In a landmark moment for Indian Railways and law enforcement, Sonali Mishra, a distinguished 1993-batch IPS officer from Madhya Pradesh, has been appointed the first woman Director General of the Railway Protection Force (RPF). Approved by the Appointments Committee of the Cabinet, her term begins August 1, 2025, and will continue until her retirement on October 31, 2026. Mishra succeeds Manoj Yadav, signaling a transformative step in gender representation within India’s security services.
A Career Forged Through Grit
Born in Bhopal, Mishra’s journey is one of relentless commitment and groundbreaking achievements. Across her three-decade career, she has held critical leadership roles—Superintendent of Police in Raisen, DIG in Jabalpur, and IG (Intelligence) at Madhya Pradesh’s Police Headquarters.
Her central deputation brought her national acclaim. In 2021, she became the first woman commander of the Border Security Force (BSF) along the volatile Attari stretch of the India-Pakistan border in Punjab. Her success there led to further historic postings—IG in Kashmir and ADG of BSF’s Eastern Command, securing the India-Bangladesh border in 2023. Her leadership in both intelligence and field operations exemplified her tactical acumen.
Her medals—the President’s Police Medal for Distinguished Service and the Police Medal for Meritorious Service—stand testament to her relentless pursuit of excellence. Recently, she headed the security detail for Prime Minister Narendra Modi during a high-profile women’s empowerment convention, earning both respect and recognition.
Shifting the Tracks of Tradition
Established in 1957, the RPF protects railway passengers and infrastructure across India’s vast train network. Though officially declared an Armed Force of the Union in 1985, it has historically been male-dominated. Mishra’s appointment is more than just symbolic—it’s a structural shift that echoes India’s broader efforts toward inclusivity.
Her leadership promises innovation and empathy in equal measure. “Leading the RPF is a matter of pride and responsibility,” she stated. “This is a message to women that hard work can overcome any barrier.” She credited her rise to the unwavering support of her family and colleagues.
A Symbol of Empowerment
The ripple effect of Mishra’s appointment is already being felt. The Madhya Pradesh DGP praised her as “disciplined and result-driven,” while senior RPF officials expressed optimism about her fresh leadership style. Across social media, her journey is being celebrated as a beacon of possibility: “Sonali Mishra’s appointment is a win for every woman who dreams of commanding her destiny.”
Her legacy is now growing—not only in railway corridors, but in the hearts of aspiring women officers who see her not just as a DG, but as a symbol that leadership knows no gender.