Colonel Sophia Qureshi stands as a beacon of resilience, leadership, and progress in the Indian Armed Forces. As a distinguished officer in the Corps of Signals, she has shattered gender barriers, led with unparalleled competence, and inspired countless individuals through her remarkable journey. From her historic leadership in multinational military exercises to her pivotal role in briefing the nation on high-stakes operations, Colonel Qureshi’s biography is a testament to dedication, patriotism, and excellence. This article chronicles her life, career, and contributions to India’s defense landscape.
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Early Life and Education
Born in 1981 in Vadodara, Gujarat, Sophia Qureshi grew up in a family steeped in military tradition. Her grandfather served in the Indian Army, and her father worked as a religious teacher in the Army for several years. This environment fostered a deep sense of patriotism and discipline in Sophia from a young age. Her great-grandfather and other relatives, some of whom served in the British Army, further reinforced her connection to military service.
Sophia’s academic journey was equally impressive. She pursued her Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.) in Chemistry from the Faculty of Science at Maharaja Sayajirao University (MSU) of Baroda, completing it between 1992 and 1995. She then earned a Master of Science (M.Sc.) in Biochemistry from the same institution from 1995 to 1997. Demonstrating her intellectual curiosity, she enrolled in a Ph.D. program before making the life-changing decision to join the Indian Army. Her academic background in biochemistry showcased her analytical mind, which would later complement her strategic military acumen.
Sophia’s twin sister, Shyna Sunsara, recalls her passion for serving the nation. Initially, Sophia aspired to become a scientist and work with Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam at the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO). However, her calling to don the olive-green uniform and serve directly on the frontlines ultimately shaped her destiny.
Joining the Indian Army
At the age of 17, Sophia Qureshi joined the Indian Army under the Short Service Commission in 1999. She underwent rigorous training at the Officers Training Academy (OTA) in Chennai, where she honed her leadership skills and military expertise. Commissioned as a Lieutenant in the Corps of Signals, she embarked on a career that would see her rise through the ranks through sheer merit and determination.
The Corps of Signals, responsible for military communications and information technology, suited Sophia’s technical aptitude and strategic thinking. Her early postings across India included challenging assignments in counter-insurgency areas, where she served with signal regiments, ensuring seamless communication in high-pressure environments. These experiences laid the foundation for her reputation as a capable and composed officer.
Groundbreaking Achievements
Colonel Qureshi’s career is marked by several historic milestones that have redefined the role of women in the Indian Army. Her most notable achievement came in 2016, when she became the first woman officer to lead an Indian Army contingent at a multinational military exercise, Exercise Force 18. Held in Pune from March 2 to March 8, this was the largest foreign military exercise hosted by India, involving 18 countries, including ASEAN Plus nations, the United States, China, Russia, Japan, and Australia.
As the only female contingent commander among the 17 participating nations, Lieutenant Colonel Qureshi led a 40-member Indian team with distinction. The exercise focused on Peacekeeping Operations (PKOs) and Humanitarian Mine Action (HMA), areas where Sophia’s expertise shone. Her selection from a pool of peacekeeping trainers underscored her exceptional leadership qualities. The late General Bipin Rawat, then Army Commander of Southern Command, emphasized that her appointment was based on merit, stating, “In the Army, we believe in equal opportunity and equal responsibility. She has been picked not because she is a woman but as she has the abilities and leadership qualities to shoulder the responsibility.”
Sophia’s international experience further bolstered her credentials. In 2006, she served as a military observer in the United Nations Peacekeeping Mission in the Democratic Republic of Congo, monitoring ceasefires and supporting humanitarian operations in active conflict zones. Her six-year association with UN Peacekeeping Operations, starting in 2010, earned her the Force Commander’s Appreciation for her dedication.
Domestically, Colonel Qureshi played a pivotal role during Operation Parakram along the Punjab border following the 2001 Indian Parliament attack. Her exemplary service earned her a Commendation Card from the General Officer Commanding-in-Chief (GOC-in-C). Additionally, her efforts in managing communications during flood relief operations in Northeast India garnered a Commendation from the Signal Officer-in-Chief (SO-in-C).we17
Operation Sindoor and National Spotlight
On May 7, 2025, Colonel Sophia Qureshi stepped into the national spotlight as she, alongside Wing Commander Vyomika Singh and Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri, briefed the media on Operation Sindoor. This tri-services operation, launched in response to the April 22, 2025, Pahalgam terror attack that claimed 26 civilian lives, targeted nine terrorist infrastructure sites in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK). Executed with precision between 1:05 AM and 1:30 AM, the strikes destroyed camps associated with terrorist groups like Jaish-e-Mohammed, Lashkar-e-Taiba, and Hizbul Mujahideen.
Colonel Qureshi’s calm and articulate presentation reassured the nation of the military’s preparedness and strategic restraint. She emphasized that the targets were chosen based on credible intelligence to avoid civilian casualties, reflecting India’s commitment to ethical warfare. The presence of two senior female officers in the briefing was a watershed moment, symbolizing the evolving role of women in India’s defense services and honoring the widows of the Pahalgam attack victims.
Personal Life and Values
Colonel Qureshi’s personal life is deeply intertwined with her military identity. She is married to Major Tajuddin Qureshi, an officer in the Mechanised Infantry, and the couple has a son named Sameer. Sophia has spoken about her ability to balance duty and family, stating that “duty always comes first.” Her marriage within the Army fraternity has reinforced her commitment to the values of discipline and service.
Her twin sister, Shyna, who co-runs a film production house in Mumbai, has been a steadfast supporter. Shyna recalls Sophia sharing the sounds of firing and bombing during her 2006 Congo mission, highlighting her courage and desire to include her sister in her experiences. Sophia’s fearlessness was evident when she defended Shyna’s boldness during a visit to Kashmir, telling fellow officers, “She is fearless and wanted to join the Army.”
Sophia’s roots in Vadodara remain strong. In January 2025, she visited MSU’s Department of Biochemistry, where she was warmly welcomed by faculty and former teachers. Her alma mater praised her as a “beacon of inspiration,” reflecting the pride her hometown takes in her achievements.
Legacy and Inspiration
Colonel Sophia Qureshi’s journey is a powerful narrative of breaking barriers and redefining possibilities. Her message to young women is simple yet profound: “Join Army.” She encourages aspiring officers to work hard, serve the nation, and make their country proud. Her leadership in Exercise Force 18, her contributions to UN peacekeeping, and her role in Operation Sindoor have cemented her status as a trailblazer.
Her story resonates beyond the military, inspiring women across India to pursue their dreams fearlessly. As she continues to serve, Colonel Qureshi exemplifies the Indian Army’s ethos of equal opportunity and merit-based leadership. Her biography is not just a record of personal triumphs but a call to action for future generations to embrace service, resilience, and patriotism.