Operation Sindoor: A Historic Moment for Women in India's Military Response
A New Era in Military Representation
MANOJ KUMAR JENA, OP
Bhubaneswar: The nation celebrated the successful execution of Operation Sindoor, a precise military action in response to the tragic terrorist attack in Pahalgam. Odisha's female political leaders expressed their admiration, especially highlighting the groundbreaking moment when two women officers conducted the official media briefing. As news spread about India's targeted missile strikes on nine significant terror sites in Pakistan and Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir (PoK), a wave of patriotism surged across the country. This operation was initiated following the brutal murder of 26 Indian tourists by terrorists in Pahalgam.
Key targets included strongholds of terrorist organizations such as Lashkar-e-Taiba in Muridke and Jaish-e-Mohammed in Bahawalpur. In a landmark event for India's military and a testament to women's empowerment, Wing Commander Vyomika Singh of the Indian Air Force and Colonel Sofiya Qureshi of the Indian Army led the media briefing regarding the operation. This unprecedented occurrence received widespread acclaim and marked a significant shift in gender representation within the armed forces. Barabati-Cuttack Congress MLA Sofia Firdous remarked, “This is a moment of pride. The women who led the briefing symbolize all those whose sindoor was taken by terrorism. It demonstrates that Indian women are not merely survivors but also leaders in the pursuit of justice and safeguarding the nation's dignity.”
BJD spokesperson Lekhasri Samantsinghar also commended this development, stating, “This is the first instance in Indian history where women officers have spearheaded a military operation briefing. It showcases how women excel in every field. When given the opportunity, they not only participate but also take charge.” BJP state secretary Kasturi Mishra described the event as symbolic on various levels. “The terrorists instructed the Pahalgam victims to ‘tell Modi’. Today, Modi ji responded through this strike. Moreover, women officers represented the mission, conveying a powerful dual message. This was not just a military operation; it also served as a social statement about the strength and capabilities of Indian women.” The prominent role of women in national defense during such a pivotal moment has become a unifying theme for leaders across political parties in Odisha. It also conveys a broader message about the changing dynamics of India's armed forces, which increasingly reflect the expanding role of women in national security and public affairs.