Colonel Sophia Qureshi Honored with Vishisht Seva Medal on Republic Day

• Colonel Sophia Qureshi, known for 'Operation Sindoor', will receive the Vishisht Seva Medal (VSM) on the 77th Republic Day for distinguished service.
• She presented 'Operation Sindoor' to the world alongside Wing Commander Vyomisingh, impressing international media with her precise communication.
• Born in Vadodara, Gujarat, Colonel Qureshi holds a Master's in Biochemistry and was commissioned from OTA Chennai, excelling in tactical strategy.
• She was the first woman officer to lead an Indian contingent in a multinational exercise ('Exercise Force 18' in 2016) and played a key role in 'Operation Parakram' (2001).
• Her career includes flood relief communication management and a 6-year stint with the UN Peacekeeping Mission in Congo.

Why It Matters: Colonel Sophia Qureshi receives the VSM, highlighting her distinguished service and women's leadership in the Indian Army.