After India carried out strikes on at least nine terror infrastructures in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, a significant press briefing followed. Leading the media interaction on Operation Sindoor were Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri, Wing Commander Vyomika Singh, and Colonel Sofiya Qureshi. The inclusion of two women officers in this high-profile briefing marked a powerful moment — not just in terms of representation but also as a tribute to the martyrs of the tragic Pahalgam attack on April 22. It symbolized India’s deep respect for their widows and underscored the growing role of women in the country’s defense forces.
Who is Colonel Sofiya Qureshi?
Colonel Sofiya Qureshi’s name has long been associated with trailblazing achievements in the Indian Army. Back in 2016, she etched her name in military history by becoming the first woman officer to lead an Indian contingent at a multinational military exercise. The event, known as Exercise Force 18, was India’s largest-ever foreign military drill held in Pune, involving participants from 18 nations. The focus of the exercise was Peacekeeping Operations and Humanitarian Mine Action. Remarkably, Colonel Qureshi stood as the sole female commander among all contingents, heading a 40-member Indian team. She represents the Corps of Signals, the branch responsible for handling the Army’s communication and information systems.
“Her selection was based on her capabilities and leadership qualities rather than her gender,” said Lt Gen Bipin Rawat, then Army Commander of the Southern Command, when speaking of her leadership.
Colonel Qureshi brings with her a wealth of experience in peacekeeping, having served with the United Nations Mission in Congo in 2006. Over the years, she has spent more than six years contributing to international peacekeeping operations. Coming from a family steeped in military tradition — her grandfather served in the armed forces — she continues the legacy. Married to an Army officer from the Mechanised Infantry, Colonel Qureshi balances her service with academic strength, holding a postgraduate degree in biochemistry. A proud native of Gujarat, she stands as a symbol of dedication, intellect, and evolving opportunities for women in uniform.
