Colonel Sofiya Qureshi is one of India’s most respected women officers in the Indian Army. She gained nationwide recognition after representing the Indian Armed Forces during the official media briefing on Operation Sindoor in May 2025. However, her journey of excellence began long before this historic moment. She has broken several barriers for women in the Indian Army and inspired countless young Indians through her leadership, dedication, and service to the nation.
One of the most searched queries about her is “Sofia Qureshi Height.” Along with her height and physical appearance, people are also interested in knowing about her age, family, education, husband, children, military career, awards, and personal life.
Who is Sofia Qureshi?
Colonel Sofiya Qureshi is a senior officer in the Corps of Signals of the Indian Army. She joined the Army in 1999 after graduating from the Officers Training Academy (OTA), Chennai. Over the past two decades, she has served in several important military assignments, including counter-insurgency operations, United Nations peacekeeping missions, disaster relief operations, and multinational military exercises.
She created history in 2016 by becoming the first Indian woman officer to lead an Indian Army contingent at the multinational military exercise Exercise Force 18, hosted in Pune. Her calm leadership and operational excellence earned appreciation both in India and internationally.
In May 2025, she again became the face of Indian military professionalism when she addressed the media regarding Operation Sindoor, alongside Wing Commander Vyomika Singh and Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri. Her confident presentation and composed demeanor won admiration across the country.
Sofia Qureshi Biography Overview
| Particular | Details |
| Full Name | Colonel Sofiya Qureshi |
| Popular Name | Sofia Qureshi / Sophia Qureshi |
| Profession | Indian Army Officer |
| Rank | Colonel |
| Service Branch | Corps of Signals, Indian Army |
| Birth Year | 1981 |
| Age (2026) | 44 Years |
| Birthplace | Vadodara, Gujarat, India |
| Hometown | Vadodara, Gujarat |
| Nationality | Indian |
| Religion | Islam |
| Educational Qualification | Master’s in Biochemistry |
| Marital Status | Married |
| Husband | Colonel Tajuddin Bagewadi |
| Children | Son – Sameer Qureshi Daughter – Hanima |
| Famous For | First woman officer to lead an Indian Army contingent at Exercise Force 18 (2016) and briefing Operation Sindoor (2025) |
Sofia Qureshi Age & Birth Details
According to publicly available biography sources, Colonel Sofiya Qureshi was born in 1981 in Vadodara, Gujarat. As of 2026, she is 44 years old. Despite being in the public eye, she has maintained a private lifestyle and rarely discusses her personal life in interviews.
Her age reflects more than 25 years of dedicated military service, during which she has served in operational areas, represented India internationally, and held several leadership positions within the Indian Army. Her experience and commitment have made her one of the most respected women officers in the country.
Early Life and Education
Sofiya Qureshi was born and raised in Vadodara, Gujarat, in a family deeply connected with the Indian Army. Her grandfather served in the Army as a religious teacher, while her father also served in the Army for several years. Growing up in such an environment inspired her to dedicate her life to serving the nation.
From an early age, Sofiya excelled in academics. She pursued higher education at The Maharaja Sayajirao University of Baroda, where she completed a Master’s degree in Biochemistry. According to several reports, she even considered pursuing a Ph.D. before deciding to wear the Army uniform.
Her passion for the armed forces led her to join the Officers Training Academy (OTA), Chennai, from where she was commissioned as a Lieutenant in 1999. This marked the beginning of an extraordinary military career spanning more than two decades.
Sofia Qureshi Height, Weight and Physical Appearance
| Physical Feature | Details |
| Height | 5 feet 7 inches (170 cm) |
| Height (Meters) | 1.70 m |
| Weight | Approx. 65 kg |
| Eye Colour | Black |
| Hair Colour | Black |
| Body Type | Athletic |
| Personality | Disciplined, Confident and Professional |
Sofia Qureshi Family Background
Colonel Sofiya Qureshi comes from a patriotic family with a strong military tradition. Her grandfather served in the Indian Army as a religious teacher, and her father also served in the Army before retiring. This environment of discipline, courage, and service played a major role in shaping her career aspirations.
She has a twin sister, Dr. Shyna Sunsara, who is well known as an economist, environmentalist, model, actress, and social worker. Although the two sisters chose different professions, both have earned recognition in their respective fields.
Sofiya is married to Colonel Tajuddin Bagewadi, who serves in the Mechanised Infantry of the Indian Army. Together, they represent a family dedicated to serving the nation. The couple has two children, but they have intentionally kept their family life away from public attention.
