In a historic move, senior Indian Police Service (IPS) officer Sonali Mishra has been appointed as the Director General (DG) of the Railway Protection Force (RPF). This landmark decision marks the first time a woman has held this prestigious position, breaking gender barriers within the central armed police forces. The Appointments Committee of the Cabinet has approved her appointment.

Mishra, a 1993 batch IPS officer from the Madhya Pradesh cadre, brings over three decades of experience in law enforcement to the role. She is currently serving as the Special Director General in the Madhya Pradesh Police. Her extensive career includes significant leadership positions in both state and central forces, including a notable tenure as Additional Director General in the Border Security Force (BSF) Eastern Range. Her diverse experience and proven track record make her exceptionally well-suited to lead the RPF.

Mishra will be taking over from the current DG, Manoj Yadava, a 1988 batch IPS officer of the Haryana cadre, who is set to retire in July. Mishra's tenure as DG will extend until her superannuation on October 31, 2026. Her appointment is effective from the date she assumes charge, as approved by the Department of Personnel and Training (DoPT). She will be appointed at Level 16 of the pay matrix.

The Railway Protection Force plays a crucial role in ensuring the safety and security of India's vast railway network. Mishra's leadership is expected to bring a fresh perspective to the force, enhancing its capabilities and effectiveness. Her appointment is being hailed as a significant step towards gender inclusivity in India's security services. While women have been increasingly rising to senior ranks in state police and paramilitary forces, the top RPF post has remained male-dominated until now.

Mishra's elevation to this position is expected to inspire more women to pursue careers in internal security and law enforcement at the highest levels. Her journey and achievements serve as a testament to her capabilities and a beacon of progress for women in policing. The appointment of Sonali Mishra as the first woman DG of the Railway Protection Force not only marks a historic milestone but also signifies a cultural shift towards recognizing and valuing the leadership potential of women in all fields.