IPS Ankita Sharma: Eliminating Crime from Naxal-Affected Bastar

Image Credit: DNA India

IPS Ankita Sharma is a name that resonates with courage, determination, and success. A native of Haryana, Ankita Sharma’s journey into the Indian Police Service (IPS) was a result of her unwavering commitment to serving society. Her journey began in 2011 when she cleared the IPS exam on her first attempt.

Ankita Sharma was posted to the Naxal-affected Bastar region of Chhattisgarh as part of her duties. The Bastar region has long been grappling with Naxalite activities, which has made it one of the most dangerous regions for police officers in India. Ankita Sharma, however, was undeterred by the challenge.

She took charge as the Superintendent of Police in Dantewada, one of the worst-affected areas of Bastar, and immediately got to work. She began to engage with local communities, and her approach was to win their trust and confidence. She organized various initiatives such as community policing programs, sports events, and skill development programs for youth.

Ankita Sharma also focused on increasing the strength of women in the police force. She established the “Sakhi Mandal” initiative, which trained local women to work as special police officers. This initiative helped to bridge the gap between the police force and the local communities, and it also provided employment opportunities for women.

Inspired by Kiran Bedi, India’s first female IPS officer, Ankita Sharma took a hands-on approach to her work. She was not afraid to take risks and lead her team from the front. Her hard work and dedication paid off, and under her leadership, the crime rate in the Dantewada region dropped significantly.

Ankita Sharma’s achievements have been recognized both nationally and internationally. She was awarded the President’s Police Medal for Gallantry in 2018 for her exceptional work in the Bastar region. She has also been invited to speak at various international forums on the subject of counter-terrorism.

Staff Reporter