Shri Kumar Pratik, a dynamic and results-oriented officer of the 2012 batch of the Indian Police Service (IPS), is celebrated in Madhya Pradesh for his analytical precision, operational grit, and deep compassion for social welfare. Known as a “Singham-style” officer who delivers tangible results, his journey is marked by a unique transition from the technical world of engineering to the frontlines of public safety. Currently serving as the Deputy Inspector General (DIG) of Narcotics in Indore, Shri Pratik continues to play a pivotal role in the state’s mission for a “Progressive Transformation,” ensuring that development is anchored by a secure and drug-free environment.
Early Life and Academic Pursuits
Shri Kumar Pratik’s foundations are rooted in the academic and professional rigor of Ranchi, Jharkhand. The son of a dedicated Bank of India officer, he pursued a B.Tech in Mechanical Engineering from the prestigious Birla Institute of Technology (BIT), Ranchi. His intellectual prowess was evident early on when he was selected for the Indian Revenue Service (IRS) in 2010. However, driven by a desire for more direct public impact, he continued his pursuit of excellence and joined the Indian Police Service in 2012, bringing a technocratic approach to law enforcement.
Professional Genesis and Field Leadership
Shri Pratik’s career in the Madhya Pradesh cadre has been defined by his ability to stabilize complex districts and deliver justice with speed:
- Tikamgarh and Seoni: His journey as a district head began in Tikamgarh (2017), followed by a significant tenure as Superintendent of Police (SP) in Seoni. In these roles, he focused on strengthening grassroots policing and maintaining communal harmony.
- The Shahdol Tenure: Appointed as SP Shahdol in June 2022, he became a household name for his relentless work ethic. He famously cracked a high-profile ₹35 lakh jewelry shop theft within a single month, restoring public faith in the administration through strategic planning and modern forensic techniques.
- A Film-Style Commander: Often described by locals as an officer straight out of a film, he is known for his strict daily fitness routine and a “no-nonsense” approach to criminal syndicates.
The Guardian of Families: ‘Operation Muskan’
Perhaps the most enduring legacy of Shri Kumar Pratik is his emotional connect with the families of missing children. Under his leadership, more than 55 minor children were tracked down from across the country and reunited with their parents. This mission-driven approach to policing has earned him immense respect, positioning him not just as an enforcer of the law, but as a restorer of lost smiles.
Strategic Leadership in Narcotics
In a major administrative realignment in May 2026, Shri Kumar Pratik was elevated to the rank of Deputy Inspector General (DIG) and entrusted with the specialized Narcotics portfolio in Indore. In this capacity, he is at the forefront of:
- Dismantling Drug Networks: Utilizing his analytical background to map and disrupt the financial and logistical chains of narcotics trade.
- Youth Safety: Aligning with the state’s vision for a “Progressive Transformation” by protecting the younger generation from the drug menace[cite: 1].
- Inter-District Coordination: Strengthening the security corridors of Indore and neighboring regions through technical surveillance and data-driven policing.
A Visionary Outlook
Shri Kumar Pratik’s philosophy of governance is built on the pillars of Technological Integration and Human-Centric Service. He envisions a police force that is as comfortable using advanced data analytics as it is engaging in compassionate community outreach. By ensuring the safety of the state’s most vulnerable—its children—and its most vital urban hubs, he is a key architect of the stable and secure environment necessary for Madhya Pradesh’s holistic development.
Why is he one of the ‘Stars of MP’?
Shri Kumar Pratik is a ‘Star of MP’ because he embodies the blend of intellectual rigor and field bravery. From his success in recovering missing children to his strategic appointment as DIG Narcotics Indore, his career reflects the state’s trajectory toward becoming a model of excellence in governance. His transition from IRS to IPS and his subsequent rise through the ranks in districts like Shahdol and Seoni demonstrate a tireless commitment to the people of Madhya Pradesh, making him a true guardian of the state’s progress.
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