In the tapestry of progress, there are stories that stand out, weaving threads of inspiration for generations to come. One such narrative unfolds with the recent appointment of Nina Singh as the first woman Director General (DG) of the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF).
This marks a significant milestone, breaking gender barriers in a crucial security force responsible for safeguarding airports, the Delhi Metro, government buildings, and strategic installations nationwide.
Early Years and Career
Nina Singh, a 1989-batch IPS officer, began her journey in the Indian Police Service as a Manipur cadre officer. Later, she transitioned to the Rajasthan cadre, eventually becoming the first woman officer of DG rank in the state. Her trajectory from the state level to the center showcases her dedication and capability.
Key Roles and Achievements
Ms. Singh’s career is adorned with achievements, including serving as the Additional Director General (ADG) for Training and DG for Civil Rights & Anti-Human Trafficking in Rajasthan. Notably, she played a pivotal role during the COVID-19 pandemic as the Principal Secretary (Health) in Rajasthan.
Her diverse experiences also extend to a crucial stint as the Joint-Director of the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) in New Delhi, where she contributed significantly to the investigations of the PNB scam and the Nirav Modi case.
Educational Background and Honors
Hailing from Bihar, Nina Singh is an alumna of Patna Women’s College and Jawaharlal Nehru University. She holds a Master’s degree in Public Administration from Harvard University, showcasing her commitment to continuous learning. Her contributions to policing were recognized with the Ati Utkrisht Seva Medal (AUSM) by the Ministry of Home Affairs.
Family and Personal Pursuits:
Ms. Singh’s family is equally accomplished, with her husband, Rohit Kumar Singh, serving as an IAS officer of the 1989 batch, Rajasthan cadre. Beyond her professional commitments, Nina Singh has demonstrated a passion for writing, co-authoring research papers with Nobel laureates in Economics, Abhijit Banerjee and Esther Duflo.
Nina Singh’s dedication extends beyond her official duties, actively participating in police reforms. She has been involved with the Rajasthan State Commission for Women, showcasing a commitment to gender issues. Her multifaceted approach to community engagement reflects a holistic perspective on law enforcement.
Appointed as the DG of CISF until her retirement on July 31, 2024, Nina Singh’s leadership is expected to bring fresh perspectives and initiatives. As the first woman to hold this esteemed position, she paves the way for aspiring women in the security and law enforcement sectors.
National Security Reshuffle:
Meanwhile, the Appointments Committee of the Cabinet has approved Intelligence Bureau officer Rahul Rasgotra’s appointment as Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) chief and Anish Dayal Singh has been made the Director General of the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF).
Rasgotra, a 1989-batch IPS officer currently serves as a special director in the Intelligence Bureau (IB). He has spent nearly three decades in the IB. The appointment of Rasgotra comes at a time when the paramilitary force will have an additional team of intelligence officers for surveillance and intelligence gathering.
He has been appointed to the post till September 30, 2025.
Anish, a 1988-batch IPS officer, has been holding the CRPF DG’s post as an additional charge for the last few weeks besides heading the ITBP. He will head the CRPF until his superannuation on December 31, 2024.
Furthermore, the Centre has appointed Vivek Srivastava, a 1989-batch IPS officer of the Gujarat cadre, as the Director General of the Fire Service, Civil Defence and Home Guards. Currently, he is a special director at the Intelligence Bureau.
These appointments are the latest instance of the central government selecting top IB officials to head the paramilitary forces. They are also viewed as one of the steps toward restructuring the Intelligence Bureau.
Positive Takeaway
Nina Singh’s appointment as the first woman DG of CISF is a testament to the evolving landscape of gender inclusivity in traditionally male-dominated sectors. Her journey, marked by accomplishments and a commitment to service.
She inspires not only women in law enforcement but also reinforces the idea that leadership knows no gender. As she steers CISF into the future, Nina Singh’s legacy is poised to leave an indelible mark on the history of Indian law enforcement.
