IPS Ranks with Star and Insignia in India: Hierarchy, Salary, Promotions

IPS Ranks refer to the structured hierarchy within the Indian Police Service (IPS). These ranks define an officer’s position, authority, and responsibilities in maintaining law and order. Understanding these IPS Ranks is essential for civil services aspirants. The system ensures a clear chain of command and effective functioning of the police force nationwide.

The Indian Police Service operates on a defined ranking system. Officers progress through various ranks based on experience, performance, and seniority. This progression starts from an IPS starting rank, Assistant Superintendent of Police, and culminates at the IPS last rank, Director General of Police.

Each rank carries specific duties and powers within the police structure. Read on to learn in detail about the IPS rank with stars here.

What are IPS Ranks?

IPS ranks refer to the hierarchical positions held by officers of the Indian Police Service during their career. These ranks define authority, responsibilities, salary level, and command power. The IPS rank structure is uniform across India, but postings and roles may differ slightly between states and central deputations.

An IPS officer starts their career at a junior rank after training. Over the years, with experience, performance, and seniority, they get promoted to higher IPS ranks. The highest IPS rank leads to top police leadership roles at the national level.

The IPS rank structure is influenced by:

• Years of service
• Performance appraisal
• Vacancy availability
• Central or state cadre

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IPS Ranks with Star and Insignia

In the Indian Police Service, ranks are identified mainly by stars, the Ashoka emblem, and crossed sword & baton on the shoulder/epaulettes. Here are the IPS rank wise star:

Entry-Level IPS Rank: Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP)

The first operational posting in IPS ranks is usually Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP). This rank is given to officers after they complete training at the Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel National Police Academy (SVPNPA).

An ASP is a probationary IPS officer. They usually serve in sub-divisions of districts, especially sensitive or challenging areas.

Additional Superintendent of Police (Addl.SP/DSP): State Police Rank vs IPS Rank

Many aspirants confuse DSP rank with IPS ranks. DSP can be:

• A state police service officer, or
• An IPS officer promoted early in service

In many states, IPS officers hold the DSP rank briefly before promotion to SP. However, DSPs from state services may take years to get promoted into IPS through induction.

Superintendent of Police (SP)

Superintendent of Police (SP) is one of the most well-known IPS ranks. This is the rank where an IPS officer gains full district-level authority. SP is a high-impact IPS rank. Officers handle riots, elections, disasters, and major criminal cases. This rank demands strong leadership, discipline, and ethical clarity.

Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP)

In larger or more sensitive districts, IPS officers are posted as Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP). This is a higher version of the SP rank with additional responsibilities.

SSP usually handles:

• Metropolitan districts
• High-crime zones
• State capitals or major cities

Deputy Inspector General of Police (DIG)

After several years of service, IPS officers get promoted to Deputy Inspector General of Police (DIG). This rank marks a shift from district-level work to range-level administration.

A DIG supervises:

• Multiple districts
• Several SPs and SSPs
• Special task forces

DIG is a senior IPS rank. It requires administrative maturity and leadership vision. UPSC aspirants often aim to reach this rank during their long-term career planning.

Inspector General of Police (IG)

Inspector General of Police (IG) is one of the most powerful IPS ranks at the state level. Officers at this level handle zones or specialised departments. IG roles include:

• Head of police zones
• Leaders of intelligence or CID
• Heads of training academies

IG officers rarely deal with routine policing. Their work is more strategic and administrative.

Additional Director General of Police (ADG)

The Additional Director General of Police (ADG) rank is a top-tier IPS rank. Officers at this level assist the DGP or head major departments. ADG responsibilities include:

• Heading state-wide departments
• Advising the government
• Handling inter-state security
• Supervising IG-level officers

Director General of Police (DGP): Highest IPS Rank

Director General of Police (DGP) is the highest IPS rank in a state. The DGP is the head of the state police force. DGP responsibilities include:

• Overall police administration
• Policy-making
• Internal security
• Advising the Chief Minister
• Crisis management

At the central level, equivalent ranks include:

• Director of CBI
• Director of IB
• Director General of CRPF, BSF, CISF

IPS Rank Hierarchy and Responsibilities

IPS officers perform diverse roles, including maintaining public order, investigating crimes, and managing traffic. Their specific duties vary according to their rank and posting. This hierarchical structure ensures clear command and efficient functioning across states.

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IPS Officer Ranks and Salary

The remuneration of IPS officers varies according to their rank and years of service. Salaries are determined by the 7th Central Pay Commission and include basic pay along with various allowances. These figures reflect the financial progression within the service.

IPS Promotion Chart with Years

Career progression in the IPS is structured by years of service and includes different postings. This chart shows the typical path from an IPS starting rank to the IPS highest post. This helps candidates understand career growth within the service.

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Rules of IPS Rank Promotions

Promotions for IPS officers follow clear guidelines to ensure fairness and merit-based advancement. Seniority, performance evaluations, and the availability of vacancies are the key factors considered.

• Vacancy and Seniority: Promotions depend on open positions and an officer’s length of service.
• Performance Evaluation: Annual Confidential Reports (ACRs) assess integrity and competence. Departmental Promotion Committees use these reports.
• Training and Examinations: Officers must complete mandatory training and pass specific departmental exams.
• Merit-based Selection: Senior ranks like DIG and IG involve comprehensive reviews of service records and achievements.
• Central Government Role: The Ministry of Home Affairs manages promotions for DIG and higher ranks. They consider cadre reviews and leadership qualities.
• Disciplinary Actions: Pending disciplinary actions or adverse reports can delay or stop promotions.
• State Government Proposals: State Governments suggest promotion cases to the Centre. The Centre reviews them based on established criteria.

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