New Delhi: In a strong countermeasure to the recent terror attack in Pahalgam, the Indian Armed Forces launched precision airstrikes under the codename Operation Sindhoor, targeting nine terrorist locations across Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) in the early hours of Wednesday. The operation focused on dismantling the secret infrastructure of banned terror groups including Jaish-e-Mohammed, Lashkar-e-Taiba, and Hizbul Mujahideen.
According to sources, the coordinated strikes were launched at 1:30 a.m. and aimed at high-value terror hideouts operating within 100 kilometers of the international border. The mission marks a significant escalation in India’s response to cross-border terrorism.
Historic Briefing Led by Women Officers
In a rare and symbolic moment, official details of Operation Sindhoor were shared during a press conference led by two women officers of the Indian Armed Forces — Lieutenant Colonel Sophia Qureshi of the Indian Army and Wing Commander Vyomika Singh of the Indian Air Force. Their leadership in delivering the briefing underlined the growing role of women in India’s military decision-making and operations.
Vyomika Singh: A Career of Dedication and Courage
Wing Commander Vyomika Singh, whose name means “one who lives in the sky,” had dreamt of joining the Air Force since Class VI. After completing her engineering studies, she joined the National Cadet Corps (NCC) and was commissioned into the Indian Air Force on December 18, 2004. She is the first member of her family to serve in the armed forces.
In 2017, after 13 years of distinguished service, Singh was promoted to the rank of Wing Commander, a testament to her professionalism, dedication, and operational capability.
She has logged over 2,500 flying hours and has operated Chetak and Cheetah helicopters in some of the most difficult terrains in Jammu & Kashmir and the Northeast. Her contributions include critical roles in multiple rescue missions, notably one in Arunachal Pradesh in November 2020.
In 2021, she was also a part of a landmark Tri-Services women’s mountaineering expedition that successfully scaled the 21,650-ft Mount Manirang, further showcasing her versatility and commitment to service.