The Government of Rajasthan has officially named Rajeev Kumar Sharma, a 1990-batch IPS officer, as the state’s new Director General of Police (DGP). He replaces Ravi Prakash Meharda (IPS:1991:RJ), who retired today after serving as Acting DGP.
Senior-Most IPS Officer from Rajasthan Cadre
At present, Sharma serves on central deputation as Director General of the Bureau of Police Research and Development (BPR&D). As the senior-most officer in the Rajasthan cadre, he was widely expected to take over the role.
Although he was originally slated to retire in March 2026, his appointment under the Supreme Court’s guideline for fixed two-year DGP tenures now extends his service until July 2027 — ensuring consistent leadership during a period of evolving law-and-order priorities.
UPSC Shortlists and State Finalizes
On June 28, the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) recommended a panel comprising:
Rajeev Kumar Sharma (IPS:1990:RJ)
Rajesh Nirwan (IPS:1992:RJ)
Sanjay Kumar Agrawal (IPS:1992:RJ)
This list was drawn from seven officers initially nominated by the Rajasthan government. The final decision was cleared by the Chief Minister’s Office before the appointment was officially announced.
Extensive Administrative and Policing Experience
Hailing from Mathura, Uttar Pradesh, Sharma holds MA and MPhil degrees and has over 34 years of service in the Indian Police. His career spans both state and central roles, including:
SP in Jhalawar, Dausa, Rajsamand, Bharatpur, Jaipur Traffic
IG in Bharatpur and Bikaner
Director General, Anti-Corruption Bureau and DG (Law & Order)
Director of RPA and Joint Director in the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI)
Strategic Relevance of His Appointment
Sharma’s wide-ranging experience in field policing, intelligence operations, and institutional governance makes him well-suited for the top post. His leadership is expected to prioritize modernization, crime control, transparency, and anti-corruption reforms.
Standardized Appointment Procedure
The selection followed due process:
State government submitted seven DG-rank officers’ names
Ministry of Personnel forwarded these to UPSC
UPSC shortlisted three candidates
State Cabinet, led by CM Bhajan Lal Sharma, finalized the appointment
A New Chapter in Rajasthan’s Policing
With his appointment, the state anticipates a reinforced focus on administrative stability and reform-driven public safety strategies. Sharma’s deep-rooted understanding of policing and governance is expected to steer Rajasthan’s law enforcement into a new era of accountability and modernization.
