New Delhi: On the eve of Republic Day 2026, Indian Army officer Colonel Sofiya Qureshi will be conferred the ‘Vishisht Seva Medal’ (VSM). President Droupadi Murmu has approved this honour in recognition of her sustained distinguished service and leadership, particularly during ‘Operation Sindoor’ (Colonel Sofiya Qureshi Vishisht Seva Medal).
This honour was announced as part of the annual gallantry and distinguished service awards approved by the President on January 25 (Vishisht Seva Medal).
This year, on the eve of 77th Republic Day , the President approved a total of 70 Gallantry awards to Armed Forces personnel, including six posthumous honors. These include one Ashoka Chakra, three Kirti Chakras, and 13 Shaurya Chakras. Additionally, the President cleared 301 military decorations, comprising 30 Param Vishisht Seva Medals, 135 Vishisht Seva Medals, and other service honors.
Colonel Qureshi emerged as a significant public face of ‘Operation Sindoor’, launched by India to dismantle terror infrastructure across the border following the Pahalgam terror attack. At a time when various opposing narratives were circulating internationally, she was entrusted with the responsibility of providing official briefings on the objectives and outcomes of this operation.
Working alongside Indian Air Force Wing Commander Vyomika Singh, Colonel Qureshi addressed the media, presenting verified facts regarding the operation and taking a stand against misinformation (Operation Sindoor briefing). In a sensitive diplomatic moment, her calm and strong communication strengthened India’s position.
Through Operation Sindoor, Colonel Qureshi managed to capture global attention (Indian Army woman officer). This was a rare instance where a woman officer led strategic military communication on an international platform. According to official circles, her role demonstrated expertise in information management and leadership during a high-level operation.
Career Highlights of Colonel Sofiya Qureshi:
First Woman Commander: She led the Indian contingent in the multinational military exercise named ‘Exercise Force 18’. She was the first woman military officer to lead this exercise hosted by India, involving the participation of 18 countries.
Birth and Education: She was born in 1981 in Vadodara, Gujarat. She holds a postgraduate degree in Biochemistry (Colonel Sofiya Qureshi profile).
Joining the Army: She joined the Indian Army in 1999.
Experience: In 2006, she served as a military observer in the United Nations Peacekeeping Mission in Congo.
Other Recognitions: She was awarded a commendation certificate from the General Officer Commanding-in-Chief for her role during Operation Parakram on the Punjab border. Additionally, her contributions during flood relief operations in the North-East were also formally recognized.
According to the Ministry of Defence, the President has approved 70 gallantry awards and 301 Military Decorations this year. This includes Kirti Chakra, Shaurya Chakra, Sena Medal, Param Vishisht Seva Medal, Ati Vishisht Seva Medal, and Yudh Seva Medal, among others. These awards will be presented during a special ceremony later this year.
77th Republic Day Celebrated Across Different Places of the State