Rahul Rastogra, former senior Indian intelligence official appointed National Security Advisor of Mauritius

Rahul Rastogra, a former senior official of the Indian internal intelligence agency, has been appointed as the National Security Advisor of Mauritius. He succeeds Vivek Kumar Johri, who previously held the position. This marks a turning point in New Delhi's regional security policy.

Rahul Rastogra, who previously served as the Director General of the Indo-Tibetan Border Police and as an IPS officer, will assume the role of National Security Advisor attached to the Prime Minister's Office.

Typically, this position is filled by an expert from the Indian external intelligence agency, particularly from the RAW. This was the case with Kumarassan Llango, nicknamed "Mr. Moustache," who left under controversial circumstances related to the "sniffing" incident.

Rasgotra's appointment is expected to represent a slight shift from this tradition, as he comes from the Intelligence Bureau and has also served in sensitive missions abroad, including in Islamabad and Washington.

Former colleagues describe him as a discreet operator, disciplined, with a keen sense of political and operational analysis.

Historically, Mauritius has relied on India for its strategic security, especially since the defense agreement of 1974 and the Lal Dora incident. The NSA position is held by an Indian because the country depends on Delhi’s expertise, resources, and protection. Legally, Mauritius remains sovereign, but in practice, security is heavily integrated with Indian operations. The head of the National Coast Guard (NCG) is also an officer from the Greater Peninsula.