Rajesh Kumar Takes Charge as Arunachal Pradesh DGP

IPS officer Rajesh Kumar assumed charge as Arunachal Pradesh Director General of Police (DGP) on 6 November 2026. The Ministry of Home Affairs issued the appointment order on 3 November.

Appointment and police career

Kumar is a 1995-batch AGMUT cadre officer. He was prematurely repatriated from the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) to his parent cadre. He replaced fellow batchmate Shiv Darshan Singh Jamwal, who was transferred to Delhi.

Kumar has served in key roles in Jammu and Kashmir, including security operations in the region, and was promoted to Special Director General of the CRPF in September 2026.

State security priorities

His appointment comes amid protests in Arunachal Pradesh over a proposed 11,200-megawatt multipurpose hydroelectric project on the Siang River. Deputy Chief Minister Chowna Mein welcomed Kumar and wished him a successful tenure.

After taking charge, Kumar met Home and Inter-State Border Affairs Minister Mama Natung. They discussed peace, security, community policing and intensifying efforts against the drug menace.

Important Facts for Exams

• UPSC consultation: Under the Supreme Court’s Prakash Singh directives, states consult the UPSC and submit eligible names at least three months before the incumbent DGP retires.
• Three-name panel: The UPSC shortlists three officers using seniority, service record and range of experience; the state must appoint one of them.
• Minimum tenure: A selected state DGP is entitled to a minimum two-year tenure, irrespective of the officer’s superannuation date.