THEME: ROLE OF WOMEN PROFESSIONALS IN ACHIEVING VIKSIT BHARAT @2047
VIKSIT BHARAT @2047 – WOMEN LED DEVELOPMENT
Author: Dr. Deepthi V, PhD Scholar, Veterinary Pharmacology and Toxicology, Indian Veterinary Research Institute, Izatnagar, Uttar Pradesh, India – 243122.
Mail address: deepthi99v@gmail.com
Keywords: Indian government initiatives, Viksit bharat @2047, Women Awardees 2024-25, Women professionals.
INTRODUCTION
India with women as the first citizen, embodied in the inspiring leadership of Smt. Droupadi Murmu, stands as the living Presidency of our nation’s progress. Equality and dignity, cherished since the Vedic age, remain the roots of our civilization. Across the country, countless women have broken the shackles of stereotypes, motivating others to follow in their footsteps and compete with confidence. The Government of India has reinforced this momentum through schematic interventions that ensure empowerment and opportunity. As women continue to break barriers and assume leadership across diverse domains, their active participation is not merely a marker of progress but an indispensable driver of the vision of Viksit Bharat @2047.
The Viksit Bharat initiative envisions India as a developed nation by 2047, coinciding with the centennial of independence. Guided by the slogan “Bold Vision. Brighter Future”, it is a comprehensive plan built on multiple frameworks such as four pillars, six focus areas and five themes, reflecting economic prosperity, social advancement, environmental sustainability and effective governance. Its goals include eliminating poverty, ensuring quality education and healthcare, achieving net zero carbon emissions and establishing transparent, citizen centric governance while positioning India as a global leader in technology and innovation. At its core are the four pillars: Yuva (Youth), Garib (Poor), Mahilayen (Women), and Annadata (Farmers). Complementing these are six focus areas: global manufacturing, revival of Indian knowledge systems, global presence of Indian products, green energy, tourism and inclusive global development. The five themes such as empowered Indians, thriving and sustainable economy, innovation, science and technology, good governance and security and India in the world provide a holistic framework for transformation.
Together, these pillars, focus areas and themes chart a roadmap where women’s leadership is central to achieving a bold, brighter future for India.
STATUS AND CHALLENGES FOR WOMEN IN INDIA
With combination of large population and relatively low middle income, India stands as the fifth largest economy in the world. The National Family Health Survey (NFHS-5, 2019-21) reports an improved sex ratio of 1,020 females per 1,000 males, with women now marginally outnumbering men in India. More recent estimates from the National Statistical Office (NSO) indicate progress in female literacy, which rose to 67.4% in 2020–21. Yet, a persistent gender gap underscores the unfinished agenda of educational equity. This imbalance is mirrored in the economic sphere, where women contribute only 18% to India’s GDP despite their vast potential. Nearly 196 million employable women remain outside the labour force, reflecting structural and social barriers to participation. Although female labour force participation has improved to 41.7%, the reality is sobering, as only a small fraction of women hold formal, secure jobs. A study by the National Sample Survey Organization (NSSO) indicated that women in urban India spend almost six hours daily on unpaid care work, compared to less than an hour for men. India’s women parliamentary representation remains low (around 13.6-14 % in the 2024 Lok Sabha), below the global average, despite gradual growth and the recent 2023 Women’s Reservation Bill. India ranked 131st out of 148 countries in the Global Gender Report 2025. The report is not just a statistic, it’s a roadmap showing where India must act to empower women more effectively.
