IPS Sanjukta Parashar: Dr. Sanjukta Parashar, a 2006-batch IPS officer, has assumed the role of Inspector General (IG) of CoBRA (Commando Battalion for Resolute Action), the specialized commando unit of the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF). With this appointment, she has become the first female officer to lead this unit. Belonging to the Assam-Meghalaya cadre, Parashar is also known as the ‘Iron Lady of Assam’ due to her extensive field experience.
CoBRA was specifically raised for jungle warfare and anti-Naxal operations. The unit is deployed for challenging missions in Naxal-affected regions, including Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, Odisha, and Maharashtra. During jungle operations, personnel face challenges such as IEDs, ambushes, and difficult terrain.
Ph.D. from JNU; Secured 85th Rank in UPSC
Sanjukta Parashar studied Political Science at Indraprastha College, University of Delhi. She subsequently earned a doctorate in International Relations from Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU).
In 2006, she cleared the UPSC Civil Services Examination, securing the 85th rank nationwide. She then opted for the Indian Police Service (IPS) and began her service in the Assam-Meghalaya cadre.
Experience in Counter-Insurgency Operations in Assam
Throughout her career, Sanjukta Parashar has handled responsibilities related to counter-insurgency operations in Assam. She possesses experience in conducting security operations at the grassroots level. Additionally, she has served as a DIG with the National Investigation Agency (NIA), where she managed responsibilities related to investigating cases involving terror networks and terror financing.
What is the CRPF’s CoBRA Unit?
CoBRA—or Commando Battalion for Resolute Action—is a specially trained commando unit of the CRPF. It has been raised specifically for jungle warfare and anti-Naxal operations. Its personnel receive specialized training to conduct operations in difficult jungle terrain, counter ambushes, handle IEDs, and carry out missions based on intelligence inputs.
Sanjukta Parashar possesses experience at both the field operations and investigative agency levels. Her new responsibility as IG of CoBRA is considered significant in light of this experience.
