Colonel Sophia Qureshi Biography: Age, Husband, Career, Achievements & Personal Life
Colonel Sophia Qureshi is a distinguished officer in the Indian Army’s Corps of Signals, renowned for her groundbreaking leadership and contributions to military operations and peacekeeping missions. She holds the distinction of being the first woman officer to lead an Indian Army contingent in a multinational military exercise.
| Full Name | Sophia Qureshi |
| Rank | Colonel |
| Date of Birth | 1981 |
| Birthplace | Vadodara, Gujarat, India |
| Nationality | Indian |
| Branch | Indian Army – Corps of Signals |
| Service Years | 1999–present |
| Education | Master’s in Biochemistry, Maharaja Sayajirao University of Baroda |
| Alma Mater | Officers Training Academy, Chennai |
| Spouse | Major Tajuddin Qureshi (Mechanised Infantry) |
| Children | Son – Sameer Qureshi |
| Notable Awards | GOC-in-C Commendation (Operation Parakram), SoC-in-C Commendation (Flood Relief), UN Mission Appreciation |
| Known For | First woman to lead Indian Army contingent in a multinational exercise |
Early Life and Education
Born in Vadodara, Gujarat, in 1981, Sophia Qureshi hails from a family with a strong military background. Her grandfather served in the Indian Army, and her father also contributed to the armed forces as a religious teacher. She pursued a Master’s degree in Biochemistry from Maharaja Sayajirao University of Baroda. At the age of 17, she joined the Indian Army through the Short Service Commission, training at the Officers Training Academy in Chennai.
Military Career
UN Peacekeeping Missions
In 2006, Colonel Qureshi participated in the United Nations peacekeeping mission in Congo, serving for over six years. Her role involved monitoring ceasefires and supporting humanitarian efforts in conflict zones. She received commendations for her dedication and service during these missions.
Multinational Military Exercise Leadership
In 2016, Colonel Qureshi made history by leading the Indian Army contingent at ‘Exercise Force 18’, the largest foreign military exercise hosted by India. She was the only female commander among 18 participating nations, showcasing her exceptional leadership skills and breaking gender barriers within the military.
Operation Sindoor
In May 2025, Colonel Qureshi gained national attention during ‘Operation Sindoor’, where she led a media briefing alongside IAF Wing Commander Vyomika Singh. The operation focused on counter-terrorism efforts, and her involvement highlighted the increasing role of women in strategic military operations.
Awards and Recognitions
- GOC-in-C Commendation Card for her service during Operation Parakram on the Punjab border.
- SoC-in-C Commendation Card for her commendable work in communication during flood relief operations in North East India.
- Force Commander Appreciation for her dedication during UN peacekeeping missions.
- Certificate of Excellence from the Cambodian Army for her contributions to international military cooperation.
Personal Life
Colonel Qureshi is married to Major Tajuddin Qureshi, an officer in the Mechanised Infantry. They have a son named Sameer Qureshi. Her family continues the tradition of military service, reflecting a deep-rooted commitment to the nation’s defense forces.
Legacy and Impact
Colonel Sophia Qureshi’s career is a testament to her resilience, leadership, and dedication to service. Her achievements have paved the way for greater inclusion of women in the Indian Armed Forces, inspiring future generations to pursue careers in defense and national security.
