In recent years, corporate India has taken significant strides in empowering women within the STEMM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics & Medicine) sectors, driving efforts to bridge gender gaps and foster an inclusive work environment.
As women continue to break barriers and assume leadership roles in traditionally male-dominated fields, businesses are introducing several initiatives aimed at equipping them with the skills, resources, and opportunities they need to thrive.
One of the most notable trends in Indian corporate spaces is the growing focus on gender equality in leadership positions. Companies across sectors are increasingly prioritizing diversity and inclusion, implementing policies to ensure that women can progress to senior roles. This includes setting gender diversity targets, offering mentorship programmes, and investing in leadership development for women.
Anasuya Mohan Rao, Clinical Partnerships Leader at Philips Innovation Campus, Bangalore, emphasized the importance of celebrating women in science and technology. “Empowering women in STEM is about creating opportunities, breaking down barriers, and fostering an inclusive environment where talent can flourish,” Rao said.
Programmes like ‘Get Ready for Opportunities at Work’ (GROW), designed to help women in technology enhance their skills, and ‘Catapult,’ a mentorship initiative aimed at sustaining women’s career aspirations, are key in shaping the future of women in the sector.
Philips, one of the leaders in this domain, has actively worked to increase women’s representation in leadership roles, a step that reflects the company’s commitment to gender parity and sustainable innovation in healthcare and technology.
As the tech industry sees rapid growth, women in India are increasingly stepping up, breaking stereotypes, and challenging conventions. However, industry leaders like Harsha Solanki, Vice President and General Manager, Asia, Infobip, believe more needs to be done. Solanki pointed out that mentorship programmes, leadership training, and continuous upskilling are essential for preparing women for leadership positions in tech and STEM fields.
“The landscape of the tech industry is witnessing a visible shift towards inclusivity and diversity. Women are not just participating but leading in sectors like technology. The right support and mentorship are crucial to sustaining this momentum,” Solanki said.
Corporate giants like Infobip have focused on developing robust training and mentorship ecosystems that help women not only advance in their careers but also lead transformation in the tech industry.
While in-office initiatives are vital, corporate social responsibility (CSR) programs are also playing a pivotal role in empowering women in underserved regions across India. Companies are investing in community development programs that provide educational opportunities, skill-building, and vocational training to women in rural and economically backward areas.
