Meet Col Sofiya Qureshi: Indian army officer who led Operation Sindoor briefing after India attacked Pakistan terror bases

Operation Sindoor: Colonel Sofiya Qureshi, an inspiring officer of the Indian armed forces, became the centre of attention after she led the official Operation Sindoor briefing alongside Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri and Wing Commander Vyomika Singh. This came shortly after India attacked Pakistan, destroying at least nine terror camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) in response to a brutal terrorist strike in Pahalgam.

Col. Sofiya Qureshi & Wg Cdr Vyomika Singh to brief media on #OperationSindoor the symbolism is powerful:

Two women in uniform leading a mission named after Sindoor, a mark of strength, sacrifice & Shakti.
Bharat is not just fighting, it¡¯s redefining. ?? https://t.co/EYG8cHGb4C pic.twitter.com/Y8rdBlUP71

¡ª Prayag (@theprayagtiwari) May 7, 2025

Her presence, along with that of another woman officer, marks a proud and historic moment for India-showing the rising role of women in defence and honouring the brave hearts lost in recent attacks.

Who is Col Sofiya Qureshi?

Col Sofiya Qureshi, hailing from Vadodara in Gujarat, is a respected officer in the Signals Corps of the Indian Army. With a postgraduate degree in biochemistry, she joined the army through the Short Service Commission in 1999. Today, she stands as a shining example of determination, discipline, and patriotic spirit in the Indian armed forces.

Her deep-rooted connection to the army began in childhood- her grandfather and father both served in the Indian Army. Her father, a religious teacher in the army, influenced her journey, as did stories of her great-grandfather, who served in the British Army. Her husband is also a proud soldier in the Mechanised Infantry, according to Money Control.

When asked why she chose the army, she simply said, ¡°Love for the country, respect, and pride in wearing the uniform.¡±

Leading History: First Woman to Command a Multinational Army Team

Back in March 2016, Sofiya Qureshi made history by becoming the first Indian woman officer to lead an army group in a multinational military exercise. She led a 40-member team during Exercise Force 18, held in Pune. The event saw participation from several countries including Japan, China, Russia, the United States, South Korea, Australia, New Zealand, and the ASEAN nations.

Among all military leaders, she was the only woman commanding a team-a moment that earned her nationwide admiration.

General Bipin Rawat had then remarked, ¡°She wasn¡¯t selected because she¡¯s a woman. She was chosen because she has the ability to lead. The Indian Army gives equal opportunities to all.¡±

Operation Sindoor Briefing: A New Chapter in Women¡¯s Role

During the Operation Sindoor briefing, Colonel Sofiya Qureshi stood as a symbol of strength and competence. The operation, launched in response to a deadly terrorist attack in Pahalgam, involved precision strikes by Indian forces targeting terrorist camps across the border. The success of Operation Sindoor is seen as a major achievement in India¡¯s defence strategy, showing the world that the Indian Army can and will attack Pakistan if provoked.

The fact that two women officers were selected to brief the nation during such a crucial mission reflects the increasing trust the army places in its female personnel.

Her Role in Peacekeeping and National Missions

Colonel Sofiya Qureshi has been part of various high-risk operations. She served during Operation Parakram near the Punjab border and has taken part in flood relief efforts in northeastern India. Her bravery earned her recognition from top military commanders, including a commendation card from the Chief Signal Officer.

She has also contributed to international peace efforts. In 2006, she was part of a peacekeeping mission in Congo. Later, in 2010, she was appointed as a peacekeeping trainer, showcasing her expertise on a global stage.

A Message to Women Across India

As one of the most decorated and respected women in the army, Sofiya Qureshi continues to inspire young Indian women. In one of her interviews, she urged, ¡°Join the army. There¡¯s no greater pride than serving your nation.¡±

Her leadership during the Operation Sindoor briefing, her involvement in missions against terrorists, and her unmatched dedication to the Indian armed forces serve as a reminder that courage knows no gender. As India faces threats from across the border, including from Pakistan, women like Col Qureshi are leading the charge-both on the battlefield and in national security briefings.

Colonel Sofiya Qureshi¡¯s journey is not just a story of a brave army officer; it¡¯s the story of modern India. From leading troops during international military exercises to stepping up during key moments like the Operation Sindoor briefing, her contributions are shaping the future of the Indian armed forces.

As India continues to strengthen its response to terrorist threats and takes bold steps to attack Pakistan when necessary, leaders like Sofiya Qureshi will remain at the forefront-reminding us all what true patriotism looks like.

Watch what she said during the Operation Sindoor briefing

#WATCH | #OperationSindoor, Col. Sofiya Qureshi says, "Operation Sindoor was launched to give justice to victims of Pahalgam terrorist attack. Nine terrorist camps were targeted and destroyed." pic.twitter.com/8nbLHN6a3k

¡ª ANI (@ANI) May 7, 2025

#WATCH | Delhi | #OperationSindoor| Col. Sofiya Qureshi, while addressing the media, presents videos showing multiple hits on the Mundrike and other terrorist camps in Pakistan and PoJK. pic.twitter.com/Ih21EklEe5

¡ª ANI (@ANI) May 7, 2025

Watch - Operation Sindoor: How Pakistan and China reacted to India¡¯s strike

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