Colonel Sophia Qureshi’s story is inspiring. She grew up in Vadodara. She worked hard to become a leader in the Indian Army. She led multinational military exercises. She also worked with the United Nations. Her role in Operation Sindoor made her a key figure in history.
Colonel Qureshi is dedicated to her country and her family. This shows how strong and committed she is. She is a role model for women in the military. She continues to inspire many people. Her story will motivate future generations.
Bio of Colonel Sofia Qureshi
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Colonel Sofia Qureshi |
| Profession | Indian Army Officer |
| Branch | Indian Army – Army Signal Corps |
| Rank | Colonel |
| Known For | First Indian woman to lead an all-male Indian Army contingent at an international military exercise |
| Notable Achievement | Led the Indian Army contingent at the 2016 ASEAN Plus Multinational Field Training Exercise (FTX-2016) in Pune, India |
| Year of Notable Event | 2016 |
| Exercise Name | Force 18 (FTX-2016) |
| Education/Training | Officer Training Academy (OTA), Chennai |
| Gender Milestone | First woman officer to lead a male-dominated Indian Army training team abroad |
| Nationality | Indian |
| Service | Indian Army Signal Corps |
| Inspiration To | Women aspiring for leadership roles in armed forces |
Early Life and Education
Colonel Sophia Qureshi was born in Vadodara, Gujarat. She belonged to a military family. Her grandfather was a religious teacher in the Indian Army. She developed her interest in the armed forces early in life. Sophia studied at M.S. University in Vadodara. She finished her Master’s in Biochemistry in 1997.
In 1999, she enrolled in the Indian Army at the age of 17. She was commissioned in the Corps of Signals. Her science background in academics served her well during her military life. It was obvious that she had a determination to leave her mark.
A Star Emerges in the Indian Army
Colonel Qureshi’s career in the Army was filled with many achievements. She soon gained the respect of her fellow officers and seniors. She was the first woman officer who led an Indian Army contingent in a multi-national military exercise in 2016.
The exercise, titled ‘Exercise Force 18,’ included 18 countries from the ASEAN Plus region. It was a historic moment for her and for women in the armed forces.
Her performance in managing international military collaboration was well known. She had proven capable of coordinating forces from various countries and running complicated operations. Colonel Qureshi was not only an officer, she was an inspiration and a commander.
Service with the United Nations
In 2006, Colonel Qureshi was sent as part of United Nations Peacekeeping Operations to Congo. The mission consisted of ceasefire observation and supporting humanitarian operations in a region that is conflict-prone. Colonel Qureshi played a significant role in commanding peace deals. Her command provided stability to the region during difficult times.
Her experience with the UN contributed to the protection of civilians and assistance in peacebuilding. She gained rich experience in international conflict resolution and diplomacy. Her work was much appreciated by the United Nations as well as her colleagues.
Colonel Sophia Qureshi’s Intervention during the Latest ‘Operation Sindoor’ Media Briefing
On May 7, 2025, Colonel Sophia Qureshi, a decorated officer of the Corps of Signals in the Indian Army, became famous for conducting the media briefing of Operation Sindoor. The operation included precision missile attacks on nine targets in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir in an effort to counter terrorist networks.
Colonel Qureshi, in company with Wing Commander Vyomika Singh, spoke to the nation, shedding light on the goals of the operation and the precision and strategic value of the same. Her calm and well-spoken demeanor highlighted the professionalism of the Indian Armed Forces and the growing contribution of women to military command.
Her briefing leadership was acclaimed by all. The operation was important from a strategic perspective, and Colonel Qureshi was instrumental in keeping the world posted. She showcased great professionalism and skill in representing the Indian Army.
Family and Personal Life
Colonel Qureshi comes from a military family. Her grandfather had served in the Indian Army, and her husband is also an officer in the Mechanized Infantry. The strong military influence in her family helped shape her career. Her family has always supported her journey in the armed forces.
Despite the challenges of military life, Colonel Qureshi has maintained a balanced life. She is known for her dedication to both her career and her family. Her story is an inspiration to many women who aspire to join the armed forces.
Legacy and Impact
Colonel Sophia Qureshi has broken barriers for women in the Indian Army. She has shown that women can excel in leadership roles and contribute significantly to national security. Her achievements have paved the way for more women to pursue careers in the military.
She is often seen as a role model for young women in India. Her story encourages others to follow their dreams and never give up. Colonel Qureshi has set an example for dedication, hard work, and leadership.
Colonel Sofia Qureshi Biography FAQs
Where did Colonel Sophia Qureshi grow up?
She grew up in Vadodara, Gujarat.
What was Colonel Qureshi’s education?
She studied at M.S. University in Vadodara and completed a Master’s in Biochemistry in 1997.
When did Colonel Qureshi join the Indian Army?
She joined the Indian Army in 1999 at the age of 17.
Which unit did Colonel Qureshi serve in?
She was commissioned into the Corps of Signals.
What historic moment did Colonel Qureshi achieve in 2016?
She became the first woman officer to lead an Indian Army contingent in a multinational exercise.
What role did Colonel Qureshi play in the United Nations?
She served in the United Nations Peacekeeping Operations in Congo in 2006, helping with ceasefire monitoring and peacebuilding.
What was Operation Sindoor?
Operation Sindoor was a military operation involving precision missile strikes on terrorist targets in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir.
What role did Colonel Qureshi play in Operation Sindoor?
She led the media briefing for Operation Sindoor, explaining its goals and importance.
What is Colonel Qureshi’s family background?
She comes from a military family; her grandfather served in the Indian Army, and her husband is also an Army officer.
What impact has Colonel Qureshi had on women in the military?
She is a role model for women in the military, showing that women can succeed in leadership roles and contribute to national security.
