Farmer’s Daughter Leads Police Station on International Women’s Day in Nagpur

Nagpur, India – Sub-inspector Shivali Ulmale, the daughter of a farmer from Wani in Yavatmal district, took charge of the Kapil Nagar police station for 24 hours on Sunday, March 8, 2026, in recognition of International Women’s Day. The symbolic leadership role was assigned by senior inspector Satish Ade to showcase the increasing strength and capabilities of women within the Maharashtra police force. Times of India

A Farmer’s Daughter in Uniform

Ulmale, who holds a science degree, joined the Nagpur City Police in 2025, fulfilling a lifelong dream of her father, Anil, to see her serve as a police officer. Her appointment underscores a growing trend of women entering and succeeding in law enforcement in India. Memesita

Key Accomplishments During Tenure

During her 24-hour tenure, Sub-inspector Ulmale successfully returned 25 recovered stolen and missing mobile phones to their owners, with the majority of recipients being women. She ensured all legal formalities were completed before the handovers, turning a routine task into a gesture of empowerment. Under the guidance of zonal DCP Sandeep Pakhale and Ade, and as part of CP Ravinder Singal’s “Operation Thunder” anti-drug campaign, Ulmale oversaw the seizure of 3 grams of MD narcotics and the subsequent arrest of two individuals. Times of India, Memesita

A Moment of Pride and Inspiration

“It felt wonderful to lead the station and be respected as a woman officer,” Ulmale stated, expressing her pride in the opportunity. She shared her elation regarding the drug recovery with her father immediately. Ulmale emphasized the importance of breaking stereotypes, asserting that “Every woman in uniform is as capable as anyone else…My gender will never stop me from delivering justice equally to women, and men.” She similarly noted that Women’s Day should be about “mutual respect between genders — not just for women alone.” Times of India, Memesita

Enhancing the Workplace Environment

Beyond her enforcement duties, Ulmale focused on improving the station’s environment. Collaborating with Ade, she initiated the addition of ornamental plants to the newly constructed Kapil Nagar Police Station, adding greenery and a fresh aesthetic. The day also included recognition for approximately 25 women home guards who were on duty for examinations and security, with gifts presented to acknowledge their service. Times of India

Looking Ahead

Ulmale expressed her commitment to continued dedicated service and to challenging any perceptions of women officers being less effective. She cited the inspiration she draws from senior women officers in the Nagpur city police, including zonal DCP Rashmitha Rao, DCP Economic Offences Wing Mahek Swami, ACP Shalini Sharma, senior inspector Anamika Mirzapure, Subhangi Deshmukh, and Lalita Todase. Times of India