IN THE LINE OF DUTY

In 1992, after the Indian Army opened its doors to women to join in non-medical roles for the first time, many have actualised their dreams of serving the nation. They are a part of the nation's storied establishment, protecting India's sovereignty on land. To commemorate 78 years of our independence, Femina met and interacted with 10 such women from the Army. Hailing from diverse backgrounds and serving in varied roles, they represent a growing facet of the military. We honour their service and remain grateful for the inspiration they bring to women throughout India and beyond.

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COLONEL SOFIYA QURESHI

Colonel Sofiya Qureshi joined the Indian Army in 1999. In her 26th year of service this year, she appeared alongside Wing Commander Vyomika Singh of the Indian Air Force and the Foreign Secretary of India Vikram Misri during the national media briefing for Operation Sindoor in May 2025. Currently, she commands an elite unit of the Corps of Signals – a vital combat support arm of the Indian Army. In her long and illustrious career, Col Qureshi has held leadership roles in counterinsurgency and counter-terrorism missions across Jammu & Kashmir, the Northeast, the Line of Control (LoC), and the International Border (IB), in terrains ranging from high-altitude areas to deserts.

Col Qureshi is also one of the very few women officers to command the Indian Army contingent at the world's largest Field Training Exercise [an on-ground military drill to test the operational readiness of troops] where militaries of 22 nations – including the USA, Russia, and China - participated.

In her free time, Col Qureshi, who is also a polyglot and published poet, loves to spend quality time with her family. She plays hockey, basketball, and is currently learning to play golf. She is also actively involved with AWWA (Army Women's Welfare Association) where she makes time to connect with the veterans and 'veer naaris' - widows of Indian Army personnel who have died in service.

What inspired you to join the Indian Army?