COLONEL SOPHIA QURESHI
In the early hours of Wednesday, the Indian Air Force executed air strikes on nine terrorist hideouts in Pakistan under Operation Sindoor, eliminating several terrorists. The Indian Army disclosed details of this strategic strike during a press conference, with two distinguished female military officers, including Colonel Sophia Qureshi from Vadodara, Gujarat.
Colonel Sophia Qureshi is a distinguished officer in the Indian Army's Corps of Signals, renowned for her trailblazing contributions to military leadership and technological advancement.
🎖️ Pioneering Military Leadership
In 2016, Colonel Qureshi made history by becoming the first woman officer to lead an Indian Army contingent in a multinational military exercise. She commanded the Indian team at 'Exercise Force 18', the largest foreign military drill ever hosted by India, involving 18 participating countries. Notably, she was the only female commander among all contingents, exemplifying India's evolving military ethos that values competence over convention.
Colonel Sophia Qureshi currently serves as a prominent officer in the Indian Army's Corps of Signals. Renowned for her exemplary service, she commanded India's team in the United Nations Peacekeeping Mission and played a pivotal role as a key trainer. Her involvement in Peacekeeping Operations (PKOs) spans over six years, beginning with her deployment in the United Nations Congo Peacekeeping Mission in 2006.
🛡️ Role in Operation Sindoor
In May 2025, Colonel Qureshi played a pivotal role in 'Operation Sindoor', India's significant retaliatory action against terrorism following the Pahalgam attack. She, alongside Wing Commander Vyomika Singh, briefed the media on the operation, which targeted and destroyed nine terrorist camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. Her leadership during this operation underscored her strategic acumen and commitment to national security.
🎓 Academic and Technical Expertise
Colonel Qureshi holds a postgraduate degree in Biochemistry and has furthered her military education through various prestigious institutions. Her academic background complements her technical expertise in military communications and cyber warfare, areas in which she has significantly contributed to the modernization of the Indian Army's technological capabilities.
Colonel Sophia Qureshi completed her Bachelor's and Master's degrees in Biochemistry from MS University before joining the Indian Army through a Short Service Commission in 1999 at the age of 17. She underwent rigorous training at the Officers Training Academy in Chennai and was commissioned as a Lieutenant. Throughout her career, she has earned commendations for her exceptional contributions during various operations, including Operation Parakram and flood relief efforts in North-East India.Colonel Sophia Qureshi led a 40-member contingent of the Indian Army in 'Force 18,' a multinational military exercise held in Pune, where she represented India as the sole woman army officer. Her leadership skills and dedication were highlighted by former Chief of Defence Staff, the late Bipin Rawat, who emphasized the Indian Army's commitment to equal opportunities and responsibilities irrespective of gender.
In a statement regarding Colonel Sophia Qureshi's participation in ASEAN summits, General Bipin Rawat said, "In the Army, we believe in equal opportunities and equal responsibilities. Sophia Qureshi embodies leadership qualities that transcend gender barriers, earning her role not through tokenism but through merit."
👩👧 Personal Background
Hailing from Vadodara, Gujarat, Colonel Qureshi comes from a family with a strong military background; her grandfather served in the Indian Army, and her father was also in the Army for a few years as a religious teacher. She is married to Major Tajuddin Qureshi, an officer in the Mechanised Infantry Regiment, and they have a son named Sameer.
🌟 Legacy and Recognition
Colonel Qureshi's career is marked by numerous accolades, including the Sena Medal and the Vishisht Seva Medal, recognizing her exceptional service and leadership. Her pioneering role has not only broken gender barriers in the armed forces but also inspired policy changes, including the Supreme Court's 2020 ruling on Permanent Commission for women Army officers.
Colonel Sophia Qureshi stands as a symbol of courage, innovation, and dedication in the Indian Armed Forces, inspiring future generations to pursue excellence in service to the nation.
