At just 36, Prerana Katte has made history by becoming the first woman Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) in the Navi Mumbai Crime Branch, a milestone that reflects the growing presence of women in Indian policing. But long before this achievement, her story began far away from the city’s crime investigation units, in the agricultural fields of Satara. Born into a farming family, Prerana grew up in a modest rural environment where opportunities were limited, but determination was abundant.

As a school student, she developed a strong interest in civil services. Newspaper stories about police and administrative officers inspired her deeply, and she began to imagine herself serving society in a similar role. Her father, who once aspired to join civil services himself but could not pursue that dream, encouraged his daughters to aim higher. That encouragement became a defining influence in Prerana’s life.

She later pursued a Bachelor’s degree in Agricultural Science while preparing for the Maharashtra Public Service Commission (MPSC) examination. In 2016, she cleared the exam in her very first attempt, becoming the first person in her family to enter civil services.

The Making of a Police Officer

Becoming a police officer demanded far more than academic success. The training that followed was intense and physically demanding, designed to prepare officers for the realities of policing. For Prerana, this period was both challenging and transformative.

During training, she suffered a serious ankle injury that never completely healed due to the demanding schedule. Yet she continued to push forward, determined to prove herself worthy of the uniform. For her, the khaki uniform represents responsibility, discipline, and the courage to stand for justice.

While policing has traditionally been seen as a male-dominated profession, Prerana has often said that she did not personally experience discrimination in her career. However, she believes that improving facilities and institutional support for women officers such as childcare support and better infrastructure during field duties, can make the profession more inclusive.

A Career of Responsibility

Since joining the police service in 2016, Prerana Katte has held several important postings across Maharashtra. Her first assignment was as Sub-Divisional Police Officer (SDPO) in Satara, where she worked closely with local communities to maintain law and order.

She later served in Kolhapur, where she took strong action against illegal gambling and betting activities. Her work helped strengthen enforcement and build public confidence in the police.

Her career then progressed to Pimpri-Chinchwad, where she served as ACP and handled policing challenges in a rapidly expanding urban region. She also served as ACP at Azad Maidan in Mumbai, a role that involved managing law-and-order situations and public gatherings in one of the city’s busiest areas.

Prerana also contributed to police training as the Vice Principal at the Police Training Centre in Khandala, mentoring young recruits who were preparing to enter the force. Later, she joined the Economic Offences Wing in Navi Mumbai, where she handled investigations related to financial crimes and organised criminal activities.

Making History in Navi Mumbai

Prerana Katte’s appointment as ACP of the Navi Mumbai Crime Branch marks a significant moment in the city’s policing history. The Crime Branch is responsible for investigating serious offences and organised criminal networks, making it one of the most crucial units in the police force. 

In her new role, Prerana aims to strengthen crime detection and ensure strict action against criminal networks. At the same time, she balances her professional responsibilities with her role as a mother to a young daughter.

From the fields of Satara to the command rooms of the Navi Mumbai Crime Branch, Prerana Katte’s journey reflects determination, resilience, and the power of dreams. Her story is not only a personal success but also an inspiration for many young women who aspire to serve in the police force and break barriers in public service.