| Rakesh Balwal, an IPS officer of the 2012 AGMUT cadre batch, led the NIA team that solved the Pulwama terror attack case in 2019. |
| Since his school days, Balwal aspired to become a civil servant. |
| After working as a senior section engineer at the Indian Railways, Balwal felt his passion for direct societal contribution was missing, leading him to start preparing for the civil service exam in 2009. |
| Balwal balanced full-time work at the railway workshop and exam preparation, studying from 6 pm to 2 am. |
| He dedicated 10 to 12 hours a day to studying a month before the UPSC Mains exam. |
| Balwal secured a rank of 282 in his third attempt at the Civil Service Exam in 2011. |
| In 2012, he achieved his goal of becoming an IPS officer. |
| He served as the Senior Superintendent of Police in Churachandpur in 2017, with additional service in Thobal and Imphal areas. |
| Balwal's critical role in solving the Pulwama terror attack involved suggesting the examination of the suicide bomber's mobile phone, which unveiled crucial evidence. |
| Under his leadership, the NIA filed a chargesheet connecting Masood Azhar and 18 others to the Pulwama attack incident. |
| In December 2021, Balwal was transferred to SSP Srinagar to address the worsening law and order situation, leading to significant improvements during his tenure. |
| He successfully reduced terrorism activities in Srinagar and ensured no attacks targeted minorities or police personnel. |
| Balwal played a vital role in enabling Muharram celebrations and public involvement in events during his tenure in Srinagar. |
| In September 2023, the Ministry of Home Affairs transferred Balwal to the Manipur cadre due to the state's situation. |
| He recalled being the first and only IPS officer from his native district in an interview. |
| To stay motivated during exam preparation, Balwal read 'You Can Win: A Step-by-Step Tool for Top Achievers' by Shiv Khera. |
| Balwal, while motivating youngsters, shared his background as an average student without conventional English education. |
