In the bustling streets of Punjab, where challenges like crime, drugs, and social unrest test the mettle of its guardians, one name stands out—Dr. Nanak Singh, a Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) whose journey from a medical doctor to a decorated Indian Police Service (IPS) officer is as compelling as it is inspiring. A 2011-batch IPS officer of the Punjab cadre, Nanak Singh has carved a niche for himself as a compassionate yet resolute leader, blending his medical expertise with a fierce commitment to law enforcement. Currently serving as SSP Patiala (as of March 20, 2025), his life story is a vibrant tapestry of determination, service, and transformative leadership that continues to inspire countless individuals across India.
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Early Life: A Seed Planted in Compassion
Nanak Singh was born into a modest family in Punjab, a land known for its rich culture and resilient spirit. Growing up in an environment where community welfare was a cherished value, young Nanak was shaped by the ethos of helping others. His parents, though not affluent, emphasized education and integrity, laying the foundation for his future endeavors. From an early age, he displayed a sharp mind and a natural inclination toward problem-solving, traits that would later define his multifaceted career.
His academic journey took him to the prestigious Government Medical College in Amritsar, where he pursued an MBBS degree. Graduating in 2009, Nanak stepped into the world of medicine with dreams of healing the sick and alleviating suffering. For a brief period, he worked as a rural medical officer, tending to the health needs of underserved communities. Yet, even as he bandaged wounds and prescribed remedies, a larger calling tugged at his heart—a desire to address the root causes of societal ailments, not just their symptoms.
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The UPSC Leap: From Stethoscope to Uniform
In a bold pivot that would change his life’s trajectory, Nanak Singh decided to trade his doctor’s coat for the khaki uniform of the Indian Police Service. The decision was not impulsive; it stemmed from a deep-seated belief that policing offered a broader platform to serve society. Armed with his medical background and a relentless drive, he set his sights on the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) Civil Services Examination—one of the toughest competitive exams in the world.
In 2011, at the age of just 26, Nanak cracked the UPSC exam on his very first attempt, securing a coveted spot in the IPS. His success was no fluke; it was the result of disciplined preparation, late-night study sessions, and an unshakable focus on his goal. Reflecting on his journey, he once said, “As a doctor, I could heal one person at a time. As a police officer, I can protect and uplift entire communities.” This philosophy became the bedrock of his career, guiding him through the rigorous training at the Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel National Police Academy in Hyderabad.
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Rising Through the Ranks: A Trailblazer in Punjab
Nanak Singh joined the Punjab Police in 2011, stepping into a state grappling with complex issues—drug trafficking, organized crime, and socio-economic disparities. His early postings as an Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP) and later as Superintendent of Police (SP) in districts like Bathinda exposed him to the gritty realities of law enforcement. Yet, it was his unique blend of empathy and authority that set him apart.
In Bathinda, where he served as SSP, Nanak earned widespread admiration for his compassionate approach during the COVID-19 pandemic. He ensured that elderly citizens received essential supplies and that frontline police personnel were supported with care and resources. His medical knowledge proved invaluable, as he guided his team through health protocols while maintaining order in a time of crisis. “Policing isn’t just about enforcement; it’s about trust,” he often emphasized, a mantra that resonated with both his subordinates and the public.
His tenure in Gurdaspur and Mansa further showcased his versatility. As SSP Mansa, he tackled the drug menace head-on, launching aggressive campaigns against peddlers while advocating for rehabilitation programs to save addicted youth. His zero-tolerance policy toward narcotics, coupled with community outreach, began turning the tide in a region long plagued by substance abuse. By 2022, he briefly served as SSP Patiala, leaving a mark with his focus on transparency and accountability.
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SSP Patiala: A Second Stint of Impact
In August 2024, Nanak Singh returned to Patiala as SSP, replacing Varun Sharma. This posting, one of his most high-profile assignments yet, thrust him into the spotlight of a historic city known for its cultural significance and complex policing challenges. Taking charge with a pledge to curb the drug trade, he declared, “My priority is a corruption-free police force and a drug-free Patiala.” His words were not mere rhetoric; within months, his team confiscated properties of drug peddlers and intensified patrols to dismantle smuggling networks.
Nanak’s leadership style is a dynamic mix of firmness and accessibility. He holds regular meetings with senior officers to strategize crime prevention while ensuring his door remains open to citizens with grievances. His initiatives—ranging from women’s safety drives to cracking down on organized crime—reflect a holistic approach to policing. Drawing from his medical past, he often likens his role to that of a surgeon: diagnosing societal ills and applying precise interventions to heal them.
Personal Life: A Balance of Duty and Humanity
Beyond the uniform, Nanak Singh is a man of quiet depth. Married and rooted in Punjab, he maintains a low-profile personal life, letting his work speak for itself. His medical background continues to influence his worldview; he has been known to mentor young doctors-turned-civil-servants, encouraging them to leverage their skills in public service. In his rare moments of downtime, he enjoys reading about global security trends and staying connected with his team, whom he credits for every success.
His colleagues describe him as a “people’s cop”—a leader who commands respect not through fear but through genuine care. During his Bathinda stint, he famously spent hours consoling a grieving family after a tragedy, a gesture that cemented his reputation as a humane officer. Such acts of kindness, paired with his steely resolve against crime, make him a rare figure in the annals of Punjab’s police force.
A Legacy Unfolding: The Doctor-Cop’s Vision
As of March 20, 2025, SSP Nanak Singh stands at the helm of Patiala’s police apparatus, steering it through turbulent times with a steady hand. At just over a decade into his IPS career, he has already left an indelible mark—whether it’s his pioneering work during the pandemic, his relentless fight against drugs, or his efforts to build a transparent policing system. Yet, he remains a work in progress, driven by an insatiable hunger to do more.
Nanak Singh’s story is a beacon for aspiring civil servants, proving that passion and purpose can transcend professions. From the operation theater to the police station, he has carried forward his mission of service, adapting his skills to meet the needs of a changing world. As Punjab looks to him for leadership, one thing is clear: this doctor-turned-cop is not just enforcing the law—he’s redefining what it means to protect and serve.
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