Key Updates in RPF Establishment Manual – Correction Slip No. 7 Explained
The Railway Protection Force (RPF) has released an important update through Correction Slip No. 7 to the RPF Establishment Manual, 2019. Issued by the Railway Board on 10 November 2025, this amendment significantly revises Chapter-X related to the Operation of the Special Wing (SW) and also updates specific eligibility criteria under Para 8 of the revised chapter.
These changes aim to strengthen Special Wing functioning, streamline eligibility rules, and ensure that only suitable, experienced, and ethically sound personnel are selected for sensitive roles.
1. Replacement of the Existing Chapter-X
The Railway Board has fully substituted the old Chapter-X with a newly revised version. This updated chapter provides clearer guidelines for the functioning, operation, and manpower selection of the Special Wing.
This replacement is based on Railway Board’s authority letter dated 16.12.2022.
2. Amendments in Para 8 – Eligibility and Screening Criteria
Along with the introduction of a revised Chapter-X, sub-para 8.1(a), 8.1(a)(i), and 8.1(a)(iii) have been amended. These changes directly impact the eligibility criteria for shortlisting RPF personnel for various ranks in the Special Wing.
2.1 Revised Maximum Age Eligibility – (Table 1)
A major update concerns the enhancement of maximum age limits across several designations.
Old vs New Maximum Age Limits
| Designation | Earlier Max Age | Revised Max Age |
|---|---|---|
| Watcher | 40 Years | 45 Years |
| Security Assistant (SA) | 45 Years | 50 Years |
| Assistant Intelligence Officer (AIO) | 50 Years | 55 Years |
| Deputy Intelligence Officer (DIO) | 55 Years | 55 Years (No change) |
This increases the window of opportunity for experienced RPF staff to participate in Special Wing roles.
2.2 New Minimum Service Requirement – (Table 2)
The earlier rule required:
- 2 years of service after initial training for Constable/Sub-Inspector direct recruits.
The new rule mandates:
- 5 years of working experience in RPF Post/Out-Posts for eligibility.
This change ensures that only field-experienced personnel with practical exposure in core RPF duties are considered for Special Wing vacancies.
2.3 Revised Conduct Requirements – (Table 3)
Previously, candidates needed a clean record for the past 10 years, or their entire service if less than 10 years.
The updated rule requires candidates to:
- Be free from DAR proceedings,
- Not be involved in vigilance or criminal cases,
- Not be undergoing any penalty, and
- Not be involved in any activities of moral turpitude, past or present.
This ensures that only personnel with impeccable integrity and professional conduct are taken into Special Wing roles, which often involve intelligence, surveillance, and sensitive assignments.
3. Conclusion
Correction Slip No. 7 brings significant refinements to the RPF Establishment Manual, especially for the Special Wing. By raising age limits, increasing experience requirements, and tightening conduct standards, the Railway Board aims to build a more capable, reliable, and ethically strong Special Wing workforce.
These updates are now official, and all zonal RPF units, training institutes, and production units are required to implement them with immediate effect.