GOVERNMENT INTERVENTIONS DRIVING WOMEN-LED DEVELOPMENT
Constitution guarantees equal employment opportunity for women. Women’s participation is no longer viewed as supplementary; it is a core pillar of the Viksit Bharat vision, marking the shift from “women’s development” to “women-led development.” This transformation is unfolding through a series of initiatives that empower women to lead, innovate and inspire. It begins with Mahila E-Haat, an online marketplace where women entrepreneurs showcase and sell their products, breaking barriers of geography and visibility. Financial empowerment follows through Rashtriya Mahila Kosh (RMK), which acts as the National Credit Fund for Women, channeling micro-credit via Micro-Finance Institutions (MFIs), Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) and Self-Help Groups (SHGs). Here, credit becomes more than money, it becomes an instrument of socio-economic change, enabling women to start or sustain income-generating activities. Building on this foundation, schemes like Stand-Up India open doors to enterprise by facilitating bank loans between ₹10 lakh and ₹1 crore, while Pradhan Mantri Mudra Yojana (PMMY) ensures collateral-free loans for women in small businesses. These initiatives collectively dismantle financial barriers and encourage women to step into entrepreneurship with confidence. Alongside financial inclusion, initiatives such as the Digital Saksharta Abhiyan (DISHA) and the Pradhan Mantri Gramin Digital Saksharta Abhiyan (PMGDISHA) are embedded into national infrastructure and rural internet projects, boosting women’s digital empowerment and ensuring they can access opportunities in the digital economy. Beyond finance, the Working Women Hostels Scheme provides safe accommodation for women working away from their families, ensuring security and dignity in urban spaces. Meanwhile, the Women Entrepreneurship Platform (WEP) nurtures women-led startups, offering mentorship, networking and support to scale their ideas into impactful ventures. The results are visible and inspiring, as women-led Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) have nearly doubled from 1 crore in 2010-11 to 1.92 crore in 2023-24, generating 89 lakh additional jobs for women between financial years 2020-21 and 2022-23. Gender budgets rose 429 % over a decade, from Rs 0.85 lakh crore (2013-14) to Rs 4.49 lakh crore (2025-26), signaling a shift to women-led development. These figures go beyond numbers, embodying lives transformed, families uplifted and communities strengthened.
WOMEN PROFESSIONALS STRENGTHENING THE FOUR PILLARS OF VIKSIT BHARAT @2047
Yuva (Youth)
India’s youth are inspired by women who exemplify resilience, discipline and global competitiveness. Manu Bhaker, with her Olympic medals, has become a symbol of determination in sports, showing young Indians that excellence is possible with focus and grit. Her journey from a small town to the Olympic podium demonstrates how perseverance and family support can transform potential into achievement.
Smriti Mandhana, the most prolific batter in women’s cricket, motivates aspiring athletes to pursue excellence on the global stage. Her aggressive batting style, consistency and leadership in the Indian women’s cricket team prove that women can dominate in fields once considered male-centric. She has become a household name, inspiring countless young girls to pick up the bat and dream of representing India.
Vaishali, an Arjuna Award recipient and Chess Grandmaster, demonstrates how intellectual rigor and perseverance can lead to international recognition. Her success in chess highlights the importance of mental discipline, strategy and focus, qualities that resonate with India’s youth striving for excellence in academics and competitive fields.
Beyond sports, women scientists mentor the next generation in science, technology, engineering and mathematics. With over 43% of India’s graduates in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) being women and more than 340 women scientists receiving fellowships in 2024, they are collectively shaping a future where the nation’s youth are empowered to lead in discovery and innovation. These achievements directly strengthen the Yuva pillar, ensuring India’s young population is guided by women role models in both sports and science.
Garib (Poor)
Women leaders have played a transformative role in uplifting marginalized communities. Safeena Husain, founder of Educate Girls, won the World Innovation Summit for Education Award in 2023 for her outstanding contribution to girls’ education, directly empowering poor families through access to learning. Her work has ensured that thousands of girls from disadvantaged backgrounds are enrolled in schools, breaking cycles of poverty through education. By mobilizing volunteers and communities, she has created a sustainable model that continues to impact rural India.
Sheela Patel, through the Society for the Promotion of Area Resource Centres, has tirelessly advocated for the rights of slum dwellers, creating equitable urban spaces and amplifying the voices of the underprivileged. Her initiatives have given dignity and agency to communities often excluded from mainstream development. She has worked with international networks to ensure that the urban poor are represented in global dialogues on housing and infrastructure.
In rural India, women veterinarians contribute significantly to poverty alleviation by promoting scientific livestock care and animal husbandry, enabling families to generate sustainable income. By improving animal health and productivity, they directly enhance rural livelihoods. Their work ensures that the Garib pillar is strengthened by education, advocacy and rural empowerment.
Adding to this, the Savitribai Phule Teacher Excellence Award (Maharashtra, 2025) winners represent another dimension of empowerment. Over one hundred educators across Maharashtra were recognized in 2025 for redefining teaching through creativity, digital tools and empathy. These teachers ensured that children from disadvantaged backgrounds continued to learn even during the pandemic, bridging gaps in access and opportunity. Their collective achievement reflects the Garib pillar by empowering the poor through education and nurturing inclusive growth.
Mahilayen (Women)
The spirit of women led development is embodied by entrepreneurs and cultural leaders. Falguni Nayar, founder of Nykaa, has built one of India’s most successful e commerce ventures, empowering women entrepreneurs and consumers alike. Her journey from investment banking to entrepreneurship demonstrates how vision and risk taking can create new markets and opportunities.
Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw, Executive Chairperson of Biocon, has revolutionized the biopharmaceutical industry by promoting affordable medicines and biotechnology innovation, making healthcare accessible to millions. Her leadership has positioned India as a global hub for affordable healthcare solutions.
Hardika Shah, Chief Executive Officer of Kinara Capital, has advanced financial inclusion by providing loans to small and medium enterprises through technology, enabling women entrepreneurs to thrive. Her work has empowered thousands of women to start businesses, generate employment and contribute to local economies.
Padma Bhushan awardees such as Sudha Murty for her social work and literature, Usha Uthup for her contribution to music and Vani Jairam for her excellence in the arts, inspire women across the nation through creativity and philanthropy. Their achievements strengthen the Mahilayen pillar, proving that women are central leaders in India’s development.
Annadata (Farmers)
Women have also made remarkable contributions to agriculture and livestock care. K Chellammal, a Padma Shri awardee from the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, promoted organic farming, advancing sustainable agriculture and empowering farmers. Her work has encouraged communities to adopt eco friendly practices that protect biodiversity and ensure food security.
Women veterinarians who took a page from Dr. Sakkubai Ramachandran’s book actively advance Viksit Bharat @2047 by mentoring youth in scientific livestock care, uplifting the poor through income from animal husbandry, empowering women via leadership in veterinary science and supporting farmers with sustainable animal health innovations.
Dr. Sosamma Iype, honored with the Padma Shri, conserved indigenous cattle breeds, ensuring biodiversity and sustainable farming practices. Her work has preserved genetic diversity and strengthened rural livelihoods. Together, these women exemplify how veterinary science and agriculture are integral to the Annadata pillar, ensuring farmers benefit from sustainable innovations and leadership.
WOMEN PROFESSIONALS ADVANCING THE SIX FOCUS AREAS OF VIKSIT BHARAT @2047
Global Manufacturing and Innovation
Women scientists such as Kalpana Kalahasti, Ritu Karidhal and Nidhi Porwal played pivotal roles in the Chandrayaan 3 lunar mission, while Nigar Shaji led India’s solar mission Aditya L1. Their leadership strengthens India’s innovation ecosystem and global competitiveness.
Revival of Indian Knowledge Systems
Cultural icons such as Padma Subrahmanyam and Yamini Krishnamurthy have preserved classical dance traditions, while scholars like Vidya Dehejia and Indira Goswami have enriched Indian literature and historical studies, ensuring India’s heritage remains globally relevant.
- Global Presence of Indian Products
Entrepreneurs such as Vishakha Mulye with Aditya Birla Capital and Nivruti Rai with Invest India have expanded India’s global economic footprint, showcasing Indian products and investments internationally. Their leadership ensures Indian enterprises are recognized globally.
Green Energy and Sustainability
Environmentalists such as Sunita Narain, marine conservationist Divya Karnad and wildlife biologist Purnima Devi Barman, named TIME Magazine Woman of the Year in 2025, have advanced ecological sustainability, positioning India as a leader in green growth. Their work highlights the importance of balancing development with environmental stewardship.
Tourism and Arts
Filmmaker Payal Kapadia, winner of the Grand Prix at Cannes in 2024 and listed among Forbes’ top self made women, alongside tribal artist Jodhaiyabai Baiga, have elevated India’s cultural and artistic presence globally. Their contributions ensure that India’s rich cultural heritage continues to inspire the world.
Inclusive Global Development
Leaders such as Gita Gopinath (Deputy Managing Director of the International Monetary Fund), Anshula Kant (Managing Director and Chief Financial Officer of the World Bank) and Renuka Ramnath (private equity leader), have strengthened India’s role in inclusive global development. Their leadership ensures India’s voice is heard in shaping global policies.
WOMEN PROFESSIONALS EMBODYING THE FIVE THEMES OF VIKSIT BHARAT @2047
Empowered Indians
Governance leaders such as Mona Khandhar spearheading Gujarat’s semiconductor revolution, Squadron Leader Manisha Padhi as the first woman from the Indian Armed Forces appointed Aide-de-Camp to a state governor and Captain Fatima Wasim as the first woman medical officer deployed at the Siachen Glacier exemplify empowerment through leadership. Trailblazers such as Dr. Simran Ashish Shinge, India’s youngest female veterinarian pilot, embody empowerment by breaking barriers in both veterinary science and aviation.
