Colonel Sophia Qureshi stands as a testament to dedication, leadership, and breaking barriers within the Indian Armed Forces. Her illustrious career, marked by numerous firsts, showcases her commitment to service and her role in shaping the future of women in the military.
Early Life and Education
Born in 1981 in Vadodara, Gujarat, Colonel Qureshi hails from a family with a rich military heritage; her grandfather served in the Indian Army. She pursued her academic interests in science, completing her B.Sc. in Chemistry and M.Sc. in Biochemistry from Maharaja Sayajirao University of Baroda in 1997.
Military Career
Joining the Indian Army
In 1999, Colonel Qureshi joined the Indian Army’s Corps of Signals, embarking on a journey that would see her rise through the ranks and make significant contributions to the force.
Operation Parakram
During Operation Parakram, initiated in response to the 2001 Indian Parliament attack, she played a pivotal role along the Punjab border. Her exemplary service earned her a Commendation Card from the General Officer Commanding-in-Chief (GOC-in-C).
United Nations Peacekeeping Missions
In 2006, Colonel Qureshi served in the United Nations Peacekeeping Operations in Congo, where she monitored ceasefires and supported humanitarian efforts. Her six-year tenure in peacekeeping missions underscored her commitment to global peace and security.
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Exercise Force 18
A landmark achievement in her career came in 2016 when she became the first Indian woman officer to lead a multinational military exercise. She commanded a 40-member Indian Army contingent at the ASEAN Plus Multinational Field Training Exercise ‘Force 18’, making her the only female contingent commander among 18 participating nations.
Operation Sindoor
In May 2025, following a terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, Colonel Qureshi co-led the media briefing on Operation Sindoor, India’s calculated military response targeting terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. Her leadership during this operation highlighted her strategic acumen and reinforced her position as a leading figure in the Indian Army.
Awards and Recognitions
Colonel Qureshi’s dedication and service have been recognized through various commendations:
- GOC-in-C Commendation Card for her role in Operation Parakram
- Signal Officer-in-Chief (SO-in-C) Commendation for her contributions during flood relief operations in Northeast India.
- Commander Appreciation for her service in the UN mission in Congo.
- Certificate of Excellence from the Cambodian Army.
Personal Life
Colonel Qureshi is married to Major Tajuddin Qureshi of the Mechanised Infantry. The couple has a son named Sameer Qureshi.
Colonel Sophia Qureshi’s Instagram Presence
While Colonel Qureshi maintains a low profile on social media, her achievements and contributions have been widely recognized and celebrated across various platforms. Notably, the official Instagram account of India (@india) featured her, stating:
“She didn’t just march with the troops — she marched into history.”
This acknowledgment underscores her impact and the inspiration she provides to many.
Conclusion
Colonel Sophia Qureshi’s journey in the Indian Army is a beacon of inspiration, reflecting resilience, leadership, and a commitment to service. Her trailblazing path not only breaks gender barriers but also sets a precedent for future generations.
FAQs
Q: What is Colonel Sophia Qureshi’s educational background?
A: She holds a B.Sc. in Chemistry and an M.Sc. in Biochemistry from Maharaja Sayajirao University of Baroda.
Q: What notable operations has she been a part of?
A: Colonel Qureshi has been involved in Operation Parakram, UN Peacekeeping Missions in Congo, Exercise Force 18, and Operation Sindoor.
Q: Has she received any awards for her service?
A: Yes, including the GOC-in-C Commendation Card, SO-in-C Commendation, Commander Appreciation, and a Certificate of Excellence from the Cambodian Army.
Q: Is Colonel Qureshi active on Instagram?
A: While she maintains a private profile, her achievements have been featured on official platforms, such as the @india Instagram account.
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