For the first time in the history of Railway Protection Force (RPF), a woman officer has been given the highest post. Sonali Mishra, senior IPS officer of 1993 batch of Madhya Pradesh cadre, has been appointed as Director General of Railway Protection Force (DG).

According to the order issued by the Ministry of Personnel on Saturday (July 12), his appointment has been approved by the Cabinet Committee on appointments and will hold the post till retirement on 31 October 2026. Mishra will take over this responsibility after the current DG Manoj Yadav retires on 31 July.

Who is Sonali Mishra?

Sonali Mishra has held many important responsibilities in her specific career. In July 2021, she was appointed the first female commander of the formation of BSF in Punjab on the India-Pakistan border. Apart from this, she has also led the formation of BSF in Kashmir Valley, where she was posted as Inspector General (IG). He also led the BSF intelligence unit and worked as Additional Director General (ADG). This achievement of women leadership among security forces is a proof of Mishra’s efficiency and loyalty.

At present, Sonali Mishra is working in the post of Additional Director General of Police (Selection) in Madhya Pradesh Police. The responsibility of the Railway Protection Force is to ensure the safety of railway property and passengers. This appointment of Mishra is not only historical but is also considered a motivational step towards women leadership.

RPF was established in 1957

The RPF was established in 1957 under an Act of Parliament. In 1966, the force was given the powers of investigation, arrest and prosecution and on 20 September 1985 it got the status of the Center’s armed forces.

Sonali Mishra has been awarded the President Police Medal (PPMDS) for her special services and Police Medal (PMMS) for commendable service. Their new responsibility will be an inspiration for women, especially in the field of leadership in security forces. The arrival of a female officer under the leadership of an important institution like Railway Protection Force is a big indication that concrete steps are being taken towards sexual balance in security forces.