Nagpur: In a significant move to bolster passenger security, Indian Railways has decided to equip its women Railway Protection Force (RPF) personnel with chilli spray cans. This non-lethal yet effective tool is designed to help women RPF personnel handle challenging situations swiftly, particularly when safeguarding female passengers traveling alone or with children.
The initiative reflects Indian Railways’ commitment to gender inclusivity, women empowerment, and passenger safety. By providing chilli spray cans, women RPF personnel will have an additional layer of security, enabling them to deter threats, respond to incidents of harassment, and manage emergencies effectively. This measure is particularly crucial in isolated stations, running trains, and remote railway locations where immediate backup may not be available.
Supporting the initiative, RPF Director General Manoj Yadav stated, “The initiative aligns with the Prime Minister’s vision of empowering women and ensuring safer public spaces. Our women RPF personnel stand as symbols of strength, care, and resilience. By equipping them with chilli spray cans, we are enhancing their confidence and operational capability while reinforcing our commitment to passenger safety — especially for women.”
Indian Railways has also taken proactive steps to increase the presence of women in the RPF. Currently, the RPF boasts the highest proportion of women personnel (9%) among all Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF). Many of these women serve in ‘Meri Saheli’ teams, which are dedicated to ensuring the safety of female passengers. With over 250 ‘Meri Saheli’ teams operating across the network, they interact with nearly 12,900 female passengers daily, offering security guidance and reassurance.
Beyond security duties, women RPF personnel frequently assist female passengers in distress. Under ‘Operation Matrishakti’, women RPF personnel have successfully helped 174 women give birth onboard trains in 2024 alone, ensuring privacy, dignity, and timely medical assistance. Additionally, during large-scale events such as the Mahakumbh, women RPF personnel played a key role in assisting thousands of female pilgrims.
