A distinguished 2007-batch IPS officer of the AGMUT Cadre, Romil Baaniya is serving as Deputy Director General, Fire Services, Civil Defence & Home Guards, Government of India, after previously serving as Superintendent of Police, Fire & Emergency Services, Arunachal Pradesh.
Profile at a Glance
When disaster strikes, leadership is measured not only by courage but also by preparedness and swift decision-making. Romil Baaniya, IPS, has dedicated his career to strengthening India’s fire and emergency response systems. A 2007-batch IPS officer of the AGMUT Cadre, he earned recognition for his work in Fire & Emergency Services before being appointed as Deputy Director General (DIG level), Fire Services, Civil Defence & Home Guards, Government of India, on central deputation in 2024. His career reflects a strong commitment to public safety, disaster preparedness, and professional policing.
The Catalyst – Why Civil Services?
While Romil Baaniya has career reflects a clear commitment to public safety and national service. Entering the Indian Police Service through the Civil Services Examination, he chose a profession that demands courage, discipline, and leadership. His work in policing and emergency management demonstrates a focus on protecting lives, strengthening disaster response mechanisms, and improving institutional preparedness.
Early Life and Education
Publicly available official records identify Romil Baaniya as being from Rajasthan and holding a Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.) degree. However, details regarding his family background, hometown, and educational institution have Rather than speculate, it is appropriate to note that his academic foundation and dedication enabled him to qualify for the highly competitive Civil Services Examination, leading to his selection into the Indian Police Service in the 2007 batch.
The UPSC Journey
Joining the IPS through direct recruitment requires success in one of India’s toughest competitive examinations. Romil Baaniya’s selection into the 2007 IPS batch reflects years of hard work, strong academic preparation, and determination. His subsequent career demonstrates the professionalism expected of senior IPS officers serving both the states and the Union Government.
Stepping into the Field: Notable Stints
Throughout his career, Romil Baaniya has held several important assignments:
Superintendent of Police, Fire & Emergency Services, Arunachal Pradesh
In this role, he supervised fire prevention, emergency response, rescue operations, disaster preparedness, and inter-agency coordination. The Arunachal Pradesh Disaster Management Plan listed him as the Alternate Nodal Officer for Fire & Emergency Services, highlighting his operational role in emergency management.
Deputy Director General (DIG level), Fire Services, Civil Defence & Home Guards
In March 2024, the Ministry of Home Affairs appointed him as Deputy Director General (DIG level) on central deputation, reflecting confidence in his leadership at the national level.
The Turning Point – Strengthening Fire & Emergency Services
One of the defining phases of his career has been his leadership in fire safety and disaster management. His responsibilities have included:
- Fire prevention strategies
- Disaster preparedness
- Emergency rescue coordination
- Civil defence planning
- Capacity building for emergency responders
- Coordination among police, fire, and disaster management agencies
His work has contributed to improving institutional readiness for emergencies and natural disasters.
Major Achievements
Romil Baaniya’s career has focused primarily on emergency management rather than conventional policing operations. His notable contributions include:
- Leadership in Fire & Emergency Services, Arunachal Pradesh
- Coordination of disaster response planning
- Strengthening emergency preparedness mechanisms
- Appointment to a senior national role in Fire Services, Civil Defence & Home Guards
- Promotion through senior IPS ranks to DIG and later IGP grade.
Challenges Overcome
Working in emergency services presents unique challenges:
- Responding to natural disasters
- Coordinating rescue operations
- Protecting lives during emergencies
- Managing limited resources in difficult terrain
- Leading teams during high-risk incidents
- Ensuring preparedness for fire and disaster response
Serving in Arunachal Pradesh, with its mountainous terrain and remote regions, required efficient planning and rapid decision-making.
Awards & Recognition
According to the latest IPS Civil List, Romil Baaniya has been awarded:
- Chief Minister’s Disc (C Disc) – 2025
- Promotion to the DIGP Grade effective 1 January 2021
- Promotion to the IGP Grade effective 1 January 2025
- Appointment as Deputy Director General (DIG level), Fire Services, Civil Defence & Home Guards, Government of India.
Personal Insight
“Preparedness, professionalism, and timely action are the strongest safeguards against disasters and emergencies.”
Conclusion – The Vision Ahead
Romil Baaniya’s career illustrates how modern policing extends beyond crime prevention to include disaster preparedness, emergency response, and public safety. His transition from state-level leadership in Fire & Emergency Services to a senior national appointment reflects professional excellence and dedication to protecting lives. As India strengthens its emergency response systems, officers like Romil Baaniya continue to play a vital role in building a safer and more resilient nation.
Quick Reference
- Full Name: Romil Baaniya
- Current Posting: Deputy Director General (DIG level), Fire Services, Civil Defence & Home Guards, Government of India
- Previous Postings: Superintendent of Police, Fire & Emergency Services, Arunachal Pradesh
- Education: Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.)
- Batch: 2007
- Cadre: AGMUT
- Home State: Rajasthan
- Promotions: DIGP (2021); IGP Grade (2025)
- Awards & Achievements: Chief Minister’s Disc (2025); senior appointments in Fire Services
- Key Issues Handled: Fire safety, emergency response, disaster management, civil defence, rescue operations
- Inspirations to Count: Leadership, preparedness, discipline, public safety, disaster resilience
Message From the Officer
“Success in public service comes from discipline, integrity, and a commitment to protecting every citizen. Prepare thoroughly, serve selflessly, and remember that leadership is defined by how you respond when people need you most.”
