The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has officially appointed IPS officer Rakesh Balwal as Deputy Inspector General (DIG) in the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) on deputation, as mentioned in an order issued on May 25, 2026. This appointment is in line with the standard terms and conditions that govern central deputations, and MHA has urged the Government of Manipur to facilitate his early relief from current responsibilities so that he can begin this new role.
Hailing from Udhampur district in Jammu and Kashmir, Rakesh Balwal is associated with the Manipur cadre of the Indian Police Service. Despite being designated to Manipur, he has maintained strong professional ties with Jammu and Kashmir, holding various senior roles in the region. Most recently, he served as Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) in Srinagar during a crucial period focused on maintaining security.
Balwal’s career is marked by significant experience in counter-terrorism and investigative operations. Notably, he was heavily involved in the investigation of the February 2019 Pulwama terror attack, which claimed the lives of 40 CRPF personnel. His tenure as Superintendent of Police with the National Investigation Agency (NIA) for over three years saw him play a critical role in investigating the attack and related cases. His prior assignments included important operational and administrative posts within the Manipur cadre, such as SSP Thoubal.
Recognized for his distinguished service, Balwal has earned several accolades, including the Union Home Minister’s Medal for Excellence in Investigation, a commendation from the Chief of Army Staff, and recognition from the Director General of the CRPF. These honors highlight his exceptional contributions to maintaining public order, managing complex investigations, and enhancing collaborative efforts between state police and central agencies.
The government’s decision to place experienced IPS officers like Balwal in central paramilitary forces emphasizes the importance of sharing expertise across jurisdictions. His expertise in the demanding security landscape of Jammu and Kashmir, alongside his investigative skills demonstrated during the Pulwama case, positions him as a valuable asset for the CRPF, which plays a vital role in managing internal security and counter-insurgency operations across India.
Both the MHA and the Manipur government are expected to finalize the necessary formalities soon, allowing Balwal to assume his duties in the weeks ahead. His elevation to the rank of DIG in the CRPF is seen as a validation of his professional capabilities and dedication to national security.
This appointment has garnered positive reactions within official circles, marking a significant move towards bolstering the leadership of one of India’s prominent central armed police forces.
