Mukesh Singh Takes Charge as New DGP of Manipur Amid Ongoing Security Challenges

Mukesh Singh has officially taken over as the Director General of Police in Manipur, succeeding Rajiv Singh. His appointment comes at a critical time as the state continues to face security challenges stemming from ethnic violence. With nearly three decades of experience in counter-insurgency and internal security, Singh is expected to enhance coordination among security agencies and support efforts to restore peace. His background includes significant roles in Jammu and Kashmir and various national security agencies, making him well-equipped to tackle the complex law-and-order situations in Manipur. This transition marks a pivotal moment in the state's security administration.

By Narendra Chaudhary May 30, 2026, 15:33 IST

Mukesh Singh's Arrival in Imphal

Newly appointed DGP of Manipur, Mukesh Singh (left), at the Imphal airport, on Saturday. (AT Photo)

Imphal, May 30: Mukesh Singh, the newly appointed Director General of Police for Manipur, arrived at Imphal International Airport on Saturday, where he was welcomed by Superintendent of Police (Imphal West) Shivkanta Singh.

Transition of Leadership

Singh succeeds Rajiv Singh, who has been designated as Secretary (Security) in the Cabinet Secretariat by the central government. The Ministry of Home Affairs has sanctioned Mukesh Singh's inter-cadre deputation to Manipur for a three-year term in the public interest.

Background and Experience

A 1996-batch IPS officer from the AGMUT cadre, Singh previously served as the Director General of Police in Ladakh before his recent transfer to Manipur.

The inter-cadre deputation is a provision within the All India Services framework that permits an officer to be reassigned from their original cadre to another for a defined period, typically in exceptional situations where experienced leadership is crucial for addressing specific governance or security issues.

Singh, an alumnus of IIT Delhi with a degree in Civil Engineering, is recognized for his expertise in counter-insurgency and counter-terrorism operations.

Throughout his nearly thirty years of service, he has held significant roles in militancy-affected regions of Jammu and Kashmir, including Pulwama, Poonch, Reasi, and Jammu.

His experience extends to senior positions within the National Investigation Agency, the Indo-Tibetan Border Police, and the Jammu and Kashmir Police, where he has developed extensive skills in intelligence-led operations, internal security management, and border security.

Significance of His Appointment

Singh's appointment is particularly timely for Manipur, which is still dealing with the aftermath of ethnic violence that erupted in May 2023.

Given his background in managing terrorism, insurgency, and complex law-and-order scenarios, he is anticipated to enhance coordination among security forces and bolster initiatives aimed at restoring peace and stability in the region.

His arrival signifies the start of a new phase in Manipur's security management as authorities intensify operations against armed groups, recover illegally held weapons, and implement confidence-building measures in conflict-affected areas.