From UN peacekeeping to historic firsts, Colonel Qureshi symbolizes India’s growing trust in women military leaders.
Author: Joe D. Published: May 7, 2025
A Strong Frontline Message
Two people stood at the front of India’s official briefing as it reacted to the tragic Pahalgam terrorist assault with a daring tri-services offensive—Operation Sindoor: Colonel Sofiya Qureshi and Wing Commander Vyomika Singh. Their presence was not only symbolic; it was also important. It was a clear turning point in India’s defense story—one that reflected inclusivity, strategy, and steely determination.
The pair described how India’s military forces destroyed nine important militant bases using video of precise attacks and thorough maps of terror camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri was present with them; he underlined India’s dedication to security and justice.
Colonel Sofiya Qureshi: Who Is She?
An officer of the Corps of Signals, Colonel Sofiya Qureshi is no stranger to great accomplishments. She drew attention in 2016 as the first female officer to command an Indian Army force in a significant global military exercise—Exercise FORCE 18, including 18 ASEAN Plus nations.
Aslo Read: What Happened in Operation Sindoor? Full Details of India’s Secret Strike
Held in Pune, that 40-member Indian team participated on topics including Peacekeeping Operations and Humanitarian Mine Action. “Of course, I feel proud,” she said to reporters at the time. Her message to young women was unambiguous: “Join the Army. Work hard for the nation and make everyone proud.”
A Legacy of Grit and Service
Born into a family steeped in duty, Colonel Qureshi’s grandfather was in the Indian Army and her father was a religious instructor inside the military. Her route was obviously shaped by her military background.
A scholarly powerhouse as well, she has a Biochemistry Masters degree. Gaining practical knowledge in difficult international missions, she worked in the United Nations Peacekeeping Mission in the Democratic Republic of Congo in 2006.
Operation Sindoor: Purpose, Power, and Precision
Colonel Qureshi stated the Indian Armed Forces started Operation Sindoor “to deliver justice to the victims and their families” during the May 7 briefing. She underlined that, depending on reliable intelligence, targets were selected precisely and no civilian deaths or infrastructure destruction were guaranteed.
“This was done with due diligence,” she stated, stressing the ethical foundation of the enterprise.
The attacks totally destroyed nine terrorist camps connected to organizations including Jaish-e-Mohammed and Lashkar-e-Taiba.
Acknowledgment From The Top
The Army has always acknowledged Colonel Qureshi’s efforts. A news statement during her 2016 deployment characterized her as having the “rare distinction of being the first woman officer to lead such a contingent.” Among all ASEAN Plus nations, she was also the sole female contingent commander.
The late General Bipin Rawat, later to be India’s first Chief of Defence Staff, remarked on her choice:
“She has been selected not because she is a woman but rather because her skills and leadership traits fit the task at hand.”
A National Role Model
Colonel Sofiya Qureshi is a milestone character in a defense ecosystem still developing in terms of gender balance. Her leadership during the Operation Sindoor briefing indicates a future in which ability surpasses all other considerations.
For many young Indian women watching, her quiet confidence at the stage was more than simply a moment; it was a message: you belong here.
Last Thoughts
More than a distinguished officer, Colonel Qureshi serves as a reminder that India’s military is evolving and women like her are spearheading that transformation from the front.
