Following the devastating Pahalgam terror attack on April 22, 2025, which claimed the lives of 26 civilians, the Indian government has overhauled the National Security Advisory Board (NSAB) now to strengthen its strategic response to terrorism and internal threats. On April 30, 2025, Prime Minister Narendra Modi reconstituted the seven-member board, appointing former R&AW chief Alok Joshi as its new chairman.
The revamped seven-member board comprises several esteemed former officers from the armed forces and civil services. Among the military representatives are former Western Air Commander Air Marshal PM Sinha, former Southern Army Commander Lt General AK Singh, and Rear Admiral Monty Khanna. From the Indian Police Service, retired IPS officers Rajiv Ranjan Verma and Manmohan Singh have been appointed, alongside former Indian Foreign Service officer B. Venkatesh Varma. The government has reconstituted the National Security Advisory Board (NSAB), appointing former Research and Analysis Wing (RAW) chief Alok Joshi as its new chairman.
After the attack, India responded by suspending the Indus Waters Treaty, expelling Pakistani diplomats, and sealing its borders. The reformed NSAB is expected to focus on cross-border infiltration routes such as Samba-Kathua, improve inter-agency intelligence coordination, and guide foreign policy measures against Pakistan’s alleged terror links.
India’s 5-point action against Pakistan
Suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty
Closure of Attari-Wagah Border Check Post
Cancellation of SAARC Visa Exemption Scheme
Expulsion of Pakistani Military Advisors
Reduction of Diplomatic Personnel
Meanwhile, Pakistan has also retaliated with certain measures against India, further escalating political tensions between the two countries.