Sankalp Sharma, an Indian Police Service (IPS) officer of the 2012 batch, is a name synonymous with courage, determination, and an unwavering commitment to justice. Currently serving as the Superintendent of Police (SP) in Lakhimpur Kheri, Uttar Pradesh (as of January 2025), Sankalp has earned a reputation as a dynamic and fearless leader in the Indian police force. From his humble beginnings in Jaipur, Rajasthan, to cracking the prestigious UPSC Civil Services Examination after multiple attempts, his journey is a testament to perseverance and hard work. This detailed biography explores Sankalp Sharma’s life, education, career milestones, personal life, and the qualities that make him a standout IPS officer today.
Early Life and Education: The Foundation of a Dream
Born on July 16, 1986, in Jaipur, Rajasthan, Sankalp Sharma grew up in a family that valued education and discipline. His father, Chunnalal Sharma, was an engineer posted in Sikar, where Sankalp spent his early years. From a young age, he exhibited a keen interest in academics and a strong sense of purpose. His formative years in Sikar laid the groundwork for his ambition to serve the nation, an aspiration that would later define his career.
Sankalp completed his schooling in Jaipur after his family relocated there. Known for his academic prowess, he excelled in his studies and developed a passion for problem-solving. This led him to pursue higher education at one of India’s most prestigious institutions—the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Roorkee. At IIT Roorkee, he earned a B.Tech and an M.Tech in Chemical Engineering, showcasing his intellectual rigor and dedication. Despite securing a lucrative job offer from a leading IT company after graduation, Sankalp chose a different path—one driven by a desire to contribute to society through public service.
The UPSC Journey: Triumph Over Setbacks
Sankalp Sharma’s path to becoming an IPS officer was not without challenges. The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) Civil Services Examination, one of the toughest competitive exams in India, tested his resilience. In 2009, his first attempt at the UPSC exam ended in disappointment. Rather than succumbing to despair, Sankalp treated it as a learning opportunity, analyzing his shortcomings and refining his approach.
His second attempt in 2010 also fell short, but this setback only fueled his determination. Through introspection and strategic preparation, he identified key areas for improvement. In 2011, his perseverance paid off when he cleared the UPSC exam with an All India Rank (AIR) of 211. This remarkable achievement marked the beginning of his journey as an IPS officer, with his training completed in 2012. Sankalp’s story of overcoming repeated failures resonates with countless UPSC aspirants, making him an inspiring figure for those pursuing their dreams in civil services.
Early Career: Establishing a Reputation for Justice
After completing his training at the Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel National Police Academy in Hyderabad, Sankalp Sharma was assigned to the Uttar Pradesh cadre. His early postings laid the foundation for his reputation as a no-nonsense officer committed to upholding the law. One of his first significant assignments was in Meerut Cantt, where he tackled a complex murder case involving a young woman and her lover. His swift investigation and decisive action brought the perpetrators to justice, earning him early recognition within the force.
Sankalp’s career trajectory saw him take on challenging roles across Uttar Pradesh, including districts like Noida, Azamgarh, and Basti. His ability to handle sensitive cases and maintain law and order in high-pressure environments set him apart. However, it was his tenure as SP in Badaun that truly showcased his dedication to accountability and victim rights.
The Badaun Rape Case: A Defining Moment
In 2021, while serving as SP Badaun, Sankalp Sharma faced a high-profile case that thrust him into the national spotlight. A middle-aged woman was raped and murdered, and the incident sparked outrage due to the district’s history of sensitivity around such crimes. Upon arriving at the scene, Sankalp discovered that the local police had delayed registering the First Information Report (FIR) for over 17 hours—a grave lapse in duty. Without hesitation, he suspended the negligent Station House Officer (SHO), sending a clear message about accountability within the police force.
His swift response not only ensured justice for the victim’s family but also restored public faith in the system. The Badaun case highlighted Sankalp’s zero-tolerance policy toward negligence and his commitment to protecting the vulnerable, cementing his image as a principled officer.
