By Indira Vashishta Carena
No society can ever be imagined without women. It will not be a fallacy to remark that women are the warp and woof of any social setup. The transformation of women's progress in India across various fields, including the military, Airforce has been significant and multifaceted which indeed hammers at the old ossified stronghold of patriarchy.
It was a goosebump moment for the countrymen when two women officers Colonel Sofiya Qureshi of the Army and Wing Commander Vyomika Singh from the Indian Air Force briefed the media about Operation Sindoor in New Delhi on May 7, 2025. However, it cannot be forgotten that the entry of women in the Indian Army has had a chequered history. Here’s a comprehensive overview of how women have evolved their roles and status in different sectors, particularly focusing on education, employment, politics, Administrative services,health, social rights, sports, arts, technology, Airline and the armed forces:
Education & Employment
There has been a notable increase in female enrollment in primary, secondary, and higher education. Government initiatives and scholarships have played a crucial role in reducing dropout rates among girls.
Focus on STEM: More women are pursuing degrees in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM), and various programs encourage girls to enter these fields. Women's participation in the workforce has significantly increased, especially in urban areas. They are taking on roles in diverse IT, healthcare, education, and finance sectors.
Entrepreneurship Growth: The rise of women entrepreneurs is notable, with numerous government schemes supporting female-led businesses and providing access to loans, training, and mentorship.
Politics & Leadership
In modern day politics women leaders play key roles. Unlike the figurehead office bearers in the past they have become quite assertive and articulate and their voices in the corridors of politics are not just heard but respected too.
Women's representation in politics has considerably improved with women occupying prominent portfolios in government, including ministers and members of parliament. Reserving seats in local governance has empowered women to participate in decision-making.Initiatives aimed at developing leadership skills among women have resulted in more women entering political spheres and advocating for policy changes.
Health & Social Sector
Nowadays women’s access to healthcare has improved, with government programs focusing on maternal and reproductive rights and awareness campaigns addressing women's health issues.
Focus on Mental Health is also there as mental health matters the most for all individual. Increasing awareness about mental health and support systems has empowered women to seek help and advocate for their mental well-being which was considered a taboo in the past.
Socio Legal Rights& Sports and Arts
The introduction of laws to protect against domestic violence, harassment, and discrimination has strengthened women's rights. Campaigns and movements have raised awareness about these laws and encouraged women to assert their rights.
It is also heartening to witness that Social movements advocating for women's rights have transformed societal attitudes, promoting gender equality and challenging stereotypes.Women athletes have gained recognition and support, breaking records and stereotypes in various sports. Initiatives focused on promoting women's sports have led to increased participation and visibility.
Creative Expressions&Technological Innovation
Women in arts and entertainment are making significant contributions, with more female directors, writers, and artists gaining recognition for their work, challenging traditional narratives.Increasing digital literacy among women has empowered them to leverage technology for education and entrepreneurship. Programs aimed at training women in tech skills are gaining momentum. Innovation Leadership-Women are leading innovative projects in technology and startups, contributing to economic growth and advancements in various sectors.
Military and Air Force
Women have made significant strides in the Indian Armed Forces, with policies allowing them to serve in various capacities. They can now serve in combat roles, which was previously restricted to men only.India has the highest number of women pilots in the world.Women take on leadership positions within the military, including officer rank in various branches. The induction of women into the Indian Air Force as pilots has been a groundbreaking development.Initiatives to provide equal training and opportunities for women in the military have encouraged more women to pursue careers in defence services, contributing to national security.
Conclusion
The transformation of women's progress in India reflects a broader societal shift towards gender equality and empowerment. While challenges remain, particularly in traditional sectors, the ongoing efforts to promote women's rights, education, and representation continue to pave the way for future generations. Including women in the military and air force exemplifies a critical shift in recognising their capabilities and essential roles in all facets of national service.
Indira Vashishta Carena is an Ex Airline pilot ,columnist and motivational speaker.
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