International Web Conference on Women Empowerment through Education, Employment & Entrepreneurship (WE through E3) IWCWEEEE - 2020

Indelible Impressions of Women Scientists in India

Dr. K. Vijaya and Dr. P. Maheswari


Pages: 43-53
Year of Publication: 2020

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Abstract

Women in India have historically been excluded from knowledge generation and dissemination. Science has been especially considered as a masculine domain. In most patriarchal societies, formal education does not try to dispel myths about women being a subordinate part of society. Amongst practitioners of science and technology in India, women constitute a distinct minority. The apparent absence of women scientists in a specific culture does not necessarily mean that women are not engaged in scientific activities. Gross regional disparities and gender equity issues are evident in History. It is impossible to generalise the contributions of women in science and technology due to heterogeneous culture in India. This research work explores the significance of women‟s contribution to science and describes how women have challenged preconceived notions about their capabilities. The study attempts to identify the struggles of few women scientists in India who have made indelible mark to establish their identity and also analyse the reasons for their detrimental position in scientific arena. Despite the increasing recognition of the role of women in science and technology, women are still working under an environment dominated by men. Thus, for achieving sustainable development of India, a fair environment is essential, wherein both men and women can compete on an equal footing.

Keywords: Science, Technology, Gender Equity, Sustainable Development, Women Scientists.