Robin Hibu – Bridging the Gap, Empowering the Northeast | Interview

ON DECEMBER 11, 2014, in his New Delhi office, Robin Hibu, the first IPS officer from Arunachal Pradesh and a passionate advocate for Northeast Indians, shared his inspiring journey and unwavering dedication to supporting Northeast communities in New Delhi and other metropolitan cities across India.

Below is an excerpt from the interview conducted by our special correspondent 
in New Delhi, Bruce K. Thangkhal.

Q: Can you tell us about your roots and upbringing?
Robin Hibu: I come from Hong Village, Ziro, in East Subansiri district, Arunachal Pradesh. Hong is one of Asia’s largest tribal villages, with over 4,000 households but no electricity. Growing up in such a setting taught me resilience and determination. My father was a farmer, and I helped him in the fields, collected firewood, and tended cattle. These experiences shaped my character. My mother, now 69, is my pillar of strength. I have an elder brother, a child specialist doctor in Arunachal, and a younger sister who is a lecturer.

Robin Hibu and his mother in his chair.

Q: What inspired you to join the IPS?
Robin Hibu: As a child, I always dreamed of wearing the uniform. After ranking first in the Arunachal Pradesh Civil Services Exam in 1992, I cracked the UPSC in 1993. Although I qualified for the Indian Foreign Service (IFS), I chose the IPS because of my passion for public service. Becoming the first graduate and IPS officer from my village was a proud moment.

Q: Can you share about your education?
Robin Hibu: I completed Class 12 (Arts) in 1987 at Higher Secondary School, Hong Village, followed by a BA in History Honours from Jawaharlal Nehru College, Pasighat, in 1989. Later, I pursued an MA in Sociology at JNU, New Delhi, from 1989 to 1991. Though I started an MPhil, I couldn’t complete it due to my selection in the UPSC. My studies gave me the confidence to aim higher.

Q: How do you balance your family life with such a demanding career?
Robin Hibu: I married Gampi Hibu in 2000, and we have two children, Anna (8.5 years) and Abiyang (10 years). My wife often jokes about my obsession with work, especially helping people from the Northeast. Despite my busy schedule, I try to make time for my family.

Q: What are your hobbies and interests?
Robin Hibu: I enjoy playing badminton and reading inspiring books like Long Walk to Freedom by Nelson Mandela. 

Q: Who are your favourite Bollywood and Hollywood actors?
Robin Hibu: Dilip Kumar (Shakti, 1982) and Jayaprada (Sargam, 1979) are my favourite Bollywood actors, while Keanu Reeves (Speed, 1994) and Sharon Stone are my Hollywood favourites.

Q: Who are your most admired personalities?
Robin Hibu: Mahatma Gandhi, Nelson Mandela, Mother Teresa, and Martin Luther have always inspired me.

Q: How did your role as the Nodal Officer for Northeast People in Delhi come about?
Robin Hibu: My role as the nodal officer began with the launch of Delhi Police’s Special Helpline for the Northeast (1093) on 14th February 2014. This helpline received over 13,47,000 logins and 12,000 likes by December 2014. It addresses issues faced by Northeast Indians in cities, from harassment to logistical support like sending deceased persons home. Since its inception, the helpline has logged over 1.3 million users and resolved numerous cases.

Q: How many distress calls do you handle daily?

Robin Hibu: I receive about 7–9 calls daily, both from within India and abroad, via WhatsApp, Facebook, email, and landlines. It’s overwhelming but fulfilling to help our people.

Q: How many Northeast police personnel serve in Delhi Police?
Robin Hibu: Currently, there are 41 police personnel from the Northeast – 33 men and 8 women.

Q: What is the role of the Northeast Cell? Does it have independent investigative power?
Robin Hibu: The cell, launched alongside the helpline, provides support and coordination for Northeast Indians in distress. While it primarily handles complaints and facilitates resolution, it collaborates with other agencies for investigations.

