DG Full Form

DG full form is Director General and is regarded as the senior rank in police service. These high-profile officers are appointed by the cabinet of India. Being senior officers, they are held responsible for the administration and supervision of fellow police officers in a state or union territory.

What is the Full Form of DG?

As already discussed, DG full form is Director General in the police. These officers hold three-star ranks and remain supreme advisors in matters of police department discipline. These senior-level officers can be identified with their unique uniform design marked by oak leaf with gorget patches over collars. There's no direct recruitment or entrance to become a DG; generally, an IPS officer after at least 30 years of service can be promoted as a director general. Well, the first milestone leading an individual to the career path of a director general is certainly UPSC. The position has been vested with crucial responsibilities that include regulating crime rates in a state, supervising the activity of police officers, and advising the government in matters of police administration.

How to Become a DG in Police?

UPSC, full form of which is Union Public Service Commission acts as the stepping stone for candidates dreaming to join the prestigious police force and hold the position of director general. As an IPS officer gets the golden opportunity to take up the senior most role; therefore, candidates need to undergo three stages of UPSC Civil Services exam that include prelims, mains and interview. 

Eligibility parameter to appear for UPSC

Before you head to applying for UPSC, discover the eligibility criteria

• The minimum and maximum age limit for UPSC is 21 years to 32 years respectively.
• Besides Indian citizens, subjects from Nepal, Bhutan or Tibetan refugee can apply
• A graduation degree from a recognised university is mandatory 
• Height for men is 165 cm while, for female candidates, it is 150 cm
• Candidates need to have a proper eyesight (6/6 preferably)

Skillset a DG Must Possess

The role of a DG in the police is perhaps one of the most prestigious and responsible positions. Being top-level IPS ranks, these officers need to possess a set of skills, ethos and prowess to adequately combat criminals and make a state safe for the inhabitants. Let’s explore some of the necessary professional skills a DG must possess.

• Decision making: DG officer should be an expert decision-maker. As part of their job role, setting provisions, and goals and formulating practices to reduce crime rates require analyzing situations and making decisions accordingly. 
• Physical and mental fitness: Candidates seeking promotion to DG’s role must be mentally and physically fit. They need to have a good physique with no record of major health issues.
• Interpersonal skills: Director generals in police need to possess communication skills as they are required to deal with both the general public and police forces. At times they act as a communication bridge between the minister and the media.
• Integrity: Being the top rank in police service, a DG must maintain integrity and resilience when dealing with crisis situations. They must formulate policies by adhering to ethics.

What are the Responsibilities of a DG in the Police?

A DG plays a pivotal role in ensuring the security, safety and law & order of a state they are appointed. To tackle the rising crime rates in a state, they devise strategies and disseminate their vision to fellow officers so that the general public can stay protected against anti-social intruders. Besides, maintaining crime rates, they are responsible for a lot more which will be discussed below:

Framing and implementation of Policies

It forms a significant part of a DG, the full form of which is the director general’s role. These officers formulate strategies and policies by maintaining the legal framework. They instruct the police officer by defining protocols, and procedures that must be adhered to when ensuring the safety and harmony of a state.

Investigation and crime prevention

DG in police conducts investigations involving examining crime scenes, meeting the suspects and strategising plans to find the culprit. They ensure that criminal cases are conducted with transparency and within a given timelines so that law offenders can be prosecuted thereby restoring justice.

Addressing Public grievances

Apart from being the supreme authority in a state’s police department, a DG fosters trust among the general public. They often act as a bridge between the police department and the public by implementing policies to offer them a secure environment. 

Strategic leadership

Director generals must possess impeccable leadership qualities as they guide the police force in maintaining the public welfare. They set a common vision and objective, that the police officers must obey to tackle the crime rates in a state. 

Training and Development

Training the police officer and preparing them to improve their skills is another significant responsibility of DGs in the police. They undertake training sessions by thoroughly understanding the needs and professional knowledge that their department's police are majorly lacking. 

Difference Between DG and Police Commissioner

Candidates aspiring to join the prestigious police forces often ponder over a common dilemma that concerns possible difference of roles fulfilled by a police commissioner and a director general (DG full form). Refer to the below mentioned table to clear your confusions.

DG in police is undoubtedly the most responsible and honorable rank in IPS. As per 7th pay commission, these offers earn an annual package of around Rs 2,25,000 with perks and allowances. Start preparing for UPSC if your ultimate goal is to become a proud DG.