Celebrating Remarkable Women in STEM in India: Trailblazers Who Inspire Generations
- Aditi Rao
- Mar 9
- 3 min read
On this International Women’s Day 2025, we honour the extraordinary contributions of Indian women in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) who have defied societal barriers, shattered glass ceilings, and paved the way for future generations. From pioneering research in space exploration to groundbreaking achievements in medicine and engineering, these women have left an indelible mark on their respective fields.
Here’s a tribute to some of the most influential women in STEM from India and their remarkable achievements.
1. Dr. Janaki Ammal (1897–1984) – The Botanical Genius
A trailblazing botanist, Dr. Janaki Ammal made significant contributions to plant cytogenetics and was instrumental in improving sugarcane varieties in India. As the first Indian woman to earn a PhD in Botany in the 1930s, she conducted groundbreaking research on chromosome structure and hybridization. Her work played a crucial role in India’s agricultural advancements. She was later honoured with the Padma Shri in 1977.
2. Dr. Kamala Sohonie (1911–1998) – The Biochemistry Pioneer
Dr. Kamala Sohonie was the first Indian woman to receive a PhD in a scientific discipline. Her research focused on enzymology and plant biochemistry, particularly in understanding proteins and vitamins essential for nutrition. Despite facing gender biases, she worked extensively to improve malnutrition solutions in India.
3. Dr. Asima Chatterjee (1917–2006) – The Chemistry Icon
Dr. Asima Chatterjee was a leading organic chemist known for her research in medicinal chemistry and phytochemistry. She developed anti-epileptic and anti-malarial drugs and was the first woman to receive a Doctorate of Science from an Indian university (Calcutta University). She was also the first female scientist elected as the General President of the Indian Science Congress.
4. Dr. Rajeshwari Chatterjee (1922–2010) – The First Woman Engineer from Karnataka
Dr. Rajeshwari Chatterjee was a pioneer in microwave engineering and electronics. She became the first woman faculty member in the Indian Institute of Science (IISc), where she led groundbreaking research in radar and antenna technology—critical to India’s defense systems.
5. Dr. Indira Hinduja – The IVF Innovator
A renowned gynecologist and reproductive scientist, Dr. Indira Hinduja was responsible for India’s first test-tube baby in 1986 through in-vitro fertilization (IVF). She also pioneered the Gamete Intra-Fallopian Transfer (GIFT) technique, giving hope to countless couples struggling with infertility.
6. Dr. Tessy Thomas – The Missile Woman of India
Dr. Tessy Thomas is known as the "Missile Woman of India" for her exceptional contributions to India’s defense and missile technology. She was the first woman scientist to lead a missile project in India and played a crucial role in the development of the Agni series of ballistic missiles. She currently serves as the Director-General of Aeronautical Systems at DRDO.
7. Dr. Gagandeep Kang – India’s Vaccine Champion
A leading microbiologist and virologist, Dr. Gagandeep Kang was instrumental in developing India’s first indigenous rotavirus vaccine (Rotavac), which protects children from severe diarrhea. She was the first Indian woman elected to the Royal Society of London and continues to contribute to global public health.
8. Dr. Ritu Karidhal – The Rocket Woman of India
A senior scientist at ISRO (Indian Space Research Organisation), Dr. Ritu Karidhal played a key role in India’s historic Chandrayaan-2 and Mangalyaan (Mars Orbiter Mission). Her expertise in spacecraft autonomy and mission planning has been critical in India’s space explorations.
9. Dr. Swati Mohan – The Face of NASA’s Mars Landing
Born in India and raised in the U.S., Dr. Swati Mohan led NASA’s Perseverance Rover landing team in 2021. As an aerospace engineer, her expertise in guidance and control systems has made her a global role model for aspiring women in space science.
10. Dr. Kalpana Chawla (1962–2003) – The First Indian Woman in Space
A true inspiration for generations, Dr. Kalpana Chawla was the first Indian-origin woman to go to space. She was an astronaut and aerospace engineer at NASA and flew on two space missions before tragically losing her life in the Columbia Space Shuttle disaster in 2003. Her legacy continues to inspire young women in STEM.
Honouring the Legacy of Women in STEM
These incredible women have shaped India’s scientific landscape and continue to inspire the next generation of girls to pursue careers in STEM. Their perseverance, intelligence, and courage serve as a beacon of hope for breaking gender stereotypes in science and technology.
As we celebrate International Women’s Day 2025, let’s work towards encouraging more girls to explore STEM fields, ensuring that gender does not limit potential.
🚀💡 Who inspires you the most from this list? Let us know in the comments! 💬
Comments