Recognised for Counter-Terror and Insurgency Expertise in High-Risk Zones
In a significant move underscoring its emphasis on experienced field leadership, the Government of India has empanelled three senior Indian Police Service (IPS) officers from the former Jammu and Kashmir cadre for appointment at the Additional Director General of Police (ADGP) or equivalent level.
The officers—Mukesh Singh (1996 batch), Viplav Kumar Choudhary, and Vijay Kumar (both 1997 batch)—are among the 38 IPS officers approved by the Appointments Committee of the Cabinet (ACC) on June 14, 2025. Their empanelment reflects a strong acknowledgment of their decades-long experience in counter-terrorism, insurgency management, and internal security operations in one of India’s most volatile regions.
Mukesh Singh, former ADGP Jammu Zone, is widely respected for leading impactful anti-terror operations and strengthening border security.
Viplav Kumar Choudhary has handled sensitive counter-insurgency assignments with tactical acumen and composure.
Vijay Kumar, who served as IGP Kashmir, played a pivotal role in eliminating high-profile militants and coordinating intelligence efforts during periods of intense unrest.
Their inclusion signals a broader strategic shift by the Centre to deploy battle-tested leaders in key national security institutions such as the Ministry of Home Affairs, National Investigation Agency (NIA), Intelligence Bureau (IB), and top roles in central armed police forces (CAPFs)—especially in areas demanding operational expertise and real-time intelligence coordination.
The empanelment list also includes distinguished officers from the AGMUT cadre, such as Hargobinder Singh Dhaliwal, Sagar Preet Hooda, and Sharad Agarwal, each known for navigating diverse and high-pressure environments.
Additionally, senior IPS officers from various states—including Abhinav Kumar, Bhanu Bhaskar, Nayyar Hasnain Khan, and K. Jayaraman—have been empanelled, reflecting a well-rounded national pool of leadership talent.
This development is expected to significantly enhance the Centre’s capacity to assign experienced officers to critical roles in national security, internal policing, and strategic intelligence operations at a crucial juncture in India’s internal security landscape.
