Nagaland’s Phek district Superintendent of Police (SP), Pritpal Kaur, has achieved international recognition for her outstanding contributions to law enforcement, community service, and social welfare. The dentist-turned-Indian Police Service (IPS) officer has been selected as a recipient of the prestigious 2024 IACP 40 Under 40 award by the US-based International Association of Chiefs of Police (IACP). Kaur, a 2016 batch IPS officer, is the only Indian to receive this honor in 2024, further enhancing India’s global reputation in policing.
The IACP, headquartered in Alexandria, Virginia, annually honors 40 police officers from around the world, recognizing their exemplary leadership, dedication, and commitment to improving the law enforcement profession. Kaur’s selection highlights her remarkable contributions to the communities she has served, particularly in conflict-prone and border districts in Nagaland. The IACP will present the award at the 2024 IACP Annual Conference and Exposition in Boston, Massachusetts, on October 22.
A Multi-Talented Leader in Law Enforcement
Kaur’s journey to becoming a distinguished police officer is an inspiring tale of dedication, passion, and service. Initially trained as a dentist and awarded a gold medal in her field, Kaur shifted her focus to policing, driven by a strong desire to contribute to societal peace and harmony.
Throughout her career, Kaur has been committed to resolving conflicts and building stronger communities across India. One of her most notable achievements came during her tenure as the first SP of a newly created border district in Nagaland. Using her exceptional negotiation skills, she successfully diffused tense situations, averted border clashes, and addressed longstanding land disputes. Additionally, Kaur played a key role in anti-drug operations in the region, spearheading efforts to provide drug addicts with treatment, counseling, rehabilitation, and alternative livelihoods.
Pioneering Social Welfare and Educational Initiatives
Beyond her core responsibilities in policing, she is known for her innovative social and welfare projects aimed at uplifting local communities. She spearheaded several transformative initiatives, including the Fighting Drugs with Education and Livelihood project, which focuses on equipping individuals with skills for economic independence, such as building electric bicycles and low-cost machines. Another standout initiative, Not Guns but Machines, aims to harness local talent and direct it toward constructive, livelihood-enhancing activities.
Kaur’s deep engagement with the tribal communities of Nagaland has earned her immense respect and recognition. Her commitment to promoting peace, development, and self-reliance has not only benefited the local populace but also brought her personal honors.
A Decorated Career
Pritpal Kaur’s impressive list of accolades speaks volumes about her achievements. She has previously been honored with the International Inspiration Women Award 2023, Skoch Gold Award 2023, DGP Disc Award, Women Power India Award 2023, and the Global Women Leader Award 2024 by the World Women Leadership Congress. These awards recognize not only her contributions to law enforcement but also her broader efforts in education, social welfare, and community development.
Kaur’s tenure as SP of Phek district has been marked by her multifaceted approach to policing, which includes free coaching classes for students, career guidance, and livelihood training programs for drug addicts. She has also been instrumental in promoting environmental conservation and sustainable farming practices among the local population. Through these activities, Kaur has strengthened her bond with the community and played a pivotal role in fostering peace and development in Nagaland’s remote areas.
