Colonel Sofiya Qureshi and Wing Commander Vyomika Singh: Trailblazing Officers Who Briefed The Nation On Operation Sindoor
Colonel Sofiya Qureshi and Wing Commander Vyomika Singh: Trailblazing Officers Who Briefed The Nation On Operation Sindoor
In a landmark moment, Colonel Sofiya Qureshi of the Indian Army and Wing Commander Vyomika Singh of the Indian Air Force joined Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri in addressing the press on Operation Sindoor—India’s strategic response to the devastating Pahalgam terror attack on April 22, which claimed 26 lives. Their appearance marks a historic step in India’s military communication, with two senior women officers leading the national briefing on a counter-terror operation.
Their presence at the briefing not only reflected operational transparency but also sent a strong message of solidarity with the families of victims, particularly widows who continue to bear the brunt of terror’s aftermath.
Colonel Sofiya Qureshi: A Career of Firsts
Colonel Sofiya Qureshi, from the Corps of Signals, has long been recognized as a trailblazer. In 2016, she became the first female officer from India to command a military contingent in a multinational military drill—Exercise Force 18—held in Pune. The exercise brought together forces from 18 nations, including global powers like the United States, Russia, and China, along with ASEAN members, making it the largest foreign military exercise hosted by India at the time.
Her distinguished service record spans a variety of roles—from her early years in the United Nations Peacekeeping Mission in Congo in 2006, where she worked as a military observer protecting vulnerable women and children, to her current contributions to the Centre for UN Peacekeeping in New Delhi. She also participated in Operation Parakram along the Punjab border and has led humanitarian relief efforts in India’s northeastern regions during severe flooding.
Recognized with commendation cards for her outstanding commitment, Colonel Qureshi exemplifies the leadership, resilience, and empathy that define the armed forces’ highest ideals.
Wing Commander Vyomika Singh: A Rising Force
While specific service details about Wing Commander Vyomika Singh were not released in the briefing, her involvement in one of the country’s most high-profile military briefings indicates her strategic relevance within the Indian Air Force. Her inclusion also symbolizes the increasing role of women in key defence responsibilities and decision-making.
Together, Colonel Qureshi and Wing Commander Singh are reshaping the narrative around women in uniform—bringing experience, dignity, and strength to the forefront during one of India’s most consequential defence responses in recent years.
