From IT Engineering To IPS: The Inspiring Journey Of Pankaj Deshmukh, SP Pune Rural
Sumit Singh & Tikam Shekhawat
Pune, 23rd April 2024: In an inspiring tale of career transformation, Pankaj Deshmukh, a former IT engineer, has ascended to the prestigious role of Superintendent of Police (SP) for Pune Rural. Hailing from Wardha district in the Vidarbha region of Maharashtra, Deshmukh’s path to the Indian Police Service (IPS) has been marked by determination and rigorous preparation. Deshmukh is a 2011-batch IPS officer of Maharashtra cadre.
Early Life and Education
Deshmukh completed his initial schooling in his home district. He then moved to Amravati, living with his uncle while completing his higher secondary education. His academic journey led him to Pune, where he pursued an engineering degree in Information Technology at Sinhgad College.
Career Shift from Engineering to IPS
After his stint in engineering, Deshmukh spent a few years working with HSBC Global Technology in Kalyani Nagar, Pune. However, his aspirations extended beyond the corporate realm, leading him to resign and dedicate a couple of years to preparing for the civil services examination. His efforts bore fruit when he was selected for the IPS.
IPS Career Progression
Deshmukh’s police department career began with his probation in Amravati Rural, followed by his first independent charge in Nanded district. His commendable work in various capacities—including additional SP in Ahmednagar, SP in Osmanabad, and SP in Satara—paved the way for his roles within Pune City. As DCP of Traffic and then DCP of a Zone in Pune City, he introduced several initiatives aimed at improving local traffic conditions, such as QR code payments and the reinstatement of prepaid taxi services at Pune railway station.
Deshmukh was appointed as the SP of Pune Rural in February this year.
Conclusion
Pankaj Deshmukh’s journey from an IT engineer to a respected IPS officer exemplifies the diverse potentials of career paths in India. His story is not just about personal achievement but also highlights the increasing trend of professionals from technical backgrounds moving towards administrative services, enriching the sector with their unique perspectives and skills.
