Beyond the Beat: Meet Top 10 IPS Officers Who Are Leading India’s Cybersecurity charge

Below are the top 10 IPS officers who are playing an important role in spreading awareness in the field of cybersecurity. Those who have made significant contributions to law enforcement and social reforms. Among their accomplishments are anti-terrorism efforts and educational reforms.

Dr. Varun Kapoor (Madhya Pradesh Cadre, 1991 Batch)

Dr. Kapoor is a leading name in cybersecurity education. He organized more than 521 cyber workshops in India and abroad. Under the Black Ribbon Initiative, he taught millions of people to avoid cybercrimes. 5,000+ police and paramilitary forces were trained through the Blue Palm Initiative. School-based cyber education is offered to children through Cy-Cops. He conducted 170 webinars during the COVID period and set three world records.

Major achievements include:

Dr. Kapoor has been awarded three World Book of Records, the FICCI SMART Policing Award, the SKOCH Award, and the National Cyber ​​Award.

An honorary doctorate in cybersecurity has been awarded to him for the first time in Asia.

Manoj Abraham (Kerala Cadre)

Manoj Abraham heads the Kerala Police Cyberdome project and organizes the international Cocon Cybersecurity Conference. He has also conducted several cybersecurity programs in the state. Under his leadership, Kerala Police has set a new example in preventing cybercrime.

Key achievements include:

Several national and international awards for cybersecurity and traffic innovation.

Brijesh Singh (Maharashtra Cadre)

As the head of Maharashtra’s Cyber Cell, Brijesh Singh is tech-savvy. He has started public awareness campaigns on cyber fraud, social media scams, and online safety. Trained police personnel in cyber investigations.

Key achievements include:

Known for his role in strengthening Maharashtra’s cybercrime investigation structure.

Sanjukta Parashar (Assam-Meghalaya Cadre)

Sanjukta Parashar took cybersecurity to villages, where there was a great lack of information. Worked at the grassroots level to ensure the digital safety of people. Visited rural schools, colleges, and panchayats to educate them about cyber fraud. Conducted special programs for women and the elderly.

Key achievements include:

Widely respected for his field policing, with growing influence in cybersecurity education.

Ake Ravi Krishna (Andhra Pradesh Cadre)

A.K. Ravi Krishna went to villages to educate about the prevention of cybercrimes. He has a wonderful combination of community policing as well as cyber safety. He taught internet safety to students and villagers through cyber awareness camps. Trained the police in digital literacy and online investigation.

Key achievements include:

Known for innovative community policing, including cybersecurity awareness.

Shivdeep Waman Lande (Maharashtra Cadre, 2006 Batch)

Shivdeep Lande is very active on social media and communicates directly with the youth. He is called “Supercop” and is very popular among the youth. He shared videos, reels, and posts related to cybersecurity on Instagram, Twitter, etc. He organized seminars and public meetings in Mumbai to make people aware.

Key achievements include:

Popular for his accessibility and proactive policing.

Narendra Kumar (Madhya Pradesh Cadre, 2009 Batch)

Narendra Kumar emphasized cyber training for police and common citizens in his state. He imparted education against cyber fraud in small towns through workshops. Made police personnel proficient in investigating online crimes. Created a strong cyber education network even with limited resources.

Key achievements include:

Honored for his service with contribution to cybersecurity education.

K. Vijay Kumar (Tamil Nadu Cadre, 1975 Batch, Retired)

Well-known encounter specialist Vijay Kumar is now playing the role of consultant and speaker on cyber topics. He gives lectures at many seminars and educational institutions. His expertise is related to technical strategy and police training. Less active contribution, but significant in providing effective advice and direction.

Key achievements include:

In the operation against Veerappan, he was awarded the Padma Bhushan.

Julio Francis Ribeiro (Retired)

A former DGP for Punjab, Julio Ribeiro, is now actively involved in cybersecurity policy discussions. He highlights cyber challenges in modern policing in forums and discussions. Not currently doing direct training but contributing experience-based policy advice.

Key achievements include:

Padma Bhushan awardee with an illustrious career.

Ajit Doval (Retired, National Security Advisor)

Ajit Doval is a 1968 batch IPS officer of the Kerala cadre, one of India’s most prominent security strategists. Currently serving as the National Security Advisor (NSA) to the Prime Minister, he has played a key role in intelligence gathering, counter-terrorism, and national security planning.

Key achievements include:

Led several high-level counterterrorism operations across the country.

Served as the director of the Intelligence Bureau, specializing in intelligence operations.

Sweta Dagar is an avid reader and writer. She hails from Bulandshahr (U.P) where she completed her formap education. She loves exploring varieties of topics that shape the public opinion at large. If you have any queries, feel free to contact her at swetadagar007@gmail.com.