Sonali Mishra Takes Charge as First Woman DG of Railway Protection Force
Sonali Mishra becomes the first woman Director General of the Railway Protection Force (RPF), marking a historic moment in the force’s 143-year history.
In a landmark moment for Indian law enforcement, Sonali Mishra, a 1993-batch IPS officer from the Madhya Pradesh cadre, has assumed charge as the first woman Director General of the Railway Protection Force (RPF), breaking a 143-year-old glass ceiling in the force’s storied history. Her appointment signals a significant step forward in gender representation within top-tier policing and railway security.
A Historic First: Gender Milestone in RPF Leadership
The appointment of Sonali Mishra as Director General of the RPF, approved by the Appointments Committee of the Cabinet, is a milestone achievement. She will serve until her superannuation on October 31, 2026, ushering in a new era for one of India’s most strategically vital security agencies.
Her ascendancy not only represents personal accomplishment but also reflects a broader shift toward inclusivity and gender diversity in Indian security forces.
Decades of Experience: A Proven Track Record
Sonali Mishra brings to the RPF more than three decades of impeccable service. Prior to taking the helm, she served as the Additional Director General of Police (Selection/Recruitment) in Madhya Pradesh. She simultaneously held the additional charges of ADG of the Police Training and Research Institute, Bhopal, and Director of the Madhya Pradesh Police Academy.
Her illustrious career includes impactful stints in the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) and Border Security Force (BSF). Additionally, Mishra gained international recognition through her service with the United Nations Peacekeeping Mission in Kosovo, reflecting her capability in operating under diverse and high-pressure environments.
In recognition of her consistent dedication and excellence, she has been honored with the President’s Police Medal for Distinguished Service and the Police Medal for Meritorious Service.
Understanding the Role: What is the RPF?
The Railway Protection Force (RPF) is a specialized security force under the Ministry of Railways, tasked with protecting the vast railway infrastructure, passengers, and railway property across India.
While ‘Police’ and ‘Public Order’ fall under state jurisdiction, as per the Seventh Schedule of the Constitution, the RPF plays a supplementary and increasingly critical role. While FIR registration and investigation on railway premises lie with the Government Railway Police (GRP) and district police forces, the RPF assists with surveillance, response, and crisis management.
Established in 1882, the RPF became a statutory force in 1957 and was designated an Armed Force of the Union of India in 1985. Headed by a Director General, the RPF operates with pan-India reach and serves as the lead security agency within Indian Railways.
Modernizing Railway Security: Forces and Capabilities
Under the DG’s leadership, the RPF oversees a range of specialized units:
- Railway Protection Special Force (RPSF): Comprising 15 battalions including a Mahila Battalion and CORAS, the commando unit for high-risk operations.
- CORAS (Commandos for Railway Security): Inducted in 2019, this elite unit is trained in handling hostage situations, landmine detection, and counterterrorism.
- Special Intelligence Branch (SIB) and Crime Intelligence Branch (CIB): These units operate at divisional and zonal levels, gathering tactical and criminal intelligence to preempt threats.
The RPF is also empowered under the Railway Property (Unlawful Possession) Act, 1966, allowing it to investigate and prosecute cases of theft and unlawful possession of railway property.
Expert Voices: A Welcome Change
Security analysts and former railway officials have welcomed Mishra’s appointment.
“This is a much-needed step. Leadership diversity in paramilitary and armed forces is not just about representation, but about bringing diverse perspectives to modern-day security challenges,” said R.K. Pandey, a retired Indian Railways Board member.
Public sentiment too has been largely positive. Social media platforms were abuzz with praise for Mishra’s trailblazing role and hope for enhanced safety on Indian railways—especially for women and vulnerable passengers.
What This Means for the Future
With Mishra at the helm, stakeholders expect greater emphasis on modernization, gender-sensitive security measures, and technological integration within the RPF. There is growing anticipation around possible expansions in:
- Women-led patrolling units
- AI-driven surveillance tools
- Quick-response commandos for terror or sabotage threats
- Enhanced passenger grievance redressal systems
Moreover, her leadership is likely to encourage more women to pursue careers in railway security and law enforcement—amplifying the effects of her appointment beyond her tenure.
Conclusion: A New Chapter Begins
Sonali Mishra’s appointment as the first woman DG of the Railway Protection Force is more than a ceremonial achievement—it’s a progressive leap in India’s institutional history. As she steps into a role that has been exclusively male-led for over a century, Mishra is set to redefine the narrative of law enforcement leadership in India.
In an era where railways remain the backbone of national connectivity, her leadership will be crucial in ensuring that India’s railway system is not only efficient but also secure, inclusive, and future-ready.
Disclaimer: This article is based solely on publicly available information and official announcements. It aims to provide an accurate and informative account of the developments related to the appointment of Sonali Mishra as DG of the RPF.