VINOD BHAT
In a landmark step towards fostering diversity, equity and inclusion in science, technology and innovation, the Indian National Science Academy (INSA), New Delhi, announces an innovative initiative titled INSA – Women Associate (IWA). For the first time since its establishment in 1935, the Academy has created a distinct membership category for women professionals across diverse disciplines of science, technology, innovation, startups, industry, and policy.
This initiative will enable women from varied backgrounds to engage with the Academy and contribute to its mission of advancing science for societal good. As part of the inaugural cohort, 70 eminent women professionals have been inducted in 2025 as INSA Women Associates. These Associates represent leadership across industry, startups, public policy, non-governmental organizations, and a wide range of scientific disciplines including biomedical sciences, physics, chemistry, engineering, agriculture, mathematics, and space sciences. They exemplify excellence, innovation, and commitment to nation-building through science and technology.
The first founding cohort included up to 70 members, selected by the Governing Body and vetted by the INSA Council. From the second year onwards, up to 70 members will be added annually following the approved selection procedure. Each member’s term will be five years or up to the attainment of 65 years of age, whichever is earlier. In five years, around 350 members are expected to be included in IWA.
Membership distribution for the founding cohort comprised about 50% from Academia and R&D, and the rest from sectors such as industry, NGOs, and start-ups.
Objectives and Vision
The IWA has been established with the following objectives:
• To develop and sustain networks that actively engage women scientists across research and science management, thereby fostering collaborations, peer learning, and leadership pathways.
• To systematically address and reduce the gender gap in STEMM disciplines by promoting equitable opportunities, dismantling structural barriers, and advocating evidence-informed policy measures.
• To empower women scientists through enhanced visibility, recognition, and inclusion in national and international scientific fora, while fostering a culture of mentorship and support.
• To institutionalize greater participation of women in the activities of INSA, ensuring their contributions inform the Academy’s initiatives, outreach programmes, and policy deliberations.
• To strengthen the mandate of INSA by leveraging the expertise and perspectives of women scientists, thereby enriching scientific discourse and broadening the Academy’s impact on society and policymaking.
The INSA Women Associates will play a pivotal role in policy advocacy related to women in science, technology, and leadership. They will act as a bridge between the scientific community, industry, and government, contributing evidence-informed recommendations for gender-sensitive policies.
As role models, mentors, and advocates, the IWA members will amplify the voices of women in science and help shape a future-ready, inclusive, and sustainable scientific ecosystem for India.
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