1996-Batch IPS Officer Brings Frontline Anti-Terror Experience to Border Security Leadership
The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has appointed senior IPS officer Mukesh Singh (IPS:1996:AGMUT) as Additional Director General (ADG) in the Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP). The appointment was confirmed through an official order issued on Thursday.
Singh will serve a five-year tenure, effective from the date of assuming charge and continuing until October 17, 2028, or until further orders, whichever is earlier.
From IG to ADG: A Strategic Promotion
Mukesh Singh had been serving as Inspector General (IG) of ITBP since October 17, 2023, following his deputation in September 2023. His elevation to ADG is seen as a major development in the force’s leadership structure, particularly at a time when the ITBP is playing an increasingly critical role in both border security and internal operations.
Decorated Career in Counter-Terrorism
An officer of the 1996 AGMUT cadre, Mukesh Singh brings extensive operational experience, particularly in counterterrorism in Jammu & Kashmir.
As Superintendent of Police in some of the most volatile districts — Reasi, Pulwama, Poonch, and Jammu — during the peak of militancy, Singh was at the frontlines of high-stakes anti-terror campaigns. He is widely respected for leading operations with precision, tactical skill, and exceptional courage.
For his exemplary service, he has been honored with multiple gallantry awards for contributions in high-risk operations.
Founding Member of the NIA
Singh was also part of the founding team of the National Investigation Agency (NIA), India’s premier counterterrorism body. During his tenure, he held key leadership positions as SP, DIG, and IG, handling some of the most sensitive and high-profile terror cases. His work at the NIA further established him as a strategic investigator and policy influencer in India’s counterterror framework.
Academic Excellence and Literary Contributions
A civil engineering graduate from IIT Delhi, Singh joined the Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel National Police Academy (SVPNPA) after clearing the UPSC Civil Services Examination. He completed his training on September 4, 1996, and was inducted into the AGMUT cadre.
Beyond his policing career, Singh is also an author and researcher, contributing significantly to police literature and training resources. His works include:
Co-author of the book Police Operations
Research publications such as:
Investigation of Encounter Killings (2016)
Police Operations (2015)
Conducting an Anti-Terrorist Operation (2014)
These writings continue to serve as reference material for law enforcement training and operational policy.
Current Role and Future Outlook
Presently serving as Additional Director General of Police (ADGP) in Jammu Province, Singh has been instrumental in maintaining law and order and leading counter-terror initiatives.
His transition to the ITBP as ADG is expected to further strengthen the paramilitary force with his field-tested expertise, leadership acumen, and investigative depth — crucial for ITBP’s missions in border management, counterinsurgency, and national security.
