The Research and Analysis Wing (abbreviated R&AW; Hindi: अनुसंधान और विश्लेषण विंग) is the foreign intelligence agency of India. The agency's primary function is gathering foreign intelligence, counter-terrorism, counter-proliferation, advising Indian policymakers, and advancing India's foreign strategic interests.[3][4] It is also involved in the security of India's nuclear programme.[5][4] During the nine-year tenure of its first Secretary, Rameshwar Nath Kao, R&AW quickly came to prominence in the global intelligence community, playing a role in major events such as accession of the state of Sikkim to India in 1975.[6] Headquartered in New Delhi, R&AW's current chief is Ravi Sinha.[7][8] He succeeded Samant Goel. The head of R&AW is designated as the Secretary (Research) in the Cabinet Secretariat, and is under the authority of the Prime Minister of India without parliamentary oversight. On an administrative basis, the Director reports to the Cabinet Secretary, who reports to the Prime Minister.