Women aspiring to pursue scientific research often encounter barriers in the form of stereotypes and inadequate mentorship opportunities

The underrepresentation of women in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields is a complex issue with multiple contributing factors. Apart from societal bias towards women opting for careers in Science and technology, lack of support from the peer professional group in their workplace is also a severe issue. It is challenging for women to venture into scientific research without the support of the peer community dominated by their male counterparts. In such a scenario, special schemes or initiatives targeting women in scientific research can be beneficial in addressing systemic barriers and inequalities that women may face in STEM fields. These schemes can provide targeted support to increase the participation and advancement of women in these fields.

The Department of Science and Technology (DST),Govt of India recognises the importance of inclusivity and diversity in driving scientific innovation and progress. To address the underrepresentation of women in the field of Science and Technology (S&T), DST has initiated the ‘Women in Science and Engineering-KIRAN (WISE-KIRAN)’ scheme. This programme aims to empower women from various backgrounds and walks of life, providing them with opportunities to participate and excel actively in S&T domains. WISE-KIRAN is designed to be a holistic initiative addressing a wide range of challenges women encounter in their scientific journeys. These challenges may include societal stereotypes and biases, limited access to resources and opportunities, lack of mentorship and networking, and work-life balance issues. The scheme offers diverse programmes and interventions to support women at different stages of their scientific careers. These programmes may include:

1.            Educational and training initiatives to encourage girls and young women to pursue S&T subjects and careers.

2.            Scholarships, fellowships, and research grants to support women in higher education and research; e.g., WISE-PhD and WISE-PDF.

3.            Mentorship programmes to connect aspiring female scientists with established professionals in their field.

4.            Capacity-building workshops and skill development programmes to enhance women’s scientific expertise and leadership abilities; e.g., WISE Internship in Intellectual Property Rights (WISE-IPR)  .

5.            Networking events and conferences to facilitate collaboration, knowledge-sharing, and career advancement opportunities for women in S&T, e.g., Women International Grant Support (WINGS).  Women’s Instinct for Developing and Ushering in Scientific Heights & Innovations (WIDUSHI) is a unique initiative from the Government of India to support women scientists on the verge of retirement and also the women scientists who are not in permanent positions but are active researchers and continuously excelling in the research field.

Through the Consolidation of University Research for Innovation and Excellence (CURIE) programme, the DST also supports infrastructure development in Women’s Institutions, especially women’s universities and post-graduate colleges. It assists women’s institutions in setting up cutting-edge research infrastructure to enhance their research capabilities and elevate their research and development (R&D) efforts, ultimately striving for excellence in the Science & Technology (S&T) domain. The DST also supports young girls in igniting interest in STEM disciplines. The Vigyan Jyoti programme presents a crucial avenue for young girls to explore and excel in Science and technology.

(The writer is an adjunct faculty at the National Institute of Advanced Studies, Bangalore, views are  personal)