Ex-DG NIA Dinkar Gupta Joins IIT-Ropar
Chandigarh, December 10, 2025 – Dinkar Gupta, the former Director General of the National Investigation Agency (NIA) and ex-Director General of Police (DGP) of Punjab, has taken on a new role as a professor of practice at the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Ropar in Punjab. This appointment marks a significant addition to the faculty of one of India’s premier educational institutions.
Background of Dinkar Gupta
Dinkar Gupta has had a distinguished career spanning 37 years in the Indian Police Service (IPS), from 1987 until his retirement in 2024. His tenure included pivotal leadership roles in national security, intelligence, law enforcement, and counter-terrorism. Notably, Gupta served as the DG of the NIA, which is recognized as India’s leading counter-terrorism agency.
Contributions to IIT-Ropar
In a statement released by IIT-Ropar, it was highlighted that Gupta brings a wealth of expertise in critical areas such as:
- National Security
- Defence Policy
- Counterterrorism
- Intelligence Operations
His extensive experience is expected to energize the academic environment at IIT-Ropar, providing students with valuable insights into the practical applications of their studies. Gupta will focus on:
- Mentoring students and researchers on the intersection of technology, policy, and national security.
- Collaborating with faculty on research projects related to internal security and cybersecurity.
Bridging Academia and Strategic Affairs
Gupta’s role at IIT-Ropar is designed to bridge the gap between academia, government, and strategic affairs. His involvement is aimed at empowering students with the skill-based knowledge necessary to contribute to India’s growth and development journey. The institute emphasized that Gupta will play a pivotal role in:
- Enhancing the curriculum with real-world applications.
- Providing students with exposure to the complexities of national security and defense.
- Encouraging innovative thinking and problem-solving skills among students.
Recognition and Awards
Throughout his career, Gupta has been recognized for his exemplary service and dedication. He has received multiple awards from the President of India for his gallantry and contributions to law enforcement and counter-terrorism. His accolades reflect his commitment to public safety and national security.
Post-Retirement Contributions
Since retiring from the NIA in March 2024, Gupta has remained active in public policy and governance. His current roles include:
- Senior Advisor in Strategy, Innovation, and Public Services at Tata Consultancy Services (TCS).
- Advisor (Security) to various organizations.
- Independent Director guiding corporate policy in several leading companies.
These roles allow him to continue influencing public policy and strategic advisory, leveraging his extensive experience in security and governance.
Impact on Students and Research
Gupta’s appointment is expected to have a significant impact on students at IIT-Ropar. By integrating practical insights from his career into the academic framework, he aims to:
- Encourage students to engage with real-world challenges in national security.
- Foster a collaborative environment between students and faculty on research initiatives.
- Enhance the overall educational experience by connecting theoretical knowledge with practical applications.
His mentorship will be invaluable for students pursuing careers in fields related to security, policy-making, and technology.
Conclusion
Dinkar Gupta’s transition from a distinguished career in law enforcement to academia signifies a commitment to shaping the next generation of leaders in national security and policy. His role at IIT-Ropar is poised to create a dynamic learning environment that prepares students to tackle the complexities of modern security challenges. With his guidance, students will gain insights that bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application, empowering them to contribute meaningfully to India’s development.
Note: This article is based on information from PTI and has not been edited by The Week.
