In a move that could improve the efficiency of the Railway Protection Force (RPF), and in turn ensure a seamless travel experience, the Railway Ministry has approved the restructuring of the force. The restructuring increases the percentage of higher posts, like inspectors and sub-inspectors in the force, and likewise reduces the percentage of constables and head constables.

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Under the new numbers decided by the ministry for both the RPF and its sister force, the Railway Protection Special Force (RPSF), 3 per cent of the force's total strength will comprise inspectors, up from the current 2.75 per cent. Similarly, the strength of sub-inspectors has increased from 4.5 per cent of the total personnel to 6 per cent.

"The higher number of posts of inspectors, sub-inspectors and assistant sub-inspectors means a person joining as a constable knows the chances of his getting promoted a higher rank is that much better. It automatically increases the efficiency of the force as the incentive to put in better work is higher because the chances of getting promoted is higher," explained a senior RPF officer.

This new move will also bode well for commuters. This is because the RPF's day-to-day interaction with the common man is arguably among the highest of all paramilitary forces and second only to the police.

"The RPF and its work affects about 2.1 crore railway passengers daily. If the constable works harder on the ground, it ensures greater security for passengers and a better travelling experience," said an RPF constable.

According to data available with the Railways, the RPF currently has about 74,000 personnel on its rolls, of which 33,423 personnel, ranging from inspectors to constables, are deployed at stations and on trains on a daily basis.

They partner another 38,000 railway police personnel of various states to secure the railway network.