Himachal Pradesh Elevates Five Senior IPS Officers to DGP Rank, Strengthening State Police Leadership
The Himachal Pradesh government has announced the promotion of five senior Indian Police Service (IPS) officers belonging to the 1995 and 1996 batches to the prestigious rank of Director General of Police (DGP). The promotions, effective January 1, 2026, place the officers in Level‑16 of the Pay Matrix, marking a significant step in reinforcing the state’s police leadership.
Strengthening Senior Leadership
The promotions, formally notified on Wednesday, are aimed at consolidating the top administrative structure of the Himachal Pradesh Police. The move also recognizes the contributions of officers serving both within the state and on central deputation, ensuring continuity in leadership and operational oversight.
Promotions from the 1995 Batch
Two officers from the 1995 batch have been promoted on a proforma basis, as they are currently serving on central deputation:
Satinder Pal Singh: Presently posted as Additional Secretary in the Union Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs.
N Venugopal: Serving as Additional Director in the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI).
These proforma promotions acknowledge their seniority while allowing them to continue in their central assignments.
Promotions from the 1996 Batch
Three officers from the 1996 batch have also been elevated to the DGP rank, with two promoted on a regular basis and one continuing in a central role:
Satwant Atwal Trivedi: Currently Additional Director General‑cum‑Commandant General, Home Guards, Civil Defence and Fire Services, Himachal Pradesh; promoted on a regular basis.
Ajay Kumar Yadav: Serving as Principal Resident Commissioner, New Delhi; promoted on a regular basis.
Abhishek Trivedi: Presently Additional Director General, Prisons and Correctional Services, Himachal Pradesh; promoted on a regular basis.
Significance of the Promotions
The elevation of these officers to the DGP rank is a crucial administrative measure designed to strengthen the state’s policing framework. Officers at this level are entrusted with strategic decision‑making, law and order management, and operational command across Himachal Pradesh. The promotions not only recognize seniority and service but also ensure that the state police leadership remains robust and well‑equipped to handle evolving challenges.
