Life tested him not once, not twice, but thrice. Yet IPS officer Ingit Pratap Singh refused to give up. From being discharged three times from the Army to standing on the victory podium in Alabama with a gold medal at the World Police and Fire Games 2025, his story is a lesson in sheer resilience — and his next aim is as bold as his spirit: representing India at the Olympics.
A Boy, an Airgun, and a Dream That Never Died
Born to an IRS officer, Singh’s fascination with rifles began at the age of eight when his father gifted him an airgun. His Delhi rooftop soon turned into his first shooting range — empty Dalda tins serving as targets and a young boy dreaming of the Army uniform.
That dream nearly came true when he cleared the NDA exam in 2001, but destiny intervened. A medical issue cut short his training. Two more attempts at the Indian Military Academy (IMA) ended in heartbreak due to health setbacks and a ligament injury.
“I was discharged three times. Each time, I thought it was over. But something inside me whispered — this can’t be the end of my story,” recalls Singh.
When Olive Green Faded, Khaki Took Over
Determined to serve the nation, he turned to the UPSC Civil Services Exam. In 2011, he joined the Indian Police Service (IPS) — a new uniform, but the same mission of discipline and duty.
As DCP South West Delhi and later DCP Special Cell, Singh handled tough law-and-order challenges, but his passion for shooting never dimmed. His residence became a mini-range — rifles lined beside official files, targets taped on walls, and long nights spent perfecting his aim.
A Policeman with a Rifle and a Relentless Will
In 2015, while posted in the Andaman & Nicobar Islands, Singh rekindled his shooting journey. By 2020, under Olympic shooter Suma Shirur’s mentorship at the Lakshya Shooting Club, he began formal training — juggling a demanding IPS schedule with weekend flights and rigorous sessions.
His results soon began to speak louder than words:
◆2022: Silver at Delhi State Shooting Championship
◆2023: Bronze at World Police Games, Canada
◆2025: Gold at World Police and Fire Games, Alabama, USA
“I practised for two hours daily in my hotel room when the range was closed,” he says. “This gold is only a step toward my ultimate goal — the Olympics.”
Discipline Over Glamour
Now serving as Joint Director General at the Competition Commission of India (CCI), Singh maintains a punishing routine — weekdays at the office, weekends at the range. His life revolves around focus, family, and fitness.
“I live a boring life — no parties, no distractions,” he laughs. “It’s not glamour; it’s grit.”
His wife Shweta and infant daughter form his emotional anchor. Even his pet dog’s name — Rio — reflects his Olympic dream. “I used to tell people I was ‘ten Olympics old’. That dream hasn’t changed,” he smiles.
The Man Who Refused to Quit
Every rejection became fuel for Singh’s next chapter. From olive green to khaki to Olympic white, his journey defines the spirit of service and perseverance.
“The goal was set in childhood. My failures trained me better than success ever could,” he says. “Uniforms may change — the mission never does.”
And as he polishes his gold medal, his eyes are already on the next target — the Olympic podium.
“One perfect shot at a time,” he says, “I’ll get there.”
