Colonel Sofia Qureshi Biography
Colonel Sofia Qureshi was born on August 9, 1981, in Gujarat, India. She grew up in a family with a strong military tradition, inspired by her grandfather who also served in the Indian Army. After finishing her schooling in Gujarat, she moved to New Delhi for higher studies. There she completed a postgraduate degree in biochemistry, demonstrating sharp analytical skills and a passion for learning. Colonel Sofia Qureshi is 44 years old as of 2025.
While studying, Sofia joined the National Cadet Corps. The NCC awakened her dream to serve the nation. Many evenings she spent drilling with fellow cadets, perfecting her salute and marching in step with peers. Her instructors saw in her a rare combination of discipline and compassion. They encouraged her to apply to the Officers Training Academy. At the time, she was one of only a handful of women vying for a commission. Her determination and clear sense of purpose carried her through the rigorous selection process. She graduated with distinction and was commissioned into the Corps of Signals.
In her early years as a lieutenant, Sofia embraced every challenge. She learned radio operations, network security, and coded communications. She studied maps late into the night, mastering the art of quick decision making. As she rose in rank, she took on more responsibilities, training new officers and planning field exercises. By age thirty-five, she had already achieved a milestone many officers never reach: leading her own contingent in a major international exercise.
Colonel Sofia Qureshi Career
Colonel Qureshi’s career reflects dedication and steady growth. In 2006, she served in the United Nations Peacekeeping Operation in Congo. As a military observer, she patrolled tense borders and reported on ceasefire violations. The experience taught her how to work with diverse forces and adapt to difficult conditions. It also strengthened her belief in India’s role in global peacekeeping.
In February and March 2016, then Lieutenant Colonel Qureshi led the Indian Army’s 40-member contingent in Multinational Field Training Exercise – Exercise FORCE 18. This exercise, which included ASEAN Plus countries, was the largest ground forces exercise ever held on Indian soil. It focused on humanitarian mine action and peacekeeping operations. As the first woman officer to command an Indian Army contingent of this scale, Sofia handled logistics, coordinated with foreign forces, and planned real-time simulations. The Indian Army press statement at the time praised her for the “rare distinction” of being the only woman officer contingent commander among all participating nations.
Her performance drew high praise from senior leadership. Late General Bipin Rawat, then Army Commander of Southern Command, later India’s first Chief of Defence Staff, emphasized that Sofia was chosen “not because she is a woman but because she has the abilities and leadership qualities to shoulder the responsibility.” True to those words, she continued to excel. Over the next years, she served in counter-insurgency campaigns in Jammu and Kashmir and flood relief operations in Assam. She earned commendations for her logistical acumen and calming presence under pressure.
By 2025, Sofia had been promoted to Colonel and held key staff positions planning joint exercises with the Navy and Air Force. Her deep understanding of signals intelligence and network operations proved invaluable in modernizing army communications. When Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced Operation Sindoor in early May 2025, she was among the very few officers entrusted to brief the nation alongside Wing Commander Vyomika Singh. This honor underscored her reputation for clarity, confidence, and unwavering commitment to India’s security.
Colonel Sofia Qureshi Personal Life
Colonel Sofia Qureshi is married Major Tajuddin Qureshi of the Mechanised Infantry, whom she met during staff training in 2010. Their partnership is built on mutual respect for each other’s service. They share a love for travel and exploration, often planning family trips to historical sites across India whenever military duties allow. Their son, Sameer, whom they welcomed in 2013, brings joy and balance to her busy life. She has said that no victory in the field compares to the pride she feels watching him take his first steps.
In her free moments, Sofia reads biographies of pioneering women, from Rani Lakshmibai to modern-day scientists. She credits her postgraduate studies in biochemistry for teaching her the importance of precision and patience—skills she applies daily in both her personal and professional spheres. An avid runner, she completes a five-kilometer jog most mornings. This routine clears her mind and prepares her for the day’s challenges. Sofia Qureshi religion is Islam.
