Nivedita Kukreti Kumar, IPS, is a distinguished officer of the Indian Police Service (IPS), renowned for her exemplary contributions to law enforcement, internal security, and public service in India. A 2008-batch IPS officer of the Uttarakhand cadre, she has carved a niche for herself through her dedication, leadership, and commitment to maintaining law and order. Known for her historic achievements, such as being the first woman IPS officer to lead the Uttarakhand Foundation Day Parade, Nivedita has become an inspiration for aspiring civil servants and women in uniform across the country.
Early Life and Education
Nivedita Kukreti Kumar was born in a family that valued education and discipline, which played a pivotal role in shaping her career aspirations. She pursued her schooling at the prestigious Mayo College Girls’ School in Ajmer, Rajasthan, where she joined in 1988 and graduated in 1997. During her time at Mayo, Nivedita excelled academically, passing the Indian School Certificate (ISC) examination with distinction. Her academic brilliance and disciplined upbringing laid a strong foundation for her future endeavors.
After completing her schooling, Nivedita pursued higher education at Indraprastha College for Women, Delhi University, where she graduated with a Bachelor’s degree in History (Honors). Her passion for history led her to further her studies at Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU), one of India’s premier institutions. At JNU, she earned both her Master’s (MA) and Master of Philosophy (MPhil) degrees in Indian Medieval History. Her academic journey reflects her intellectual rigor and curiosity, qualities that later translated into her professional excellence as an IPS officer.
Journey to Becoming an IPS Officer
Nivedita Kukreti Kumar’s entry into the Indian Police Service was a testament to her determination and hard work. The IPS is one of the three All India Services, alongside the Indian Administrative Service (IAS) and Indian Forest Service (IFS), and is known for its rigorous selection process through the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) examination. Nivedita cleared the highly competitive UPSC Civil Services Examination and joined the IPS in 2008, becoming part of the Uttarakhand cadre. Her selection into the IPS marked the beginning of a career dedicated to public service, internal security, and crime prevention.
The Indian Police Service is often described as one of the pillars of India’s administrative framework, responsible for maintaining law and order, ensuring internal security, and preventing crime. Nivedita embraced these responsibilities with a sense of purpose, driven by a desire to serve the nation and uphold justice. Her academic background in history provided her with a unique perspective on societal dynamics, which she applied effectively in her policing roles.
Career Highlights and Achievements
Nivedita Kukreti Kumar’s career in the IPS has been marked by significant postings, groundbreaking achievements, and a steadfast commitment to public safety. Below are some of her key milestones:
1. Assistant Inspector General (AIG), Provisioning and Maintenance
Before her prominent roles in Dehradun, Nivedita served as the Assistant Inspector General (AIG) of Provisioning and Maintenance at the Uttarakhand Police Headquarters. This role involved overseeing critical logistical and administrative functions, ensuring the smooth operation of police forces in the state. Her tenure as AIG showcased her organizational skills and ability to manage complex operations.
2. Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP), Dehradun
In May 2017, Nivedita was appointed as the Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) for Dehradun, a significant posting given the city’s importance as the capital of Uttarakhand. She took charge on May 16, 2017, replacing SSP Sweety Agarwal. During her tenure, she focused on improving law enforcement, addressing traffic issues, and enhancing public safety in the city. Her two-year tenure as SSP was widely praised, earning her the moniker “Lady Singham” for her proactive approach to tackling crime and maintaining order.
3. Historic Leadership in Uttarakhand Foundation Day Parade
On November 9, 2017, Nivedita scripted history by becoming the first woman IPS officer to lead the Uttarakhand Foundation Day Parade at the Police Lines ground in Dehradun. As SSP Dehradun, she commanded a contingent of 10 platoons, including components of the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), fire services, City Patrol Unit (CPU), and dog squads. This milestone was a proud moment not only for Nivedita but also for women in the Indian Police Service, symbolizing discipline, leadership, and gender equality in uniformed services. She described leading the parade as a matter of great pride, emphasizing the pivotal role of parades in showcasing discipline and readiness.
4. Promotion to Deputy Inspector General (DIG), Intelligence
In recognition of her exemplary service, Nivedita was promoted to the rank of Deputy Inspector General (DIG) of Intelligence, Uttarakhand Police. This promotion, announced by her alma mater, Mayo College Girls’ School, highlighted her continued rise in the ranks of the IPS. As DIG Intelligence, she played a crucial role in strengthening the state’s intelligence framework, a vital component of internal security.
5. SSP, Karmik PHQ, Uttarakhand
In December 2021, Nivedita was transferred and posted as SSP, Karmik (Personnel) at the Police Headquarters in Uttarakhand. This role involved managing human resources within the police force, including recruitment, training, and welfare of personnel. Her appointment to this position underscored her versatility and ability to handle diverse responsibilities within the police service.
