Women In leadership

Honorable Chairs, esteemed delegates,

Namaste from the delegation of India.

India acknowledges the critical importance of women in leadership roles, particularly in

shaping policies that promote gender equality and empowerment. As one of the world's
largest democracies, we recognize the transformative power of women's leadership in all
sectors, from politics to business and beyond.

India has made significant strides in promoting women's leadership through initiatives like
the Beti Bachao Beti Padhao campaign and legislative reforms ensuring greater
representation. However, challenges persist, and we must collectively strive for more
inclusive policies and opportunities.

In this committee, India calls for strengthened international cooperation to dismantle barriers
hindering women's full participation in leadership. Let us harness the potential of every
woman and girl to achieve a more just and prosperous world for all.

Thank you.

“Industries such as Education at 30% and Government Administration at

29% have the highest representation of women in leadership roles,
followed by Administrative and Support Services and Hospitals and Health
Care, each with 23%,” a statement accompanying the report said. “Sectors
like Technology, Information, and Media and Financial Services each have
moderate female representation in leadership at 19%. The lowest
representation is found in Construction, Oil, Gas, and Mining, and
Utilities, each with 11% female representation in leadership, while
Wholesale and Manufacturing have 12%, and Accommodation and Food
Services have 15%.”

1. Statistics and Data: "What is the current representation of women in leadership

positions in India?"
o As of the latest data, women hold approximately 14.8% of board seats in
India's top 100 listed companies. In Parliament, women make up 14% of the
Lok Sabha (Lower House) and 11% of the Rajya Sabha (Upper House).
2. Government Policies and Initiatives: "Can you outline a specific government policy
or initiative aimed at promoting women's leadership in India?"
o India has implemented the Companies Act, which mandates that companies
with a certain level of turnover or capital appoint at least one woman director
on their board. This has significantly increased women's representation in
corporate leadership.
3. Challenges and Barriers: "What are the main challenges hindering women's
advancement into leadership positions in India?"
o Cultural norms and societal expectations often discourage women from
pursuing leadership roles. Additionally, limited access to quality education,
lack of support for work-life balance, and safety concerns in public spaces
pose significant barriers.
4. Impact and Success Stories: "Could you share an example where women's
leadership has made a significant impact in India?"
o The Panchayati Raj system, mandated by the 73rd and 74th Amendments to
the Constitution, reserved one-third of seats for women in local government
bodies. This initiative has empowered women at the grassroots level, leading
to improved infrastructure, better healthcare, and increased economic
opportunities in rural areas.
5. Future Plans and Commitments: "What are India's future plans or commitments to
further increase women's representation in leadership roles?"
o India aims to achieve gender parity in leadership roles through initiatives like
Beti Bachao Beti Padhao, which focuses on improving the welfare and status
of girls, and the Beti Bachao Beti Khilao campaign, aimed at promoting
education and sports for girls