Tag: #STEM

International Women’s Day 2025

Eduindex News Network

International Women’s Day is celebrated around the world on 8th March. It is a day when women are recognized for their achievements across national, ethnic, linguistic, cultural, economic or political boundaries. The theme of International Women’s Day 2025 is “For ALL Women and Girls: Rights. Equality. Empowerment.” This year’s theme calls for action to unlock equal rights, power and opportunities for all and an inclusive future where no one is left behind. Central to this vision is empowering the next generation—youth, particularly young women and adolescent girls—as catalysts for lasting change.

Further, the year 2025 is a pivotal moment as it marks the 30th anniversary of the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action. This document is the most progressive and widely endorsed blueprint for women’s and girls’ rights worldwide, transforming the women’s rights agenda in terms of legal protection, access to services, youth engagement, and change in social norms, stereotypes, and ideas stuck in the past.

In India, the government has been actively working towards women’s empowerment and gender equality through various policies, schemes, and legislative measures. The country is witnessing a transition from women’s development to women-led development, ensuring equal participation in national progress. Women are playing a crucial role in shaping India’s socio-economic landscape, breaking barriers in education, health, digital inclusion, and leadership roles.

On March 3, 2025, Prime Minister Narendra Modi encouraged women across India to share their inspiring life journeys on the NaMo App Open Forum ahead of International Women’s Day. He praised the remarkable stories already submitted, highlighting the resilience and achievements of women from different walks of life. As a special initiative, he announced that selected women would take over his social media accounts on March 8 to amplify their voices and experiences. This initiative aims to celebrate women’s contributions and inspire others by showcasing their journey of empowerment, perseverance, and success.

Constitutional and Legal Framework

The Indian Constitution guarantees gender equality through provisions in its Preamble, Fundamental Rights, and Directive Principles of State Policy. Article 14 ensures equality before the law, while Article 15 prohibits discrimination based on sex. Article 51(a)(e) encourages citizens to renounce practices derogatory to women’s dignity. The Directive Principles, particularly Articles 39 and 42, emphasize equal livelihood opportunities, equal pay, and maternity relief.

India is a signatory to international treaties such as:

  • Universal Declaration of Human Rights (1948)
  • International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR, 1966)
  • Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW, 1979)
  • Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action (1995)
  • United Nations Convention Against Corruption (2003)
  • Agenda 2030 for Sustainable Development

Government Schemes for Women’s Upliftment

1. Education

Education is the key to women’s empowerment and economic independence. India has undertaken several initiatives to ensure that girls have equal access to quality education from primary schooling to higher education. Gender parity in education has improved significantly, with female enrolment surpassing male enrolment in recent years.

  • Right to Free and Compulsory Education Act, 2009 ensures schools are within reach for all children.
  • Beti Bachao Beti Padhao (BBBP): Focuses on improving the child sex ratio and promoting girls’ education.
  • Samagra Shiksha Abhiyan: Supports school infrastructure and girl-friendly facilities.
  • National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 prioritizes gender equity and inclusion in education.
  • Eklavya Model Residential Schools: Promote quality education for tribal girls
  • Female Gross Enrollment Ratio (GER) has overtaken Male GER since 2017-18.
  • Female enrolment in higher education: 2.07 crore (2021-22), which is nearly 50% of the total number 4.33 crore.
  • The female to 100 male faculty ratio has also improved to 77 in 2021-22 from 63 in 2014-15.
  • Women in STEM: 42.57% (41.9 lakh) of total STEM enrolment.
  • STEM Initiatives:
    • Vigyan Jyoti (2020) promotes STEM education for girls in underrepresented areas.
  • Overseas Fellowship Scheme supports women scientists in global research opportunities.
  • National Digital Library, SWAYAM, and SWAYAM PRABHA ensure access to online learning.
  • Over 10 lakh girl students benefitted under various scholarships for STEM fields.
  • Skill Development Initiatives:
    • Skill India Mission, Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana (PMKVY), Women Industrial Training Institutes provide vocational and technical training to women.
    • Women Technology Parks (WTPs) serve as hubs for training and capacity building.

