NEW DELHI: Every year on March 8, the world marks International Women’s Day — a day dedicated to recognising women’s achievements and advocating gender equality. The occasion celebrates women who have challenged stereotypes, shattered barriers, and paved the way for future generations. Across science, sports, governance, aviation and medicine, several Indian women have transformed the country through their courage and determination. Here are ten Indian women whose remarkable journeys changed the history of India and inspired millions.
BACHENDRI PAL
Mountaineer Bachendri Pal etched her name in history in 1984 when she became the first Indian woman to scale Mount Everest. Despite facing a dangerous avalanche during the expedition, she continued the climb and eventually reached the summit. Her achievement inspired generations of Indian women to pursue adventure sports and challenge conventional limits.
KALPANA CHAWLA
Born in Karnal, Haryana, Kalpana Chawla became the first Indian-born woman to travel to space. Selected by NASA in 1994, she flew on the Space Shuttle Columbia mission and contributed significantly to space research. Her life was tragically cut short during the Columbia disaster in 2003, but her legacy continues to inspire aspiring astronauts and scientists across India.
TESSY THOMAS
Often called the “Missile Woman of India,” Tessy Thomas became the first woman scientist to lead a missile project in the country. She served as project director for Agni-IV and later led the Agni-V programme, marking major milestones in India’s defence technology. Her leadership symbolises the growing role of women in strategic scientific fields.
KIRAN BEDI
Kiran Bedi made history in 1972 when she became India’s first woman to join the Indian Police Service. Known for her administrative reforms and bold policing style, she gained global recognition for transforming prison management during her tenure as Inspector General of Tihar Jail. She later served as the Lieutenant Governor of Puducherry.
KIRAN MAZUMDAR-SHAW
Biotechnology pioneer Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw founded Biocon in 1978 with just ₹10,000 in capital. From a small garage start-up in Bengaluru, she built one of India’s leading biotechnology companies that produces affordable medicines, including insulin and cancer treatments. Her work has placed India firmly on the global biotech map.
ANANDI GOPAL JOSHI
In the late 19th century, Anandi Gopal Joshi broke social barriers to become one of India’s first women trained in Western medicine. She graduated from the Women’s Medical College of Pennsylvania in 1886 and later served as a physician in India. At a time when women’s education was heavily restricted, her journey represented a powerful step forward for women in medicine.
GROUP CAPTAIN SHALIZA DHAMI
Group Captain Shaliza Dhami made history by becoming the first woman officer in the Indian Air Force to command a frontline combat unit. Earlier, she had also become the first woman to serve as a flight commander in a flying unit. Her achievement reflects the expanding opportunities for women in India’s armed forces.
MARY KOM
Boxing legend Mary Kom rose from humble beginnings in Manipur to become a six-time world champion and Olympic medallist. Balancing motherhood and an elite sporting career, she became one of India’s most celebrated athletes and a symbol of perseverance and determination.
SUSHMITA SEN
Bollywood actress Sushmita Sen broke the glass ceiling by becoming the first Indian woman to win the Miss Universe title in 1994. Held in Manila in the Philippines, the 1994 Miss Universe pageant featured contestants from across the world, but Sushmita Sen’s grace, intelligence, and confidence made her win the title at just 18. After her reign as Miss Universe, Sen carved a niche for herself in Indian cinema, while the likes of Yukta Mookhey, Lara Dutta, and, most recently, Harnaaz Sandhu, followed her footsteps.
SAINA NEHWAL
Saina Nehwal is the first Indian woman and first Indian badminton player to win an Olympic medal, securing a historic bronze at the London 2012 Olympics. She became the world no. 1 player in singles badminton rankings in 2015. In 2015, the Indian badminton star clinched the silver medal after losing to Carolina Marin in the final at the BWF World Championships. She announced her retirement from the sport in January this year.
OTHER TRAILBLAZERS
Alongside these figures, several other Indian women have broken barriers in politics, science, sports and public service. Their achievements collectively highlight how women have played a central role in shaping modern India.
A LEGACY OF INSPIRATION
The stories of these pioneers demonstrate that determination, resilience and courage can transform societies. From scaling the world’s tallest mountain to reaching space and leading cutting-edge scientific programmes, these women have not only rewritten history but also opened doors for millions of others. As India celebrates International Women’s Day, their journeys serve as a powerful reminder that progress often begins with individuals who dare to challenge the status quo.
