Updated: February 22, 2026
Sonali Mishra has been making headlines as a powerhouse in Indian policing. As the first woman ever to lead the Railway Protection Force (RPF), she’s shattered barriers and inspired countless aspirants. But when people search for “Sonali Mishra IPS husband,” they’re often curious about her personal side amid her stellar professional journey. While details about her family life remain private—like many senior officers who keep personal matters low-key—let’s dive into what we know about this remarkable 1993-batch IPS officer from the Madhya Pradesh cadre.
Table of Contents
Who Is Sonali Mishra? A Quick Overview
Born on October 9, 1966, Sonali Mishra is currently 59 years old and serves as Director General of the Railway Protection Force since August 1, 2025. This historic appointment marked the first time in the RPF’s 143-year history that a woman has headed the force, which safeguards India’s massive railway network, passenger safety, and property.
Her career spans over three decades of distinguished service:
- Key roles in the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) tackling anti-corruption cases in Delhi and Mumbai.
- Pioneering stint as the first woman to command a Border Security Force (BSF) formation along the India-Pakistan border in Punjab back in 2021.
- International experience with the United Nations Peacekeeping Mission in Kosovo.
- Leadership in Madhya Pradesh Police, including as Additional Director General (Selection/Recruitment) and heading police training institutions.
She’s been honored with the President’s Police Medal for Distinguished Service and the Police Medal for Meritorious Service, reflecting her dedication and impact.
Her appointment as DG RPF runs until her superannuation on October 31, 2026. In this role, she’s expected to drive tech upgrades, combat organized crimes like human trafficking, and boost safety for vulnerable passengers.
Personal Life and Family Insights
Sonali Mishra maintains a low profile when it comes to her family and personal life, which is quite common among senior IPS officers focused on duty. Public records, Wikipedia profiles, and news reports from reliable sources like The Times of India, Economic Times, and official announcements do not mention her husband’s name or provide specifics about her marital status or spouse.
She is known professionally as Sonali Mishra (without any reference to a spouse’s surname), and no credible biographical details reveal information about a husband, marriage, or children. This privacy aligns with the ethos of many women in uniform who prioritize their service record over personal disclosures.
For those wondering, here’s a quick fact table summarizing key details:
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Sonali Mishra |
| Date of Birth | October 9, 1966 (Age 59 as of 2026) |
| IPS Batch & Cadre | 1993 Batch, Madhya Pradesh |
| Current Position | Director General, Railway Protection Force (since Aug 1, 2025) |
| Tenure End | October 31, 2026 |
| Notable Firsts | First woman DG of RPF; First woman to lead BSF Punjab frontier |
| Awards | President’s Police Medal for Distinguished Service, Police Medal for Meritorious Service |
| Husband/Personal Life | Not publicly disclosed |
This table captures the essentials that people often seek when researching her.
Why the Curiosity About Her Husband?
Searches for “Sonali Mishra IPS husband” spike because of her inspiring story—people want to know the support system behind such achievements. Balancing high-stakes policing, frequent transfers, and leadership roles isn’t easy, and many assume a strong partner plays a role. Yet, Sonali Mishra’s success seems rooted in her own grit, discipline, and passion for public service.
She stands as a role model for women in competitive fields, proving that determination and excellence can break glass ceilings without needing to share every personal detail.
Conclusion: An Inspiration Beyond the Headlines
Sonali Mishra’s journey from a 1993-batch officer to the pioneering DG of RPF highlights what focused leadership looks like in modern India. While her husband’s identity or personal family details aren’t publicly available—and that’s perfectly okay—her professional legacy speaks volumes.
In an era where women in uniform are increasingly taking top posts, she embodies resilience, integrity, and trailblazing spirit. Whether you’re an UPSC aspirant, a railway traveler feeling safer, or simply someone admiring strong women leaders, Sonali Mishra’s story motivates us all.
Keep an eye on her tenure through 2026—she’s likely to leave an even bigger mark on railway security and gender representation in policing.