In a historic development, Sonali Mishra, a 1993-batch Indian Police Service (IPS) officer from the Madhya Pradesh cadre, has taken charge as the Director General of the Railway Protection Force (RPF). With this, she becomes the first woman to head the RPF in its 143-year history, marking a significant milestone in India’s policing and railway security landscape.
Her appointment was formally approved by the Appointments Committee of the Cabinet (ACC) and will be effective until her superannuation on October 31, 2026.
A Career of Distinguished Service
Known for her professionalism and strategic leadership, Ms. Mishra brings to the role over three decades of rich and varied policing experience. Prior to assuming charge at RPF, she served as the Additional Director General of Police (Selection/Recruitment) in Madhya Pradesh. She also held additional responsibilities as ADG of the Police Training & Research Institute and Director of the Madhya Pradesh Police Academy in Bhopal.
Her career includes noteworthy stints in central agencies such as the CBI and BSF, as well as international experience with the United Nations Peacekeeping Mission in Kosovo. She is the recipient of the President’s Police Medal for Distinguished Service and the Police Medal for Meritorious Service, underlining her dedication and contribution to public service.
Vision for a Modern and Inclusive RPF
On taking charge, Ms. Mishra expressed her gratitude for the opportunity to lead and reaffirmed her commitment to the core values of the Force—vigilance, courage, and service, encapsulated in the RPF’s motto “Yasho Labhasva” (Attain Glory).
“It is an honour to lead this prestigious Force. I look forward to working closely with all personnel to uphold the safety, dignity, and trust of every railway passenger and stakeholder,” she said.
Under her leadership, the RPF is expected to accelerate modernization efforts, improve community outreach, and leverage technology for enhanced surveillance and crime prevention. Special focus areas include combating human trafficking, ensuring passenger safety, and strengthening the RPF’s capacity to respond to organized threats across the Indian Railways’ extensive network.
read also: MP Cadre IPS Officer Sonali Mishra Set to Become First Woman DG of Railway Protection Force
Welcoming a Trailblazer
The Railway Protection Force, which is entrusted with the security of railway property and the protection of passengers across one of the world’s largest and busiest rail networks, has welcomed Ms. Mishra’s appointment as a moment of transformation.
With her dynamic and inclusive approach, the Force anticipates a new chapter of growth, efficiency, and public trust under her leadership.