Q: How often do you repatriate deceased persons to the Northeast?
Robin Hibu: Too many. Every week or fortnight, we send deceased persons back home. Some are buried in Delhi if their families can’t arrange transport.

Q: What’s your most memorable achievement?
Robin Hibu: Beyond my awards, such as the President of India Police Medal (2010) and UN Peace Medals for service in Bosnia and Kosovo, the gratitude of those I’ve helped remains my greatest reward.

Q: What’s your advice to young people from the Northeast?
Robin Hibu: Work hard, dream big, and never give up. My father used to say, “There is no substitute for hard work.” These words guided me, and I hope they inspire others.

Profile of

Robin Hibu, IPS

Name: Robin Hibu
Rank: Joint Commissioner of Police / Inspector General of Police
Service: Indian Police Services (IPS), AGMUT Cadre, 1993

Awards:

• UN Awards: President of India Police Medal for Meritorious Service (2010), UN Peace Medals for services in Bosnia and Kosovo
• Gold Medals: Arunachal Pradesh (2003, 2009)
• Esprit-de-Corps Medal: Outstanding Leadership, Mussorie (LBSNAA)

Scholarships:

• Government of Arunachal Merit Scholarship
• CBSE Merit Scholarship
• Nehru Memorial Scholarship
• JRF, UGC, New Delhi

Qualifications:

• First Class, CBSE Secondary and High School
• History Honours (Topper), Arunachal University
• Master’s in Sociology, JNU, New Delhi
• Police Management (MPM), Hyderabad

UN Missions:

• Commander, UN Police, Kosovo
• Regional Coordinator, UN Mission, Bosnia

India-Based Roles:

• Assistant Commissioner, Delhi Police
• Superintendent of Police, Arunachal Pradesh
• Deputy Commissioner, Delhi Police
• Deputy Inspector General, Eastern Range
• Inspector General, Arunachal Pradesh
• Joint Commissioner, Delhi Police

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Robin Hibu's DAUGHTERS Shine at All India Open Karate Championship

*Bruce K. Thangkhal serves as the New Delhi-based Special Correspondent for The Mizoram Post, The Northeast Today, Satya Desh, Manipur Chronicle, and Zogam Today. He is also the Media Incharge of the North East Support Centre & Helpline.

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Many Northeast People Faces Dubious

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Best Medical Nodal Officers Award for assisting North-East patients

GoI sanctions 5 lakhs for burials in Delhi

Helping Hands receives Peacemaker Bravery Award

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Delhi Police Goodwill Football Match: Delhi Police XI vs North East XI

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NESSDU hosts Intellectual Meet cum Freshers Orientation 2014

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Mizo Designer Shines at North East Design Fest: Charlee Lalthlenmawia

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Zomi Innkuan USA granted special Consultative Status at the United Nations

USA, DEC 11, 2014 -- Zomi Innkuan USA has become the first Zomi (Zo people) civil society organisation, campaigning to improve unity and brotherhood among the Zomis residing in the United States of America and around the world, to be recognised officially by the UN, with special consultative NGO status. At its Substantive Session of July 2014, the Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) granted Zomi Innkuan USA special consultative status at the UN, joining a total of more than hundreds NGOs in the Indigenous issues.

Zomi Innkuan USA can now designate official representatives to the UN headquarters in New York and the UN offices in Geneva and Vienna. In the words of the UN – “the regular presence of your organisation will allow your organisation to implement effectively and fruitfully the provisions for this consultative relationship.”

Go Sawm Khup, Zomi Innkuan USA President said: “Zomi Innkuan USA is delighted to have been invited officially to join the NGO community at the UN. It is testament to the work that Zomi Innkuan USA has done over the last ten years that we are now considered to have a valid place at the international policy making table. We join the likes of the Institute for Policy Studies in advocating for reform-- to improve the well-being, unity and oneness among the Zomi (Zo people) effectively.”

"It is open for all the Zomi (Chin+Kuki+Mizo+Kachin) Indigenous people to become members of the Organization at any level. It may, however, be noted that all local political parties and other NGOs are usually invited to participate in all our activities," said one activist.

