Colonel Sophia Qureshi Biography: India’s Trailblazing Army Officer Who Led ‘Operation Sindoor’
Discover the inspiring journey of Colonel Sophia Qureshi—India’s first woman officer to command a multinational army contingent and co-lead ‘Operation Sindoor’.
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Colonel Sophia Qureshi Biography
Colonel Sophia Qureshi is one of India’s most celebrated female officers in the Indian Army. Known for her fearless leadership and historic milestones, she recently garnered national attention for her pivotal role in Operation Sindoor—India’s cross-border precision strike against terror infrastructure. From leading UN peacekeeping missions to breaking gender barriers in the armed forces, Sophia Qureshi’s life story is one of determination, discipline, and national pride.
Colonel Sophia Qureshi: Quick Profile
| Field | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Sophia Qureshi |
| Rank | Colonel |
| Branch | Indian Army, Corps of Signals |
| Date of Birth | 1981 |
| Birthplace | Vadodara, Gujarat, India |
| Education | M.Sc. in Biochemistry, MS University of Baroda |
| Years of Service | 1999 – Present |
| Marital Status | Married to Major Tajuddin Qureshi |
| Children | 1 (Son – Sameer) |
Early Life & Education
Born in Vadodara, Gujarat, Colonel Sophia Qureshi grew up in a family with a rich military legacy—her grandfather was a proud Indian Army veteran. Her academic excellence was evident early on, as she completed her post-graduation in Biochemistry from Maharaja Sayajirao University of Baroda before joining the Indian Army in 1999 through the Officers Training Academy.
Related Article: What is Operation Sindoor? How Colonel Sophia Singh Lead this?
Military Career & Achievements
1. Breaking Barriers in Military Exercises
In 2016, Sophia Qureshi made history by becoming the first woman officer to command an Indian Army contingent in a multinational military drill—Exercise Force 18. Representing India among 18 ASEAN Plus countries, she shattered long-held gender norms in defense forces.
2. United Nations Peacekeeping Mission
Colonel Qureshi served under the UN Mission in Congo (2006), showcasing her leadership on a global platform and contributing to humanitarian peacekeeping efforts.
3. Operation Parakram
She was actively deployed during Operation Parakram in 2001–2002 along the Indo-Pak border, showcasing her valor early in her career.
4. Co-Leader of Operation Sindoor (2025)
In May 2025, Colonel Sophia Qureshi became a household name after co-leading the official media briefing of Operation Sindoor—India’s bold strike on terror launchpads in Pakistan and PoK.
“Our precision was the message. Our intent was justice,” she said during the live press conference, symbolizing India’s military resolve.
Personal Life & Family
Colonel Qureshi is married to Major Tajuddin Qureshi from the Mechanised Infantry. Together, they have a son named Sameer. Despite her rigorous service life, she has often spoken about the strength she draws from her family’s support and her upbringing in a value-driven household.
Recognition & Legacy
Sophia Qureshi’s groundbreaking work has made her a symbol of courage for young girls across the country. From school textbooks to army recruiting campaigns, her name is becoming synonymous with women in combat leadership.
Did You Know?
Sophia Qureshi’s 2016 command at Exercise Force 18 inspired a short film commissioned by the Ministry of Defence.
Colonel Sophia Qureshi in Media
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Featured in NDTV, Hindustan Times, Indian Express, Times of India for Operation Sindoor.
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Appeared in Doordarshan’s special documentary on women in the Indian Army (2023).
