Ms. Shilpa Dyavaiah: From Kottayam’s Top Cop to CBI’s New Superintendent of Police
In a remarkable stride for women in law enforcement, Ms. Shilpa Dyavaiah, a 2016-batch Kerala cadre IPS officer, has been appointed as Superintendent of Police (SP) in the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI). Her journey from the corporate world to the forefront of policing is a testament to her grit, determination, and unwavering commitment to public service. Let’s dive into the inspiring story of this trailblazing officer who continues to break barriers and redefine leadership in a male-dominated field.
Born on November 22, 1982, in Karnataka, Shilpa Dyavaiah’s path to the Indian Police Service (IPS) was anything but conventional. With a Bachelor’s degree in Electronics and an MBA under her belt, she initially carved out a successful career as a Business Analyst with Tata Consultancy Services in the early 2010s. The corporate world offered her stability and comfort, but her heart yearned for something more meaningful—a chance to serve the public and make a tangible difference in people’s lives. Inspired by her father, an Indian Forest Service officer in the Karnataka cadre, and the women officers she admired growing up, Shilpa decided to chase her childhood dream of becoming a civil servant.
READ ALSO = Transforming Futures: How IAS Officer Sachin Rana is Revolutionizing Education in Arunachal’s East Kameng
Her transition to the IPS in 2016 marked the beginning of an extraordinary journey. Joining the Kerala cadre, Shilpa quickly proved her mettle, taking on challenging roles with a rare blend of analytical sharpness and on-ground courage. She began her career as Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP) in Kasaragod and Kannur, where she tackled high-stakes investigations, including the infamous Koodathayi cyanide murder case—a series of killings that shocked the nation. Her investigative acumen and ability to handle complex cases earned her widespread recognition.
In 2020, Shilpa made history as the first woman Superintendent of Police (SP) of Kasaragod, a communally sensitive district in Kerala. Her tenure coincided with the COVID-19 pandemic, a period that tested her leadership like never before. Under her command, Kasaragod implemented stringent measures, including a triple lockdown, to curb the virus’s spread—a model that gained praise for its effectiveness. She also ensured law and order during a time of heightened uncertainty, proving her ability to lead under pressure.
Shilpa’s career continued to soar as she took on the role of Commandant of the Kerala Women Police Battalion, where she championed gender inclusivity in policing. Later, as District Police Chief of Kottayam, she oversaw the smooth conduct of assembly elections and managed law-and-order challenges with finesse. Her tenure in Kottayam was particularly notable for the district’s unique leadership dynamic—key positions, including the District Collector and Deputy Collector, were held by women, showcasing Kerala’s progressive stance on women in governance. Shilpa herself noted the state’s high acceptance of women in leadership roles, a factor that has undoubtedly fueled her own rise.
Now, as of March 2025, Shilpa Dyavaiah has taken on a new challenge as Superintendent of Police in the CBI, a role she will hold for the next five years. This appointment is a significant milestone, not just for her but for women in law enforcement across India. The CBI, known for handling some of the country’s most high-profile and sensitive cases, demands sharp investigative skills, integrity, and resilience—qualities Shilpa has demonstrated time and again. Her corporate background, combined with her extensive experience in policing, makes her uniquely equipped to tackle the complex cases that come her way in this new role.
READ ALSO = IPS Anukriti Sharma Uncovers Horrifying Network of Fake Tantriks Exploiting Families in Sambhal
What sets Shilpa apart is not just her professional achievements but her ability to balance her demanding career with her personal life. A mother to a 10-year-old, she undertook the grueling first year of IPS training when her daughter was just four years old. Her journey reflects the struggles and triumphs of countless women who juggle multiple roles while breaking glass ceilings. “There’s not a single day when I have felt like I’m missing that [corporate] life because this role is so fulfilling,” Shilpa once shared in an interview. For her, the police service is the most visible arm of the government, where even the smallest actions can bring hope and justice to those in need.
Shilpa’s story is also a reflection of Kerala’s progressive ethos. As she pointed out, the state has a legacy of strong women IPS officers, from Sreelekha, the first woman IPS officer in Kerala, to others who paved the way for her. Her appointment to the CBI is a proud moment for the state and an inspiration for young women aspiring to serve in the civil services.
As Ms. Shilpa Dyavaiah steps into her new role at the CBI, her journey serves as a powerful reminder that determination, adaptability, and a heart for service can lead to extraordinary heights. From the streets of Kasaragod to the corridors of the CBI, she continues to be a beacon of hope, justice, and empowerment. The nation watches with anticipation as this dynamic officer takes on her next chapter, ready to uphold the law and deliver justice with the same fervor that has defined her career.
READ ALSO =Kumar Padmapani Bora A Visionary Leader Transforming Assam’s Tourism Landscape