The Rise of Women in Indian Tech

India’s technology sector is undergoing a remarkable transformation, and at the heart of this change is the growing presence of women. Despite facing longstanding challenges, Indian women are breaking barriers, rising to leadership roles, and shaping the future of technology.

The Challenges Women Have Faced

For decades, women in tech have battled deep-rooted stereotypes, gender biases, and a lack of representation. Many were discouraged from entering STEM fields due to societal expectations or family obligations. Even those who joined the workforce often found themselves sidelined in decision-making, faced unequal pay, or lacked the mentorship needed to grow.

Some common barriers include:

• Underrepresentation in leadership: As of 2024, women make up 36% of the Indian IT workforce, yet only 8% hold C-suite positions.
• Unconscious bias: Women are often perceived as less committed after motherhood or are underestimated in technical roles.
• Lack of role models: The absence of visible women leaders makes it harder for young women to imagine themselves in those positions.

These challenges, however, haven’t stopped determined individuals from paving their own way.

Stories of Resilience and Triumph

Many women have not only survived in tech but thrived—often under difficult circumstances. Their journeys inspire others to persist, believe in themselves, and reshape what’s possible.

• Raka Singh, Senior Engineering Manager at Analog Devices India, is a trailblazer with 13 patents in computer vision algorithms. Despite acing her medical entrance exams, she followed her love for math and physics into engineering. After giving birth to twins, she chose not to pause her career and returned to work just four months later. Today, her contributions are central to industrial automation and consumer electronics.
• Riya, a gifted university graduate, faced pressure to marry instead of continuing her studies. With the encouragement of her mentor Diya, she decided to pursue a Ph.D. in technology. Together, they stood firm against social expectations. Riya has since published in prestigious journals and spoken at international conferences.
• Shraddha, an engineering manager, was leading a major project when she announced her pregnancy. Her male manager doubted her ability to deliver, citing divided focus and increased stress. Refusing to accept these assumptions, Shraddha stayed committed and completed the project successfully.

These stories exemplify the grit and determination of women who are transforming Indian tech from the inside out.

Positive Change is Underway

Although progress has been slow, it’s becoming more visible. Companies and institutions are stepping up with initiatives to promote diversity and inclusion:

• Women now make up over 51% of entry-level hires in the IT-BPM sector, and over 25% hold managerial positions.
• Semiconductor companies are committing to 15% female representation in their workforces.
• Programs like Pragati Scholarships and TechSaksham are helping women pursue technical education.
• Coding bootcamps, hackathons, and mentoring platforms are giving women a chance to build skills and confidence.

These efforts are beginning to shift the culture and open up more opportunities for women across the tech spectrum.

Practical Advice for Aspiring Women in Tech

If you’re a woman aiming to build a career in tech, here’s how you can take charge:

1. Keep Learning: Stay updated on emerging technologies. Learn continuously to stay ahead.
2. Communicate Effectively: Strong communication is as essential as technical skills.
3. Find Mentors: Mentorship helps you navigate tough decisions and grow professionally.
4. Build Your Network: Attend events, join communities, and stay connected.
5. Create Your Brand: Showcase your work and skills through a strong portfolio.
6. Be Ready: When opportunities come, be prepared to take the leap with confidence.

Why It Matters

The rise of women in Indian tech is good for gender equality—and it’s also good for business. According to McKinsey, companies with more women in leadership roles are 20% more likely to outperform financially. Deloitte found that diverse R&D teams generate 20% more innovation revenue and bring products to market 25% faster.

Women also bring crucial insights into emerging technologies. From AI ethics to green tech, their involvement ensures that innovation remains inclusive and responsible. The future of tech must be shaped by diverse voices if it is to meet the needs of society at large.

Looking Ahead

In the years to come, we hope to see gender parity in tech leadership. Many companies have already set bold goals to double the number of women in senior positions and close the gender gap in digital skills. Educational institutions are also stepping up, with IITs now enrolling nearly 20% women thanks to targeted quotas and outreach.

India’s journey to becoming a global tech leader depends on unlocking the full potential of its population. Supporting women in tech is not just a moral imperative—it’s an economic and strategic one.

The rise of women in Indian tech is a powerful story of grit, growth, and change. From classrooms to boardrooms, women are shaping the future of technology in India. With continued support, inclusive policies, and visible role models, this momentum can only grow stronger.

By championing diversity, building mentorship networks, and fostering a culture of inclusion, we can ensure that Indian women in tech don’t just survive—they thrive. Let’s keep moving forward, together.