Shikha Goel, an Indian Police Service (IPS) officer, has earned respect and recognition for her impactful contributions to law enforcement in India. Known for her dedication, integrity, and visionary leadership, Goel has risen through the ranks of the Indian police, actively working on initiatives that improve public safety, especially in areas related to women’s safety, cybercrime prevention, and human trafficking.
Shikha Goel was born on March 7, 1969, and was reared in Delhi, India. Upon finishing her studies, she pursued higher study at Delhi University, obtaining a Bachelor's degree with Honours from Miranda House, followed by a Master's degree and an M. Phil in Botany. Goel's scholastic experience has significantly influenced her analytical and problem-solving abilities, which she has applied throughout her career in law enforcement. She has also finished an Advanced Management Programme in Public Policy at the Indian School of Business and is a certified civil and commercial mediator via ADR ODR International, England.
Shikha Goel joined the Indian Police Service as part of the 1994 batch from Telangana cadre. Becoming an IPS officer is a challenging feat, with the selection process involving rigorous examinations and training from Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel National Police Academy. Goel’s entry into the IPS reflected her commitment to public service and her dedication to the ideals of justice, integrity, and national security. Her first assignments included serving as an Assistant Superintendent of Police in Jammu. Over the years, she has served in various roles, each time leaving a mark through her performance and progressive initiatives:
Additional Director General of Police]] (ADGP), CID], of Telangana State
Additional Director General of Police, Women Safety, SHE Teams and Bharosa
Director, Anti-Corruption Bureau, Telangana State
Additional Commissioner of Police, Crimes & SIT, Hyderabad City
Inspector General, CISF NS Headquarters, New Delhi
Deputy Commissioner of Police, North Zone, Secunderabad
Superintendent of Police in various districts
Contributions
1. Cybercrime Prevention
Goel is recognized for her proficiency in combating cybercrime, a growing concern as an increasing number of individuals in India and elsewhere interact with digital platforms. As the FAC Director of the Telangana State Cyber Security Bureau, she has undertaken numerous efforts pertaining to cyber security. Recognizing the intricacies of cybercrimes, she has orchestrated and supervised campaigns to inform the public about online security, fraud prevention, and safe internet behaviors. Her efforts have facilitated knowledge of the legal remedies accessible to victims of cyber-related offenses.
2. Anti-Corruption Bureau
As the Director General of Police (DGP) at the Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) in Telangana, Shikha Goel has undertaken a series of initiatives to strengthen the fight against corruption in the state. Her tenure at the ACB has been marked by transparency, a commitment to accountability, and strategic use of technology to root out corruption in government services. Here are some of her key initiatives and contributions in this role: Strengthening Anti-Corruption Mechanisms, Promotion of Technology and Digital Tools, Launching Awareness Campaigns, Initiatives for Whistleblower Protection, Collaboration with Other Departments, Enhanced Training for ACB Officers, High-Profile Investigations and Arrests, and Promotion of a Transparent Reporting System.
3. Women’s Safety Initiatives, SHE Teams and Bharosa Centers
As an Additional director general of police, Women Safety, SHE Teams and Bharosa Shikha ensure a safe environment for women. She was instrumental in the formation of “SHE Teams,” a specialized task force in Hyderabad dedicated to combating harassment in public areas. These teams, functioning throughout Telangana, are trained to address incidents of eve-teasing, harassment, and assault, employing a victim-centric methodology. Furthermore, "Bharosa Centers" have been formed under her direction, offering victims of sexual assault, domestic violence, and other offenses with legal assistance, counseling, and rehabilitation services.
While serving in Telangana as an Additional Commissioner of Police, Goel led various initiatives and campaigns focused on mitigating crimes against women. She has been a prominent advocate for self-defense training for women and children, enhancing awareness of gender-based violence, and facilitating more accessibility and support from law enforcement for those in need of aid.
Recognition and Awards
Shikha Goel’s contributions to policing have been widely recognized at both national and state levels. Her initiatives have earned accolades for improving public safety standards and fostering a culture of accountability within law enforcement. She is fecilitated by President's Police Medal for Distinguished Service, Police Medal for Meritorious Service, Police Medal for Distinguished Service, National Police Academy Director's Commendation, and Alakh Sinha Trophy for Investigation.
Shikha Goel IPS serves as a role model for aspiring police officers, especially women, who seek to effect change in law enforcement. Her career exemplifies the significance of empathy, ingenuity, and resilience in law enforcement. Her ongoing path highlights the beneficial transformations achievable when leaders are motivated by an authentic commitment to safeguard and elevate society.