Family Details
| Family Member | Details |
| Father | Retired Army Officer (Name Not Publicly Known) |
| Mother | Name Not Publicly Known |
| Grandfather | Served in the Indian Army as a Religious Teacher |
| Sister | Dr. Shyna Sunsara (Twin Sister) |
| Husband | Colonel Tajuddin Bagewadi |
| Son | Sameer Qureshi |
| Daughter | Hanima |
Sofia Qureshi Career Journey
Colonel Sofiya Qureshi has built an exceptional military career through dedication, leadership, and professional excellence. Since joining the Indian Army in 1999, she has served in several challenging operational areas, participated in international peacekeeping missions, and achieved numerous historic milestones. Her journey has made her one of the most respected women officers in the Indian Armed Forces.
Joining the Indian Army
After completing her Master’s degree in Biochemistry from The Maharaja Sayajirao University of Baroda, Sofiya Qureshi decided to pursue a career in the armed forces instead of continuing her academic research. She joined the Officers Training Academy (OTA), Chennai, and was commissioned into the Corps of Signals of the Indian Army in 1999.
The Corps of Signals is responsible for maintaining secure military communication systems, information technology, and battlefield communication networks. Her scientific background proved valuable in handling the technical responsibilities of this prestigious branch.
Early Military Service
During the initial years of her career, Colonel Qureshi served in several operational and field areas across India. She was posted in Jammu & Kashmir and the North-East, where she gained valuable experience in counter-insurgency operations and military communication.
One of her early achievements came in 2001, when she contributed to the development of the Indian Army’s first mobile digital communication network. This project helped strengthen secure battlefield communication and showcased her technical expertise in the Corps of Signals.
United Nations Peacekeeping Mission
One of the most significant milestones in Colonel Qureshi’s career was her service with the United Nations Peacekeeping Mission in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).
She served as a military observer and was involved in monitoring ceasefire agreements, supporting humanitarian operations, and helping maintain peace in conflict-affected regions. Her experience in international peacekeeping enhanced her leadership skills and provided valuable exposure to multinational military operations.
Her successful contribution to the UN mission earned appreciation and strengthened India’s reputation in global peacekeeping efforts.
Creating History at Exercise Force 18
In March 2016, Colonel Sofiya Qureshi achieved a historic milestone by becoming the first Indian woman officer to lead an Indian Army contingent at Exercise Force 18, held in Pune.
The multinational military exercise included participation from 18 countries, including ASEAN member nations and countries such as the United States, Japan, China, Russia, Australia, New Zealand, and South Korea. Colonel Qureshi led a 40-member Indian Army contingent and was the only woman contingent commander among all participating nations.
The exercise focused on:
- Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR)
- Peacekeeping Operations
- Humanitarian Mine Action
- Joint military coordination
- Multinational cooperation
Her leadership during the exercise received widespread appreciation and became an inspiration for women aspiring to join the armed forces. The achievement also highlighted the Indian Army’s growing confidence in women officers taking on leadership roles.
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Operational Leadership and Humanitarian Service
Throughout her military career, Colonel Qureshi has participated in numerous operational assignments and humanitarian missions. Apart from serving in sensitive military locations, she has also contributed to relief operations during natural disasters and emergencies whenever required.
Her professionalism, technical expertise, and calm decision-making have earned her several important responsibilities within the Indian Army over the years.
Role in Operation Sindoor (2025)
Colonel Sofiya Qureshi came into the national spotlight once again in May 2025 during Operation Sindoor. Following India’s precision strikes on terrorist infrastructure after the Pahalgam terror attack, she addressed the nation during the official media briefing alongside Wing Commander Vyomika Singh and Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri.
During the briefing, Colonel Qureshi explained the military aspects of the operation, presented operational details, and shared official visuals of the precision strikes. Her confident communication, professionalism, and composure were widely appreciated across the country.
Her prominent role in the briefing symbolized the growing leadership of women in India’s armed forces and inspired millions of young Indians.
Career Highlights
Some of Colonel Sofiya Qureshi’s major achievements include:
- Commissioned into the Indian Army in 1999.
- Joined the prestigious Corps of Signals.
- Served in Jammu & Kashmir and North-East India.
- Helped develop the Army’s first mobile digital communication network.
- Served with the United Nations Peacekeeping Mission in Congo.
- Became the first Indian woman officer to lead an Army contingent at Exercise Force 18.
- Played a key role in briefing the nation during Operation Sindoor (2025).
- Received the Vishisht Seva Medal (VSM) for distinguished service.
Sofia Qureshi Marriage and Personal Life
Colonel Sofiya Qureshi is married to Colonel Tajuddin Bagewadi, an officer serving in the Mechanised Infantry of the Indian Army. The couple reportedly got married in 2005. Both husband and wife have devoted their careers to serving the nation, making them one of the notable military couples in India.
Personal Life
Despite becoming a nationally recognized figure after Exercise Force 18 and Operation Sindoor, Colonel Qureshi continues to maintain a low-profile lifestyle. She rarely speaks about her personal life in public and is admired for her discipline, humility, and dedication to duty.
