Sonali Mishra, a trailblazing Indian Police Service officer from the 1993 Madhya Pradesh cadre, has made history by becoming the first woman to head the Railway Protection Force (RPF) in 143 years. She officially assumed charge as Director General of the RPF on August 1, 2025, following the retirement of her predecessor, Manoj Yadava.
The appointment has been widely hailed as a progressive step for gender representation and institutional reform in India’s security sector. Senior officials and the Railway Ministry commended her leadership, while Mishra expressed her commitment to modernisation, safety, and inclusion within the RPF.
A Milestone for Gender Equality in Security Leadership
Sonali Mishra’s elevation to the RPF’s apex post is more than a personal achievement—it’s a symbol of changing times in India’s law enforcement landscape. Mishra brings to this role over three decades of multi-faceted police service, both at the national and international level. She has served with distinction in the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), the Border Security Force (BSF), and as part of a United Nations Peacekeeping Mission. Upon taking charge, Mishra stated, “It is an honour to serve as the first woman Director General of the RPF. I am committed to upholding and advancing the safety standards and values our force is known for.”
Officials from the Railway Ministry described her as a “visionary leader focused on inclusivity and innovation,” reiterating that her appointment marks a “watershed moment in the history of Indian policing.” RPF officers have echoed these sentiments, pointing to her prior accomplishments as evidence of her ability to lead the force into a new era prioritising safety, dignity, and technological advancement.
Distinguished Career: From State Cadre to National Stage
Sonali Mishra’s journey to the top is marked by both pioneering firsts and consistent excellence. Notably, she broke barriers as the first woman to command a BSF formation along the sensitive India-Pakistan border, a post traditionally reserved for men. She has held key roles in intelligence operations, police training, and recruitment policy reforms in Madhya Pradesh, advocating for greater women’s participation throughout her career. Her leadership style, lauded for its mix of rigour and empathy, has resulted in successful reforms and improved morale wherever she has served.
Mishra holds some of the highest police honours, including the President’s Police Medal for Distinguished Service and the Police Medal for Meritorious Service. As RPF DG, she is expected to focus on modernising the force, strengthening the safety net for millions of daily rail passengers—especially women, children, and elderly travellers—and promoting a culture of integrity and innovation. The Railway Ministry has further underscored her plans to harness technology for preventive policing and rapid response.
The Logical Indian’s Perspective
Sonali Mishra’s appointment as the first woman DG of the Railway Protection Force is a profound milestone, not only affirming the power of perseverance but also foregrounding the need for greater diversity in leadership. Her journey is a testament to the fact that true progress blossoms where inclusivity, integrity, and professional excellence converge.
As she takes the helm, her leadership should serve as both an inspiration and a call to action for institutions everywhere to dismantle old barriers, embrace fresh ideas, and encourage merit-based advancement. At The Logical Indian, we believe such moves help foster trust, peace, and harmony, strengthening the fabric of our society.
