By Anjali Solanki
Colonel Sophia Qureshi, a name synonymous with courage, leadership, and breaking barriers, has once again etched her name in the annals of Indian military history.
Addressing the nation at a high-level press briefing in New Delhi alongside the Foreign Secretary, Col. Qureshi detailed the success of Operation Sindoor, a daring cross-border strike that has captured global attention. Her poised and commanding presence at the briefing was not merely a procedural appearance it was a testament to the evolving face of India’s military leadership and the indelible mark of a woman who has consistently defied the odds.
In 2016, at the age of 36, Col. Qureshi made history as the first Indian woman officer to lead an Army contingent in a multinational military exercise. Commanding a 40-member Indian team during Exercise Force 18 in Pune, she stood out as The First Woman To Lead An Indian Army Contingent Abroad. She also stood out as a leader who earned universal respect for her strategic acumen and unflinching resolve. The exercise, a complex coordination of military prowess and diplomacy, showcased her ability to navigate high-stakes environments with finesse. Her leadership during the event was a defining moment, proving that gender is no barrier to excellence in the Indian Armed Forces
An officer of the Corps of Signals, Col. Qureshi’s career has been marked by her ability to thrive in challenging and high-pressure settings. From managing critical communication networks to leading troops in volatile regions, she has commanded both men and missions with a rare blend of precision and empathy. Her journey in the Indian Army reflects a relentless pursuit of excellence, earning her decorations and admiration from peers and superiors alike. Yet, it is her ability to lead by example whether in the field or at the podium that sets her apart as a role model for aspiring officers, particularly women.
The recent Operation Sindoor, a meticulously executed cross-border strike, has further cemented Col. Qureshi’s reputation as a trailblazer. While details of the operation remain classified, her address to the nation underscored its strategic importance and the Indian Army’s unwavering commitment to national security. Standing alongside the Foreign Secretary, she articulated the operation’s objectives with clarity and authority, embodying the synergy between military precision and diplomatic finesse. Her presence at such a high-profile briefing was a powerful reminder of how far India’s military leadership has progressed in embracing diversity and meritocracy.
Col. Qureshi’s journey is not just a personal triumph but a beacon of change in a traditionally male-dominated institution. Her rise through the ranks challenges stereotypes and inspires a new generation of women to pursue careers in the armed forces. Beyond her tactical expertise, she represents a shift in the perception of leadership—one where competence, courage, and compassion take precedence over convention. Her story resonates far beyond the barracks, serving as a clarion call for gender equality and empowerment across all spheres.
As India celebrates the success of Operation Sindoor, Col. Sophia Qureshi stands tall as a symbol of progress. Decorated, battle-ready, and unrelenting, she is redefining what it means to lead in uniform.
From the multinational stage in 2016 to the national spotlight in 2025, her legacy is one of breaking barriers and building bridges. Col. Qureshi is not just a commander she is a visionary, a trailblazer, and an enduring role model for a nation on the rise.