India has rapidly emerged as a global leader in technology and innovation, with its tech industry contributing significantly to economic growth. However, the underrepresentation of women in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) remains a persistent challenge. Bridging the gender gap in STEM is not just about achieving gender equality; it is crucial for fostering innovation and driving India’s tech industry forward.

Recently, PM Modi while addressing the International Telecommunication Union - World Telecommunication Standardisation Assembly and the India Mobile Congress 2024 highlighted the importance of women in STEM. He mentioned how women today constitute more than 40% of students in STEM education. He also recognized how rural women are taking charge of revolutionary Drone innovations in agriculture sector.

Understanding STEM and Its Importance

STEM refers to four critical areas: Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics. These fields are essential for innovation, problem-solving, and driving the economy forward. STEM careers are often well-paying and offer substantial growth opportunities. They play a crucial role in shaping the future, from healthcare advancements to space exploration, environmental sustainability, and developing new technologies. However, while these fields offer great promise, they have historically been male-dominated, and women have struggled to gain equal footing.

The Gender Gap in STEM: A Global Issue

The underrepresentation of women in STEM is not just an Indian problem. It is a global issue. According to UNESCO, only around 30% of the world’s researchers are women. The reasons for this gender gap are multifaceted, including societal norms, lack of role models, unconscious biases, and unequal access to education and opportunities.

But in India, the situation is even more complex. Cultural expectations, deeply rooted gender roles, and a male-dominated work environment exacerbate the challenges for women aspiring to enter or thrive in STEM careers.

The Current Scenario: Women in STEM in India

While women constitute 43% of graduates in STEM fields globally, in India, only about 14% of women are employed in STEM roles, according to a recent survey by the World Economic Forum. Despite the fact that India produces a significant number of female STEM graduates—around 40% of STEM graduates in India are women—many do not enter or remain in STEM careers.

According to the All India Survey on Higher Education (AISHE) 2019-20, while more women are enrolling in higher education institutions in India, especially in STEM fields like science, technology, and engineering, a "leaky pipeline" persists. The number of women who join STEM jobs and progress in their careers diminishes rapidly, with many women leaving the workforce within the first few years of employment.

Only Twenty percent of the enterprises in the country are led by women. In leadership roles, the figures are even more concerning. Women hold only about 7-10% of leadership roles in India's tech industry. This gender gap indicates significant barriers to career advancement for women in STEM. Though India ranks third in having the best eco-system for start-ups but we there is only10 % participation in it for women.

Why Does the Gender Gap Persist in STEM?

Several reasons contribute to the low representation of women in STEM careers in India:

1. Cultural and Societal Expectations : Traditional gender roles often pressure women to prioritize family responsibilities over career ambitions. In STEM fields, which demand long working hours and intensive involvement, women face additional societal pressures, often discouraging them from pursuing these paths.

2. Gender Bias and Discrimination : Unconscious biases against women in technology and engineering persist in hiring, promotions, and workplace culture. Women are often perceived as less competent in technical fields compared to men, limiting their opportunities for advancement.

3. Lack of Role Models and Mentors : The absence of visible female role models in leadership positions within STEM fields creates a psychological barrier for young women. Without mentors or networks to guide them, many women feel isolated in male-dominated workplaces.

4. Workplace Challenges : Lack of flexible work arrangements, maternity benefits, and childcare support often leads to women dropping out of the workforce. Many tech companies in India are yet to adopt gender-sensitive policies that enable women to balance work and family life effectively.

Government Policies Supporting Women in STEM

To address the gender gap between men and women in STEM, the Indian government has introduced several initiatives aimed at encouraging women to pursue and sustain careers in STEM fields:

1. KIRAN (Knowledge Involvement in Research Advancement through Nurturing)

The Department of Science and Technology (DST) launched the KIRAN program to encourage women in science and research. It provides fellowships, funding, and mentoring for women scientists who may have taken a career break due to family reasons.

2. Women Scientist Scheme (WOS) : This scheme provides financial assistance to women scientists who want to return to research after a break. It has three categories: WOS-A (Research in Basic & Applied Science), WOS-B (Technology Development), and WOS-C (Internship in Intellectual Property Rights).

3. GATI (Gender Advancement for Transforming Institutions) : The GATI initiative, launched by the Government of India, aims to promote gender equality in STEM institutions. It works with academic and research institutions to ensure a gender-inclusive environment and increase the participation of women in leadership roles.

4. INSPIRE (Innovation in Science Pursuit for Inspired Research)

The INSPIRE program targets young women, encouraging them to pursue careers in science and technology through scholarships, internships, and research fellowships. It helps women with funding opportunities to continue research after completing their degrees.

