excel in her role, earning praise from senior officials for her strategic insights and dedication.
Path to Leadership
Tewari’s career trajectory serves as a testament to her commitment to public service and diplomacy. Before her time at the PMO, she worked within the Ministry of External Affairs’ Disarmament and International Security Affairs Division, where she gained valuable experience in international relations and global security issues.
Her expertise proved invaluable during her tenure at the PMO, where she collaborated closely with National Security Advisor Ajit Doval on various initiatives aimed at strengthening India’s foreign policy framework. Tewari’s appointment follows that of her predecessors Vivek Kumar and Hardik Shah, signalling a generational shift towards leadership within India’s highest administrative offices.
This trend not only reflects changing attitudes towards governance but also highlights the importance of incorporating fresh perspectives into policy-making processes.
Official Statements
Following Tewari’s appointment, an official from the Prime Minister’s Office expressed confidence in her capabilities: “Nidhi’s dedication and skill set make her an ideal candidate for this crucial role. We are confident that her fresh perspective will contribute significantly to our ongoing efforts in governance.”
Fellow civil servants have also voiced their support for Tewari’s new position, emphasising how her youth and energy can invigorate discussions on pressing national issues. The sentiments shared by officials underscore a collective belief that leaders like Tewari are essential for addressing contemporary challenges faced by India.
The Logical Indian’s Perspective
Nidhi Tewari’s remarkable rise to prominence is an inspiring example of how professionals can contribute meaningfully to India’s governance landscape. Her appointment not only highlights individual merit but also underscores the importance of empowering youth in decision-making roles within government structures.
As India grapples with complex domestic and international challenges—from economic reforms to climate change—leaders like Tewari bring fresh perspectives and innovative solutions to policymaking. The Logical Indian believes that fostering a culture of inclusivity and representation among leaders is vital for shaping a progressive future for India.
