Synopsis
Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh highlighted the significant role of women in India's space and research missions during the International Women’s Day celebrations, showcasing their leadership in initiatives like Aditya-L1 and Chandrayaan-3.Key Takeaways
- Women are leading India's space missions.
- Significant transformation in scientific leadership.
- Women’s empowerment in STEM fields is growing.
- Robotic astronaut 'Vyommitra' symbolizes progress.
- Government initiatives support women in science.
New Delhi, March 8 (NationPress) The forefront of India’s scientific leadership is now dominated by women, who are steering the nation’s space and research missions, stated Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh on Saturday.
For instance, the Aditya-L1 mission is under female leadership, the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) along with six of its laboratories are managed by women, and a woman played a pivotal role in the Chandrayaan-3 mission.
“This signifies a remarkable transformation in our scientific domain,” he expressed during the International Women’s Day 2025 celebrations at the CSIR-National Physical Laboratory (CSIR-NPL).
Dr. Singh reflected on the evolving dynamics of Indian science and governance, emphasizing that women have transitioned from mere participants to leaders of essential national initiatives.
“We have advanced from an age of women’s involvement to a process led by women,” he remarked, noting that fields of science previously dominated by men are now increasingly led by skilled women.
The minister mentioned examples of high-ranking women in India’s civil services, a sector that was once male-centric but now sees women consistently achieving top ranks.
“There was a period when women were scarce in STEM education, much less in leadership roles. Today, they are not only thriving but also establishing new standards,” he stated.
Dr. Singh pointed out that the recent Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) results have shown a significant female presence, reflecting a broader evolution in India’s social and professional landscape.
He also underscored Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s efforts to enhance women’s empowerment in the field of science, from increasing women’s representation in Republic Day parades to allowing females in defense institutions such as Sainik Schools and military academies.
This year, for the first time, PM Modi entrusted his personal social media account to selected female achievers on International Women’s Day, two of whom are from India’s space and nuclear sectors.
Dr. Singh announced that the forthcoming Gaganyaan mission test flight will include a robotic astronaut named ‘Vyommitra’, a female humanoid, symbolizing the enhanced role of women in India’s space ventures.
Dr. N. Kalaiselvi, Director General of CSIR and Secretary of DSIR, emphasized the increasing influence of women in science and technology, asserting that today’s women are not just contributors but are pivotal in shaping the scientific future of India.
