Thu Mar 27 19:15:35 UTC 2025: ## Local Women STEM Leaders Celebrate Achievements, Highlight Gender Inequality
**Chennai, March 28, 2025** – Three prominent women leaders in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) shared their experiences and highlighted ongoing gender inequality in the field at an event hosted by the Apollo Proton Cancer Centre (APCC) on Thursday.
Retired Professor Radha Balakrishnan of the Institute of Mathematical Sciences lamented the historical lack of recognition for women’s contributions to science, citing examples such as Marie Curie and Indian scientist Bibha Chowdhuri. She also noted the persistent issue of women leaving STEM careers due to family responsibilities.
Tessy Thomas, former Director-General of Aeronautical Systems at DRDO, recounted her positive experience working under former President A.P.J. Abdul Kalam, emphasizing a meritocratic environment free from gender bias. She attributed India’s advancements in space and aeronautics, particularly Agni missile technology, to the dedication of Indian scientists.
Vice Admiral Arti Sarin, Director-General of Armed Forces Medical Services, highlighted the significant contribution of women in the armed forces’ medical sector, with thousands of women serving as nursing officers and medical specialists.
The event also featured addresses by APCC Medical Director Dr. Rakesh Jalali and Dr. Sapna Nangia, Head & Neck and Breast Cancer Director. The celebration aimed to acknowledge the achievements of women in STEM while underscoring the need for continued efforts to address gender inequality in the field.
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