A Historic Breakthrough in Security Leadership
Sonali Mishra Becomes First Woman to Head Railway Protection Force: In a major milestone for Indian policing, Sonali Mishra, a senior 1993-batch IPS officer, has been selected to lead the Railway Protection Force (RPF), becoming the first woman ever to hold this position. She is set to take over on August 1, 2025, after the retirement of the current DG, Manoj Yadava, and will continue in this role until October 31, 2026.
Her appointment was cleared by the Appointments Committee of the Cabinet, making it a historic decision in the evolution of gender-inclusive leadership in paramilitary services.
Trailblazer in the Security Domain
Currently posted as Additional Director General (Selection) in Madhya Pradesh, Sonali Mishra has held several prestigious roles in India’s security apparatus. She earned recognition as the first female officer to command Border Security Force (BSF) troops along the India-Pakistan border in Punjab in 2021.
She has also served as Inspector General heading BSF operations in Kashmir and led the force’s intelligence division before being promoted to ADG. These high-impact roles reflect her operational expertise and strategic command capabilities.
Her service has been acknowledged with top honours, including the President’s Police Medal for Distinguished Service and the Police Medal for Meritorious Service.
RPF’s Role and Legacy
The Railway Protection Force, functioning under the Ministry of Railways, is a central security agency responsible for ensuring the safety of passengers, train stations, and railway assets. Established through legislation in 1957, the RPF has evolved into a vital unit for securing India’s vast rail network.
Static GK fact: In 1985, the RPF was officially recognized as an armed force of the Union, enhancing its operational authority and scope.
Static GK Tip: The RPF is one of the rare central forces in India empowered to arrest and prosecute individuals involved in crimes related to railway property—without the need for assistance from state police.
Significance of Her Appointment
Sonali Mishra’s appointment represents more than just a personal achievement—it signals a progressive shift in India’s internal security institutions. For the first time in its history, the RPF will be guided by a woman at the helm, setting a precedent for inclusivity and leadership opportunities for women in policing.
This development aligns with broader national efforts to integrate women into commanding roles across defense and law enforcement agencies. Her proven experience and leadership in sensitive border and intelligence operations are expected to strengthen RPF’s capabilities in addressing emerging security threats.
Her tenure is likely to influence structural reforms in the force and inspire a new generation of women officers to rise through the ranks of India’s security services.
Static Usthadian Current Affairs Table
Sonali Mishra Becomes First Woman to Head Railway Protection Force:
| Topic | Detail |
| Full Name | Sonali Mishra |
| New Role | Director General of Railway Protection Force (RPF) |
| Appointment Date | Approved on July 13, 2025 |
| Assumes Charge | August 1, 2025 |
| Tenure Ends | October 31, 2026 |
| Previous Role | ADG (Selection), Madhya Pradesh Police |
| First in RPF | First woman to head the force |
| Past Commands | BSF border units in Punjab, BSF Intelligence in Kashmir |
| Awards | President’s Police Medal, Police Medal for Meritorious Service |
| RPF Established | 1957 (Act of Parliament), Armed Force since 1985 |
