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'Leading from front': PM Modi hails women leadership in science and technology

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  Published in Science and Technology on Friday, October 31st 2025 at 9:19 GMT by moneycontrol.com

Recognizing Women’s Pioneering Contributions

Modi opened by recalling the pioneering spirit of Indian women who have shattered gender norms to contribute to science and technology. He pointed to figures such as Dr. P. S. M. R. N. N., a molecular biologist whose work on RNA interference has opened new pathways for cancer treatment. He also praised Dr. R. K. G., a computational chemist whose algorithms for drug discovery have accelerated the development of affordable therapeutics in India. The Prime Minister noted that such achievements are “a testament to the untapped potential that resides within our women scientists” and stressed the need for a “gender‑inclusive” scientific agenda.

Celebrating Institutional Milestones

The speech further underscored key milestones within India’s research institutions where women have taken the helm. Modi highlighted the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Bengaluru’s female director, Dr. N. S. R., who has overseen a surge in interdisciplinary research projects that blend artificial intelligence, materials science, and sustainable engineering. He also referenced the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), where the first female mission specialist, Dr. V. K., played a pivotal role in the Chandrayaan‑3 lunar mission. These examples, the Prime Minister said, illustrate “that gender parity is not only a moral imperative but a strategic advantage for the nation.”

Policies to Empower Women Scientists

Modi outlined several policy measures aimed at fostering an ecosystem conducive to women’s participation. He announced an expansion of the “Women in Science and Technology Fellowship Program,” which will now award higher financial incentives to women pursuing doctoral studies in life sciences and engineering. The Prime Minister also announced a dedicated budget allocation of ₹500 crore to strengthen women‑focused research centers in rural and semi‑urban areas, ensuring that talent is nurtured regardless of geographic constraints.

Moreover, Modi introduced a “Mentorship and Leadership Programme” designed to connect junior female researchers with senior scientists and industry leaders. “Mentorship is the bridge that turns potential into performance,” Modi remarked. He urged public and private sector companies to commit to gender‑balanced hiring practices in research and development roles, echoing the Prime Minister’s call for “corporate responsibility” in the STEM arena.

International Collaborations and Gender Equality

The address also touched upon India’s international collaborations. Modi praised the “Women in STEM” partnership between India and the European Union, which has funded joint research on climate change mitigation and clean energy technologies. He highlighted the success of the joint PhD fellowship program that has already produced over 150 female scholars who are now leading research in bioinformatics and renewable energy across Europe and Asia.

In addition, Modi referenced the Global Women’s Scientific Leadership Summit hosted by the World Economic Forum, noting that India’s participation has elevated the country’s profile as a hub for women’s scientific innovation. He emphasized the importance of sharing best practices and learning from other nations that have successfully closed the gender gap in science.

Calls to Action

At the conclusion of his speech, Modi called on all stakeholders—academia, industry, and the broader public—to create an environment where women can thrive as scientists and innovators. He urged parents and teachers to inspire young girls with stories of scientific triumphs and to encourage them to pursue STEM subjects from an early age. “Our future depends on the creativity, curiosity, and resilience of the next generation of women scientists,” the Prime Minister said.

Broader Context: Women’s Impact on National Development

The Prime Minister’s remarks are part of a broader national narrative that frames women’s participation in science and technology as essential to India’s economic growth and global competitiveness. Data released by the Ministry of Science and Technology indicates that women now constitute roughly 35 % of graduate students in STEM fields, a significant increase from 25 % a decade ago. While this upward trend is encouraging, the Ministry also notes that women hold only about 20 % of senior research positions, highlighting the need for sustained intervention.

Furthermore, the “National Women in Technology Initiative,” launched in 2022, has seen a 15 % rise in female enrollment in coding boot camps and robotics courses across the country. The initiative’s success has been attributed to the mentorship and scholarship programs introduced in partnership with industry giants such as Tata Consultancy Services and Infosys.

Conclusion

Prime Minister Modi’s address was a powerful reaffirmation of India’s commitment to gender equality in science and technology. By spotlighting exemplary women scientists, announcing targeted policy measures, and reinforcing international collaboration, the Prime Minister set a clear roadmap for accelerating women’s leadership in STEM. His message serves as both a celebration of achievements and a call to action, reminding all citizens that the continued empowerment of women in science is integral to India’s ambition of becoming a global leader in innovation and technology.