Senior IPS officer Sonali Mishra first woman to lead RPF

The Appointments Committee of the Cabinet has approved Mishra’s appointment as DG, RPF, until her superannuation on October 31, 2026, said an order issued by the Personnel Ministry.

She will take charge of the post from incumbent Manoj Yadava, who is due to superannuate on July 31.

Mishra will be the first woman officer to head the RPF, which is entrusted with the responsibility of security of railway property and passengers, among other duties, the officials said.

She is currently posted as the additional director general (selection), Madhya Pradesh Police.

The RPF was constituted by an Act of Parliament in 1957. The force could enquire, arrest and prosecute the offenders involved in unlawful possession of railway property in 1966. It was given the status of “an armed force of the Union” on September 20, 1985.

Mishra was in July 2021 appointed the first woman commander to head the BSF formation along the India-Pakistan border in Punjab.

Mishra has led the force’s formation in the Kashmir valley as the inspector general (IG) besides heading the BSF’s intelligence wing. She also worked as the ADG in the BSF.

Mishra is a recipient of PPMDS (President’s Police Medal for Distinguished Service) and PMMS (Police Medal for Meritorious Service).