New Delhi: The picturesque Andaman and Nicobar Islands seems all set for a new breeze of life with the newly appointed DGP Devesh Chandra Srivastva, promising to eliminate the menace of drugs and cybercrime in this peace-loving Union Territory.

With a vision of transforming these pristine islands into a drug-free zone, Srivastva's appointment brings hope for many, who wish this island to remain free of any evil. Srivastva, an IPS officer of the 1995 batch AGMUT cadre, has recently assumed the position of Director General of Police in the Andaman & Nicobar Islands. This is his second stint as DGP. Prior to this he served as DGP Mizoram.

IPS Srivastva was among the officers in our list of ’22 Top Bureaucrats who Made a Difference in 2022.’

With an extensive experience of about  28 years in policing, Srivastva has held diverse roles in Arunachal Pradesh, Goa, Delhi, and Mizoram. He has also served on central deputation in the Intelligence Bureau (IB) and subsequently worked as the Executive Director (Security) at ONGC. After completing a 16-month tenure as the DGP of Mizoram, he has now been appointed as the Director General of Police for the Andaman & Nicobar Islands.

In his pursuit of good policing, the newly appointed DGP Srivastva said, “We have identified key areas that require immediate attention. With a focus on building resilience against cybercrime, ensuring the safety of women, children, and senior citizens, and embracing modern technology, we aim to transform the Islands police force into a SMART and accountable entity”.

To keep pace with the ever-evolving landscape of crime, Srivastva recognizes the importance of integrating modern technology into police operations. Induction and seamless adoption of advanced technology will enable the force to stay one step ahead of criminals.

During his stint as DGP Mizoram, Srivastva was instrumental in fostering greater synergy, enhanced cooperation and unhindered coordination between Mizoram Police, Assam Rifles, Customs and DRI to intensify action against smuggling from Myanmar. Central and state law enforcement agencies in Mizoram decided to work in close coordination to deal with the smuggling of various drugs, explosive materials, exotic animals and other contrabands from neighboring Myanmar. He also focused on Capacity Building and infrastructure development/ Resources augmentation for Mizoram Police, besides welfare of police personnel and their family members. 

In his commitment to serve and protect the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Srivastva extends an unwavering assurance to the island's residents. With the new motto of being "Nirbhay” (Fearless), “Nipun”(Skilled) and "Nishpaksh" (Impartial) of Andmans Police, Srivastva emphasizes the importance of accessibility, trust, and collaboration between the police force and the peace-loving population, particularly the youth.

Having completed his graduation in Electronics & Telecommunications Engineering, Srivastva pursued his M.Tech in Management and Systems from IIT, Delhi during 1993-94. Furthermore, he obtained a Masters in Police Management from Osmania University, Hyderabad.

An illustrious officer with an impressive record of accolades, IPS Srivastva has been honored with the Police Medal for 'Meritorious Service' and the President's Police Medal for 'Distinguished Service.' Additionally, he has received the Internal Security Medal and the Bar to Police Special Duty Medal, along with the State Award of Arunachal Pradesh for 'Meritorious Service' and the Utkrisht Seva Padak. /BI/