Chandigarh: The Central University of Punjab, Bathinda, conferred a Doctorate degree in Literature (D.Litt) upon National Security Advisor Ajit Doval, with the honour being presented by former President Ram Nath Kovind. Ajit Doval, a retired Indian Police Services (IPS) officer of the Kerala cadre, and former Indian intelligence and law enforcement officer, received this recognition. Additionally, Ajit Doval emphasized the significance of strategic partnerships in regional security during the International Strategic Engagement Programme (IN STEP). This program, designed as a two-week strategic engagement at the National Defence College (NDC) in New Delhi, was organized under the auspices of the National Security Council Secretariat (NSCS) and Ministry of External Affairs (MEA). During his keynote address to 29 international delegates from 21 countries and 8 Indian officers, Doval highlighted the necessity of strategic partnerships in regional security and advocated for a collaborative approach towards nation-building processes. "In an era marked by rapid technological advancements, geopolitical shifts, and evolving threats, collaboration and knowledge-sharing among decision-makers are increasingly crucial. By fostering mutual respect and dialogue, shared options can be explored to enhance international security cooperation and foster resilient communities," stated Doval. Shashi Tharoor Accuses CPI of Dividing Anti-BJP Vote Former IPS Officer RS Praveen Kumar Joins Bharat Rashtra Samithi BJP MLA Ketan Inamdar Resigns, Cites "Inner Voice"