Lieutenant Colonel Sofia Qureshi stands as a beacon of courage and leadership in the Indian Army. As the first woman officer to lead a contingent in a multinational military exercise, she has redefined possibilities for women in the armed forces. Her journey is a powerful testament to determination, resilience, and service to the nation.
Early Life and Inspiration
Born in Vadodara, Gujarat, Sofia Qureshi was raised in a family with strong military roots. Her grandfather was a soldier, and her father served as a religious teacher in the Indian Army. Inspired by this disciplined and patriotic environment, she pursued a postgraduate degree in Biochemistry but chose to serve the nation by joining the Officers Training Academy in 1999. She was commissioned into the Corps of Signals, beginning a historic military career.
Historic Achievements
Sofia Qureshi made history in March 2016 during Exercise Force 18 in Pune. She became the first woman to lead a 40-member Indian Army contingent in a multinational military exercise involving troops from 18 countries, including the U.S., China, Russia, and ASEAN nations. The exercise focused on Peacekeeping Operations (PKOs) and Humanitarian Mine Action (HMA). Her leadership earned praise from then-Lieutenant General Bipin Rawat, who commended her abilities and leadership qualities.
Notable Operations and Awards
She served in Operation Parakram on the Punjab border and received a commendation card. She was honored for her outstanding communication efforts during flood relief in North East India. In 2006, she served as a military observer in the United Nations Peacekeeping Mission in Congo, working to protect women and children from violence. She also contributed to Operation Sindoor, showcasing India’s strength in counter-insurgency and peacekeeping.
Key Information at a Glance
Full Name: Lieutenant Colonel Sofia Qureshi
Birthplace: Vadodara, Gujarat, India
Education: Postgraduate degree in Biochemistry
Commissioned: 1999, Corps of Signals, Officers Training Academy
Historic Achievement: First woman to lead Indian Army contingent at Exercise Force 18 (2016)
Notable Operations: Operation Parakram, UN Peacekeeping in Congo, Operation Sindoor
Awards: Commendation Card (Operation Parakram), Signal Officer-in-Chief Commendation
Family: Married to Major Tajuddin Qureshi; mother to a son
Balancing Duty and Family
Sofia Qureshi is a true example of balance and dedication. Married to Major Tajuddin Qureshi of the Mechanised Infantry and mother to a young son, she manages both her military responsibilities and family life with poise. Her message to young women—“Join Army”—reflects her belief in the empowering opportunities the armed forces offer.
Global Impact and Legacy
Through multinational operations and peacekeeping missions, Sofia Qureshi has elevated India’s global military reputation. She has broken gender barriers, led with conviction, and inspired countless young women to dream big. Her legacy is not just one of personal achievement, but of opening doors for future generations of women in uniform. With unwavering dedication, she proves that leadership knows no gender.