Dinkar Gupta Joins IIT Ropar as Professor of Practice

Patiala: Dinkar Gupta, the former Director General of the National Investigation Agency (NIA) and ex-Director General of Police (DGP) of Punjab, has officially joined the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Ropar as a Professor of Practice. This appointment brings with it over three decades of extensive experience in policing, national security, and public policy.

Role and Responsibilities at IIT Ropar

In his new role, Gupta will focus on teaching, mentoring, and collaborative research that intersects technology, public policy, and national security. His objective is to provide students with hands-on exposure to real-world challenges in these fields.

Gupta will collaborate closely with faculty and researchers on various projects, including:

• Internal security
• Cyber security
• AI-driven law enforcement
• Intelligence fusion and analysis
• Infrastructure and corporate security

Moreover, he is expected to enhance the connections between academia, government, and strategic affairs, enabling students to contribute effectively to India’s growth and development agenda.

Professional Background

Dinkar Gupta is a 1987-batch Indian Police Service (IPS) officer who dedicated 37 years to the service before retiring in 2024. His career highlights include:

• Director General of the National Investigation Agency (NIA)
• Director General of Police, Punjab
• Director General of Intelligence, Punjab
• Additional DGP (Law & Order, Security)
• Central deputation with the Intelligence Bureau

Throughout his career, Gupta received multiple medals and honors from the President of India for his gallantry and distinguished service in policing and internal security. His operational experience includes:

• Investigating cases related to national security
• Counter-terrorism operations
• Managing internal security
• Strengthening intelligence architecture at both state and national levels

Post-Retirement Engagements

Since leaving his position as DG NIA in March 2024, Gupta has remained active in the fields of public policy, strategic advisory, and governance. His current roles include:

• Senior Advisor for Strategy, Innovation & Public Services at Tata Consultancy Services
• Advisor for Security
• Independent directorships in several leading companies, guiding corporate policy on security and governance

Officials at IIT Ropar have emphasized that Gupta’s blend of government, security, and corporate experience will significantly enhance ongoing and future collaborations with industry and state agencies. His presence is expected to open new avenues for practice-oriented research, executive training, and consultancy in areas such as:

• Cyber security
• Critical infrastructure protection
• Innovation governance

Academic Contributions

In addition to his policing career, Gupta has maintained a strong engagement with academia both in India and abroad. His contributions include:

• Serving as a visiting adjunct professor at George Washington University and American University in Washington, D.C.
• Association with the Chevening Gurukul programme and the London School of Economics

Gupta’s international exposure includes specialized training with prestigious organizations such as Scotland Yard, the London Metropolitan Police, and the New York Police Department. He has also represented India at the INTERPOL General Assembly in Vienna and was appointed as an expert on Indian criminal law by the UK Crown Prosecution Service. His participation in global security and counter-terrorism symposiums has provided him with an in-depth understanding of contemporary international security trends.

Future Prospects at IIT Ropar

With Gupta’s extensive background in policing and security, IIT Ropar anticipates a significant impact on its academic environment. His expertise will not only enhance the curriculum but also provide students with valuable insights into the practical applications of their studies in real-world scenarios.

As the institute continues to strengthen its focus on technology and public policy, Gupta’s leadership is expected to guide students in navigating complex challenges in national security and related fields.

Conclusion

Dinkar Gupta’s appointment as a Professor of Practice at IIT Ropar marks a significant step forward for the institution in bridging the gap between academia and practical applications in national security and public policy. His wealth of experience and commitment to mentoring the next generation of leaders in these fields will undoubtedly contribute to the growth and development of India’s future.

Note: The information presented in this article is based on the latest available data as of October 2023.