Zomi Innkuan USA is an umbrella organization of Zomi (Zo people) throughout the United States and all around the globe. There are more than twenty local organizations affiliated each other in different U.S. states and more than fifteen international organizations around the globe.

~  KHALVONTAWI MEDIA

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Sikkim: 1st Nagi Pokhari Tourism & Organic Festival 2014-15

Indian Idol fame promotes 1st Nagi Pokhari Tourism 
& 
Organic Festival of Namthang-South Sikkim 

from 31st Dec 2014 - 2nd Jan, 2015

GANGTOK, DEC 9, 2014: Indian Idol fame Kapil Thapa from Deharadun and Remo Ghosh from Nagaland promotes 1st Nagi Pokhari Tourism & Organic Festival 2014-15 at Namthang-South Sikkim from 31st Dec-2nd Jan. They had send the message that they will visit the Namthang Rateypani constituency someday and will stay for couple of days at home stays of Nagi pokhari area. They further added that they will refer Nagi Pokhari to their fans for visit.

At the same time Padmashree Bhaichung Bhutia had extended best wishes to Nagi Tourism Development Committee on taking the initiative to organise tourism & organic festival at this area which have such a scenic beauty & close to his heart. Meantime Asia Famous Travel Writer Rajen Bali & pioneer tourism promoter from Dooars ,West Bengal Ram Kumar lama had also promoted Nagi pokhari tourism & organic festival at Himalayan Orange & Rural festival at Kolkatta. Preparation for the festival is going on with the active participation of general public. 

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ZOGAMonline to organise Music Awards

New Delhi, Dec 8: The 3rd edition of ZOGAMonline Music Awards function will be held at Zogal Hall, Zo Veng, Lamka, Churachandpur, Manipur on December 27, 2014. 

ZOLMA has emerged as one of the most eagerly awaited events in the Lamka social calendar over the last three years. 

Zogamonline.com, one of the most popular websites focusing on issues and themes relating to Zomi-Mizo-Kuki people have been organising the event every December in Lamka town.

The event is aimed at promoting the arts, music and culture among the Zo peoples and aspires to promoting excellence in related fields and giving platform for showcasing such skills.

A special addition to this year's event would be live concert in which the best music talents amongst the Zomi will perform.

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Hmar Celebrates Sikpuiruoi 2014 in Delhi

THE HMAR community residing in the national capital gathered in large numbers to celebrate the winter-harvesting festival, ‘Sikpuiruoi,’ here in Surtal Open Theatre, Talkatora Garden, New Delhi on the evening of December 6, 2014. Organized under the aegis of the Delhi Hmar Welfare Association (DHWA), the festival was graced by Phirthangsei Varte as the Sikpui Pa (Father of Sikpui Festival). IGP Robin Hibu, IPS, Joint Commissioner of Delhi Police and Nodal Officer for North East, Delhi Police, was present as a special guest, along with Mr. MM Alam, proprietor of Satya Desh, a national Hindi monthly magazine. Several social and community leaders, family members, and others also attended the event.

Origin of the Hmars

The Hmars trace their origins to Sinlung, though the exact location remains a topic of debate. The term “Hmar” is believed to have originated from “Hmarh,” meaning the tying of one’s hair in a knot at the nape of the neck. According to Hmar tradition, two brothers, Hrumsawm and Tukbemsawm, followed different hairstyles. Hrumsawm, the elder, tied his hair in a knot on his forehead due to a sore on his neck. His descendants, the Pawis of South Mizoram, continued this style. Tukbemsawm, the younger, tied his hair at the back of his head, a style continued by his descendants, the Hmars.