According to publicly available biographies, her hobbies include shooting, travelling, trekking, and reading. Coming from a family with a long military tradition, she has continued the legacy of serving the country with commitment and integrity.
Children
Colonel Sofiya Qureshi and her husband have two children:
- Son: Sameer Qureshi
- Daughter: Hanima
However, the family maintains complete privacy, and very little information about her children is available in the public domain.
Sofia Qureshi Awards and Recognition
Colonel Sofiya Qureshi has earned several prestigious military decorations during her distinguished career. Her contributions to military communications, international peacekeeping, leadership, and national service have been recognized through various service medals and honors.
One of her greatest achievements remains becoming the first Indian woman officer to lead an Indian Army contingent at Exercise Force 18 in 2016. She also gained nationwide recognition for representing the Indian Army during the official media briefings on Operation Sindoor in 2025.
| Award/Honour | Details |
| Vishisht Seva Medal (VSM) | Awarded for distinguished military service |
| United Nations Medal | For service in UN Peacekeeping Mission |
| Operation Vijay Medal | Military service medal |
| Operation Parakram Medal | Service during Operation Parakram |
| Sainya Seva Medal | Awarded for operational service |
| Videsh Seva Medal | Overseas military service |
| 20 Years Long Service Medal | Long and dedicated service |
| 9 Years Long Service Medal | Long service recognition |
| Historic Achievement | First Indian woman officer to lead the Army contingent at Exercise Force 18 |
| National Recognition | Official spokesperson during Operation Sindoor media briefing (2025) |
Sofia Qureshi Net Worth
Colonel Sofiya Qureshi is a serving officer in the Indian Army, and like other military personnel, her primary source of income is her government salary, along with various service-related allowances and benefits. As a senior officer holding the rank of Colonel, she is entitled to salary, military allowances, accommodation, medical facilities, pension benefits, and other official perks as per the Government of India’s pay structure.
Unlike celebrities or business personalities, Colonel Qureshi has never disclosed her financial details publicly. Therefore, her exact net worth is not officially available. Although some websites estimate her wealth, these figures are speculative and have not been verified by any official source.
Rather than being known for wealth or commercial endorsements, Colonel Qureshi is respected for her dedication, leadership, and distinguished service to the nation. Her achievements reflect a career built on commitment and patriotism rather than financial success.
Interesting Facts About Sofia Qureshi
Colonel Sofiya Qureshi’s remarkable career includes several achievements that make her an inspiration for aspiring defence personnel. Here are some interesting facts about her:
- She is the first Indian woman officer to lead an Indian Army contingent at the multinational military exercise Exercise Force 18.
- She was commissioned into the Corps of Signals of the Indian Army in 1999.
- She holds a Master’s degree in Biochemistry from The Maharaja Sayajirao University of Baroda.
- She has served in operational areas including Jammu & Kashmir and the North-East.
- She was part of the United Nations Peacekeeping Mission in the Democratic Republic of Congo.
- She helped develop the Indian Army’s first mobile digital communication network during her early years of service.
- She belongs to a family with a long military tradition, with both her grandfather and father serving in the Indian Army.
- Her twin sister, Dr. Shyna Sunsara, is a well-known economist, environmentalist, actress, and social worker.
- She enjoys shooting, travelling, trekking, and reading in her free time.
- In May 2025, she became a nationally recognized face after briefing the media on Operation Sindoor alongside Wing Commander Vyomika Singh and Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri.
- She has served the Indian Army for more than 25 years, earning respect for her leadership and dedication.
Conclusion
Colonel Sofiya Qureshi is a symbol of courage, dedication, and excellence in the Indian Armed Forces. While many people search online for “Sofia Qureshi height,” her true identity is defined by her remarkable achievements rather than her physical appearance. From becoming the first Indian woman officer to lead an Army contingent at Exercise Force 18 to representing the Indian Army during the Operation Sindoor media briefings, she has consistently demonstrated professionalism, leadership, and patriotism.
Her inspiring journey from a young student in Vadodara to a respected Colonel in the Indian Army reflects years of hard work, determination, and commitment to serving the nation. As a role model for aspiring defence personnel especially women Colonel Sofiya Qureshi continues to inspire millions across India.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Sofia Qureshi’s height?
Sofia Qureshi’s height is approximately 5 feet 7 inches (170 cm).
How old is Sofia Qureshi?
she was born in 1981 and is 44 years old (as of 2026).
Where is Sofia Qureshi from?
She was born and raised in Vadodara, Gujarat, India.
What is Sofia Qureshi’s educational qualification?
She holds a Master’s degree in Biochemistry from The Maharaja Sayajirao University of Baroda before joining the Indian Army.
What is Sofia Qureshi’s net worth?
Her exact net worth has not been officially disclosed.
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