In the dynamic and demanding world of Indian law enforcement, Abhilasha Bisht stands out as a beacon of resilience, dedication, and leadership. A 1994-batch Indian Police Service (IPS) officer, Bisht has carved a distinguished career marked by her commitment to public safety, her adaptability across challenging roles, and her unwavering resolve in the face of professional hurdles. As of April 8, 2025, her recent transition from the Telangana to the Andhra Pradesh cadre underscores her enduring influence in shaping policing in India’s southern states. From her early days as a trailblazing officer to her current role, Bisht’s journey is a compelling narrative of courage and service, inspiring countless others in the IPS and beyond.
Early Life and Education: The Making of a Leader
Abhilasha Bisht’s story begins in India’s heartland, though specific details about her birthplace and family remain private, reflecting her preference for letting her work speak louder than her personal life. Born into an era of opportunity and change, she displayed an early aptitude for academics and a drive to make a difference. Her educational journey was marked by excellence, culminating in her preparation for the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) Civil Services Examination—one of the most competitive exams in the world.
Clearing the UPSC exam in 1994, Bisht secured a place in the IPS, initially allocated to the West Bengal cadre. Her training at the Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel National Police Academy (SVPNPA) in Hyderabad was a crucible that shaped her into a disciplined and strategic officer. The academy’s rigorous regimen, blending physical endurance with intellectual rigor, prepared her for the multifaceted challenges of policing in a diverse nation. It was here that she also formed lifelong bonds with her batchmates, including her future husband, Kumar Viswajeet, a fellow 1994-batch IPS officer.
A Career of Versatility and Impact
Bisht’s entry into the IPS coincided with a transformative period in India’s law enforcement landscape. Her initial allocation to the West Bengal cadre in 1994 set the stage for her early career, where she likely tackled urban crime, rural law enforcement, and community policing in a state known for its political and cultural complexity. However, in 1997, her cadre was changed to the united Andhra Pradesh cadre following her marriage to Kumar Viswajeet, an Andhra Pradesh cadre officer. This shift marked the beginning of her long association with the Telugu-speaking states, a region that would define much of her professional journey.
Over the years, Bisht served in a variety of roles that showcased her versatility and competence. Her early postings as an Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP) and later as Superintendent of Police (SP) involved hands-on policing—managing law and order, investigating crimes, and building community trust. Her ability to navigate these challenges with a blend of firmness and empathy earned her respect among peers and subordinates alike.
By 2019, Bisht had risen to the rank of Additional Director General of Police (ADGP) in Telangana, a testament to her leadership and experience. One of her notable roles was as ADGP (Training), where she oversaw the development of police personnel, ensuring they were equipped to handle modern policing challenges like cybercrime and public safety. In January 2023, she was transferred to ADGP, Welfare and Sports, with additional charge of ADGP, Homeguards, roles that highlighted her administrative acumen and commitment to officer welfare.
Her tenure as Director of the Dr. RBVRR Telangana State Police Academy was particularly significant. In this capacity, she shaped the next generation of police officers, instilling values of integrity, discipline, and service. Her leadership in training programs emphasized the importance of adapting to technological advancements and fostering community-centric policing—a vision that aligned with India’s evolving security needs.
The Cadre Transfer Saga: Resilience Amid Challenges
Bisht’s career took a pivotal turn in 2014 with the bifurcation of Andhra Pradesh into two states—Telangana and Andhra Pradesh. The division of the united Andhra Pradesh cadre led to contentious reallocations of IPS officers, with Bisht initially assigned to Andhra Pradesh. Citing seniority concerns and personal circumstances, she challenged this allocation through the Central Administrative Tribunal (CAT), securing a stay that allowed her to continue serving in Telangana for over a decade.
The issue resurfaced in February 2025, when the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) issued an order directing Bisht, along with two other IPS officers—Anjani Kumar and Abhishek Mohanty—to join the Andhra Pradesh cadre. Bisht contested the decision in the CAT, arguing that her seniority had been unfairly altered during the bifurcation process. She noted that, despite being senior to batchmates Sowmya Mishra and Shikha Goel, who were also transferred for spousal reasons, her later cadre change in 1997 had placed her lower on the seniority list, affecting her allocation.
The CAT, in a ruling on February 26, 2025, declined to grant interim relief, emphasizing Andhra Pradesh’s need for senior officers. The tribunal directed Bisht to join the Andhra Pradesh cadre while promising to hear her full petition later. Accepting the order, Bisht reported for duty in Andhra Pradesh on February 26, 2025, as confirmed by a government notice. However, she was granted four months of childcare leave starting from her joining date, a provision that reflects her commitment to balancing professional and personal responsibilities.
As of April 8, 2025, Bisht is on childcare leave, with her substantive role in Andhra Pradesh yet to be assigned. Her transfer, part of a broader reshuffling of officers between the two states, underscores the complexities of cadre allocation post-bifurcation. Despite the legal and administrative challenges, Bisht’s professionalism in complying with the order while awaiting further adjudication highlights her resilience and dedication to service.
Personal Life: A Partnership in Service
Abhilasha Bisht’s personal life is intertwined with her professional journey, particularly through her marriage to Kumar Viswajeet, an IPS officer of the same 1994 batch. Their shared experiences as batchmates at SVPNPA fostered a deep bond, culminating in their marriage in 1997. Viswajeet, who has served in senior roles like Additional DGP, Intelligence in Andhra Pradesh, has been a steadfast partner in Bisht’s career, navigating the demands of dual IPS careers together.
The couple’s commitment to family is evident in Bisht’s decision to take childcare leave in 2025, a choice that reflects her prioritization of her children’s well-being amid a high-pressure career. Her ability to balance these roles—officer, spouse, and parent—adds a human dimension to her public persona, making her a relatable figure for many aspiring women in the IPS.
A Legacy of Leadership and Inspiration
Bisht’s career is a testament to her ability to thrive in adversity. Her roles in training, welfare, and operational policing have left a lasting impact on Telangana’s police force, and her upcoming contributions in Andhra Pradesh are eagerly anticipated. Known for her strategic vision, she has championed initiatives like modernizing training curricula and promoting officer well-being, ensuring that the IPS remains equipped for contemporary challenges.
Her legal battles over cadre allocation, while contentious, highlight her willingness to stand up for fairness and transparency—qualities that define her leadership. Bisht’s story resonates with women in the IPS, where female representation remains a minority. As one of the senior-most women officers of her batch, she serves as a role model, proving that determination and competence can break barriers in a traditionally male-dominated field.
The Road Ahead
As Bisht prepares to resume duties in Andhra Pradesh post her childcare leave, the future holds immense potential. Her experience positions her to take on critical roles—perhaps leading a key department or shaping policy in areas like women’s safety or cybercrime. Andhra Pradesh, with its unique challenges like coastal security and urban policing, offers a new canvas for her expertise.
Her ongoing legal petition with the CAT may yet influence her cadre status, but Bisht’s focus remains on service. Whether in Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, or beyond, her legacy is one of resilience, integrity, and a relentless pursuit of excellence. As she continues to navigate the complexities of the IPS, Abhilasha Bisht remains a shining example of what it means to serve with purpose.