Sukirti Madhav Mishra, a 2015-batch Indian Police Service (IPS) officer, is a name that resonates with courage, dedication, and creativity. Hailing from a humble background in Bihar, Sukirti rose to prominence not only through his stellar career in law enforcement but also through his poetic expressions, most notably his viral poem "Main Khaki Hoon" (I Am Khaki). As an IPS officer in Uttar Pradesh, he has earned a reputation for his tough stance against crime, compassionate community service, and an inspiring journey that motivates countless UPSC aspirants.
Early Life and Background
Sukirti Madhav Mishra was born in Malaypur village, located in the Jamui district of Bihar, India. Raised in a modest family, his father was a government school teacher who instilled in him the values of education, discipline, and service to society. Growing up in a rural setting, Sukirti witnessed the challenges faced by common people firsthand, which later shaped his decision to serve the nation as a civil servant. His mother, a homemaker, and his family provided unwavering support throughout his journey, despite financial constraints during his early years.
From a young age, Sukirti was inspired by the sight of IAS and IPS officers visiting his village. Their authority and ability to impact lives left a lasting impression on him. He often recalls how his father encouraged him to pursue a career that would allow him to work closely with the public and address their grievances—a dream that eventually led him to the Indian Police Service.
Education: A Hindi Medium Success Story
Sukirti Madhav’s educational journey is a testament to the fact that determination and hard work can overcome any barrier, including the perceived necessity of an English-medium education for cracking the UPSC exam. He completed his schooling up to the 10th grade in a government school in his village, studying in Hindi medium. For his 11th and 12th grades, he moved to Jamui town, continuing his education in Hindi.
After completing his schooling, Sukirti pursued a Bachelor’s degree in Mining Engineering from the Indian Institute of Technology (BHU), Varanasi—one of India’s premier institutions. This marked a significant shift from his rural roots to a competitive academic environment. Despite the transition to an English-medium curriculum at IIT, his Hindi-medium foundation did not hinder his success. His academic excellence and technical skills earned him a lucrative job offer, but his heart was set on a greater purpose.
From a High-Paying Job to Civil Services
After graduating from IIT (BHU), Sukirti Madhav secured a job at Coal India Limited as a manager, with an impressive annual salary of Rs. 15 lakh—an enviable package for any young professional. For two years, he worked diligently, balancing a demanding job with a comfortable lifestyle. However, the monotony of corporate life and his parents’ encouragement to serve the public prompted him to reconsider his path.
In 2012, inspired by his father’s advice to “serve the common man,” Sukirti began preparing for the UPSC Civil Services Examination while still employed. He adopted a disciplined routine—working at Coal India during the day and studying late into the night. His perseverance paid off in 2014 when he cleared the UPSC exam on his first attempt, securing a rank that earned him a position in the Indian Revenue Service (IRS). While this was a remarkable achievement, Sukirti’s ultimate goal was to join the IPS—a service he believed would allow him to connect directly with people and uphold justice.
Undeterred, he appeared for the UPSC exam again in 2015. His hard work culminated in an All India Rank of 200, securing his entry into the Indian Police Service. Sukirti’s journey from a Rs. 15 lakh job to the khaki uniform is a powerful narrative of sacrifice, ambition, and commitment to public service.
IPS Career: Rising Through the Ranks
Sukirti Madhav Mishra joined the IPS in 2015 and was allotted the Uttar Pradesh cadre—one of India’s most challenging policing environments due to its vast population and complex law-and-order issues. His first posting came on January 1, 2018, as the City Circle Officer (CO) III in Allahabad (now Prayagraj), marking the beginning of a promising career.
Over the years, Sukirti has served in various capacities across Uttar Pradesh, demonstrating exceptional leadership and enforcement skills. Some key postings include:
- Additional Superintendent of Police (ASP), Lucknow: His tenure in the state capital showcased his ability to manage urban policing challenges.
- Superintendent of Police (SP), Security, Varanasi: Appointed in November 2019, he ensured robust security arrangements in this culturally significant city.
- Superintendent of Police (SP), Shamli: One of his most notable stints, where he tackled organized crime head-on.
As SP Shamli, Sukirti gained widespread recognition for his tough stance against gangsters. Within 30 days of his posting, 22 gangsters surrendered to the police, fearing his reputation. These criminals vowed to abandon crime and lead normal lives—a testament to his ability to instill deterrence while offering a chance for reform. His approach blends strict enforcement with community engagement, earning him praise from both the public and his peers.
"Main Khaki Hoon": The Poem That Touched Millions
Beyond his policing duties, Sukirti Madhav Mishra is celebrated for his literary talent, particularly his Hindi poem "Main Khaki Hoon." Written during the COVID-19 lockdown in 2020, the poem reflects the struggles, sacrifices, and resilience of police personnel serving on the frontlines. Lines like “Main khaki hoon, desh ka rakshak hoon” (I am khaki, the protector of the nation) resonate deeply, capturing the essence of the police force’s unwavering duty.
The poem went viral on social media, earning accolades from citizens, fellow officers, and even Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who referenced it during an event. Sukirti’s ability to articulate the “pain of khaki” through poetry humanized the police force, bridging the gap between law enforcers and the public. Today, "Main Khaki Hoon" remains an anthem of pride for police personnel across India.
Contributions During the COVID-19 Pandemic
Sukirti’s leadership shone brightly during the COVID-19 crisis. As a frontline officer, he worked tirelessly to enforce lockdowns, assist stranded migrants, and ensure public safety. His initiatives included distributing food and essentials to the needy, earning him the title of a “messiah” in times of distress. His compassionate actions, combined with his poetic expression, made him a symbol of hope and resilience.
Personal Life and Values
While Sukirti Madhav Mishra keeps his personal life private, he often credits his family for his success. His father’s guidance and his mother’s sacrifices remain the cornerstone of his journey. Despite his demanding career, he stays connected to his roots in Bihar, reflecting a grounded personality. His hobbies include writing poetry and engaging with social issues—a reflection of his multifaceted character.
Achievements and Legacy
Sukirti Madhav’s achievements extend beyond his professional milestones. Key highlights include:
- Crime Control: His record of compelling gangsters to surrender in Shamli.
- Literary Impact: Elevating the morale of the police force through "Main Khaki Hoon."
- Inspiration for Aspirants: A role model for Hindi-medium students and those from humble backgrounds aiming for UPSC success.
His legacy lies in his ability to blend authority with empathy, making him a standout officer in the Uttar Pradesh Police.
Why Sukirti Madhav Inspires UPSC Aspirants
Sukirti’s story is a beacon of hope for UPSC aspirants. His journey debunks myths about the necessity of coaching or an English-medium education for success. He prepared without formal coaching, relying on self-study and online resources—a strategy that resonates with many candidates. His transition from a high-paying job to civil services underscores the value of purpose over material gain, inspiring countless youths to pursue their dreams.
Conclusion
Sukirti Madhav Mishra is more than an IPS officer—he is a poet, a leader, and a symbol of perseverance. From his rural upbringing in Bihar to his impactful tenure in Uttar Pradesh, his life embodies the spirit of service and sacrifice. Whether through his fearless policing or his soul-stirring poetry, Sukirti continues to leave an indelible mark on society.
Comments
Post a Comment