Overview

• Colonel Sofiya Qureshi, Wing Commander Vyomika Singh and Commander Prerna Deosthalee appeared in uniform on Kaun Banega Crorepati’s August 15 Independence Day special and won ₹25 lakh for military welfare funds.
• The officers recounted that Operation Sindoor struck nine terrorist camps across Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir in about 25 minutes in response to April’s Pahalgam attack.
• Retired generals and opposition leaders criticised the broadcast as a choreographed PR exercise and said wearing uniform on a private entertainment show breached armed forces regulations.
• The Defence Ministry has not issued any statement on the episode and dress rules generally bar uniform wear at non-official events without written authorisation.
• Supporters defended the appearance as an inspirational tribute that highlighted women’s roles in the military and reinforced national pride.