2. Health and Nutrition

Access to healthcare services is crucial for improving the well-being of women and reducing gender-based health disparities. The government has introduced several policies to ensure maternal and child health, nutrition, and medical support for women across all sections of society.

  • Pradhan Mantri Matru Vandana Yojana (PMMVY): Provides cash incentives to pregnant and lactating mothers, with ₹17,362 crore disbursed to 3.81 crore women, as of January 2025.
  • Improved Maternal Health:
    • Maternal Mortality Rate (MMR) reduced from 130 (2014-16) to 97 (2018-20) per lakh live births.
    • Under-5 Mortality Rate (U5MR) decreased from 43 (2015) to 32 (2020).
    • Life expectancy for women increased to 71.4 years (2016-20), expected to reach 74.7 years by 2031-36.
  • Nutrition and Sanitation:
    • Jal Jeevan Mission provided potable tap water to 15.4 crore households, reducing health risks.
    • Swachh Bharat Mission led to the construction of 11.8 crore toilets, improving sanitation and hygiene.
    • Poshan Abhiyaan: Strengthens maternal and child nutrition programs
    • Over 10.3 crore clean cooking gas connections distributed under the Ujjwala Yojana.

3. Economic Empowerment and Financial Inclusion

Women’s participation in the workforce is a key driver of economic growth. The government has launched multiple initiatives to promote financial independence, entrepreneurship, and employment opportunities for women.

  • Women’s participation in major household decisions: Increased from 84% (2015) to 88.7% (2020).
  • Financial Inclusion:
    • PM Jan Dhan Yojana: Over 30.46 crore accounts (55% belonging to women) opened.
    • Stand-Up India Scheme: 84% of loans under ₹10 lakh to ₹1 crore sanctioned to women entrepreneurs.
    • MUDRA Scheme: 69% of microloans given to women-led enterprises.
  • Self-Help Groups under NRLM: 10 crore (100 million) women connected to 9 million SHGs.
  • Bank Sakhis Model: 6,094 women banking correspondents processed transactions worth $40 million in 2020.
  • Employment and Leadership:
    • Women in Armed Forces: Entry into NDA, combat roles, and Sainik Schools.
    • Civil Aviation: India has over 15% women pilots, higher than the global average of 5%.
    • Working Women’s Hostels (Sakhi Niwas): 523 hostels benefiting 26,306 women.
  • Women Entrepreneurs in Startups: 10% of funds in the Small Industries Development Bank of India reserved for women-led startups

4. Digital and Technological Empowerment

In the digital era, access to technology and digital literacy are crucial for women’s socio-economic progress. The government has been proactive in ensuring women are part of the digital revolution through various initiatives.

  • Digital India Initiatives:
    • PMGDISHA (Prime Minister’s Digital Saksharta Abhiyan): 60 million rural citizens trained in digital literacy.
    • Common Service Centres (CSCs): 67,000 women entrepreneurs running digital service centers.
    • Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission (ABDM): Bridging healthcare accessibility through digital solutions.
    • SANKALP Hubs for Women Empowerment: Functioning in 742 districts across 35 States/UTs
  • Financial Technology and Inclusion:
    • Digital banking and Aadhaar-linked services ensure financial security for women.
    • Government e-marketplaces encourage female entrepreneurship and online businesses.

5. Safety and Protection

Ensuring women’s safety is a top priority for the Indian government. Several legislative measures, dedicated funds, and fast-track courts have been established to curb crimes against women and provide legal and institutional support.

  • Key Legal Frameworks:
    • Criminal Law (Amendment) Act, 2018: Enhanced penalties for crimes against women.
    • Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act, 2005.
    • Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace Act, 2013.
    • POCSO Act, 2012: Strengthened laws against child abuse.
    • Ban on Triple Talaq (2019): Criminalizing instant divorce practices.
    • Dowry Prohibition Act, 1961: Penalizes dowry-related offenses.
    • Prohibition of Child Marriage Act, 2006: Protects minors from forced marriages.
  • Nirbhaya Fund Projects (₹11,298 crore allocated):
    • One Stop Centres (OSCs): 802 centers functional, assisting over 1 million women.
    • Emergency Response Support System (ERSS – 112): 38.34 crore calls handled.
    • Fast Track Special Courts (FTSCs): 750 operational courts, 408 exclusively for POCSO cases.
    • Cyber Crime Helpline (1930) and cyber forensic labs for digital safety.
    • Safe City Projects: Implemented in 8 cities to enhance women’s safety.
    • 14,658 Women Help Desks in Police Stations, 13,743 headed by women.
  • Institutional and Legislative Reforms
    • Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), 2023: Strengthens provisions for gender justice.
    • Marital rape (for wives under 18) criminalized.
    • Enhanced punishment for sexual offenses and trafficking.
    • Witness protection and digital evidence admissibility improved.
    • Women’s representation in CAPFs: 33% reservation in select forces.
    • Nari Adalat: Piloted in 50 Gram Panchayats each in Assam and J&K, now expanding.

