Pragya Richa Shrivastava is a name synonymous with dedication, resilience, and excellence in the Indian Police Service (IPS). As a 1991-batch IPS officer of the Madhya Pradesh cadre, she has carved a remarkable path in a male-dominated profession, earning accolades for her distinguished service and contributions to law enforcement and social welfare. From her humble beginnings in Bihar to her current role as a senior police official, Pragya Richa Shrivastava’s biography is an inspiring tale of determination and public service.
Early Life and Education of Pragya Richa Shrivastava
Pragya Richa Shrivastava was born and raised in Muzaffarpur, Bihar, a city known for its rich cultural heritage. Her father, Ripusudan Prasad Srivastava, is a widely respected figure in the region, though little is publicly known about her mother or siblings. Growing up in a supportive family environment, Pragya developed a strong foundation that would later propel her toward a career in civil services.
Her educational journey began at Loreto Convent School, where she excelled academically and imbibed values of discipline and perseverance. After completing her schooling, she moved to Delhi to pursue higher education at the prestigious Delhi University. There, she earned a Bachelor’s degree followed by a Master’s degree in History, showcasing her intellectual prowess and curiosity about the past—qualities that would later influence her approach to policing and governance.
Interestingly, Pragya had no initial plans to join the civil services. Her decision to pursue a career as an IPS officer stemmed from a chance encounter with a police officer who challenged her to step into his shoes and make a difference. This pivotal moment ignited her resolve to serve the nation, leading her to prepare for the highly competitive UPSC Civil Services Examination.
Journey to Becoming an IPS Officer
The UPSC Civil Services Examination is one of the toughest competitive exams in India, and cracking it requires exceptional dedication. Pragya Richa Shrivastava rose to the challenge, clearing the exam with flying colors in 1990. In her Detailed Application Form (DAF) for the UPSC Mains, she listed IPS as her first-choice service—a bold decision at a time when the Indian Foreign Service (IFS) or Indian Administrative Service (IAS) were often preferred by top candidates. Her first choice of cadre was Bihar, reflecting her desire to serve her home state, but she was allotted the Madhya Pradesh cadre instead.
Joining the IPS in 1991, Pragya embarked on a career that would see her tackle some of the most challenging assignments in policing. Her early years were marked by rigorous training and postings that tested her mettle, laying the groundwork for her future success.
Career Highlights of Pragya Richa Shrivastava IPS
Pragya Richa Shrivastava’s career in the IPS spans over three decades, during which she has held various significant positions in Madhya Pradesh and beyond. Her journey reflects a blend of fieldwork, administrative roles, and contributions to public welfare. Here’s a closer look at her notable postings and achievements:
Early Postings in Madhya Pradesh
Pragya began her career with hands-on roles in Madhya Pradesh. She served as Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP) in Jabalpur and Additional Superintendent of Police (Addl. SP) in Chhindwara, where she gained valuable experience in maintaining law and order. Her tenure as Superintendent of Police (SP) in districts like Seoni and Hoshangabad further solidified her reputation as a capable and fearless officer. These early assignments exposed her to the complexities of policing in diverse terrains, from urban centers to rural areas.
Leadership Roles and Special Assignments
As she rose through the ranks, Pragya took on leadership roles that showcased her administrative acumen. One of her standout assignments was as Joint Commissioner of the Kendriya Vidyalaya Sangathan (KVS), a premier educational organization under the Government of India. Her appointment as a female IPS officer to this role initially raised eyebrows, but she silenced skeptics with her effective management and commitment to improving educational standards.
In 2018, Pragya was appointed Officer on Special Duty (OSD) in the Chief Minister’s Secretariat under Kamal Nath, the then-Chief Minister of Madhya Pradesh. This high-profile role underscored her proximity to political leadership and her ability to handle sensitive responsibilities. She also served as Additional Director General of Police (ADG) for the Anusuchit Janjati Kalyan (SC/ST Welfare) Department, where she worked tirelessly to address issues affecting marginalized communities.
