Bhubaneswar: In a major recognition for Odisha's police leadership, two senior Odisha-cadre IPS officers have been empanelled by the Central Government for appointment to the rank of Director General (DG) or equivalent posts in the Government of India.

According to a notification issued by the Appointments Committee of the Cabinet (ACC), a total of 33 Indian Police Service (IPS) officers from across the country have been approved for empanelment to hold DG or equivalent-level positions at the Centre.

Among those selected are two distinguished officers from the Odisha cadre. Sudhansu Sarangi, a 1990-batch IPS officer, has been placed at the top of the empanelment list, making him eligible for appointment to Director General-level posts under the Central Government. He is currently serving as the Director General of Odisha Fire Services, Home Guards and Civil Defence.

The other Odisha-cadre officer empanelled for the DG rank is Padmakar S. Ranipse, a 1995-batch IPS officer. Presently on central deputation, he is serving as the Additional Director General (ADG) of the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) under the Ministry of Home Affairs.

The empanelment, approved by the ACC—the apex body for senior appointments in the Central Government—is regarded as a recognition of the officers' distinguished service records, administrative experience and contributions to policing and internal security.

The latest development is expected to further strengthen Odisha's representation in key national security and law enforcement institutions, while opening the door for the two officers to be considered for Director General or equivalent appointments in various central organisations and departments.