A Trailblazing Leader Redefining Public Safety, Integrity, and Women’s Empowerment
True leadership in law enforcement is measured not merely by the authority of rank, but by an unwavering commitment to systemic reform, empathy for the vulnerable, and intellectual rigor. Across a distinguished career spanning nearly three decades in state administration, national intelligence, and central security setups, Smt. Rekha Lohani, a 1997-batch IPS officer of the Odisha cadre, who is currently serving as Additional Director General (ADG) in the Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB), has exemplified these exceptional traits. Her journey stands as a powerful testament to fearless service, modern policing strategies, and a lifelong dedication to justice.
Early Life and the UPSC Journey:
Hailing from a family that deeply valued education and discipline, Smt. Lohani pursued her academic grounding with distinction. She completed her graduation in Economics Honours from the prestigious St. Stephen’s College, Delhi, in 1993, followed by a Master’s degree in Economics from Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) in 1995. Driven by a profound desire to impact public policy, governance, and societal safety at its core, she chose the civil services. Clearing the intensely competitive UPSC examination was a natural result of her sharp intellect, methodical preparation, and unyielding resolve to serve the nation.
Stepping into the Field: Notable Stints:
Throughout her expansive career, Smt. Lohani has managed critical operational domains demanding both administrative mastery and ground-level grit:
Grassroots and District Command: Beginning her career as an Assistant Superintendent of Police under training in Angul, she went on to serve as Superintendent of Police (SP) in sensitive and crucial districts including Sonepur, Nayagarh, and Balasore, alongside serving as SP Vigilance in the Bhubaneswar Division.
Metropolitan and Central Deployments: She demonstrated exceptional operational command during her stints as Deputy Commissioner of Police (Headquarters) and Additional Commissioner of Police for the Twin City Police Commissionerate of Bhubaneswar-Cuttack. Her expertise also led to critical central deputation assignments within the Intelligence Bureau (IB) and the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF).
The Turning Point / Signature Initiative:
A defining hallmark of her career has been her pioneering work in modernizing police infrastructure and championing the safety of women and children. During her tenure as Inspector General (Modernization) and later as Additional DGP of the Crime Against Women & Children (CAW & CW) wing in Odisha, she revolutionized institutional support mechanisms, strengthened investigation protocols, and enhanced public outreach channels. Further expanding her academic and professional expertise, she earned a PG Diploma in Cyber Laws from NALSAR University, Hyderabad, allowing her to effectively combat emerging technology-driven crimes. Notably, she also represented India internationally at the United Nations Seminar on the 4th Female Senior Police Officer Command Development Course held in Amman, Jordan.
Awards and Legacy:
In recognition of her unblemished record, exceptional leadership, and profound contribution to internal security and public welfare, Smt. Lohani has been decorated with numerous prestigious honors:
President’s Police Medal for Distinguished Service
Police Medal for Meritorious Service
Governor’s Medal
DG CRPF Discs & DGP Discs
Her legacy is indelibly etched into a more resilient, technology-smart, and empathetic policing framework that continues to protect society’s most vulnerable segments.
Conclusion & The Vision Ahead:
Smt. Rekha Lohani’s illustrious career embodies a timeless philosophy: that true justice is achieved when authority meets profound empathy and uncompromising integrity. Her journey serves as an inspiring beacon for the youth of India—particularly young women aspiring to break barriers—proving that dedication and moral courage can fundamentally reshape public service.
Quick Reference
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Full Name: Smt. Rekha Lohani
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Current Posting: Additional Director General (ADG), Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB)
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Previous Postings: ADGP (CAW & CW, Odisha), IG (CRPF), IG (BPR&D), IG (Modernization, Odisha Police), Additional Commissioner of Police (Bhubaneswar-Cuttack), SP Vigilance, and SP across Sonepur, Nayagarh, and Balasore districts.
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Awards & Achievements: President’s Police Medal for Distinguished Service, Police Medal for Meritorious Service, Governor’s Medal, and multiple DG/DGP Discs.
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Education: B.A. (Economics Hons.) from St. Stephen’s College, Delhi; M.A. (Economics) from JNU; PG Diploma in Cyber Laws from NALSAR University.
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Batch: 1997 (Odisha Cadre)
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Promotions: Advanced systematically from District SP to Range/Twin City command leadership, IG rank in central organizations, and apex ADG rank.
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Key Issues Handled: Crimes against women and children, cyber law enforcement, police modernization, state intelligence gathering, and central security deployments.
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Inspirations To Count: Civil service aspirants, women in uniform, law enforcement professionals, and citizens striving for rogressive governance.
Message From The Officer
“To the dynamic youth of India: Never limit your potential based on conventional boundaries. Pursue excellence with absolute integrity, remain deeply connected to the needs of society, and remember that true success lies in the positive, lasting impact you leave on the lives of others.“