Viral Fame: The Deoria Bharat Bandh Incident
Sankalp Sharma’s physical agility and fearless demeanor gained widespread attention in August 2023 during his tenure as SP Deoria. Amid the Bharat Bandh protests, a video of him sprinting across a road, leaping over a divider, and confronting a riotous mob went viral on social media. The footage captured him single-handedly dispersing the crowd, which had been forcibly shutting down shops and creating unrest. His cheetah-like speed and commanding presence left netizens in awe, with many dubbing him the “Singham of Deoria.”
This incident not only showcased his physical fitness—a rarity among officers—but also underscored his hands-on approach to maintaining law and order. The viral video amplified his public persona, making Sankalp Sharma a household name and a symbol of proactive policing.
Current Role: SP Lakhimpur Kheri
In January 2025, Sankalp Sharma was appointed as the SP of Lakhimpur Kheri, replacing IPS Ganesh Saha. This transfer came as part of a broader reshuffle of IPS officers in Uttar Pradesh, reflecting the state government’s focus on strengthening law enforcement. Lakhimpur Kheri, a district with its share of socio-political complexities, is yet another proving ground for Sankalp’s leadership. Known for his dabbang (bold) style, he is expected to tackle the district’s challenges with the same vigor and integrity that have defined his career thus far.
Personal Life: A Power Couple in the IPS
Sankalp Sharma’s personal life adds another layer of inspiration to his story. He is married to Shalini Agnihotri, a fellow IPS officer of the Himachal Pradesh cadre from the 2012 batch. The couple met during their training at the National Police Academy, where a friendship blossomed into love over seven years. Their shared journey through the rigors of UPSC preparation and police training forged a deep bond, culminating in marriage.
Shalini, the daughter of a bus conductor from Kullu, Himachal Pradesh, has her own remarkable story of rising from humble beginnings to become an IPS officer. Together, Sankalp and Shalini represent a power couple in the Indian police force, balancing their demanding careers with mutual support and admiration. Their love story, often highlighted in media narratives, inspires young couples aspiring to serve the nation.
Leadership Style and Philosophy
Sankalp Sharma’s leadership is characterized by quick decision-making, a strong sense of duty, and a people-centric approach. Whether solving murder cases, suspending negligent officers, or chasing down rioters, he leads by example. His emphasis on accountability within the police force and his proactive stance on crime prevention reflect a modern policing philosophy rooted in justice and public welfare.
His IIT background also sets him apart, bringing an analytical mindset to his work. Sankalp’s ability to strategize and adapt has been key to his success in handling complex law enforcement challenges. Aspirants and peers alike admire his resilience, fitness, and dedication—qualities that make him a role model in the IPS fraternity.
Achievements and Legacy
At 38 years old (as of February 2025), Sankalp Sharma has already left an indelible mark on the Indian Police Service. From cracking tough cases to managing riots with agility, his career is a blend of intellectual rigor and physical courage. His journey from an IIT graduate to a celebrated IPS officer inspires countless young Indians to pursue civil services despite obstacles.
As he continues to serve in Lakhimpur Kheri, Sankalp’s legacy is still unfolding. His story is not just about personal triumph but also about the transformative power of determination and service. For UPSC aspirants searching for motivation, police officers seeking a role model, or citizens admiring fearless leadership, Sankalp Sharma’s biography offers a compelling narrative of grit and glory.
Conclusion
Sankalp Sharma, IPS, is more than just a police officer—he is a symbol of resilience, justice, and public service. From his roots in Jaipur to his current role in Lakhimpur Kheri, his journey reflects the essence of the Indian dream: hard work can overcome any challenge. With his wife Shalini by his side and a career marked by impactful actions, Sankalp continues to inspire a generation. As his story evolves, one thing remains clear—IPS Sankalp Sharma is a name that will resonate in India’s policing history for years to come.
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