In a landmark moment for the Indian Armed Forces, Colonel Sophia Qureshi once again made history—this time as the senior Army officer leading the official press briefing after Operation Sindoor, India’s swift and decisive response to the Pahalgam terror attack.
As images of Indian precision strikes on terror camps in Pakistan and PoK dominated headlines, Colonel Qureshi became the face of the operation’s communication, symbolizing not only operational excellence but also a new chapter in military leadership.
A Career of Breaking Barriers
Colonel Qureshi, an officer in the Indian Army’s Corps of Signals, is no stranger to trailblazing roles. In 2016, she became the first Indian woman to command a multinational Army contingent, representing India at Exercise Force 18, the largest-ever military exercise hosted by India with 18 participating nations. Notably, she was the only woman contingent commander in the entire multinational drill, selected over many experienced male officers—a testament to her leadership acumen.
Role in Operation Sindoor
In May 2025, during the aftermath of Operation Sindoor, Colonel Qureshi addressed the national and international media alongside Wing Commander Vyomika Singh of the Indian Air Force. Her composed, confident delivery not only informed the public about the precision strikes on terror infrastructure but also reassured the nation of the Indian military’s preparedness and strategic restraint. The briefing emphasized that no Pakistani military facilities were targeted, underlining India’s commitment to non-escalation while upholding national security.
Career Highlights and Honours
- UN Peacekeeping: Served as a military observer in the United Nations Mission in Congo in 2006, later contributing to peacekeeping efforts monitoring ceasefires and aiding humanitarian missions.
- Operation Parakram & Disaster Relief: Recognized with commendation cards for her contributions during Operation Parakram and flood relief operations in Northeast India.
- Leadership Recognition: Lauded by the late General Bipin Rawat, who emphasized that her selection was based on merit, not gender, stating, “She has been picked not because she is a woman, but because she has the abilities and leadership qualities to shoulder the responsibility.”
Personal Life and Background
Colonel Sophia Qureshi hails from Gujarat, from a proud military family. Her grandfather and father served in the Indian Army, and she is married to a Mechanised Infantry officer. Balancing service with personal responsibilities, she is an inspiration to many aspiring women in uniform.
An alumna with a postgraduate degree in biochemistry, she reflects the modern Indian military officer—intellectually equipped, operationally tested, and emotionally resilient.
A Role Model for India’s Future Officers
As India witnesses a rising number of women in combat and command roles, Colonel Qureshi’s journey is more than a personal achievement—it is a symbol of the evolving face of the Indian Armed Forces. Her presence in pivotal military events, from peacekeeping to joint drills and now counter-terror operations, underscores a growing acceptance of gender-neutral leadership in national defence.
