In the vibrant tapestry of India’s law enforcement, few threads shine as brightly as S. Susree, an Indian Police Service (IPS) officer whose meteoric rise and unwavering dedication have made her a standout figure in Odisha’s policing landscape. As the Superintendent of Police (SP) of Nayagarh district, Susree has brought a fresh wave of energy, innovation, and compassion to a region rich with history yet hungry for progress. At just 29 years old as of April 2, 2025, this 2018-batch officer has already etched her name as one of Odisha’s youngest and most dynamic police leaders, blending grit, intellect, and a deep commitment to justice to redefine what policing can achieve.
Early Life and Education: A Star in the Making
Born in Kerala to Sunil Kumar, a retired Assistant Commandant of the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), and Sreekala, a dedicated teacher, Susree grew up in a household where discipline and service were not just values—they were a way of life. From an early age, she displayed an exceptional aptitude for academics, topping her CBSE exams in both 10th and 12th grades. Her brilliance continued at Kerala University, where she graduated with a BA in English, once again securing the top rank. But Susree’s ambitions stretched far beyond the classroom—she dreamed of a career that would let her serve her country on a grand scale.
Inspired by her father’s tales of courage and her own encounters with social inequities, Susree set her sights on the Indian Civil Services. At just 23, she tackled the grueling UPSC examination—a test that breaks even the toughest spirits—and emerged victorious on her very first attempt, clinching an impressive 151st rank. In 2018, she joined the IPS, opting for the Odisha cadre, ready to channel her intellect and passion into a career of action and impact.
A Stellar Start: From Training to Command
Susree’s journey in the IPS kicked off with a rigorous training stint at the Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel National Police Academy in Hyderabad, where her leadership skills and sharp mind quickly caught the eye of her instructors. After completing her initial training, she plunged into field assignments in Odisha, starting as an Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP). Her eight-month field training was a baptism by fire—handling law-and-order challenges, cracking down on crime, and learning the ropes of rural policing in a state known for its diverse terrain and complex social fabric.
Her big break came in 2021, when, at the tender age of 25, she was chosen to command Odisha’s state-level Republic Day parade in Bhubaneswar. Leading 14 contingents—including elite units like the CRPF, ODRAF, and Odisha’s Special Operations Group (SOG)—in front of Governor Ganeshi Lal and Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik, Susree showcased her poise and precision. “I was nervous at first,” she later admitted, “but with practice, I found my footing. It was an honor to stand up to the expectations of my seniors.” The moment wasn’t just a personal triumph—it was a loud declaration of her arrival as a force to be reckoned with.
Rising Through the Ranks: A Journey of Impact
Susree’s early postings took her to some of Odisha’s toughest districts. As Sub-Divisional Police Officer (SDPO) in Kesinga, she tackled everything from petty crime to Maoist threats with a blend of firmness and empathy. Her ability to connect with communities—listening to their grievances and acting decisively—earned her respect from both locals and her peers. In 2023, she was appointed SP of Nabarangpur, a district grappling with tribal unrest and underdevelopment. There, she rolled up her sleeves, strengthening police presence, curbing illegal activities, and fostering trust between the force and the people.
Later that year, a minor IPS reshuffle saw her take the helm as SP of Mayurbhanj, where she continued her streak of excellence. She cracked down on organized crime, streamlined traffic management, and launched awareness campaigns on women’s safety—initiatives that left a lasting mark. But it was her transfer to Nayagarh in late 2024 that truly set the stage for her to shine, bringing her unique vision to a district ripe for transformation.
Leading Nayagarh: A New Chapter of Progress
Nayagarh, a district nestled in Odisha’s heartland, is a land of rolling hills, ancient temples, and tight-knit communities. Yet, beneath its serene surface lie challenges—rural crime, human trafficking, and the ever-present shadow of Maoist influence from neighboring areas. When Susree took charge as SP, she didn’t just see problems—she saw possibilities. With her trademark energy, she hit the ground running, determined to make Nayagarh a model of safety, development, and community empowerment.
