Dr. Kiran Bedi
India’s 1st woman IPS officer & Former Lt. Governor of Puducherry
Bio
Dr. Kiran Bedi is a trailblazing leader, reformer, and an icon of governance, celebrated as the first woman to join the Indian Police Service (IPS) in 1972. Born on June 9, 1949, in Amritsar, Punjab, her journey reflects courage, integrity, and compassion. Before donning the IPS uniform, she was a national and Asian tennis champion, a discipline that honed her resilience and competitive spirit. She is also an accomplished author, with several books reflecting her experiences and insights, which are available for free on her official website.
Over a distinguished 35-year career, Dr. Bedi redefined policing in India through innovation and fearless leadership. She first drew national attention as Deputy Commissioner of Police in Delhi, where she enforced strict traffic regulations, famously issuing a challan to the Prime Minister's car, which earned her the enduring nickname "Crane Bedi."
Her tenure was also marked by pioneering campaigns against drug abuse and pathbreaking initiatives to enhance women's safety.
As Inspector General of Prisons, she introduced transformative reforms at Tihar Jail (one of Asia's largest and most notorious prisons), turning it from a place of despair into a global model of rehabilitation through education, meditation, and vocational training. This groundbreaking work won her the prestigious Ramon Magsaysay Award in 1994.
Beyond her police service, Dr. Bedi founded Navjyoti India Foundation and India Vision Foundation, NGOs dedicated to prison reforms, child education, skill development, water conservation, and the empowerment of women. Internationally, she broke barriers once again as the first Indian and first woman ever to head the United Nations Police in 2003.
Her leadership shone anew as the Lieutenant Governor of Puducherry, where she worked hand in hand with citizens, solving ground-level problems with direct engagement. By emphasizing transparency, grassroots governance, and accountability, she inspired a culture of participation and progress that laid the path towards a Prosperous Puducherry.
More than a leader, Dr. Kiran Bedi is a living legend, whose fearless spirit and reformist zeal continue to inspire generations across the globe.
Personal Quote:
“Policing entails a power to do, a power to correct and a power to reform. The police can be the greatest protector of human rights just as they could be great violators - Dr. Kiran Bedi”