Uttar Pradesh Govt Elevates IPS DK Thakur to Director General Rank: A Career Defined by Integrity, Courage, and Public Service
The Yogi Adityanath-led Uttar Pradesh government has promoted Dhruv Kant Thakur (IPS: 1994 batch) to the prestigious rank of Director General (DG) in the state police. The promotion follows the retirement of Abhay Prasad, who previously held the post of DG (Rules and Manuals).
Promotion Order Cleared and Made Effective from November 1
The official order, issued by the Home Department and signed by Secretary Atal Kumar Rai on October 31, confirms that Thakur’s elevation will take effect from November 1, 2025—the day he assumes charge.
The officer has been placed in the Pay Matrix Level-16 (₹2,05,400–₹2,24,400).
A separate notification regarding his new posting will be released shortly, according to senior officials.
A Distinguished Service Record Spanning Three Decades
Regarded as one of the most upright and fearless officers in the Uttar Pradesh Police, DK Thakur has served in a range of critical leadership positions across the state and at the central level.
His past roles include SP/SSP in 10 districts, SSP & DIG Lucknow, ADG ATS, ADG Dial-112, ADG Meerut Zone, and Lucknow Police Commissioner.
He has also been deputed to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), where his professionalism and investigative insight were widely acknowledged.
Thakur’s commitment to policing excellence earned him the Police Medal for Meritorious Service.
Effective Leadership in Crime Control and Public Safety
During his 20-month tenure as Lucknow Police Commissioner, Thakur was lauded for his efficient handling of law and order, particularly during the second wave of COVID-19, when the police under his command played a vital humanitarian role.
Several high-profile cases were cracked under his leadership, including:
The murders of gangsters Ajit Singh (2021) and Virendra Thakur (2022).
The 2010–11 double murder of NRHM-linked medical officers in Lucknow.
The 2018 Bareilly lawyer murder case.
His operational decisiveness and fairness earned him deep respect both within the force and among the public.
Administrative Reforms and Infrastructure Development
As Lucknow Police Commissioner, Thakur strengthened the policing framework by establishing six new police stations — PGI, Gautampalli, Jankipuram, Para, Vibhuti Khand, and Indiranagar.
He also upgraded the Anti-Human Trafficking Unit into a full-fledged police station, ensuring improved response and victim support mechanisms.
Early Life and Background
Born on January 1, 1970, in Madhepura, Bihar, DK Thakur holds a Master’s degree in Culture and received his early education through the Gurukul system.
He is admired for blending traditional values with modern policing techniques — a balance that defines his leadership style.
Over his extensive field career, he has commanded districts such as Gonda, Hardoi, Varanasi, Sultanpur, Baghpat, Chandauli, Kanpur Dehat, Ambedkar Nagar, Unnao, and Lucknow, earning a reputation as a tough but people-oriented officer.
A Symbol of Public-Centric and Ethical Policing
DK Thakur is widely regarded as an embodiment of discipline, fairness, and integrity within the police service.
His promotion to the Director General rank stands as recognition of his consistent dedication, outstanding record in crime control, and steadfast commitment to law, justice, and community trust in Uttar Pradesh.
