Born in 1981 in Vadodara, Gujarat, Colonel Sophia Qureshi hails from a family with a strong military tradition. Her grandfather served in the Indian Army, and her father also contributed to the armed forces as a religious teacher. This familial background instilled in her a deep sense of patriotism and discipline from an early age.
Sophia pursued higher education in the sciences, earning a postgraduate degree in Biochemistry. Her academic achievements laid a solid foundation for her analytical and strategic thinking skills, which would later prove invaluable in her military career.
Military Career
In 1999, at the age of 17, Sophia Qureshi was commissioned into the Indian Army through the Officers Training Academy in Chennai. She joined the Corps of Signals, a branch responsible for military communications and information systems.
Throughout her service, Colonel Qureshi has held various significant positions. She has been involved in counter-insurgency operations and has served in challenging environments, demonstrating exceptional leadership and resilience.
Operation Sindoor
On May 7, 2025, Colonel Qureshi, alongside Wing Commander Vyomika Singh, briefed the media on ‘Operation Sindoor’, a significant military operation conducted by India in response to the Pahalgam terror attack. She detailed the strategic targeting of nine terrorist camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, emphasizing the precision and care taken to avoid civilian casualties .
United Nations Peacekeeping Missions
Colonel Qureshi’s commitment to global peace is evident through her extensive involvement in United Nations Peacekeeping Operations. In 2006, she served as a military observer in the Democratic Republic of Congo, where she coordinated with electoral and gender departments during the presidential elections. Her role involved facilitating the participation of women in the decision-making process and assisting in the reunification of displaced children.
Her dedication to peacekeeping extended beyond field missions. She became the first woman officer nominated as an instructor for training on Civil-Military Coordination in South Africa and later trained Cambodian army and police personnel on UN aspects, earning a Certificate of Excellence from the Cambodian army.
Historic Leadership at Exercise Force 18
In March 2016, Colonel Sophia Qureshi made history by becoming the first woman officer to lead an Indian Army contingent in a multinational military exercise. She commanded a 40-member team at Exercise Force 18, held in Pune, which included participants from 18 ASEAN Plus countries. Her leadership role in this significant event underscored the Indian Army’s commitment to gender equality and showcased her exceptional capabilities.
Early Life and Education
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Colonel Sophia Qureshi |
| Birth Year | 1981 |
| Birthplace | Vadodara, Gujarat, India |
| Education | B.Sc. in Chemistry, M.Sc. in Biochemistry |
| Military Branch | Indian Army, Corps of Signals |
| Commission Year | 1999 |
| Notable Achievements | First woman to lead Indian Army contingent in a multinational exercise (2016) |
| UN Missions | Peacekeeping Mission in Congo (2006) |
| Recent Operation | Briefed media on Operation Sindoor (2025) |
| Family | Married to an officer in Mechanised Infantry; twin sister Shyna Sunsara |
Personal Life
Balancing a demanding military career with personal life, Colonel Qureshi is married to Major Tajuddin Qureshi, an officer in the Mechanised Infantry. The couple has a son named Sameer. Her family’s support has been instrumental in her ability to fulfill her duties with dedication and excellence.
Legacy and Inspiration
Colonel Sophia Qureshi’s journey is a testament to her unwavering dedication, courage, and pioneering spirit. Her achievements have not only broken gender barriers within the Indian Army but have also inspired countless young women to pursue careers in the armed forces. She continues to be a role model, demonstrating that with determination and hard work, one can overcome challenges and achieve greatness.
Her message to aspiring women in the military is clear: “Work hard for the country and make everyone proud.”
Colonel Sophia Qureshi’s distinguished career and trailblazing accomplishments have left an indelible mark on the Indian Army and continue to inspire future generations.