The Impact of Women in India's STEM Development

women Driving India’s STEM-Based development

1. Why are women considered central to India’s development journey?

Women are not just participants but key drivers of India’s progress. From healthcare workers like ASHA to scientists and entrepreneurs, their contributions span health, agriculture, biotechnology, and space exploration. Their well-being and active involvement form the foundation of sustainable national growth.

2. What are some examples of women’s impact in healthcare and biotechnology?

Over 10 lakh ASHA workers support India’s primary healthcare system, while women scientists at ICMR, NIV, and AIIMS played a key role in isolating SARS-CoV-2, leading to indigenous vaccines and the world’s largest immunisation drive. In biotechnology, women lead startups in diagnostics, genomics, and vaccine innovation.

3. How is India promoting women in science and entrepreneurship?

Government programmes such as WISE-KIRAN and BioCARe help women scientists return from career breaks. BIRAC recently celebrated 75+ women biotech entrepreneurs, fostering inclusivity. Schemes like Mudra Yojana, Jan Dhan, and Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam ensure women’s economic and political representation.

4. What role do women play in space and technology?

India has one of the highest proportions of women in STEM education globally, with 43% of graduates being women. At ISRO, women have served as mission directors for Chandrayaan-2 and the Mars Orbiter Mission, strengthening India’s global image as a space power.

5. What challenges remain for women in STEM fields?

Despite high participation in STEM education, only 19% of women scientists and technologists are engaged in R&D. Globally, women hold less than 20% of leadership roles in biotechnology. Bridging the gap between education and workplace representation remains a critical challenge.

Synopsis

Women are shaping India’s future across healthcare, biotechnology, agriculture, and space technology. With strong government support and rising participation in STEM, women are driving innovation. Yet, underrepresentation in research and leadership persists. Ensuring visibility, resources, and recognition for women will enable India to surpass global expectations in science-led growth.