Operation Sindoor’s Colonel Sofiya Qureshi Awarded Param Vishisht Seva Medal For Exceptional Military Service

Colonel Sofiya Qureshi, a senior officer of the Indian Army, will be honoured with the Param Vishisht Seva Medal (PVSM) on the occasion of the 77th Republic Day. The award recognises her outstanding and distinguished service to the nation, including her key role in Operation Sindoor, launched in response to the Pahalgam terror attack.

The Param Vishisht Seva Medal is the highest peacetime service decoration of the Indian Armed Forces and is awarded for exceptional dedication and leadership.

Key Role in Operation Sindoor and Historic Firsts

Colonel Qureshi played a crucial operational role during Operation Sindoor, which targeted Pakistan-based terrorist networks following the deadly attack in Pahalgam. Her contribution during the mission has been widely acknowledged within military circles for its strategic importance and leadership under pressure.

Beyond this operation, Colonel Qureshi has already etched her name in history. In 2016, she became the first woman officer of the Indian Army to lead an Indian contingent in a multinational military exercise, marking a major milestone for women in the armed forces.

Her achievement is often seen as a symbol of changing times and growing opportunities for women in uniform.

President Approves Military and Gallantry Awards

President Droupadi Murmu has approved a total of 301 military decorations for personnel from the Army, Navy, Air Force, and other services. These include 30 Param Vishisht Seva Medals, four Uttam Yudh Seva Medals, 56 Ati Vishisht Seva Medals, and several other service honours across the three forces.

In addition to service awards, the President has also approved 70 gallantry awards in recognition of exceptional bravery and sacrifice. The list includes six posthumous honours, reflecting acts of courage where personnel laid down their lives in the line of duty.

Ashok Chakra for Astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla

Among the most notable names this year is Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla, who will be awarded the Ashok Chakra, India's highest peacetime gallantry award. Shukla created history by becoming the first Indian to visit the International Space Station (ISS), a mission that marked a major leap for India's human spaceflight programme.

Other awardees include senior officers such as Lieutenant General Dhiraj Seth and personnel from across the Army, Navy, and Air Force who have shown extraordinary courage and commitment.

A Republic Day of Recognition

This year's Republic Day honours highlight acts of bravery, leadership, and service across diverse fields-from counter-terror operations and military leadership to space exploration. Colonel Sofiya Qureshi's recognition stands out as a reminder of the growing role of women in India's defence forces and their contribution to national security.

The awards will be formally presented during official ceremonies, celebrating those who have served the nation with distinction, courage, and sacrifice.