- Sanjay A. Lathkar, an IPS officer of the 1995 Jharkhand cadre, was appointed Inspector General (Security) at the Department of Atomic Energy (DAE) on April 13, 2025.
- Research suggests he has nearly three decades of experience in law enforcement, with significant roles in Bihar, Jharkhand, and Maharashtra.
- It seems likely he is an IIT Bombay alumnus with an M.Tech in Environmental Science and Engineering, supplemented by qualifications in law, management, cybercrime, human rights, and a Ph.D.
- The evidence leans toward him receiving multiple awards, including the President’s Police Medal for Gallantry (2002), Meritorious Service (2015), and Distinguished Service (2022).
- His new role involves overseeing security for India’s nuclear establishments, a critical responsibility given the sensitive nature of atomic energy infrastructure.
Background and Education
Sanjay A. Lathkar, born on September 5, 1968, in Maharashtra, likely grew up in a family that valued education, given his academic achievements. He pursued an M.Tech in Environmental Science and Engineering at IIT Bombay, a premier institution, which equipped him with a strong technical foundation. His pursuit of additional qualifications in law, management, cybercrime, human rights, and criminal justice, along with a Ph.D., reflects a commitment to continuous learning, essential for navigating complex security challenges.
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Career in the Indian Police Service
Joining the IPS in 1995, Lathkar’s career spans diverse roles across challenging regions. He served as Superintendent of Police in Latur, Additional Commissioner of Police in Pune, and Deputy Inspector General (DIG) of the Anti-Terrorism Squad in Maharashtra. His tenure with the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) as DIG and IG involved leading anti-naxal operations in areas like Gadchiroli and Ranchi. These roles highlight his expertise in crime control, counter-terrorism, and maintaining law and order in volatile regions.
Community Engagement
Beyond policing, Lathkar has championed community initiatives, particularly in rural and naxal-affected areas. His efforts in education, sports promotion, environmental conservation (like tree plantation and rainwater harvesting), and youth development have fostered social progress. His leadership during the COVID-19 pandemic, including organizing food and medical support for IIT Bombay alumni, underscores his empathetic approach.
New Role at DAE
Appointed IG (Security) at the DAE on April 13, 2025, Lathkar is tasked with safeguarding India’s nuclear infrastructure. The role, upgraded to Additional Director General (ADG) level for two years, demands strategic oversight and precision, qualities he has demonstrated throughout his career. He will serve until his superannuation on September 30, 2028.
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IPS Sanjay A. Lathkar: A Stalwart of Security and Service
In a significant move for India’s national security framework, Shri Sanjay A. Lathkar, a seasoned Indian Police Service (IPS) officer of the 1995 Jharkhand cadre, was appointed Inspector General (Security) under the Department of Atomic Energy (DAE) on April 13, 2025. This prestigious role, effective until his superannuation on September 30, 2028, places him at the forefront of safeguarding India’s critical nuclear infrastructure. With nearly three decades of exemplary service, Lathkar’s journey from a young officer to a key figure in national security is a testament to his dedication, strategic foresight, and commitment to public welfare.
Roots in Maharashtra: A Foundation of Values
Born on September 5, 1968, in Maharashtra, Sanjay A. Lathkar likely grew up in a family that emphasized education and discipline, shaping his path toward a distinguished career. While specific details about his early life remain private, his academic achievements suggest a nurturing environment that fostered intellectual curiosity. His hometown, possibly in a region known for its cultural and industrial vibrancy, would have exposed him to diverse perspectives, laying the groundwork for his empathetic leadership style.
Lathkar’s educational journey took him to the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Bombay, one of India’s premier institutions, where he earned an M.Tech in Environmental Science and Engineering. This technical foundation, combined with his later qualifications in law, management, cybercrime, human rights, and criminal justice, reflects a multidisciplinary approach to problem-solving. His recent completion of a Ph.D. further underscores his commitment to knowledge-driven governance, a trait that has defined his career.
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The Making of an IPS Officer
Sanjay A. Lathkar joined the Indian Police Service in 1995, entering the Jharkhand cadre during a period of significant security challenges in the region. The IPS, known for its rigorous selection process through the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) examination, demands intellectual rigor and resilience qualities Lathkar demonstrated early on. His training at the Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel National Police Academy in Hyderabad would have honed his skills in law enforcement, leadership, and crisis management, preparing him for the diverse roles he would undertake.
His early postings likely involved grassroots policing, where he gained firsthand experience in maintaining law and order. Over the years, Lathkar’s career trajectory saw him take on increasingly complex responsibilities across Bihar, Jharkhand, and Maharashtra. As Superintendent of Police in Latur, he tackled local crime and community issues with a hands-on approach. His role as Additional Commissioner of Police in Pune showcased his ability to manage urban policing challenges, from traffic management to organized crime.