6. Additional Secretary, Home Department
As of February 2025, Nivedita serves as the Additional Secretary in the Home Department of the Uttarakhand government. In this capacity, she has been involved in significant policy decisions, including the implementation of the Uniform Civil Code (UCC) in Uttarakhand. She has emphasized the confidentiality of personal information under the UCC, ensuring that sensitive details such as names, addresses, and Aadhaar numbers are not disclosed publicly. Her role in this initiative highlights her commitment to governance and public trust.
Personal Life
While Nivedita Kukreti Kumar’s professional life is well-documented, she maintains a private personal life. There is limited publicly available information about her family, marital status, or personal interests, as she prefers to keep these aspects out of the public eye. Her focus remains on her professional responsibilities, and her public persona is defined by her dedication to duty and service. As an officer, she embodies the values of discipline, integrity, and leadership, which have earned her respect among colleagues and the public alike.
Contributions to Society and Women Empowerment
Nivedita’s career is a testament to her role as a trailblazer for women in the Indian Police Service. Her historic leadership of the Uttarakhand Foundation Day Parade in 2017 broke gender barriers in a traditionally male-dominated domain. Her achievements inspire countless women to pursue careers in civil services and uniformed forces, demonstrating that determination and competence can overcome societal stereotypes.
Her tenure as SSP Dehradun was particularly notable for her efforts to address crime and improve public safety. She earned the title “Lady Singham” for her bold and proactive approach, which resonated with the public and media alike. Her work in intelligence and personnel management further showcases her multifaceted contributions to the police force and governance.
Nivedita’s role in the implementation of the Uniform Civil Code in Uttarakhand highlights her commitment to transparent and ethical governance. By prioritizing the confidentiality of personal information, she has helped build public trust in the state’s administrative processes.
Challenges and Controversies
As with any high-profile career in public service, Nivedita Kukreti Kumar’s journey has not been without challenges. The role of an IPS officer involves navigating complex societal issues, managing public expectations, and operating under intense scrutiny. However, Nivedita has consistently maintained a professional demeanor, addressing challenges with resilience and integrity. There are no publicly documented controversies associated with her career, reflecting her ability to uphold the values of the IPS.
Legacy and Impact
Nivedita Kukreti Kumar’s legacy is one of excellence, leadership, and empowerment. As a 2008-batch IPS officer, she has risen through the ranks to hold significant positions in the Uttarakhand Police and Home Department. Her historic achievements, such as leading the Uttarakhand Foundation Day Parade, have set a precedent for women in law enforcement. Her academic background, coupled with her professional accomplishments, makes her a role model for aspiring civil servants.
Her contributions to internal security, crime prevention, and governance have had a lasting impact on Uttarakhand. By balancing administrative responsibilities with fieldwork, she has demonstrated the versatility and dedication required of an IPS officer. Her work in ensuring the confidentiality of UCC registrations further underscores her commitment to ethical governance.
FAQs About Nivedita Kukreti Kumar, IPS
1. Who is Nivedita Kukreti Kumar?
Nivedita Kukreti Kumar is a 2008-batch IPS officer of the Uttarakhand cadre, currently serving as Additional Secretary in the Home Department. She is known for being the first woman IPS officer to lead the Uttarakhand Foundation Day Parade in 2017.
2. What is Nivedita Kukreti’s educational background?
She completed her schooling at Mayo College Girls’ School, Ajmer, and graduated with a History (Honors) degree from Indraprastha College, Delhi University. She also holds an MA and MPhil in Indian Medieval History from JNU.
3. What are some of Nivedita Kukreti’s notable achievements?
Nivedita made history as the first woman to lead the Uttarakhand Foundation Day Parade in 2017. She has served as SSP Dehradun, DIG Intelligence, and SSP Karmik PHQ, and is currently Additional Secretary in the Home Department.
4. What is the significance of Nivedita Kukreti’s role in the Uniform Civil Code?
As Additional Secretary, Home Department, Nivedita has emphasized the confidentiality of personal information under the UCC, ensuring that sensitive details are not disclosed publicly, thereby building public trust.
5. Why is Nivedita Kukreti called “Lady Singham”?
She earned the nickname “Lady Singham” during her tenure as SSP Dehradun due to her bold and proactive approach to tackling crime and maintaining law and order.
Conclusion
Nivedita Kukreti Kumar, IPS, stands as a beacon of inspiration in the Indian Police Service. Her journey from a distinguished student at Mayo College and JNU to a trailblazing IPS officer reflects her unwavering commitment to public service. Through her leadership, historic milestones, and dedication to governance, she has left an indelible mark on Uttarakhand’s police force and administration. As she continues to serve in high-profile roles, Nivedita remains a symbol of empowerment, discipline, and excellence for future generations of civil servants and women in uniform.
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