A device and method is provided for the detection of diabetes in a person using pulse palpation signals. The pulse palpation signal is captured from the radial artery of the person using a photo-plethysmograph (PPG) sensor. The PPG signal is then preprocessed by a processor. The preprocessed PPG signal is then analyzed by the processor to detect the peak in the PPG signal. The detected peaks are used to extract a first set of feature parameters. The first of feature parameters are compared with a second set of feature parameters, wherein the second set of feature parameters are extracted from the control group of individuals. Based on the comparison it is detected that the person is one of in normal condition, pre-diabetic condition or a diabetic condition. According to another embodiment, the invention also provides a method to determine the severity index and progression risk of diabetes in the person.