New Delhi/Jaipur: The Rajasthan Government has officially appointed Rajeev Kumar Sharma, an IPS officer of 1990 batch from Rajasthan, as the new Director General of Police (DGP) of the state, marking a critical leadership change in the state’s law enforcement setup. He succeeds Ravi Prakash Meharda (IPS:1991:RJ), who retired today after serving as Acting DGP.
Currently on central deputation as the Director General of the Bureau of Police Research & Development (BPR&D), Sharma was the senior-most IPS officer in the Rajasthan cadre and had emerged as the frontrunner for the post.
UPSC Panel Cleared the Path
On June 28, the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) recommended a panel of three officers for the state’s top police post:
- Rajeev Kumar Sharma (IPS:1990:RJ)
- Rajesh Nirwan (IPS:1992:RJ)
- Sanjay Kumar Agrawal (IPS:1992:RJ)
The panel was shortlisted from an original list of seven officers submitted by the Rajasthan government. The final selection received approval from the Chief Minister’s Office before the appointment order was issued.
Extensive Service Record at Centre and State
A native of Mathura, Uttar Pradesh, Sharma brings with him a wide range of experience-
- Served as SP in Jhalawar, Dausa, Rajsamand, Jaipur Traffic, Bharatpur, and Jaipur
- Held posts as Inspector General in Bharatpur and Bikaner
- Former Director General, Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) and DG (Law & Order)
- RPA Director and Joint Director in the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI)
Educational Background and Expertise
Mr Sharma holds MA and MPhil degrees and has completed over 34 years of police service, making him one of the most seasoned officers in the state. His field policing and intelligence experience are expected to bolster efforts in crime control, police modernization, and institutional reform.
Two-Year Fixed Tenure
Though IPS Sharma was due for retirement in March 2026, his appointment under the Supreme Court’s fixed two-year tenure guideline for DGPs extends his service until July 2027, ensuring leadership continuity.
Why His Appointment Matters
Mr Sharma’s appointment is widely seen as a move to reinforce administrative stability and enhance professional policing in the state. His track record at both state and national levels positions him well to navigate complex law-and-order challenges.
Selection Process in Detail
The appointment followed the standard process–
- State sent a panel of 7 eligible DG-rank officers.
- Ministry of Personnel forwarded it to UPSC, which shortlisted 3 names.
- State Cabinet and Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma selected the final candidate.
Reforms
With this appointment, Rajasthan gains a DGP who has deep-rooted experience in policing, investigation, and public administration. His leadership is expected to bring a strong emphasis on transparency, law enforcement reforms, and anti-corruption measures.
