IPS reshuffle: Two Odisha-cadre officers deputed to Centre for leadership roles in BSF

In a significant administrative reshuffle, two senior IPS officers from the Odisha cadre have been deputed to key leadership roles in the Border Security Force (BSF), the country’s primary border guarding organisation under the Ministry of Home Affairs.

According to official orders dated April 24, Ravi Kanta (IPS: OD-1998) has been appointed Inspector General (IG) in the BSF, while Mitrabhanu Mahapatra (IPS: OD-2010) has been designated Deputy Inspector General (DIG).

Both postings are on a deputation basis for a period of five years, or until further orders, whichever comes earlier.

The Ministry of Home Affairs has requested the Odisha government to relieve both officers with immediate effect, to facilitate their transition into the new roles at the Centre. Additionally, the Director General of BSF has been instructed to report the officers’ date of joining and ensure a seamless takeover.

High-profile Past Roles

IPS Ravi Kanta’s career has seen him take on high-stakes roles, most recently serving as Officer on Special Duty (OSD) in the Odisha Home Department since July 2024.

Notably, Kanta was the first officer to be appointed as Resident Commissioner at Odisha Bhawan in New Delhi.

IPS Mitrabhanu Mahapatra, meanwhile, was posted as SP, Rourkela, before being moved to the State Police Headquarters in Cuttack in April 2024, following a directive by the Election Commission of India.

ALSO READ: Pahalgam terror attack: India scales down BSF's ceremonial display at Attari

Strategic Appointments

These appointments to the BSF, one of India’s largest paramilitary forces, come at a time when border management and internal security continue to be national priorities.

Both officers bring a wealth of field experience and institutional knowledge to their new roles, signalling a strategic deployment of senior leadership in central paramilitary operations.