Hmar is one of the numerous Chin-Kuki-Mizo tribes spread across Northeast India. Recognized as a Scheduled Tribe under the Sixth Schedule of the Indian Constitution, the Hmars primarily inhabit the hills of South Manipur, Mizoram, Cachar, Dima Hasao, Meghalaya, Tripura, and the Chittagong Hill Tracts. Although administratively divided, these regions are geographically connected. In Manipur, the Hmars reside mainly in the Churachandpur District and its adjoining areas. In Mizoram, they are found primarily in the northern Aizawl District. In Assam, they live in Cachar and North Cachar Districts, while in Meghalaya, they inhabit the Jaintia Hills and Shillong. In Tripura, they reside in and around Darchawi, near the Mizoram-Tripura border.

The Celebration Begins

 The first session of Sikpuiruoi commenced at 2 PM with two eloquent and engaging comperes, Nehemia Ruolngul and Mercy Lalumpui, who guided the audience smoothly through the program, enhancing the festive atmosphere. The event opened with a prayer by Church priest Rev. James R. Sanate, who sought divine blessings for all attendees.

DHWA Chairman Hrangthangvung welcomed everyone, emphasizing, “It’s a festival of happiness and joy for all of us.” Sikpui Pa Phirthangsei Varte, as the supreme head of the festival, urged Hmar leaders and youth to contribute positively to society, stating that Sikpuiruoi has been celebrated since time immemorial as a day of great joy for the forefathers of the Hmar tribe.

The festival officially began with the traditional Sikpui song, Sikpui inthang kan ur lai a…, led by Lalramsang Hrangate. Following this, the Sikpui Pa delivered his speech, and Hmar youths who had donated blood were honored with appreciation certificates, presented by DHWA Secretary Malsawmthang Keivom.

A mesmerizing Bamboo Dance, a traditional Hmar cultural performance, was presented by the Hmar Students Association, Jt. Headquarters (HSA) Delhi, captivating the audience.

Recognizing Achievements

During the Sikpui Prize Distribution, the Hmar Christian Fellowship Delhi Choir was recognized for winning the North East India Choral Singing Competition in 2013 and 2014. Similarly, the Hmar Football Club (FC) was lauded for securing the North East Tamchon Football Tournament title in 2013 and 2014. A third consecutive victory in the tournament would secure permanent ownership of the coveted trophy.

In the Hlado le Lengkhawm Inruolsiekna (Traditional & Social Gathering Song Competition), the South Extension Hmar group claimed first prize, while the Kishan Garh group took second place.

Church elder Dr. Lalsiemlien Pulamte addressed the gathering, encouraging Hmar students to excel academically. “If out of 500 students who clear the matriculation examination annually, even one percent reach executive positions, our community will progress significantly,” he remarked.

Words of Encouragement

Robin Hibu, IPS, hailed as the “Face of North East,” shared his experiences as a student in Delhi and praised the Hmar community for setting a positive example among Northeast communities. He highlighted the community’s achievements in music and sports as testaments to their discipline. “Make your parents proud; they sacrifice a lot for your education. Focus on your studies and embrace every challenge positively,” he advised.

He concluded with a cautionary note: “Always remember, tomorrow will be your day.”

Pastor Neilaia Darlong offered a closing prayer, after which the traditional dinner, Sikpuiruoi Bu Le Sa, was served, bringing the first session to a joyous end.

The Festivities Continue

The second session commenced post-dinner, led by Lalchungsiem Thlawngate and Mercy Lalumpui.

In the Sikpui Lottery Draw, the first prize, a Samsung 43H4100 43-Inch Plasma TV, was won by Esther Remsuothim of Uttam Nagar. The second prize, an Apple iPad Mini Wi-Fi Cellular 32GB, went to Hoping Kangten of Sikendarpur, Gurgaon. The third prize, a Motorola Moto G (1st Gen) 16GB, was won by Mark Pangamte of South Extension. Ten consolation prizes of 8GB Pendrives were also distributed.

A vibrant Sikpui Fashion Show, led by young Hmar designer David Lalnghatzo, delighted the audience. Young Hmar women showcased traditional and contemporary outfits, receiving thunderous applause.