5. Women in Engineering, Science, and Technology (WEST) Program

Aimed at promoting the participation of women in STEM in India especially, science, the WEST program offers skill-building workshops, access to research funding, and opportunities for collaboration with international institutions.

These initiatives are critical steps in addressing the systemic barriers that prevent women from entering and advancing in STEM fields.

The Economic Impact of the Gender Gap in STEM

The underrepresentation of women in STEM in India not only limits individual career opportunities but also negatively affects India's overall economic potential. According to a study by McKinsey Global Institute, bridging the gender gap in India could add $770 billion to the country’s GDP by 2025. A diverse workforce leads to better decision-making, increased innovation, and improved productivity.

In the tech industry, where India has a global competitive edge, the lack of women in STEM reduces diversity of thought and limits the development of new technologies that could be more inclusive. More women in the field would bring diverse perspectives to problem-solving, which is crucial for innovation.

Some Practical Suggestions to Bridge the Gender Gap in STEM

Bridging the gender gap in STEM in India requires efforts from all stakeholders—governments, educational institutions, companies, and individuals. Here are some practical solutions:

1. Encourage STEM Education for Girls at a Young Age : Schools should introduce STEM concepts early in the curriculum and encourage girls to explore these fields. Initiatives like coding clubs, science competitions, and robotics workshops can help foster a passion for technology and engineering from a young age.

2. Address Gender Bias in the Workplace : Tech companies must actively work to eliminate unconscious biases in hiring, promotions, and daily interactions. This can be achieved through gender sensitization workshops, diversity training programs, and transparent evaluation systems to ensure women are judged solely on their merits.

3. Promote Women Role Models : Successful women in STEM should be highlighted as role models. These women can be invited to speak at conferences, universities, and schools to inspire the next generation. Companies can also create mentorship programs where senior women in STEM guide younger women entering the field.

4. Implement Gender-Sensitive Workplace Policies : Companies need to adopt policies that support work-life balance for women, such as flexible working hours, remote work options, and childcare facilities. Paid maternity leave and parental leave for men can also encourage more equitable distribution of family responsibilities, making it easier for women to continue their careers post-childbirth.

5. Encourage Networking and Collaboration : Women in STEM should be encouraged to join professional networks that provide support and collaboration opportunities. These networks can serve as platforms for mentorship, skill development, and career advancement.

6. Government and Corporate Partnerships : The government can partner with the private sector to create more scholarships, internships, and job opportunities for women in STEM. Collaborative efforts such as tech boot camps and returnship programs (for women returning after a career break) can provide a pathway back into the workforce.

7. Improve Data Collection and Research : Better data collection on gender disparities in STEM fields is essential for designing effective policies. Research on why women leave STEM careers can provide insights into the specific challenges they face, enabling targeted interventions.

The Road Ahead

The road to closing the gender gap in STEM in India is long, but it is achievable with sustained efforts. As the tech industry continues to grow, the inclusion of women in these roles will not only benefit individuals but also fuel innovation and economic progress for the nation.

Women in STEM can help shape India’s future by leading the next wave of technological advancements and solving global challenges, from climate change to healthcare. By encouraging more women to enter and thrive in STEM careers, we can unlock the full potential of India's talent and create a more equitable and prosperous society.

Conclusion

Bridging the gender gap in India's tech industry is not just a matter of equality; it's crucial for the country's economic growth and innovation. With women making up nearly half of India's population, their underrepresentation in STEM fields means a significant loss of talent and potential. By promoting STEM education for girls, supporting women in the workforce, and implementing gender-sensitive policies, India can bridge this gap and create a more inclusive tech industry.

The slowly increasing percentage of female STEM graduates in India shows that the talent pool exists. The challenge lies in creating an ecosystem that nurtures this talent, provides equal opportunities, and supports women throughout their careers in STEM. Government policies, corporate initiatives, and societal change must work hand in hand to empower women in STEM.

By addressing the challenges at every stage – from early education to leadership positions – India can create a more inclusive STEM workforce.

As we work towards this goal, it's important to remember that change takes time. However, with consistent effort, supportive policies, and a shift in societal attitudes, India can set an example in promoting gender diversity in STEM fields. This will not only benefit women but also enhance the country's technological capabilities and economic prosperity.

The journey to bridge the gender gap in India's tech industry is ongoing, but with concerted efforts from all stakeholders, a more equitable future in STEM is within reach.

References

https://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/Coimbatore/40-women-enrolment-in-stem-field-a-world-record-for-india-says-ugc-chairman/article67955091.ece

https://iwwage.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Women-in-STEM-Challenges-and-Opportunities-in-India-Report.pdf

https://www.orfonline.org/expert-speak/women-and-stem-the-inexplicable-gap-between-education-and-workforce-participation