By Bhaga Warkhade
One of the major catalysts behind this transformation has been the introduction of supernumerary seats for female students in these institutions. According to the Joint Seat Allocation Authority (JoSAA), this step has not only improved gender balance in engineering but has also opened new doors of opportunity for young women aspiring for careers in technical fields.
This shift is the result of various social, scientific, and policy-driven efforts, and it has given a new dimension to women's empowerment. The percentage of female students in IITs has increased from 8% in 2018 to 20% in 2024. Similarly, data from the National Institute of Educational Planning and Administration (NIEPA) indicates a 35% rise in female enrollments in engineering between 2015 and 2025.
These numbers reflect not just increased participation, but also outstanding academic performance. Scientific research in fields like neuroscience and genetics suggests that women may possess stronger cognitive and stress-management abilities due to the presence of two X chromosomes. Psychological studies have also shown women to be more adept at multitasking and creative thinking—skills vital for success in complex, innovation-driven fields like engineering.
The support from central and state governments through scholarships and encouragement schemes has also played a key role. More importantly, a significant cultural shift is now visible—families that once hesitated to send their daughters into technical fields are now actively encouraging them.
The change is not confined to engineering alone. Girls are increasingly making their mark in armed forces, police, medicine, management, and chartered accountancy. However, challenges remain—especially in rural India, where girls still face barriers in accessing higher and technical education. To overcome these, awareness campaigns and enhanced involvement from private sector and NGOs are essential.
Statistical Indicators of Progress
The government's Beti Bachao-Beti Padhao campaign launched in 2015 has started showing visible results. Girls are now not only clearing 10th and 12th board exams in higher numbers but are also scoring better. Their interest in STEM subjects—particularly science—has grown significantly.
A study by the Ministry of Education comparing results from 2013 to 2024 shows:
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Female participation in 12th board exams increased by 19.8%, nearly double the growth rate of total examinees.
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The number of girls scoring above 60% in the 12th board exams rose by 95.7% (compared to 85.8% overall).
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Among Scheduled Caste girls, this increase was 157%, and for Scheduled Tribe girls, a remarkable 251%.
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Female participation in science increased by 110%, compared to an overall rise of 68%.
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In 10th-grade results too, girls’ pass rate improved by over 9%, compared to a 3% overall increase.
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SC girls showed a 15% rise in pass rate, and ST girls showed an 81% jump.
Whether in government or private schools, girls have consistently outperformed boys. In 2024:
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Government school pass rate for girls: 85.31%, for boys: 81.82%
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Private school pass rate for girls: 94.6%, for boys: 90.14%
The Road Ahead for STEM and Women
Recognizing this trend, the Ministry of Education plans to urge states to increase seats in science streams at the higher education level. Letters will soon be sent to Andhra Pradesh, Assam, Kerala, Manipur, Odisha, Telangana, and West Bengal recommending a unified state board system to streamline education delivery.
STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics) education plays a pivotal role in individual and societal progress. Yet, gender stereotypes and access barriers continue to hinder girls’ entry into these fields. National initiatives like DST fellowships, AICTE scholarships, and other programs aim to increase female participation and representation in STEM.
As the global economy moves from academic focus to skills-based growth, the demand for STEM expertise continues to rise. This is not just about careers—it’s about empowering individuals to contribute meaningfully to societal development and securing economic independence.
India has a proud tradition of women leaders in STEM, from ancient times to the present. Today, women constitute over 40% of STEM enrollments in India, with 10% participation in startups. Approximately 35% of enrollments in computer science engineering are female, according to AICTE.
These achievements are commendable, but more must be done.
Conclusion
The progress of girls in technical education is no longer just a trend—it’s a revolution. Their growing presence in classrooms, laboratories, and boardrooms marks a paradigm shift in India’s educational and societal landscape. For this momentum to continue, we must collectively ensure equitable access, stronger support systems, and policy reformsthat keep the doors of STEM open to every girl in the country—urban or rural, privileged or marginalized.
The future of Indian innovation, economy, and equity lies in nurturing the minds and dreams of its daughters.
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original in marathi