Strengthening Law and Order
Susree’s first order of business was bolstering Nayagarh’s security framework. She revamped police patrolling, introducing night beats in vulnerable areas and leveraging technology like CCTV and drones to monitor hotspots. Her zero-tolerance stance on crime sent a clear message—whether it was petty theft or serious offenses like drug trafficking, no one would escape the law’s reach. Under her watch, crime rates began to dip, and residents started feeling a renewed sense of safety.
Empowering Women and Youth
A fierce advocate for gender equality, Susree launched initiatives to protect and empower Nayagarh’s women. She set up dedicated helplines for domestic violence victims, organized self-defense workshops, and worked with local NGOs to rehabilitate survivors of trafficking—a persistent issue in the region. “Our women officers have endless opportunities,” she once said. “They just need to reach out and grab them.” Her efforts have inspired a new generation of women to trust the police and pursue their dreams.
For the youth, Susree introduced community policing programs, engaging them in sports and skill-building activities to steer them away from crime and radicalization. Her open-door policy—welcoming students and young leaders to discuss their concerns—has turned the SP’s office into a hub of collaboration.
Tackling Maoist Shadows
Nayagarh’s proximity to Maoist-affected zones posed a unique challenge. Susree tackled it head-on, coordinating with the Odisha Police’s Special Operations Group and the District Voluntary Force to neutralize threats. She also took a proactive approach, visiting remote villages to address grievances and reduce the appeal of extremist ideologies. Her blend of enforcement and outreach has started to erode the Maoist foothold, earning her praise from senior officials.
Modernizing the Force
Susree isn’t one to rest on tradition. She’s pushed for modernization, training her officers in cybercrime investigation—a growing menace—and equipping stations with better resources. Her tech-savvy approach has streamlined operations, from digitizing records to using social media to connect with the public. Nayagarh’s police force, once seen as under-resourced, is now a lean, efficient machine under her command.
The Woman Behind the Badge
What makes Susree tick? Colleagues describe her as a whirlwind—relentless yet approachable, with a sharp mind and a warm smile. Her petite frame belies a towering presence; she’s as comfortable strategizing in a meeting as she is inspecting a crime scene at dawn. Her Kerala roots shine through in her love for literature and her soft-spoken demeanor, but her years in Odisha have made her a true daughter of the state—she’s picked up Odia, savors local cuisine like pakhala bhata, and respects the region’s deep cultural heritage.
Susree’s leadership style is hands-on and heartfelt. She’s been known to join her team on late-night patrols, share tea with villagers, and personally mentor young constables. “Policing isn’t just about catching criminals,” she says. “It’s about building trust.” That philosophy drives her every move, from resolving disputes to celebrating small victories with her team.
Challenges and Triumphs
The path hasn’t been smooth. Susree has faced resistance—skepticism from old-school officers, logistical hurdles in a rural district, and the sheer weight of expectations as a young woman in a male-dominated field. Yet, she’s turned every challenge into a stepping stone. When floods hit Nayagarh, she led rescue efforts, wading through water alongside her team. When a high-profile case demanded swift action, she delivered justice with surgical precision. Each triumph has solidified her reputation as a leader who gets things done.
A Legacy in the Making
As of April 2, 2025, S. Susree’s tenure in Nayagarh is still unfolding, but the signs are clear—she’s here to leave a mark. Her vision extends beyond policing; she’s laying the groundwork for a safer, stronger district, one where law enforcement is a partner, not just a protector. Whispers of her next big move—perhaps a statewide role or a national honor—swirl around her, but Susree remains focused on the present, her eyes fixed on Nayagarh’s horizon.
In a nation where policing often battles distrust, Susree is a breath of fresh air—a young, fearless woman rewriting the rules with courage and compassion. Her story is one of grit, grace, and an unrelenting drive to serve. As Nayagarh blossoms under her watch, S. Susree stands tall, a testament to what’s possible when talent meets purpose. The best, it seems, is yet to come.