In a landmark moment for Indian law enforcement, Ms. Sonali Mishra, an Indian Police Service (IPS) officer of the 1993 batch, has been appointed as the Director General (DG) of the Railway Protection Force (RPF). With this appointment, Ms. Mishra has etched her name into history as the first woman to lead the RPF since its inception 143 years ago.
The appointment was officially approved by the Appointments Committee of the Cabinet and is effective until her superannuation in October 2026. Ms. Mishra’s elevation to the top post is being hailed as a progressive step towards gender inclusivity and recognition of merit in leadership roles across India’s central armed forces.
Ms. Sonali Mishra brings with her over three decades of extensive experience in Indian policing, having served in various high-profile roles in both state and central government agencies. Her impressive career includes stints in the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), the Border Security Force (BSF), and significant leadership roles in Madhya Pradesh’s police training institutions.
Prior to her appointment as RPF DG, Ms. Mishra served as the Additional Director General at the Police Training and Research Institute in Bhopal and also held the position of Director of the MP Police Academy. Her leadership and dedication to capacity building in the police force have earned her wide respect within the law enforcement community.
A notable highlight of her international experience includes her tenure with the United Nations Peacekeeping Mission in Kosovo. During this time, she worked in a multi-cultural and high-pressure environment, honing her skills in crisis management, international cooperation, and policing in conflict zones. This global exposure further strengthens her credentials as a leader capable of managing a force as large and vital as the RPF.
Ms. Mishra’s contributions to Indian policing have been officially recognized with prestigious awards. She is a recipient of the President’s Police Medal for Distinguished Service and the Police Medal for Meritorious Service—both of which stand as testimony to her integrity, professionalism, and dedication to public service.
The RPF plays a crucial role in safeguarding India’s vast railway network, ensuring the safety of passengers, railway assets, and infrastructure. With increasing threats to transport systems and growing passenger volumes, the leadership of the RPF requires strategic vision, operational expertise, and a deep commitment to public safety—all of which Ms. Mishra embodies.
Her appointment is being celebrated not only as a personal milestone but also as a symbol of the changing face of Indian policing, where women are increasingly occupying top leadership positions in previously male-dominated sectors. Her trailblazing journey is expected to inspire more women to pursue careers in law enforcement and aspire to leadership roles.
Ms. Sonali Mishra’s tenure as DG of the RPF marks a new chapter in the history of the force—one that stands for professionalism, inclusivity, and a continued commitment to public service.