Despite a demanding schedule, she mentors young officers, especially women, encouraging them to pursue careers in the armed forces. She often recalls her own journey: the doubts she overcame, the long nights of study, and the moment she first donned her uniform. Her message is simple yet powerful: “Work hard for the country and make everyone proud.” Through speeches at training academies and informal chats over tea, she inspires a new generation to break barriers and serve with honor. Colonel Sofia Qureshi is a Muslim.
Colonel Sofia Qureshi “Operation Sindoor“
Operation Sindoor was the Indian armed forces’ precise response to the Pahalgam t*rror attack of April 22, 2025, which claimed 26 civilian lives. Under this codename, the Army, Navy, and Air Force launched strikes against nine terrorist infrastructure sites in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. The operation began at 1:44 AM on May 7, 2025, and lasted just 25 minutes. It targeted camps linked to Jaish-e-Mohammed, Lashkar-e-Taiba, and Hizbul Mujahideen, including bases in Bahawalpur, Muridke, Sialkot, Tehra Kalan, Muzaffarabad, and Kotli.
Colonel Qureshi and Wing Commander Vyomika Singh stood before the press on May 7 to deliver a joint briefing. They presented video footage of the precision strikes, detailed maps of the targeted camps, and the integration of all three services in planning and execution. Qureshi explained that “nine terrorist camps were targeted and successfully destroyed” based on “credible intelligence inputs” that showed the camps’ roles in planning cross-border attacks. She emphasized that “these locations were selected to avoid damage to civilian infrastructure and loss of any civilian lives, with due diligence.”
The operation used advanced French-origin SCALP cruise m*ssiles, AASM Hammer precision b*mbs, and loitering munitions fired from Indian territory, ensuring no breach of Pakistani airspace. Rafale jets played a crucial role, and official reports later confirmed that over seventy t*rrorists were k*lled while more than sixty were wounded, significantly impairing the operational capabilities of the targeted groups. Prime Minister Modi chose the codename “Sindoor”—red vermilion symbolizing the widows left by the Pahalgam attack—as a solemn tribute to the victims’ families.
Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri attended the briefing, highlighting the diplomatic importance of the operation. Qureshi’s firm yet measured presentation projected India’s resolve to protect its citizens without seeking escalation. “We deliver justice to the victims of terror and stand united against those who threaten our peace,” she stated. Her calm confidence reinforced the message that India’s armed forces had the capability and will to respond swiftly and surgically to any act of terror.
Conclusion
Colonel Sofia Qureshi’s life and career showcase what dedication, skill, and integrity can achieve. From her early days in Gujarat to leading troops in multinational exercises and briefing the nation on Operation Sindoor, she has broken barriers and set new standards. Her journey reminds us that true leadership blends courage in the field with compassion at home. As India’s armed forces continue to evolve, her example will inspire countless young women—and men—to serve with honor, resilience, and unwavering commitment to the nation.
FAQs
What inspired Colonel Sofia Qureshi to join the Indian Army?
Colonel Qureshi’s inspiration came from her grandfather’s service and her own experience in the National Cadet Corps, where she discovered a deep sense of purpose and a love for disciplined teamwork.
Which major international exercise did Colonel Qureshi lead?
In 2016, she led the Indian Army’s contingent in Exercise FORCE 18, the largest ground forces exercise on Indian soil, involving ASEAN Plus nations and focusing on humanitarian mine action and peacekeeping.
How did Operation Sindoor demonstrate India’s military precision?
Operation Sindoor used advanced SCALP cruise missiles and AASM Hammer bombs launched from Indian territory with surgical accuracy, targeting nine terror camps while avoiding civilian casualties and broader escalation.
Who co-briefed Operation Sindoor alongside Colonel Qureshi?
Wing Commander Vyomika Singh of the Indian Air Force co-led the press briefing, bringing her own expertise as a helicopter pilot with over 2,500 flying hours and a participant in high-altitude mountaineering expeditions.
What message does Colonel Qureshi have for young women considering a military career?
Her message is clear: “Join the Army, work hard for the country, and make everyone proud,” emphasizing that ability and leadership qualities matter more than gender.
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