Promotion to Director General Rank
In a testament to her exemplary service, Pragya Richa Shrivastava was promoted to the rank of Director General (DG) in Madhya Pradesh, a milestone achieved in early 2025. she has been appointed as the Director General (DG) of the Home Guard in Madhya Pradesh. Recently, this significant leadership role was assigned ahead of a major women’s empowerment congregation held on May 31, 2025, in Bhopal.
Awards and Recognition
Pragya Richa Shrivastava’s dedication has not gone unnoticed. In 2012, she was honored with the prestigious President’s Police Medal for Distinguished Service, an award that recognizes exceptional contributions to law enforcement. This accolade, proposed during the UPA-II government under Kamal Nath’s influence, highlighted her outstanding work in Madhya Pradesh.
Her ability to balance fieldwork with administrative excellence has earned her respect among peers and the public alike. Whether tackling crime, improving police welfare, or advocating for gender sensitization, Pragya’s efforts have left a lasting impact.
Personal Life: Husband and Family
Pragya Richa Shrivastava is married to Manu Srivastava, a 1991-batch IAS officer of the Madhya Pradesh cadre. This power couple exemplifies synergy in public service, with both excelling in their respective domains. While Manu has made significant contributions as a senior IAS officer, Pragya has carved her own niche in the IPS. Details about their children, if any, remain private, as the couple maintains a low profile regarding their personal life.
Her father, Ripusudan Prasad Srivastava, remains a guiding influence, and her roots in Muzaffarpur continue to shape her grounded personality. Despite her high-profile career, Pragya is known for her humility and commitment to her family values.
Challenges and Controversies
No illustrious career is without its challenges, and Pragya Richa Shrivastava’s journey is no exception. In 2019, she faced a legal controversy when a case was registered against her and her husband in Allahabad, Uttar Pradesh, over a property dispute. The complainant, an advocate named Ashok Pandey, alleged that the couple threatened him, leading to a court-directed investigation. While the matter garnered attention, it did not derail her career, and she continued to serve with distinction.
Additionally, Pragya has occasionally been assigned “shunting posts”—less desirable roles—due to differences with political leadership. However, her resilience and professionalism have always seen her bounce back stronger.
Contributions to Society
Beyond policing, Pragya Richa Shrivastava has made significant contributions to social welfare, particularly in the areas of SC/ST welfare and gender sensitization. As ADG of the SC/ST Welfare Department, she focused on protecting the rights of marginalized communities, ensuring justice and equity. Her tenure as OSD to the Chief Minister also involved initiatives to enhance governance and public safety in Madhya Pradesh.
Her work with Kendriya Vidyalaya Sangathan highlighted her commitment to education, proving that her influence extends beyond traditional policing roles. Pragya’s emphasis on gender sensitization within the police force has Inspired countless women to pursue careers in law enforcement.
Why Pragya Richa Shrivastava Inspires
Pragya Richa Shrivastava’s biography is a testament to what determination and hard work can achieve. From a small-town girl in Bihar to a senior IPS officer in Madhya Pradesh, her journey resonates with aspiring civil servants, especially women. Her ability to break barriers, earn accolades, and serve with integrity makes her a role model for the next generation.
Pragya continues to shape the future of policing in Madhya Pradesh, embodying the spirit of service that defines the IPS. Her story is not just about personal success but about the broader impact one individual can have on society.
Conclusion
Pragya Richa Shrivastava IPS is more than just a police officer—she is a symbol of resilience, leadership, and public service. Her career, spanning over 30 years, reflects her unwavering commitment to justice and welfare. From her early days in Muzaffarpur to her promotion to DG rank, Pragya’s life is a compelling narrative of triumph over challenges. For those searching for “Pragya Richa Shrivastava IPS biography” or “Madhya Pradesh IPS officers,” her story offers inspiration and insight into the life of a trailblazing woman in uniform.
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