In a powerful display of leadership and symbolism, two women officers of the Indian Armed Forces — Wing Commander Vyomika Singh and Colonel Sofiya Qureshi — led the official briefing on Operation Sindoor on Wednesday, presenting details of India’s precision airstrikes against terror infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK).
Following an opening statement by Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri, the two officers took centre stage, outlining the rationale, targets, and outcomes of the operation, which was launched in response to the April 22 terror attack in Pahalgam that claimed the lives of 26 civilians.
Their presence served as a potent symbol — not only of military precision and professionalism but also of sacrifice and resilience — reflecting the very spirit of Operation Sindoor, named after the traditional red vermillion that signifies commitment, strength, and martyrdom.
Colonel Qureshi stated that nine terror camps were destroyed during the operation, all carefully selected based on credible intelligence. “No military installations were targeted. The strikes were focused solely on infrastructure linked to cross-border terrorism,” she said.
Wing Commander Vyomika Singh added, “India is fully prepared to respond to any misadventure by Pakistan. Operation Sindoor sends a clear message: terrorism will not go unanswered.”
The officers shared video footage from onboard targeting systems and surveillance drones, showing direct hits on terror hubs, including Lashkar-e-Taiba’s headquarters in Muridke and multiple sites linked to Jaish-e-Mohammed across Pakistan and PoK.
During the press release, a video montage was played in the background, chronicling the history of terror attacks on Indian soil — from the 2001 Parliament attack to Akshardham (2002), Mumbai (2008), Uri, Pulwama, and finally Pahalgam. The montage concluded with a stark message:
“More than 350 Indian civilians have lost their lives to cross-border terrorism in the past decade. Over 600 security personnel have made the supreme sacrifice. No More. Operation Sindoor.”
The choice to have two decorated women officers deliver the nation’s response not only showcased the professionalism of India’s defence forces but also paid tribute to the countless families, particularly women, shattered by terrorism, turning grief into resolve.
(With IANS inputs)
