Saumendra Kumar Priyadarshi, a distinguished 1995-batch Indian Police Service (IPS) officer of the Odisha cadre, has carved an illustrious career marked by dedication, strategic leadership, and a steadfast commitment to public safety. Currently serving as the Additional Director General of Police (ADGP) and holding the pivotal role of Director, Intelligence, Odisha, Priyadarshi’s journey in law enforcement is a testament to his resilience, integrity, and ability to navigate complex challenges. His career spans over three decades, during which he has held critical positions, driven impactful reforms, and earned widespread respect for his contributions to policing in Odisha.
Early Life and Education
While specific details about Saumendra Kumar Priyadarshi’s early life, such as his birthplace and family background, remain private, his academic and professional journey reflects a strong foundation in discipline and intellectual rigor. Like many IPS officers, Priyadarshi likely underwent rigorous academic training before clearing the highly competitive Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) examination, which paved the way for his entry into the Indian Police Service in 1995. His early career as an IPS officer showcased his ability to adapt to diverse roles, setting the stage for his rise through the ranks.
A Stellar Career in Policing
Early Postings and Formative Years
Saumendra Kumar Priyadarshi began his career in Odisha, taking on roles that tested his mettle as a young officer. His initial postings included serving as the Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP) in Puri, a culturally significant district known for its religious tourism and law enforcement challenges. He later served as Superintendent of Police (SP) in several districts, including Ganjam, Puri, Cuttack, and Keonjhar. These assignments exposed him to diverse policing scenarios, from managing large crowds during religious festivals to tackling organized crime and maintaining law and order in urban and rural settings.
His tenure as SP in these districts was marked by proactive measures to curb crime, enhance community policing, and address local issues with sensitivity and efficiency. Priyadarshi’s ability to balance firmness with empathy earned him a reputation as a people-centric officer, a quality that would define his leadership style in the years to come.
Commissioner of Police, Bhubaneswar-Cuttack (2021)
In March 2021, Priyadarshi was appointed as the Commissioner of Police for the Twin Cities of Bhubaneswar and Cuttack, a role that placed him at the helm of policing in Odisha’s capital region. Replacing Sudhanshu Sarangi, a 1990-batch IPS officer, Priyadarshi assumed this high-profile position during a challenging period marked by the COVID-19 pandemic. His leadership during this time focused on maintaining law and order, controlling crime, and ensuring public safety amidst lockdown restrictions and health-related challenges.
Upon taking charge, Priyadarshi emphasized his commitment to improving policing in the Twin Cities. In a statement reported by Argus English, he said, “I will discharge my duty with sincere efforts and dedication. My primary focus will be to maintain law & order situation and crime control in the Twin Cities. I also seek cooperation from the general public to save human lives and property in Cuttack and Bhubaneswar.” His tenure as Commissioner was noted for its emphasis on community engagement, crime prevention, and leveraging technology to enhance policing efficiency.
Director, Intelligence, Odisha (2024)
In a significant bureaucratic reshuffle in January 2024, Priyadarshi was transferred and appointed as Director, Intelligence, Odisha, a role that underscores his strategic acumen and expertise in security matters. As Director, Intelligence, he is responsible for overseeing the state’s intelligence apparatus, coordinating with national agencies, and ensuring the timely collection and analysis of intelligence to prevent threats to public safety. This position places him at the forefront of Odisha’s efforts to combat terrorism, cybercrime, and other emerging security challenges.
His appointment to this critical role reflects the trust placed in him by the Odisha government, particularly given the sensitivity of intelligence operations. Priyadarshi’s experience in handling complex law enforcement scenarios and his ability to work under pressure have made him a natural fit for this position.
Additional Role as Chairman and Managing Director, OPHWC (2024)
In October 2024, Priyadarshi was assigned the additional responsibility of Chairman and Managing Director (CMD) of the Odisha Police Housing and Welfare Corporation (OPHWC). This role involves overseeing initiatives to improve the welfare of police personnel, including housing, healthcare, and other support systems. His dual role as ADGP and CMD highlights his ability to manage administrative and operational responsibilities simultaneously, ensuring the well-being of the police force while maintaining high standards of security governance.
Leadership Style and Contributions
Saumendra Kumar Priyadarshi’s career is characterized by a blend of strategic vision, operational efficiency, and a deep commitment to public service. His leadership style is rooted in accessibility, collaboration, and innovation. During his tenure as Commissioner of Police, he prioritized community policing, encouraging citizens to partner with the police to maintain law and order. His proactive approach to crime prevention included targeted drives against drug trafficking, cybercrime, and organized crime, earning him accolades from both the public and the government.
As Director, Intelligence, Priyadarshi has focused on modernizing Odisha’s intelligence framework, leveraging technology to enhance surveillance, data analysis, and inter-agency coordination. His efforts have been instrumental in strengthening the state’s security infrastructure, particularly in a time when cyber threats and organized crime are on the rise.
His additional role at OPHWC reflects his commitment to the welfare of police personnel. By overseeing projects aimed at improving living conditions and support systems for officers, Priyadarshi has demonstrated a holistic approach to leadership, recognizing that a motivated and well-supported police force is essential for effective law enforcement.
Challenges and Resilience
Throughout his career, Priyadarshi has faced numerous challenges, from managing large-scale public events to navigating the complexities of the COVID-19 pandemic. His tenure as Commissioner of Police during the pandemic required balancing public health measures with law enforcement duties, a task he handled with remarkable poise. His ability to adapt to changing circumstances, whether in urban policing or intelligence operations, underscores his resilience and strategic foresight.
Personal Qualities and Public Perception
Saumendra Kumar Priyadarshi is widely regarded as a dedicated and approachable officer. His commitment to public service, coupled with his ability to connect with communities, has earned him respect across Odisha. Colleagues describe him as a leader who leads by example, fostering a culture of accountability and professionalism within the police force. His public statements reflect a deep sense of responsibility and a focus on results, as seen in his emphasis on crime control and public cooperation during his tenure as Commissioner.
Current Role and Future Prospects
As of June 2025, Priyadarshi continues to serve as the Additional Director General of Police and Director, Intelligence, Odisha, while also holding the additional charge of CMD, OPHWC. His dual roles position him as a key figure in Odisha’s law enforcement and police welfare ecosystem. Given his track record, he is likely to continue playing a pivotal role in shaping the state’s security policies and enhancing the capabilities of its police force.
Looking ahead, Priyadarshi’s experience and leadership qualities make him a potential candidate for even higher responsibilities, possibly at the national level or in central deputation roles. His expertise in intelligence and policing could see him contribute to national security initiatives, especially in an era of evolving threats.
Conclusion
Saumendra Kumar Priyadarshi’s journey from a young IPS officer to a senior leader in Odisha’s police force is a story of dedication, resilience, and impact. His contributions to law enforcement, intelligence, and police welfare have left an indelible mark on Odisha’s policing landscape. As he continues to serve with distinction, Priyadarshi remains a beacon of integrity and leadership, inspiring the next generation of officers to uphold the values of public service and justice.
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