Thriving and Sustainable Economy
Women led micro, small and medium enterprises have nearly doubled from 1 crore in 2010 – 2011 to 1.92 crore in 2023-2024, creating 89 lakh jobs. Gender budgets have risen by four hundred and twenty nine percent in a decade, signaling a decisive shift toward women led development. These achievements highlight how women entrepreneurs are driving economic growth and sustainability.
- Innovation, Science and Technology
Achievements in mathematics, astronomy, and medical innovation highlight how women scientists are strengthening India’s global leadership in science and technology. Si Ying Lee, winner of the Maryam Mirzakhani New Frontiers Prize (2025), represents excellence in mathematics and inspires young scholars worldwide. In astronomy, Hashima Hasan, an Indian-origin astrophysicist, has played a pivotal role as Deputy Program Scientist for NASA’s James Webb Space Telescope, contributing to groundbreaking cosmic discoveries. In medical innovation, Dr. Geetha Manjunath, founder of NIRAMAI Health Analytix, has pioneered non-invasive, AI-driven breast cancer detection technology, making early diagnosis more accessible and affordable.
Good Governance and Security
Women leaders in finance and governance have shaped economic policy and strengthened global institutions. Smt. Nirmala Sitharaman, India’s Finance Minister, has steered the country’s economy through challenging global conditions, ensuring fiscal stability while promoting inclusive growth. Anshula Kant, Managing Director and Chief Financial Officer of the World Bank, has played a critical role in global financial governance, ensuring accountability and transparency in international development financing. Gita Gopinath, Deputy Managing Director of the International Monetary Fund, has influenced global monetary policy, ensuring that India’s perspectives are represented in international decision making.
In defense and security, pioneers such as Captain Fatima Wasim, the first woman medical officer deployed at the Siachen Glacier, have demonstrated courage and resilience in extreme conditions. Squadron Leader Manisha Padhi, appointed as the first woman Aide de Camp to a state governor, symbolizes the breaking of barriers in military protocol and governance. Together, these leaders embody the theme of Good Governance and Security, proving that women are integral to both domestic policy and international stability.
India in the World
Women professionals are increasingly being recognized on global and national platforms, reflecting India’s expanding influence across diverse fields.
In defense and governance, leaders such as Major Swathi Shantha Kumar, recipient of the UN Secretary-General’s Award (2025), exemplify India’s commitment to peace and security. In sports, achievers like Divya Deshmukh (Chess), Sheetal Devi (Para Archery), Esha Singh (Shooting) and Antim Panghal (Wrestling) highlight India’s rising excellence on the international stage, inspiring youth and strengthening India’s global sporting identity.
In corporate leadership, figures such as Indra Nooyi (Former CEO of PepsiCo) and Leena Nair (Global CEO of Chanel) demonstrate how Indian talent drives global enterprises, instilling confidence in India’s managerial excellence. In finance and technology, Arundhati Bhattacharya, former Chairperson of the State Bank of India and now leading Salesforce India, bridges traditional banking with digital innovation, positioning India as a hub for financial transformation. By excelling in governance, sports, enterprise and technology, these leaders ensure women’s achievements echo worldwide, strengthening India’s global stature and advancing the journey to Viksit Bharat @2047.
CONCLUSION
Empowering women is not merely a matter of justice or human rights, it is the cornerstone of India’s transformation. The contributions of women professionals resonate powerfully with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), transcending national boundaries and positioning them as architects of a global development agenda as well as indispensable catalysts in realizing the vision of Viksit Bharat @2047.Through their leadership in advancing quality education (SDG 4), promoting gender equality (SDG 5), driving economic growth and decent work (SDG 8), strengthening health and well being (SDG 3), women professionals embody the transformative power needed to build an inclusive, sustainable and prosperous India. Their achievements are not isolated milestones, they are collective forces shaping the destiny of a nation. Together, these achievements affirm that women are not supplementary contributors but the driving force of India’s ambitious mission. Their leadership ensures that Viksit Bharat @2047 will stand not only as a milestone in national progress but also as a global model of inclusive and sustainable development.
As Savitribai Phule once said, “Awake, arise and educate, Smash traditions – liberate.” The spirit of her words lives on in every woman professional including me as the author of this article who breaks barriers today. With women’s vision, courage and innovation, India marches toward 2047 not as a nation led by a few, but as a nation empowered by many. Women stand at the helm, shaping a bold vision and a brighter future for the world to follow.
