Lucknow: UP cadre IPS officer Akhil Kumar (1994 batch) has been selected for a key central government role as Chief Executive Officer of the Digital India Corporation, under the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY), in the rank and pay of an Additional Secretary.
Appointment Greenlit by ACC and UP State Government
The Appointments Committee of the Cabinet (ACC) issued the appointment order Monday night, clearing the path for Kumar’s central deputation. Earlier, on April 25, 2025, the UP Home Department granted a No Objection Certificate (NOC). His file will now be processed through the Chief Minister’s Office to finalize his release from state assignment.
From Kanpur to Cybersecurity: A Distinguished Career
Currently serving as the Police Commissioner of Kanpur, Kumar brings a diverse administrative and enforcement portfolio:
- Education: IIT Delhi alumnus, Fulbright Scholar, MPhil in National Security Strategy (National Defence College, Delhi)
- Diplomacy & Security: Former Director at the Ministry of External Affairs (2013–2016), handling Counter-Terrorism and Cyber Policy. Served as a UN Counter-Terrorism Advisor and represented India at key multilateral forums.
- Water Governance: Served as Joint Secretary, Ministry of Jal Shakti (2016–2019)
- Gallantry Recognition: Awarded Presidential Gallantry Medals (2005, 2007) for operations against Chambal bandit Nirbhay Singh Gujjar and other criminal networks in Banda
- Field Leadership: Held major roles including ADGP Gorakhpur, SSP in Lucknow, Ghaziabad, Aligarh, involvement in the UP Special Task Force (STF), and participation in UN Mission in Kosovo (2004)
Strategic Significance of the New Role
As CEO of Digital India Corporation, Kumar will lead the national push toward digital infrastructure, innovation, and ecosystem development. Taking up the position in the rank of Additional Secretary aligns with central government’s priority to expand leadership capacity in digital transformation.
