Lucknow: In a landmark moment for the Uttar Pradesh cadre of the Indian Police Service (IPS), Sanjay Singhal (1993-batch) has been appointed as the new Director General (DG) of the Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB), cementing the dominance of UP-cadre officers in national security leadership. With this appointment, five central armed and elite forces are now headed by IPS officers from the UP cadre, a rare and prestigious achievement.
Singhal, currently Special DG in the Border Security Force (BSF), will assume charge as DG, SSB on September 1, 2025, following the retirement of Amrit Mohan Prasad (IPS:1989, Odisha cadre). His term is set to continue until December 31, 2028, or until further orders.
UP Cadre Officers Leading Key National Forces
- Safi Ehsan Rizvi – DG, National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA)
- Daljeet Chaudhary – DG, Border Security Force (BSF)
- Alok Sharma – DG, Special Protection Group (SPG)
- Piyush Anand – DG, National Disaster Response Force (NDRF)
- Sanjay Singhal – DG-designate, Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB)
This unprecedented representation underscores the talent depth, operational excellence, and leadership cultivated within the UP IPS cadre, drawing wide appreciation across the security establishment.
Sanjay Singhal: A Distinguished Career in Service
Mr. Singhal has a long track record of operational command and strategic leadership:
- Served with ITBP (2008–2015) as DIG and IG, managing border security along the India-China frontier
- Held senior positions in UP Police, including ADG Crime, ADG Railways, ADG Establishment, and as GSO to the DGP
- Led PAC battalions and served as SP in sensitive districts
- Decorated with the Police Medal for Meritorious Service and the President’s Police Medal for Distinguished Service
Strategic Significance of the Appointment
Former UP DGP Vikram Singh called this a “moment of immense pride” for the state and the IPS community.
“This level of representation at the national level is rare. It reflects the professionalism and discipline ingrained in the UP cadre,” he said.
A senior official emphasized that Singhal’s appointment comes at a critical time, with the SSB guarding sensitive borders with Nepal and Bhutan, both of increasing geopolitical importance.
Looking Ahead
As DG of SSB, Singhal is expected to lead initiatives in border security, anti-smuggling, and community outreach. His prior experience with BSF and ITBP is expected to play a vital role in modernizing the force and strengthening coordination at the strategic frontier.