One of Lathkar’s most notable assignments was as Deputy Inspector General (DIG) of the Anti-Terror Counter-terrorism is a high-stakes domain, and Lathkar’s leadership in this role likely involved coordinating intelligence operations and neutralizing threats. His subsequent positions as DIG and Inspector General (IG) with the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) placed him in the heart of anti-naxal operations in regions like Gadchiroli and Ranchi. These areas, plagued by left-wing extremism, demanded strategic acumen and community engagement both of which Lathkar delivered with distinction.
A Career Adorned with Honors
Lathkar’s contributions to law enforcement have been recognized through several prestigious awards. In 2002, he received the President’s Police Medal for Gallantry, a testament to his bravery in high-risk operations. The Police Medal for Meritorious Service in 2015 acknowledged his consistent excellence, while the President’s Police Medal for Distinguished Service in 2022 highlighted his sustained impact on national security. These accolades reflect not only his professional competence but also his courage and dedication to public safety.
Beyond the Uniform: Community and Compassion
What sets Sanjay A. Lathkar apart is his deep commitment to community welfare. Beyond his policing duties, he has championed initiatives in education, sports, environmental conservation, and youth development, particularly in rural and naxal-affected regions. His efforts in tree plantation and rainwater harvesting align with his academic background in environmental science, promoting sustainable development. Lathkar’s promotion of voluntary blood donation and sports among youth has fostered community resilience and hope.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, Lathkar’s leadership extended to the IIT Bombay Alumni Association’s Nagpur Chapter, where he was a key founder member. He organized food and medical support for alumni and their families, coordinated access to critical medicines, and spearheaded crowdfunding campaigns to save lives.
Appointment as IG (Security) at DAE
On April 13, 2025, the Appointments Committee of the Cabinet approved Lathkar’s appointment as Inspector General (Security) at the Department of Atomic Energy, as confirmed by the Department of Personnel and Training (DoPT) . The post, temporarily upgraded from Level 14 to Level 15 of the Pay Matrix for two years, aligns with the rank and pay of Additional Director General (ADG). Lathkar’s tenure will continue until his superannuation on September 30, 2028, or until further orders.
In this critical role, Lathkar is responsible for overseeing the security of India’s atomic and nuclear establishments, a task that demands precision, strategic planning, and an acute understanding of national security dynamics. The DAE manages India’s nuclear energy program, including research, power generation, and strategic assets, making its security paramount. Lathkar’s experience in counter-terrorism, anti-naxal operations, and crisis management positions him ideally to strengthen the DAE’s security infrastructure.
A Leader for the Future
As Sanjay A. Lathkar steps into his new role, expectations are high. His leadership style, which balances firmness in enforcement with empathy in administration, has earned him respect across ranks. Colleagues describe him as a pragmatic yet compassionate officer, equally adept at strategizing in high-stakes operations as he is at connecting with communities. His multilingual proficiency and technical expertise enhance his ability to navigate complex security challenges.
Outside his professional life, Lathkar is known for his passion for environmental conservation and fitness. His interests in trekking and promoting healthy living, as noted in his IIT Bombay Alumni Bio, reflect a well-rounded personality. These pursuits not only recharge him but also inform his community initiatives, fostering holistic development.
Conclusion: A Legacy of Service
Sanjay A. Lathkar’s appointment as IG (Security) at the Department of Atomic Energy on April 13, 2025, marks a new chapter in a career defined by excellence and service. From his early days in Maharashtra to his transformative roles in the IPS, Lathkar has consistently demonstrated the qualities of a true leader courage, intellect, and compassion. As he takes on the responsibility of safeguarding India’s nuclear assets, his legacy continues to inspire, proving that dedication to the nation can transform lives and secure the future.
Career Timeline
| Year | Position | Location | Key Contributions |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1995 | Joined IPS | Jharkhand Cadre | Began career in law enforcement |
| Early 2000s | Superintendent of Police | Latur, Maharashtra | Managed local crime and community issues |
| 2002 | Awarded President’s Police Medal for Gallantry | – | Recognized for bravery in high-risk operations |
| Mid-2000s | Additional Commissioner of Police | Pune, Maharashtra | Oversaw urban policing challenges |
| 2010s | DIG, Anti-Terrorism Squad | Maharashtra | Led counter-terrorism operations |
| 2015 | Awarded Police Medal for Meritorious Service | – | Honored for consistent excellence |
| 2010s-2020s | DIG and IG, CRPF | Gadchiroli, Ranchi | Spearheaded anti-naxal operations |
| 2022 | Awarded President’s Police Medal for Distinguished Service | – | Recognized for sustained impact |
| 2025 | IG (Security), DAE | New Delhi | Oversees security of nuclear infrastructure |
Key Skills and Attributes
| Skill/Attribute | Relevance to Role |
|---|---|
| Counter-Terrorism Expertise | Critical for securing nuclear assets against threats |
| Anti-Naxal Operations | Experience in managing volatile regions |
| Community Engagement | Builds trust and resilience in sensitive areas |
| Technical Education | Enhances strategic planning and innovation |
| Continuous Learning | Adapts to evolving security challenges |