Hmar singers Roselyn Lalumpui, Melody Varte, Zaituokung, Maryjone, Lalhritsung Sanate, and Victor Hekte Hmar, who travelled from Chandigarh for the festival, mesmerized the audience with soulful performances. A special highlight was the duet Haire Hai! by Maryjone and Lalhritsung Sanate, which had the audience dancing in joy before the stage.

The Delhi Hmar Welfare Association honoured Shri Robin Hibu with a traditional Hmar shawl and a memento in recognition of his exemplary services to the people from Northeast states residing in the national capital and its NCR region.

Malsawmthang Keivom delivered words of gratitude, followed by the closing prayer led by Pastor Lalsiesang Zote. With that, the vibrant celebration of Sikpuiruoi came to a grand and vivid conclusion.

~ Bruce K. Thangkhal, New Delhi

A glimpses of 
SIKPUIRUOI: Harvest Festival of the Hmar Community

Organised by 

Delhi Hmar Welfare Association

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"Set your aim straight and work hard, you'll surely success..."

~ Shri Robin Hibu, IPS, Joint C.P., Delhi Police

& Nodal Officer for North East People in Delhi 

Mr Romeo Hmar (social activist) & Mrs Roslyn Hmar (celebrated singer) with Shri Robin Hibu, IPS. 

“A hospitable community and their kindness cherished our hearts...”

Report & Photographs by
Bruce K. Thangkhal

of 

The Mizoram Post | Manipur Chronicle | The Northeast Today | Zogam Today | Satya Desh Hindi Magazine

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NE girl escapes assault by jumping from moving vehicle in Delhi

New Delhi, 06 Dec 2014: A 19-year-old girl from Manipur narrowly escaped a potential sexual assault last week by jumping from a moving auto rickshaw in South Delhi.

The incident occurred on November 28th around 10:15 PM, after the victim, who was returning from her office, hired an auto from Hauz Khas metro station to Munirka. Initially agreeing on a fare of Rs 40, the driver soon raised the fare to Rs 60. When questioned, the driver reportedly hurled sexually abusive remarks and refused to stop the vehicle.

“I asked him to stop, but he didn't. As the auto slowed down, I tried to get out, but he suddenly sped up, driving towards a deserted road. Fearing his intentions, I jumped from the moving vehicle,” the victim recounted to our reporter. She sustained injuries to her knees, face, and chin, requiring stitches.

Two passersby helped her reach Munirka, where she contacted friends and received first aid at a private hospital. The victim could not recall the driver's identity and did not immediately file a police report or lodge an FIR.

~ Bruce K. Thangkhal
Media Incharge
North East Support Centre & Helpline
New Delhi

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Church burnt down into ashes in Delhi

DECEMBER 2, 2014 is a day that must be recorded in history and ensured never to be repeated in the national capital.

The Dilshad Garden church has been reduced to ashes. According to reports received, the church was set on fire in the early hours of the morning, before dawn, when the guard was absent. Neither the fire brigade, the police, nor the forensic team arrived on time.

Sources stated that the Station House Officer (SHO) publicly claimed that the church fire was caused by a short circuit. However, parishioners and priests discovered kerosene spread throughout the church.

Following pressure from youth demanding a change in the SHO’s statement, another senior official remarked that the fire was an act of mischief by an unknown person.

Despite limited coverage by a few sources, no national media outlet broadcast the incident.

Political figures such as Kejriwal, Lovely, and Yusuf visited the site to offer sympathy but did not provide tangible support or seek justice.

Though it has happened to one church now, we cannot allow it to happen again elsewhere.

In protest against religious attacks, a march is being organised on Tuesday at 10 am at the Delhi Police Headquarters, ITO.

The following demands are being made:

• An inquiry committee must be established under a retired High Court judge to investigate the matter.
• The government must fund the reconstruction of the church before Christmas.
• The current SHO should be suspended for making misleading statements.

A memorandum will be submitted in the presence of supporters and protestors on Tuesday, sources said.

 

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