The Indian Railways on Friday revealed that the Railway Protection Force boasts the highest proportion of female personnel, standing at 9%, surpassing other Central Paramilitary Forces in India.
In a press release, the Ministry of Railways said that the RPF acknowledged women as embodiments of love, care, strength, and eternity. It added that these specially trained female personnel are dedicated to ensuring the safety and support of female passengers in challenging situations and creating a secure atmosphere for all travelers.
RPF’s initiatives to empower women
The RPF has implemented several initiatives to empower women and address the needs of women personnel while performing their duties. These initiatives include the following
Infrastructure Developments – This involves the construction of standardised barracks, changing rooms, and other facilities tailored to accommodate the unique needs of women officers deployed for train escort duties.
Nomination of Nodal Officers – Female Nodal Officers have been appointed at all Zones/Units to handle the grievances of female personnel, ensuring their concerns are heard and addressed effectively.
Key aspects of the role of female personnel
Addressing concern of Women Security
Meri Saheli initiative– Introduced across the Indian Railways network, this initiative is designed to ensure the safety and security of female passengers traveling solo or with minors on long-distance trains. Currently, an average of 230 teams are deployed daily, covering over 400 trains on average across the Indian Railways. These teams play a pivotal role in apprehending individuals found improperly traveling in women’s compartments, thereby enhancing the safety of female passengers.
In 2023, a total of 77,839 males were apprehended for traveling in compartments designated for women, with appropriate legal action taken thereafter.
Operation Matrishakti
RPF personnel, particularly female officers, go beyond their call of their duties to aid pregnant women experiencing labor during train journeys. In 2023, RPF’s female personnel assisted in 206 childbirths, exemplifying their dedication beyond their regular responsibilities.
Operation AAHT (Against Human Trafficking)
The RPF has initiated an operation to combat the grave issue of women and girls falling in the traps of human trafficking. In 2023, a total of 1,048 individuals were rescued from traffickers, including 257 traffickers apprehended.
Operation Nanhe Farishtey
A comprehensive campaign to rescue vulnerable children in contact with railways has been initiated. In 2023, the RPF successfully rescued 3,973 girl children in need of care and protection.
Operation Dignity
RPF female personnel also play a pivotal role in rescuing adults, including women, who require care and protection. These individuals may be runaways, abandoned, struggling with substance abuse, destitute, or in need of medical attention. In 2023, around 3,492 such individuals were rescued.