Conclusion

India has made remarkable progress in women’s empowerment through comprehensive policies, targeted schemes, and legal frameworks. From economic participation to safety, digital inclusion to education, the government’s initiatives have led to significant improvements in women’s lives. On this International Women’s Day, it is crucial to reaffirm the commitment to building an inclusive, gender-equal society where women play a central role in shaping the nation’s future. Sustained efforts in policy-making, community engagement, and digital inclusion will ensure that women continue to drive India’s growth story in the years to come.

References

Ministry of Women and Child Development

https://www.pmindia.gov.in/en/news_updates/pm-encourages-women-to-share-their-inspiring-life-journeys/
https://www.un.org/en/observances/womens-day/background
https://www.un.org/en/observances/womens-day
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Contribution of women in STEM & biodiversity conservation highlighted at the 10th Women Science Congress

 The contribution of women in all walks of life, including STEM, as well as conservation of biodiversity, was highlighted at the 10th Women Science Congress (WSC), organised as a part of the 108th Indian Science Congress at Rashtrasant Tukadoji Maharaj Nagpur University during 5-6 January 2023.

Padmashri Smt. Rahibai Soma Popere, a farmer and conservationist, highlighted the crucial role women have played in biodiversity conservation and also elaborated about her campaign to help farmers return to native varieties of crops while Chief Guest Mrs. Kanchan Gadkari, Head, Seva Sadan Sanstha, spoke about self-reliance among women. Several eminent women scientists shared their research and professional experiences with the audience.

Dr. Nisha Mendiratta, Advisor & Head, WISE-KIRAN Division, Department of Science & Technology (DST), emphasized on the need for interventions to promote women in STEM. She highlighted that in tertiary education, the percentage of girls is more than 55, but after that, there are high numbers of dropouts – an issue that needs to be addressed. Dr. Mendiratta underlined the efforts of DST in plugging the gap areas and promoting women’s participation in Science & Technology, benefiting more than 35000 girls and women in the last 8 years under various women-centric programs.

The experts discussed about the role of S&T in Women Empowerment; Opportunities in Food Science & Technology; Sustainable Development Goals; Science Communication, Role of Digitalization, etc.

A panel discussion was also organized wherein Dr. Indu Bala Puri, Scientist, DST, pointed out the importance of S&T-led development in rural areas. Dr. Suphiya Khan, Banasthali Vidyapith, asserted that innovation in research can excel in the output. Dr. Sangeeta Nagar, TIFAC, DST, briefed about the opportunities for women in the area of Intellectual Property Rights.

Dr. Zareena Qureshi, Principal, JNV Nagpur, shared the significance of the Vigyan Jyoti program for school girls to pursue a career in STEM fields. Dr. Sonal Dhabekar, beneficiary of the WOS-B program, highlighted how this program helped to reshape her scientific career after a long break.

Dr. Vijaylaxmi Saxena, General President of ISCA, appreciated the various initiatives of Govt. of India for empowering women. Dr. Kalpana Pande, Convener WSC, talked about the scientific temperament among women since ancient times. Around 5000 participants attended the 2-day event.

 

SNC/RR

A Reliable Learning Via Robotics and machines….

                                    IMPORTANCE OF STEM EDUCATION FOR AN ENHANCED LEARNING

  • Definition Of Stem

STEM is an artificial intelligence related to Science, Technology, Engineering and mathematics but it is a vast concept of more than these. It integrates and builds an advanced system of education taking into account every individual’s attention. STEM kind of learning needs to be paid attention as it has an improved technology with enclosing subjects that teaches moral values and discipline in inter-relating one another.

