Ricky Gill, an Indian-origin advisor to former US President Donald Trump, has been awarded the National Security Council’s Distinguished Action Award for his role in facilitating “India-Pakistan ceasefire negotiations,” according to reports. The award was presented by US Secretary of State Marco Rubio earlier this week.

Gill currently serves as Senior Director for South and Central Asia and Special Assistant to the US President. He oversees the India, Pakistan, Afghanistan, and broader South and Central Asia portfolio at the National Security Council (NSC). Appointed to the position in January 2025 when Trump returned to office, Gill has been involved in shaping US policy in the region. While the Trump administration has repeatedly highlighted its role in mediating India-Pakistan tensions, India has categorically rejected Washington’s claims of mediation.

Early Life and Education

Ricky Gill is a US citizen of Indian origin, born in Lodi, New Jersey, to parents Jasbir and Param Gill. He pursued a bachelor’s degree from the Woodrow Wilson School of Public and International Affairs at Princeton Universityand went on to earn a law degree from the University of California, Berkeley.

Career Highlights

• NSC Roles: Gill previously served on Trump’s National Security Council during his first term as Director for Russia and European Energy Security, where he focused on strategic energy and security issues related to Europe and Russia.
• State Department: He has also served as Senior Advisor at the US State Department’s Bureau of Overseas Buildings Operations, which oversees US diplomatic infrastructure abroad.
• Current Role: As Senior Director for South and Central Asia, Gill is responsible for coordinating US policy across India, Pakistan, Afghanistan, and surrounding countries, engaging with diplomatic, military, and economic stakeholders.

Recognition

The Distinguished Action Award is given to individuals who have demonstrated exceptional leadership and impact in national security matters. Gill’s recognition comes in the context of the Trump administration’s claims of contributing to India-Pakistan ceasefire efforts, which have been disputed by New Delhi.

Background

Ricky Gill’s career reflects a blend of policy expertise, legal knowledge, and strategic diplomacy, making him a key figure in the Trump administration’s South and Central Asia agenda. His Indian roots and US upbringing have positioned him uniquely in shaping the US approach toward the region.

Gill’s award highlights his role in handling sensitive diplomatic and security issues, though the actual outcomes on India-Pakistan relations remain contested.