From Tawang to IPS: Tenzin Yangki Makes History as Arunachal Pradesh’s First Female Police Officer

In a historic achievement, a young woman from India’s Northeast has carved her name in the annals of public service. Tenzin Yangki, hailing from Tawang in Arunachal Pradesh, has become the first female Indian Police Service (IPS) officer from the state, inspiring a new generation of young women. Her journey, rooted in determination, discipline, and a strong legacy of public service, has garnered national attention, drawing praise from ministers, business leaders, and social influencers alike. Entrepreneur Anand Mahindra described her accomplishment as a “Monday Motivation,” while Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu hailed her as a shining example of women’s empowerment and a source of inspiration for youth.

A Trailblazer from Arunachal Pradesh
Tenzin Yangki achieved the 545th rank at the national level in the 2022 UPSC Civil Services Examination. She was part of the 77th IPS batch, which saw 36% female representation, and participated in the passing-out parade on 17 October. Her accomplishment has been widely celebrated on social media, highlighting her as a role model for women across the region.

Born Near the India-China Border
Yangki was born and raised in Tawang, home to one of India’s largest monasteries and a strategic location near the India-China border. Growing up amidst harsh winters and limited urban infrastructure shaped her early life, instilling resilience and adaptability.

Inspired by Her Grandfather
Public service runs in Yangki’s family. Her late grandfather, Nyerpa Kho, served as a political assistant in Tawang and played a key role in establishing Indian administration in the region during the 1950s. His legacy of nation-building left a profound impression on Yangki, inspiring her commitment to serve the country.

Education at JNU
Yangki completed her MA and MPhil in International Relations from Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) and holds an undergraduate degree from St. Stephen’s College, Delhi. Before joining the civil services, she cleared the 2017 Arunachal Pradesh Public Service Commission (APPSC) exam and served as a Circle Officer in the Siang district, gaining hands-on experience in public administration.

A Family Legacy of Service
Yangki comes from a family with a strong tradition of public service. Her late father, Thupten Tempa, was a former IAS officer and minister, while her mother, Jigmi Choden, retired as a secretary in the Arunachal Pradesh government. This environment nurtured her passion for governance and social service from a young age.

Anand Mahindra’s Appreciation
Business tycoon Anand Mahindra lauded Yangki’s journey, highlighting her continuation of her parents’ public service legacy while carving her own unique path. On X, he wrote:
“A scholar, a civil servant, and now an IPS officer, she is charting her own path of excellence while carrying forward her parents’ legacy of service. Being the first is never easy; it means walking alone so that others may follow. Do not fear walking alone today—others will follow your lead.”

Tenzin Yangki’s achievement marks a historic milestone for Arunachal Pradesh and the entire Northeast region, reinforcing the message that with perseverance and dedication, women can rise to national leadership roles and inspire generations to come.