Key Points

IPS officer Sonali Mishra has shattered the glass ceiling by becoming the first woman Director General of the Railway Protection Force. With over three decades of policing experience, she brings expertise from the CBI, BSF, and UN Peacekeeping missions. Mishra plans to modernize the RPF while focusing on passenger safety and tackling organized crime. Her appointment marks a historic moment for the 143-year-old force.

Key Points: IPS Sonali Mishra Makes History as First Woman RPF DG

  • Sonali Mishra succeeds Manoj Yadava as RPF DG until 2026
  • She previously served as ADG in MP Police and CBI
  • Awarded President’s Police Medal for Distinguished Service
  • Aims to modernize RPF and combat human trafficking
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IPS Sonali Mishra becomes first woman DG of Railway Protection Force

Sonali Mishra, a 1993 batch IPS officer, becomes the first woman to lead the Railway Protection Force, bringing 30+ years of policing expertise.

"Yasho Labhasva (Attain Glory) – I am committed to upholding RPF’s values of vigilance and service. – Sonali Mishra"

New Delhi, Aug 1

In a historic development, Sonali Mishra, a 1993 batch IPS officer of the Madhya Pradesh cadre, has assumed charge as the Director General of the Railway Protection Force (RPF), becoming the first woman to head the 143-year-old force.

She succeeds Manoj Yadava, who retired on July 31.

Her appointment, approved by the Appointments Committee of the Cabinet, is valid until her superannuation on October 31, 2026.

She brings with her over 30 years of distinguished service in policing and security, having served in prominent roles across both state and central agencies. Prior to this appointment, she held the position of Additional Director General of Police (Selection/Recruitment) in Madhya Pradesh and concurrently managed the roles of ADG at the Police Training & Research Institute and Director of the Madhya Pradesh Police Academy in Bhopal.

Her career also includes key assignments with the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), Border Security Force (BSF), and a notable stint with the United Nations Peacekeeping Mission in Kosovo. Recognised for her professionalism and leadership, she has been awarded the President’s Police Medal for Distinguished Service and the Police Medal for Meritorious Service.

Her leadership at the helm of the RPF is expected to usher in a new era of modernisation, technological adoption, and proactive community engagement. She is likely to emphasise strengthening RPF’s role in tackling organised crimes such as human trafficking and ensuring the safety of vulnerable passengers across the Indian Railways’ extensive network.

Upon taking charge, Mishra expressed her gratitude for the opportunity and reaffirmed her dedication to upholding the RPF’s core values of vigilance, courage, and service, embodied in its motto “Yasho Labhasva”.

The RPF, entrusted with the security of railway property and passenger safety, looks forward to achieving new milestones under its dynamic leadership.

- IANS

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Reader Comments

R
Rohit P
Finally some good news! Our railways need strong leadership. With her CBI and BSF background, she can crack down on ticket black marketing and thefts. Hope she implements tech solutions like facial recognition at major stations.
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Aman W
While I appreciate the milestone, I hope this isn't just tokenism. The real test will be whether she gets full operational freedom like male DGs. Railways security needs complete overhaul - from platform safety to tackling drug peddlers in trains.
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Shreya B
Her UN experience is impressive! Maybe she can introduce international best practices. Indian women feel unsafe in trains, especially at night. Hope she starts women-only RPF squads patrolling ladies compartments. #WomenSafety
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Vikram M
Great appointment! But RPF needs more than just a good leader - it needs better infrastructure, training and manpower. Hope the government gives her proper budget support. The force is still using outdated equipment at many stations.
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Kavya N
As someone who travels daily by local train, I just want RPF personnel to be more visible and approachable. Often they're busy with VIP movements while common passengers struggle. Hope Madam DG changes this culture 🤞

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