- By Sarju Saran Tiwari
- Fri, 15 Aug 2025 08:40 AM (IST)
- Source:JND
Indian Police Ranks: Indian Police is a consists of central and state forces, both forming a key pillar of law and order. The Indian Police Service (IPS) is recruited by the central government, while State Police Services are chosen by individual states. Structure, roles and posts vary regionally, but a clear hierarchy links every officer, from constable to the Director General of Police (DGP).
Insignia worn on each officers uniform tell their respective story. Stars, stripes and the Ashok Emblem grow in number and complexity as one climbs the ranks. Gazetted officers (DSP and above) shoulder has more responsibility and command, while non-gazetted officers maintain discipline and frontline policing. Each symbol represents leadership, service and prestige in India’s diverse police system.
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1. Gazetted Police Ranks & Insignia:
| Rank | Abbreviation | Insignia | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Director General of Police | DGP |  | |
| Additional Director General of Police | ADGP |  | |
| Inspector General of Police | IGP |  | |
| Deputy Inspector General of Police | DIG |  | |
| Senior Superintendent of Police | SSP |  | |
| Superintendent of Police | SP |  | |
| Additional Superintendent of Police | Addl.SP |  | |
| Assistant Superintendent of Police | ASP |  |
Gazetted ranks starts from DSP and above, marked by emblems and stars showing position and responsibility.
2. State Police Service Ranks
| Rank | Abbreviation | Insignia Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Superintendent of Police | SP |  |
| Additional Superintendent | Addl.SP |  |
| Deputy Superintendent | DSP/Dy.SP |  |
State Police Services closely mirror IPS ranks, beginning with DSP, whose insignia showcase leadership in state law enforcement.
3. Non-Gazetted Police Ranks & Insignia
| Rank | Abbreviation | Insignia Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Inspector | INSP/PI |  |
| Assistant Inspector | API |  |
| Sub-Inspector | SI |  |
| Assistant Sub-Inspector | ASI |  |
| Head Constable | HC |
|
| Senior Constable | SC |
|
| Police Constable | PC | No Insignia |
Non-gazetted ranks establish the backbone of Indian police, distinguished by stars and chevrons represents experience and authority.
Indian police structure reflects authority through meaningful insignia i.e. stars, emblems, and swords. From constable to DGP, each rank’s symbols echo the pride, duty and resolve of Indian policing.