The Woman Behind Operation Sindoor's Success: Colonel Sofiya Qureshi

By DesiMedia Team | May 07, 2025 |

A Leader of Precision and Courage

Colonel Sofiya Qureshi has emerged as a national icon following the resounding success of Operation Sindoor, a decisive military response to the Pahalgam terror attack in 2025. As the commanding officer leading strategic operations, Col. Qureshi played a pivotal role in planning and executing precision strikes that dismantled nine terror camps across Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. Her leadership, tactical brilliance, and calm under pressure have earned her accolades from both defense circles and the public.

With over two decades of military service, Col. Qureshi’s career has been marked by trailblazing achievements. From her historic role as the first woman to lead an Indian Army contingent in a multinational exercise to her crucial involvement in peacekeeping missions in conflict zones, she has consistently demonstrated excellence in leadership and operational execution.

Operation Sindoor: A Defining Moment

Operation Sindoor was not just a retaliatory mission—it was a demonstration of India’s enhanced military precision and resolve. In the aftermath of the terror attack in Pahalgam, Col. Qureshi and her team meticulously coordinated air and ground strikes to ensure maximum impact with minimal collateral damage. At a high-profile media briefing alongside Wing Commander Vyomika Singh and Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri, Col. Qureshi detailed the mission’s objectives, execution, and results, showcasing her deep knowledge and unshakable poise.

Her involvement has not only brought her widespread recognition but has also inspired a new wave of young women to pursue careers in the armed forces. Col. Qureshi’s name is now synonymous with resilience, strategic expertise, and fearless leadership, marking a new chapter in India’s military history.

Background and Early Life

Colonel Sofiya Qureshi was born in 1981 in Vadodara, Gujarat, into a family with a strong tradition of service—her grandfather served in the Indian Army, which deeply inspired her. She excelled academically, earning a Bachelor of Science in Chemistry and a Master of Science in Biochemistry from Maharaja Sayajirao University of Baroda. Originally aspiring to work for the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), her path shifted to active military duty, where she found her true calling.