The main motive is to build advanced geniuses in the teenage able to tackle subject and real-time oriented issues. This tech unites with pupils making them to be well-versed and multi-talented in all occasions.

  • Benefits of STEM related education

This kind of learning is focused on building higher order of thinking among students by connecting them a classroom experience to the modern world. A future model is built under campuses for upgrading their problem-solving ability, thinking skill, communication skills and creativity to sort out various critical circumstances in reality.

Generally, focuses on practical experience with real-time applications that gradually builds the skills ability level and shaping them to utilize a sense od outstanding creativity in a competitive world of 21st century.

The students brought up from this kind of teaching can tackle the reality as well as social media/virtual world simultaneously with their brilliance and social skills that comprises of curiosity, social skills, leadership, management and acceptance of up and downs in life.

In a specific period of life people will undergo circumstances where they become puzzled to take decision as choices will cause effects on their career which has to be made wisely. At that stage without realizing they randomly choose a false decision making them fall in a pit, which will be realized on later times by the same individual after which nothing can be undone.

This system basically concentrates on those kinds of cases so the growing kids can be exclusively intelligence while handling such experiences. This AI creates a similar kind illusion to make them think and decide their choices accordingly so they can adopt to changes or select a decision more preciously.

  • Differences from normal learning and AI integrated learning

In a standard learning taught by faculties they can give you their knowledge ask them to explore it on your way but mostly pupils memorize concepts that will be totally vanished in this type of system where a machine will broaden every word and concept of subject and explaining the facts deeper by triggering your anxiety to grasp the entire knowledge.

They also become as Book-worms instead of knowing the working behind every concept thus it becomes like mugging/memorizing and vomiting/producing in exam papers just for marks rather than knowledge or skill developed education.

STEM education is the path of future learning making upcoming generation as innovative ones.

These AI models create crucial real-time happenings thus testing their initial level of thinking and providing solutions to the same. By doing this they actually promote their working of brain at a younger age which we call as maturity and experience at small ages.

It is also a known to contribute steps towards economic growth by this deep level thinking knowledge (innovation) which is unique in every kid. That is why each one is special but as they discover their innovative skill it becomes too late for individuals so by enhancing them to bring up their key skills so they are ready to face out life and unavoidable circumstances.

  • Ways to spread an idea to enlarge the importance about it to the Society

There are various ways through which you can advertise and spread the initiative taken by you. The only thing you require is an account in media platforms that will enroll your ads in various random posts that people may be searching for.

 The only purpose of using social media is because the reach is tremendous while compared manually or just by recommendations. You need to focus on how you can market them by discussing their features and how it helps in the improvement of a teenager.

By adding relevant pictures or short clips of the same, people can get to know about the functionalities and capabilities of the system and the working.

Awareness can also be made and posters shall be published to keep a track of viewers and connect with them mutually to improve a knowledge of better learning among several institutions in exploring the skills of a teenager in their adolescent ages that support them vitally.

The base of any product to be recognized is how you explain and elaborate the advantages and benefits that grasps attention to every single student in a whole crowd or in a classroom.

If you are self-motivated to prove and provide minute specifications for the useful machine integrated model (AI/STEM education) it can be an added information for users so they support and promote in various different ways.

  • Social Media Channels

The enlarged platform of these trending applications has several unique features under each portal those are different from one another. From audience till owners of some companies have adopted to this virtual world that helps growing merchants to develop and stand tall of their product.

The only difficulty is not all the things are encouraged in these sites, if you want a product to be wide-spread then its uniqueness and features must grab the reader/visitor’s attention in such a way so they start marketing your brand as an affiliate or recommend your goods in some required places.

 You as a producer can share things that will be helpful for any individual before trying it out. Social platforms like helps you to enrich with the fruitfulness of customers especially YouTube. There are millions of people from various continents utilizing this open platform for various entertainment.

From this article you can get to know some ideas and the importance of the STEM education as an effective way of building up the mental thinking ability by teaching them in a provoking way that enhances of building an IQ that is an advanced level for teenagers to think in a multi-tasking way.