RPF Establishment Manual Updated: Key Changes in Promotion Exam Syllabus 2025
The Railway Board has issued a new correction slip that makes important changes to the RPF Establishment Manual, 2019. These updates directly affect the syllabus and question pattern for Computer Based Tests (CBT) conducted for promotion to various ranks in the Railway Protection Force (RPF) and Railway Protection Special Force (RPSF).
Dated 27 October 2025, this revision ensures that the promotion exam structure stays aligned with the new criminal laws and evolving professional requirements of the force.
What Has Changed in the RPF Establishment Manual?
The latest amendment—Correction Slip No. 6—modifies Sub-Para V(c) of Para 18, Chapter V of the RPF Establishment Manual, 2019. The earlier guidelines for framing professional knowledge questions in CBT have been deleted and replaced with a fresh, comprehensive structure.
This new structure ensures that questions are relevant, updated, and better aligned with the daily duties and responsibilities of RPF personnel.
Applicability of New Criminal Laws
One of the major updates is the replacement of old criminal laws:
- IPC → Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS)
- CrPC → Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS)
- IEA → Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam (BSA)
These substitutions apply to all RPF promotion selections from now on, making the syllabus fully compliant with the new legal framework implemented across India.
Revised Pattern for Professional Knowledge Questions
Under the revised format, 70 questions in the CBT will focus solely on assessing the candidate’s professional competence. These questions will be designed from a wide range of subjects essential for RPF duties.
Key Topics Included in the Updated Syllabus
The professional knowledge questions may cover the following areas:
1. Updated Criminal and Railway Laws
- BNS, BNSS, BSA
- Railway Act
- RP (UP) Act
- All major and minor Acts
- Constitution of India
- Human Rights
2. Acts Related to Special Protection & Safety
- JJ Act 2015
- NDPS Act
- RTI Act
3. Railway-Related Crime & Security
- Crime on Railways
- Working of Commercial & other Railway Departments
- Integrated Security System
- Handling and operation of modern security gadgets
4. RPF-Specific Legislation & Rules
- RPF Act, 1957
- RPF Rules, 1987
- Standing Orders & Directives
5. Disaster & Emergency Response
- Disaster Management
- Fire Fighting
- First Aid
- Explosives & IEDs (FFIED)
6. Staff Behaviour & Management
- Soft Skills Management
- Social Psychology
- Manpower Planning & Management
Overall, the revised syllabus ensures that promotions within the RPF remain merit-based, updated, and aligned with current legal and technological developments.
Why This Update Matters
With rapid changes in law, technology, and security challenges, RPF personnel need to stay equipped with advanced knowledge and skills. This correction slip ensures:
- Better preparedness of candidates
- Standardised assessment across all zones
- Stronger alignment with modern railway security needs
This update is expected to bring more transparency, clarity, and relevance to the RPF promotion process.