In the aftermath of the devastating terror attack in Pahalgam, where 26 lives were lost on April 22, the Indian Army launched a strategic counteroffensive named Operation Sindoor, targeting nine terrorist camps across Pakistan and Pakistan-administered Kashmir. On Wednesday morning, two exceptional women officers of the Indian Armed Forces stood before the media to reveal details of the covert operation, symbolizing the changing face of India’s military leadership.
Colonel Sophia Qureshi:
Colonel Sophia Qureshi is a respected officer in the Signals Corps of the Indian Army. She is known for breaking barriers. This was India’s largest-ever ground forces exercise, involving ASEAN Plus countries. Hailing from Gujarat, Qureshi holds a postgraduate degree in biochemistry and comes from a proud military lineage—her grandfather served in the Indian Army, and her husband is an officer in the Mechanised Infantry. She joined the army in 1999 through the Short Service Commission at the age of 17.
she played a crucial role in training support operations for peace missions, reinforcing her international credentials.
Wing Commander Vyomika Singh: The Sky Warrior of the Indian Air Force
The second officer to address the media was Wing Commander Vyomika Singh, a seasoned helicopter pilot with the Indian Air Force. Singh has logged over 2,500 flying hours, piloting aircraft like the Chetak and Cheetah in some of India’s most challenging terrains, including Jammu & Kashmir and the Northeast.
Her name, Vyomika, literally means “one who connects with the sky,” a fitting title for someone who always dreamed of becoming a pilot. She began her journey through the National Cadet Corps (NCC) and later earned a degree in engineering before joining the IAF’s flying branch through a Permanent Commission in 2019.
Singh has been instrumental in numerous rescue and relief operations. One notable mission was in Arunachal Pradesh in November 2020, where she played a key role during a high-risk evacuation effort. Her calm under pressure and exceptional piloting skills have earned her widespread respect in defense circles.
During the Operation Sindoor briefing, her presence reflected the critical role played by the Indian Air Force in supporting cross-border strikes and transporting elite units into hostile zones.
Operation Sindoor: A Turning Point in India’s Counterterrorism Response
The decision to strike across the Line of Control came amid heightened tensions between India and Pakistan, following the Pahalgam attack. With nine terrorist targets neutralized, Operation Sindoor signals a bold shift in India’s security strategy.
Both Colonel Qureshi and Wing Commander Singh’s participation in the public disclosure of the operation marks a significant step for gender representation in the armed forces, sending a strong message of inclusion, courage, and professionalism.
Women in Uniform: The New Vanguard of Indian Defense
The Indian Armed Forces are rapidly evolving, with more women taking on leadership roles in active combat zones, strategic operations, and international peacekeeping missions. Officers like Qureshi and Singh are not only paving the way for future generations but also redefining what it means to serve and protect the nation.
Their poise, professionalism, and patriotism during the Operation Sindoor briefing have left an indelible mark—not just on the nation, but on history.
