'Madam Sir': Book on life and times of Bihar's first lady IPS officer

New Delhi: A stirring account of a sheltered girl's rise to the top echelons of the Indian Police Service (IPS), new book "Madam Sir" tells the inspirational story of Manjari Jaruhar who overcame extraordinary odds to become the first woman from Bihar to join the country's elite police cadre.

The autobiography, published by Penguin Random House India (PRHI), is touted to be a "masterclass in courage, resilience and leadership".

Jaruhar, one of the first five women police officers in India -- and the first from the state of Bihar -- was selected for the IPS in 1976 and has held positions in the state governments of Bihar and Jharkhand, the National Police Academy (NPA), the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) and the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF).

"People often asked me to write my compelling story. I hope my story will make every young girl or working woman trust her heart and give her the courage to take charge of her life even in the face of great odds," said the author in a statement.

The New-Delhi based Jaruhar, who retired as Special Director General of the CISF, and is presently an advisor to Tata Consultancy Services (TCS), is the recipient of the government of India's Police Medal for meritorious service and the President's Police Medal for distinguished Service.

Set against the backdrop of significant events such as the Bhagalpur blindings, the 1984 anti-Sikh riots and Lalu Prasad's reign in Bihar, "Madam Sir" is an inside look into the IPS through a woman's eyes.

"This is a story that will inspire you to pursue your dreams and infuse you with the spirit to reach impossible heights," according to the publishers.

The book is also endorsed by the likes of R K Raghavan and Julio Ribeiro -- both former IPS officers and diplomats.

"I have the greatest admiration for Manjari for her dignity and courage. She undoubtedly reflected the best in an Indian woman. This is a book that must be read by policewomen at all levels, who must draw from it the much-needed inspiration to discharge their duties in a hostile environment," said Raghavan in his praise for the book.

The book is currently available for sale across offline and online stores.