With Colonel Sofiya Qureshi at forefront, here are 5 other Indian women who prove defence has no gender

Colonel Sofiya Qureshi made history in 2016 as the first woman officer to command an Indian Army contingent at the multinational Force 18 exercise. A Corps of Signals officer, she has served in Operation Parakram and UN peacekeeping missions. In 2025, she gained national attention by briefing the media on Operation Sindoor, showcasing her leadership on a global stage.

Captain Radhika Menon became the first female captain in the Indian Merchant Navy. In 2015, she led a daring rescue operation, saving seven fishermen stranded in stormy seas. For her bravery, she received the International Maritime Organisation's Award for Exceptional Bravery at Sea in 2016.

Flight Lieutenant Avani Chaturvedi is one of the first three female fighter pilots in the Indian Air Force. In 2018, she became the first Indian woman to fly a solo sortie in a MiG-21 Bison. She also represented India in international air exercises, marking a significant milestone for women in combat aviation.

Wing Commander Deepika Misra became the first woman officer in the Indian Air Force to receive a gallantry award. In 2021, she led a flood relief operation in Madhya Pradesh, rescuing 47 people over eight days. For her exceptional courage, she was awarded the Vayu Sena Medal.

Air Marshal Padma Bandopadhyay is the first woman to attain the rank of Air Marshal in the Indian Air Force. An accomplished flight surgeon, she has numerous firsts to her name, including being the first woman to conduct scientific research at the North Pole. Her illustrious career has paved the way for women in the armed forces.

Commander Prerna Deosthalee made history in December 2023 by becoming the first woman to command an Indian Naval warship, INS Trinkat. A naval air observer, she was also the first female observer on the Tupolev Tu-142 aircraft. Her achievements signify the expanding roles of women in the Navy.