15 Jul 2025
Sonali Mishra, a senior IPS ofcer from the 1993 batch, has been appointed as the first woman Director General of the Railway Protection Force (RPF).
Sonali Mishra, a 1993-batch IPS officer, has made history by becoming the first woman Director General of the Railway Protection Force (RPF). Her appointment was approved by the Appointments Committee of the Cabinet on July 13, 2025. She will take over from Manoj Yadava, the current DG, on July 31, 2025, and serve until October 31, 2026.
About Sonali Mishra:
Background: IPS officer from the Madhya Pradesh cadre
Current Post: Additional Director General (Selection) in the Madhya Pradesh Police
Previous Achievements: First woman commander to lead a Border Security Force (BSF) formation along the India-Pakistan border in Punjab (2021)
Key Highlights of Her Appointment:
Historic Milestone: First woman to lead the RPF in its 145-year history
Responsibilities: Ensuring the security of railway passengers, property, and critical infrastructure across India
Expected Impact: Ushering in a new era of progressive leadership, modernization, community engagement, and women's safety in rail travel
Tenure Details:
Start Date: August 1, 2025 (after Manoj Yadava's retirement on July 31, 2025)
End Date: October 31, 2026 (until her superannuation)