Nagpur: Sub-inspector Shivali Ulmale, daughter of a farmer from Wani in Yavatmal district, was handed the reins of Kapil Nagar police station for the entire Sunday on occasion of International Women’s Day,The symbolic leadership role was entrusted to her by senior inspector Satish Ade to highlight the strength, capability and growing presence of women in the Maharashtra police force. Shivali, who holds a science degree, joined Nagpur City Police in 2025, driven by her father Anil’s dream of seeing her don the cops’ uniform.In her 24-hour tenure, Shivali handed 25 recovered stolen and missing mobile phones to their rightful owners, the majority of them women, after completing legal formality. The initiative was guided by zonal DCP Sandeep Pakhale and Ade.The moment carried special significance on Women’s Day, as her seniors allowed Shivali to make the handovers, turning paperwork into a gesture of empowerment. Under CP Ravinder Singal’s mission against drugs, “Operation Thunder”, Shivali oversaw the seizure of 3 grams of MD narcotics, leading to the arrest of two accused.“It felt wonderful to lead the station and be respected as a woman officer,” Shivali said, her voice filled with pride. She was particularly elated about the drug recovery and promptly called her father to share the news. “This one day was deeply fulfilling — a proud milestone for me and my family.”Shivali spoke about breaking stereotypes. “Every woman in uniform is as capable as anyone else. We may appear physically frail, but our mental strength is immense. My gender will never stop me from delivering justice equally to women and men.” She added, “Women’s Day is about mutual respect between genders — not just for women alone.”Beyond enforcement, Shivali turned her attention to the station’s environment. Along with Ade, Shivali initiated the addition of decorative ornamental plants, bringing greenery and a fresh look to the newly constructed Kapil Nagar Police Station building.The day also saw recognition for around 25 women home guards who were on duty for examinations and bandobast. They were honoured with gifts, reinforcing the police station’s commitment to supporting women in uniform at every level.Looking ahead, Shivali vowed to serve with unwavering dedication and help erase any misconception that women officers are less effective. She drew inspiration from senior women officers in Nagpur city police, naming zonal DCP Rashmitha Rao, DCP Economic Offences Wing Mahek Swami, ACP Shalini Sharma, senior inspector Anamika Mirzapure (heading Dhantoli Police Station), Subhangi Deshmukh (crime branch), Lalita Todase (anti-human trafficking unit), and others.
