New Delhi: In a groundbreaking development, senior IPS officer Sonali Mishra, a 1993 batch officer of the Madhya Pradesh cadre, is poised to become the first woman Director General (DG) of the Railway Protection Force (RPF). Her appointment is currently under consideration by the Appointments Committee of the Cabinet (ACC) and is expected to be cleared shortly, according to reliable government sources.
If approved, Mishra will make history by becoming the first woman to head the RPF, the central armed force responsible for protecting the world’s fourth-largest railway network.
Vast Experience in Central Paramilitary Forces
Mishra currently holds the post of Special Director General in Madhya Pradesh Police and has earlier served in key leadership roles in central paramilitary forces, including a significant tenure as Additional Director General in the Border Security Force (BSF). Her deep understanding of both field operations and administrative strategy has positioned her as a strong contender for one of the top posts in Indian policing.
Read Also: Mumbai: IPS Madhukar Pandey Transferred, Niket Kaushik Takes Over as Police Commissioner of MBVV
RPF Leadership: A Landmark in Gender Representation
Mishra’s likely appointment is being widely seen as a progressive step towards gender inclusivity in India’s internal security apparatus. While women have increasingly taken up leadership roles in state police and other paramilitary forces, the post of RPF DG has remained exclusively male-dominated—until now.
The RPF plays a critical role in securing Indian Railways’ vast infrastructure, ensuring the safety of passengers, tackling crimes such as theft, trafficking, and vandalism, and protecting railway assets spread across more than 67,000 km of rail lines.
Trailblazer for Women in Uniform
Mishra’s rise through the ranks is an inspiration for many women in uniformed services. With nearly three decades of service behind her, she has developed a reputation for integrity, professionalism, and strategic thinking, particularly in high-stakes environments like border management and internal security.
Her expected appointment is also in line with the government’s broader push to promote gender equity in senior civil and security positions.
Read Also: ED Records Statement in New Money Laundering Case Against IPS Officer’s Husband
Awaiting Final Clearance
The proposal for her appointment has already been forwarded and is pending approval from the Appointments Committee of the Cabinet, chaired by the Prime Minister. Once cleared, she will succeed the outgoing DG of RPF and assume charge of the force at a time when railway security is becoming increasingly critical due to growing passenger volumes and enhanced security challenges.
