New Delhi, May 12 — When Colonel Sofiya Qureshi stepped forward to brief the nation on Operation Sindoor, she did more than issue a military update — she made history. One of only two women officers to speak on behalf of the Indian Army during the high-stakes press conference, her calm authority resonated across the country. But for one viewer, the moment was deeply personal — her twin sister, Dr. Shyna Sunsara, watched with pride and reverence as history unfolded on screen.
“Seeing her stand tall in uniform, speaking on behalf of the Indian Army — it wasn’t just a moment of national pride, it was a personal, almost spiritual one,” Shyna told Hindustan Times. She had learned of the live broadcast through a relative and rushed to her television, only to find her sister commanding attention on the national stage.
Raised in a military family in Vadodara, Gujarat, Sofiya and Shyna had once dreamed of joining the armed forces together — at a time when that dream seemed impossible for women. “Sofiya always said if she couldn’t join the Army directly, she’d try DRDO. She was determined to serve,” Shyna recalled. “Watching her lead now feels like witnessing Jhansi Ki Rani come alive — a figure who always inspired her.”
Their lineage is steeped in patriotic service. Their father fought in the 1971 Bangladesh war. His father before him served in the Army, and an uncle joined the Border Security Force. Their great-grandfather once served in the British Army before joining India’s freedom movement, and their grandmother often shared tales of a family ancestor who fought beside Rani Lakshmibai during the 1857 uprising.
While Colonel Sofiya Qureshi continues to break barriers in the Indian Army’s Corps of Signals — with a distinguished service record that includes U.N. peacekeeping in Congo and leading India’s first all-woman contingent at a multinational military exercise in 2016 — her twin has charted an equally remarkable path.
Who is Dr. Shyna Sunsara?
Often dubbed Vadodara’s Wonder Woman, Dr. Shyna Sunsara is a polymath: economist, environmentalist, fashion designer, and former Army cadet. A national gold medalist in rifle shooting, she was awarded by the President of India. Crowned Ms. Gujarat, Ms. India Earth 2017, and Ms. United Nations 2018, Shyna combines glamour with grit.
In 2018, she received the Dadasaheb Phalke Award and has been recognised for her environmental work — particularly her initiative to plant 100,000 trees across Gujarat. “Even as a child, she stood out,” said a former teacher. “She once turned her mother’s saree into a dress, and today, she’s transforming ideas into action.”
As for Colonel Qureshi, her credentials reflect her dedication: a Master’s degree in biochemistry from MS University, deployment to conflict zones, and key roles in disaster relief and communications. Her leadership during Operation Sindoor adds a powerful chapter to her career.
Operation Sindoor: The Aftermath
In the 36 hours following Qureshi’s televised statement, India intensified its response to ongoing provocations from Pakistan. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh confirmed that more than 100 terrorists were neutralised in precision strikes. Multiple ceasefire violations and drone incursions were countered with firm retaliation.
High alert gripped the northern front: curfews and blackouts were imposed in Punjab, Rajasthan, and Gujarat. Schools were shut, exams postponed, and the IPL suspended indefinitely. In Jammu’s Samba sector, infiltration attempts were thwarted. Indian air defence systems targeted threats across the border, and sirens echoed in cities like Ambala and Chandigarh.
While the situation along the Line of Control and western border remains tense, the symbolism of Colonel Qureshi’s presence — and the legacy she shares with her sister — has offered a poignant reminder of India’s strength, sacrifice, and evolving military identity.
As Shyna put it: “In her, I see the strength of our ancestors. In this moment, I see India forging its future.”
