Sonali Mishra Becomes First Woman to Lead Railway Protection Force as Director General

Sonali Mishra has been appointed as the first female director general of the Railway Protection Force (RPF), according to officials. A 1993 batch Indian Police Service (IPS) officer from the Madhya Pradesh cadre, Mishra's appointment was approved by the Appointments Committee of the Cabinet. She will serve in this role until her retirement on October 31, 2026.

Mishra is set to take over from Manoj Yadava, who will retire on July 31. Her appointment marks a significant milestone as she becomes the first woman to lead the RPF. This force is responsible for safeguarding railway property and ensuring passenger security, among other duties.

Sonali Mishra's Career Highlights

Currently, Mishra holds the position of additional director general selection in the Madhya Pradesh Police. Her career has been marked by several key roles. In July 2021, she became the first woman commander of a Border Security Force (BSF) formation along the India-Pakistan border in Punjab.

Mishra has also served in the Kashmir valley as an inspector general, overseeing BSF operations there. Additionally, she led the BSF's intelligence wing and worked as an additional director general within the force.

RPF's Historical Background

The Railway Protection Force was established by an Act of Parliament in 1957 to secure railway property. In 1966, it gained authority to investigate, arrest, and prosecute those unlawfully possessing railway assets. On September 20, 1985, it was designated as an armed force of the Union.

Mishra's contributions have been recognised with prestigious awards. She has received both the President’s Police Medal for Distinguished Service (PPMDS) and the Police Medal for Meritorious Service (PMMS).

Mishra's leadership in various capacities highlights her extensive experience and dedication to public service. Her new role as head of the RPF underscores her trailblazing career in law enforcement.

With inputs from PTI