In an era where the debate surrounding gender equality is more dominant than ever, Colonel Sofiya Qureshi’s historic achievement is a beacon of how determination, merit, and professionalism can shatter even the most ancient of barriers. She made history by being the first woman officer to command an Indian Army contingent in a multinational military exercise, turning not only the heads of military personnel from countries but also sparking a new wave of inspiration throughout India.
A Proud Moment for India
Colonel Sofiya Qureshi commanded a 40-strong Indian Army contingent at Exercise Force 18 in 2016, which was held in Pune. This was India’s biggest-ever military exercise with ASEAN Plus countries. It had 18 countries, including the United States, China, Russia, Japan, South Korea, and Australia. Her selection as the commander of the contingent was not tokenistic or gender-based—it was a merit-based appointment that reflected her unblemished record and leadership skills.
In a country where women have historically had uphill climbs in male-dominated careers, her position represented a turning point. Colonel Qureshi’s leadership was not symbolic but strategic, strong, and essential. Her appearance at the exercise as a commander highlighted the Indian Army’s dedication to ability rather than tradition.
Family’s Uncontainable Joy
Back in Karnataka, pride in Colonel Qureshi’s family is evident. Her father-in-law, stuck to the television as he witnessed the moment being played out, was overcome with sheer joy and admiration. “I was stuck to the TV, what more can I ask for?” he said, beaming with pride. The feeling is shared by thousands of Indian families who regard her as a daughter of the country.
Her husband, Major Tajuddin Qureshi, who serves in the Mechanised Infantry, has also been a pillar of support. Their son, Sameer, too, shares the family’s sense of honor. Colonel Qureshi’s achievements represent not just personal or professional success but also a societal milestone—a step forward for the collective aspirations of Indian women.
Early Life and Career Path
Colonel Qureshi was born in Vadodara, Gujarat, in 1981. She belongs to a family with a rich military heritage. Her grandfather was in the Indian Army, and her father was a religious teacher in the armed forces. Inspired by her family and motivated by a strong sense of responsibility, she joined the Officers Training Academy in Chennai and was commissioned into the Corps of Signals in 1999.
She has had a distinguished career since then. She operated in difficult terrain and was involved in counter-insurgency operations in the Northeast. Her leadership of the flood relief operations in Assam and other regions of the Northeast was highly appreciated. She received commendation cards for her outstanding service during Operation Parakram, and her performance in managing natural disasters also earned her praise.
International Experience
Her skills are not only limited to national service. In 2006, she was also a member of the United Nations Peacekeeping Mission in Congo. She was a military observer, wherein her duties entailed observing ceasefire agreements and coordinating humanitarian work. Operating in unstable areas, particularly those torn by civil war, demanded not only tactical acumen but emotional stability and cultural awareness as well.
In her own words, the most rewarding aspect of her work was assisting women and children caught up in zones of war. This international exposure augmented her resume and provided her with an international perspective—a prime requirement for heading a multinational unit.
Leadership at Exercise Force 18
Exercise Force 18 was not just a drill; it was a meeting of military doctrines, strategies, and cultures. Colonel Qureshi played a key role in undertaking Peacekeeping Operations (PKOs) and Humanitarian Mine Action (HMA) modules. Being able to manage these tasks effectively was a reflection of her training and expertise.
The selection committee had a pool of very capable officers to pick from, but Colonel Qureshi was the one who stood out. Senior officials said that her professional acumen, administrative acumen, and level-headedness in the face of pressure made her the best choice. Her command was not only about leading troops—it was about diplomacy, cross-cultural communication, and planning logistics on an international platform.
Breaking Stereotypes
Colonel Qureshi’s appointment did more than break a glass ceiling; it shattered a longstanding stereotype in the Indian Armed Forces. Historically, women in the Indian military were confined to medical or administrative roles. Combat and command roles were often seen as out of bounds. But the tide is turning.
Her leadership is a compelling testimonial to competence having no gender. Change, in a normally conservative institution such as the armed forces, cannot happen overnight. But pathbreakers such as Colonel Qureshi bring this change forward more quickly by establishing that service excellence has no gender.
Public and Media Reaction
The announcement of her posting and effective fulfillment of duties made all national dailies. Social media were buzzing with cheers, admiration, and pride. Hashtags such as #SofiyaQureshi, were top trends for days. Several editorials praised her success and weighed in on why more opportunities for women to hold leadership positions should be opened up in the Indian Army.
Her adventure was hailed not only as a personal achievement but as a national landmark. Schools, colleges, and academies took sessions on her adventure, encouraging the future generation of young females to pursue careers in defense.
Policy Implications and Future Prospects
Colonel Qureshi’s achievement has profound repercussions for gender policies within the Indian military. As much as women have been included in the armed forces over time, leadership has been strictly restricted. Her story presents a convincing argument for reversing these restrictions.
The Indian government and military authorities have since initiated more inclusive policies. The Supreme Court’s 2020 verdict allowing women to hold permanent commissions and assume command roles in non-combat units is a step in the right direction. Colonel Qureshi’s success serves as a strong example of why these changes are necessary and beneficial.
A Message to Aspiring Officers
Colonel Qureshi frequently urges budding aspirants to serve the country with professionalism, courage, and integrity. “Work hard for the country and make everyone proud,” she frequently quotes. Her message is loud and clear—opportunities no longer revolve around gender but are based on determination and perseverance.
Her life from Vadodara to heading an international troop says much of what can happen in India now. It is also a reminder that each who wears the uniform has a story of hardihood, of sacrifice, of service.
Colonel Sofiya Qureshi’s historic leadership at Exercise Force 18 is not just a chapter in the annals of military history—it is a blueprint for future generations. It tells a story of courage, competence, and change. It reminds us that leadership is not about gender; it is about capability, commitment, and vision.
While watching the live television coverage with his tears of pride, his comment—”What more can I ask for?”—are on the lips of millions of Indians. In Colonel Qureshi, we hear the face of new India: resilient, equitable, and aspirational.
Her tale is a long way from ending, yet it continues to inspire a country working towards equity and excellence. Let this be a reminder that when opportunity encounters talent, history is created.
