New Delhi: President Droupadi Murmu has conferred the Padma Shri award on former Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) Director General K. Vijay Kumar, recognizing his decades-long contribution to Indian policing, counter-insurgency operations, and internal security management.
The award highlights his exceptional service across multiple high-risk assignments, including leadership roles in counter-Naxal operations, VIP security, and modernization of police training systems.
A Distinguished Career in the Indian Police Service
Born on September 15, 1952, K. Vijay Kumar joined the Indian Police Service (IPS) in 1975 after studying at St. Joseph’s College and Madras Christian College. He was also selected for the Indian Administrative Service (IAS) in 1976 but chose to continue in the IPS.
Over the years, he built a reputation as a highly trained and operationally skilled officer, holding multiple advanced degrees and undergoing specialized international training in policing, firearms, and security operations.
Early Policing and Anti-Naxal Operations in Tamil Nadu
During his early postings as Superintendent of Police in Dharmapuri and Salem districts (1981–1985), he played a key role in combating violent extremism and organized crime.
His field-driven policing approach helped restore law and order and significantly reduced criminal and extremist activity in these regions.
Special Protection Group and VIP Security Innovations
Between 1985 and 1990, he served in the Special Protection Group (SPG), which is responsible for providing security to the Prime Minister of India.
Later, he went on to establish and lead the Special Security Group (SSG) in Tamil Nadu (1991–1996), a model force created to protect high-risk political leadership. This framework later influenced similar security structures in other states.
Leadership in Counter-Insurgency and Crisis Zones
As Inspector General in Madurai and later in the Border Security Force (BSF) in Kashmir, he commanded large-scale forces during periods of intense internal conflict, including the Kargil-era security environment.
His tenure was marked by operational coordination, improved force readiness, and strategic counter-terror response during fidayeen attacks and insurgent threats.
Key Role in Ending Veerappan Hunt
One of the most widely recognized phases of his career was his leadership of the Special Task Force (2003–2004), which successfully ended the decades-long pursuit of forest brigand Veerappan.
The operation is considered a landmark achievement in intelligence-led policing and coordinated inter-state action.
Modernization of Policing and Training Systems
As Director of the National Police Academy (2008–2010), he introduced major reforms in police training, including strategy-focused programs following the 26/11 Mumbai attacks.
He also helped establish mid-career training initiatives in collaboration with global academic institutions, strengthening leadership development in the Indian police system.
CRPF Leadership and National Security Advisory Role
Appointed Director General of CRPF in 2010, he focused on improving morale, training standards, and operational efficiency after major Maoist attacks.
Later, as Senior Security Advisor in the Ministry of Home Affairs, he contributed to reducing Left-Wing Extremism violence and supported security planning in Jammu & Kashmir during critical political transitions.
Author and Policymaker
Beyond field operations, K. Vijay Kumar has also contributed to security literature. His bestselling book Veerappan: Chasing the Brigand provides insights into one of India’s most complex manhunts.
He continues to be involved in policy advisory roles and police modernization initiatives.
Padma Shri Recognition for Distinguished Service
The Padma Shri award marks a significant national recognition of his lifelong service in policing, counter-terror operations, and institutional reform.
His career is widely regarded as a benchmark in Indian internal security leadership, combining tactical expertise with strategic policy impact.
