Colonel Sofiya Qureshi.
New Delhi: Colonel Sofiya Qureshi and Wing Commander Vyomika Singh led the official media briefing on Operation Sindoor in the national capital on Wednesday. The two officers provided a comprehensive account of the precision strikes conducted against terrorist infrastructure.
In the early hours of Wednesday, the Indian armed forces executed targeted strikes on nine terrorist bases within Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (POK). The operation deployed India’s premier fighter aircraft fleet, including the French-origin Rafale and Mirage 2000, alongside Russian-origin Sukhoi-30MKI and MiG-29 UPG. Multiple casualties were reported among terrorist operatives following the May 7 operation.
Colonel Sofiya Qureshi: A Distinguished Indian Army Officer
Colonel Sofiya Qureshi serves as a highly decorated officer in the Indian Army’s Corps of Signals, renowned for her pioneering achievements in what has traditionally been a male-dominated domain. On May 7, she garnered nationwide attention while serving as one of the principal military representatives – alongside Wing Commander Vyomika Singh – who addressed the media regarding Operation Sindoor, India’s strategic airstrikes targeting terrorist camps in Pakistan and POK.
Background and Education
A native of Vadodara, Gujarat, Col Qureshi completed her BSc (1992–1995) followed by an MSc in Biochemistry (1995–1997). She was pursuing doctoral studies before answering the call to national service by joining the Army through the Short Service Commission in 1999.
Military Career
Col Qureshi enlisted in the Army in 1999 and currently serves with distinction in the Corps of Signals, where she oversees vital military communications and information technology operations. Her extensive service includes counterinsurgency operations across the nation, demonstrating remarkable competence in high-pressure conflict zones.
In 2006, she was seconded to the United Nations peacekeeping mission in Congo as a military observer, where she fulfilled crucial responsibilities in ceasefire monitoring and humanitarian support initiatives. Since 2010, she has been associated with the Centre for United Nations Peacekeeping Operations in New Delhi, where she trains peacekeeping personnel.
Leadership Achievements
Col Qureshi made history as the first woman to command a 40-member Army contingent during the multinational “Force 18” military exercise in Pune, which involved participation from 18 nations. Her exceptional leadership acumen and operational expertise have established her as a prominent figure in India’s peacekeeping and strategic communication efforts.
Personal Life
Col Qureshi is married to a major serving in the Mechanized Infantry and is a mother. Her family has expressed immense pride regarding her accomplishments, particularly considering her decision to forgo an academic career in favour of military service.
Colonel Sofiya Qureshi exemplifies the new generation of women leaders in India’s defence forces – professionally accomplished, strategically astute, and an inspiration for aspiring officers.
