In a move to bolster security and empower women officers, Indian Railways arms women RPF personnel with chilli spray cans to ensure safer train journeys for female passengers.
Women RPF Personnel to Carry Chilli Spray for Passenger Safety
New Delhi [India], March 8 – Indian Railways has taken a significant step towards enhancing security for women passengers by equipping women personnel of the Railway Protection Force (RPF) with chilli spray cans.
This non-lethal but effective tool will empower women RPF personnel to swiftly tackle challenging situations, particularly while safeguarding female passengers traveling alone or with children.
“This 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 sending a clear message that passenger safety—especially the safety of women—is our highest priority,” said RPF Director General Manoj Yadav.
Strengthening Security for Women Passengers
The chilli spray initiative reflects Indian Railways’ commitment to gender inclusivity and women’s safety. The move will allow women RPF officers to deter threats, respond to harassment incidents, and handle emergencies effectively—particularly in:
✔ Isolated railway stations
✔ Running trains
✔ Remote railway locations
With immediate backup often unavailable in these areas, the chilli spray cans will serve as a quick defense mechanism for women personnel.
RPF’s Commitment to Women’s Safety
The Railway Protection Force (RPF) boasts the highest proportion of women personnel among all Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF), standing at 9%. Many of these women officers are part of the ‘Meri Saheli’ teams, whose primary role is to ensure the safety and well-being of female passengers.
- Over 250 ‘Meri Saheli’ teams interact with nearly 12,900 female passengers daily, offering security and reassurance.
- Under ‘Operation Matrishakti’, RPF women personnel have helped 174 women safely give birth on trains in 2024 alone, providing medical aid and ensuring dignity.
- During major events like the Mahakumbh, RPF’s women personnel have worked tirelessly alongside their male counterparts, assisting thousands of female pilgrims.
A Progressive Step Towards Safer Railways
With women’s security as a top priority, this move is expected to:
✔ Empower women RPF personnel with better self-defense tools
✔ Enhance the safety of female passengers, especially during night journeys
✔ Deter potential offenders and reinforce trust in railway security
By arming its women personnel with chilli spray cans, Indian Railways sends a strong message—women’s safety is non-negotiable, and those tasked with protecting them are equipped to act swiftly and effectively.
Tags: Indian Railways, RPF Women Personnel, Chilli Spray Defense, Women’s Safety, Railway Protection Force, Passenger Security, Meri Saheli, Women Empowerment, Train Security, Indian Government Initiatives
Hashtags: #IndianRailways #WomensSafety #RPF #ChilliSpray #MeriSaheli #RailwaySecurity #EmpowerWomen #SafeTravels #OperationMatrishakti #WomenInSecurity