Srinagar: IPS officer Nalin Prabhat took charge as the Director General of Jammu and Kashmir Police on September 30, 2024, following the retirement of R. R. Swain.

Prabhat, a 1992-batch IPS officer from the Andhra Pradesh cadre, brings a wealth of experience to his new role. His distinguished career includes numerous accolades, such as three Police Gallantry Medals and the Parakram Padak.

At 55, Prabhat is known for his expertise in counter-insurgency, having previously led the Greyhounds, an elite anti-Naxal unit in Andhra Pradesh. He has also held key roles in the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), including Inspector General of Operations and Additional Director General in the Kashmir region.

His recent tenure as Director General of the National Security Guard (NSG) was curtailed to allow his inter-cadre deputation to the Union Territories cadre (AGMUT) for an initial period of three years. Prabhat's extensive experience in Jammu and Kashmir positions him well to navigate the Union Territory's complex security challenges, which include ongoing threats from terrorism and internal unrest.

His past assignments have provided him with deep insights into the local security landscape, and his expertise is expected to be crucial in addressing the region's pressing security needs during this politically sensitive period.

Observers note that Prabhat's career has been marked by extraordinary bravery and a strong dedication to public service, reflected in his many awards, including the Police Medal for Gallantry with two bars. His appointment is seen as likely to introduce a strategic approach to law enforcement in Jammu and Kashmir, with hopes that his leadership will play a significant role in promoting peace and stability in one of India's most challenging regions.

BI Bureau