A Detailed Biography of IPS Nupur Prasad
In the annals of India’s law enforcement, few names resonate with the grit, determination, and sheer brilliance of IPS Nupur Prasad. A woman who turned her childhood dreams into a powerful reality, Nupur has emerged as one of the most dynamic and respected officers in the Indian Police Service (IPS). From the dusty lanes of rural Bihar to the high-stakes corridors of the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), her journey is a testament to resilience, intellect, and an unwavering commitment to justice. Let’s dive into the life of this extraordinary “Supercop,” whose story inspires millions and redefines what it means to serve and protect.
Early Life: Roots in Resilience
Nupur Prasad was born on April 2, 1983, in the modest village of Salempur, Tikari, in Bihar’s Gaya district. Growing up in a middle-class family, she was surrounded by simplicity but nurtured by ambition. Her father, Indubhushan Prasad, a man of modest means, believed fiercely in the power of education. He became the cornerstone of Nupur’s aspirations, encouraging her to dream beyond the limitations of her surroundings. Her mother, though less documented, played an equally vital role, instilling in her the values of discipline and compassion.
As a child, Nupur was captivated by stories of valor and justice. The sight of police officers commanding respect in her village sparked a fire within her—a dream to one day wear the khaki uniform herself. Despite the societal constraints often placed on girls in rural India, Nupur’s resolve only grew stronger. She attended a local private school, excelling in her studies with a quiet determination that would later define her career. Her academic journey took her to Babasaheb Bhimrao Ambedkar Bihar University, where she graduated with flying colors, setting the stage for her assault on the formidable UPSC examination.
Cracking the Code: The Making of an IPS Officer
The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) exam is often called the Everest of competitive exams in India, and Nupur Prasad scaled it with remarkable finesse. In 2007, at the age of 24, she cracked the exam, earning her place in the prestigious Indian Police Service as part of the AGMUT (Arunachal Pradesh, Goa, Mizoram, and Union Territories) cadre. It wasn’t just a personal victory—it was a triumph for every young girl from a small town who dared to dream big.
Her training at the Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel National Police Academy in Hyderabad was nothing short of transformative. Nupur emerged as a standout, blending physical prowess with a razor-sharp intellect. Her peers recall her as someone who led by example—whether it was mastering the art of interrogation or enduring grueling field exercises. This was just the beginning of a career that would see her rise through the ranks with meteoric speed.
A Career Forged in Fire: From Shahdara to the CBI
Nupur’s first major posting came as the Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) in Delhi’s Shahdara district. Known for its complex social fabric and high crime rates, Shahdara was no easy assignment. Yet, Nupur embraced the challenge with open arms. She hit the ground running, cracking down on organized crime, tackling petty theft, and restoring a sense of safety to a community long plagued by fear. Residents still speak of her as a beacon of hope—a fearless officer who walked the streets herself, unafraid to confront danger head-on.
Her tenure in Shahdara wasn’t just about law enforcement; it was about building trust. She launched initiatives to engage with locals, earning her the nickname “The People’s DCP.” Her ability to balance firmness with empathy made her a standout leader, and it wasn’t long before her reputation caught the attention of higher authorities.
In 2018, Nupur was appointed DCP of North Delhi, another challenging jurisdiction. Here, she continued her crusade against crime, focusing on issues like drug trafficking and women’s safety. Her innovative policing methods—combining technology with on-the-ground intelligence—set her apart as a modern-day reformer. But her biggest leap was yet to come.
In 2019, Nupur Prasad was promoted to Superintendent of Police (SP) at the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), India’s premier investigative agency. This was no ordinary promotion—it was a call to tackle some of the nation’s most high-profile cases. Known within the CBI as “Supercop,” Nupur brought her signature blend of tenacity and precision to the table, quickly establishing herself as a force to be reckoned with.
The Sushant Singh Rajput Case: A Spotlight on Brilliance
Nupur Prasad’s name became a household one in 2020 when she was chosen to lead the CBI’s Special Investigation Team (SIT) probing the mysterious death of Bollywood actor Sushant Singh Rajput. The case, which gripped the nation with its emotional weight and media frenzy, was a litmus test for any officer. Nupur, however, was undeterred.
Under the supervision of DIG Gagandeep Gambhir and Joint Director Manoj Shashidhar, she orchestrated a meticulous investigation. She divided her team into three specialized units: one to gather forensic evidence, another to interrogate key witnesses, and a third to explore alternative angles like professional rivalry. Her interrogation of prime suspect Rhea Chakraborty was a masterclass in composure and authority. When tensions flared, Nupur’s calm yet firm response—“The CBI doesn’t rush to conclusions; prove your innocence through cooperation”—silenced doubters and showcased her skill.
Though the case concluded with the CBI filing a closure report in 2025 (pending court approval), Nupur’s leadership left an indelible mark. Her ability to navigate public scrutiny, political pressure, and complex evidence cemented her status as one of India’s finest investigators.
Personal Life: A Partnership in Service
Behind Nupur’s steely exterior lies a woman of warmth and balance. She is married to Surender Kumar, a fellow IPS officer from the 2007 batch. Their union is a rare and beautiful partnership—two individuals united not just by love but by a shared commitment to public service. While details of their personal life remain private, it’s clear that Surender has been a pillar of support, understanding the demands of Nupur’s high-octane career.
Physically, Nupur cuts an impressive figure—standing at 5 feet 6 inches, with striking black hair and eyes that exude both kindness and resolve. Her presence commands respect, yet she carries herself with an approachable grace that endears her to colleagues and citizens alike.
Legacy and Beyond: The Future of Nupur Prasad
As of March 24, 2025, Nupur Prasad serves as Joint Commissioner of Police (Joint CP) in Delhi, a role that reflects her meteoric rise and unrelenting drive. Her career is far from over, and if her past is any indication, she’s destined for even greater heights—perhaps a leadership role in the CBI or beyond.
Nupur’s story isn’t just about policing; it’s about breaking barriers. She’s a symbol of what’s possible when talent meets tenacity—a role model for women, a hero for justice seekers, and a nightmare for wrongdoers. In a world often clouded by chaos, IPS Nupur Prasad shines as a beacon of hope, proving that courage and integrity can indeed change the game.