Colonel Sofiya Qureshi: A Trailblazer for India's Women in Uniform
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Colonel Sofiya Qureshi, a trailblazer for India's women in uniform, has been awarded the Vishisht Seva Medal (VSM) on Republic Day for her "distinguished service of a high order". This recognition comes six years after the Supreme Court of India acknowledged her achievements in a landmark case that led to the granting of Permanent Commission (PC) to women officers. In 2020, the Supreme Court cited Colonel Qureshi as a specific example of how female officers can serve alongside their male counterparts, rendering the government's previous arguments against women in command roles unsustainable in law. Her exemplary service, including leading a 40-member contingent in a multinational military exercise, was highlighted by the bench. Colonel Qureshi's career has been marked by numerous achievements, including serving as a UN military observer in Congo and leading a team in the United Nations Peacekeeping Operation. Her leadership skills and dedication to her work have earned her a Commendation Card for her service during Operation Parakram and another for her role in flood relief operations in Northeast India. However, Colonel Qureshi has also faced controversy due to allegedly communal remarks made about her by a Madhya Pradesh BJP minister. The Supreme Court intervened, directing the state government to decide within two weeks on granting sanction to prosecute the minister. Colonel Qureshi's national profile rose during Operation Sindoor, where she and Wing Commander Vyomika Singh detailed the strikes conducted against terror targets in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. Her stoic demeanor and precise communication during the press briefings made her a household name. In a recent address, Colonel Qureshi emphasized the importance of digital literacy and cyber firewalls in modern warfare, urging the younger generation to focus on these skills. Her career has been marked by a commitment to service and a passion for promoting women's empowerment in the military.
