-
Period: 1557 to 1558
Pre-1900s: Rani Lakshmibai (1828–1858)
Leadership Role Achievements:
Queen of Jhansi and a key figure in the Indian Rebellion of 1857.
Led her army against the British East India Company, showing exceptional bravery.
Fought for women's empowerment and independence.
Impact on Society Women’s Leadership:
Became a symbol of women's courage and patriotism.
Inspired future generations of freedom fighters. -
Period: to
1900–1950: Sarojini Naidu (1879–1949)
Leadership Role Achievements:
Freedom fighter and first woman President of the Indian National Congress (1925).
Played a crucial role in India's independence movement and the Civil Disobedience Movement.
Became the first female Governor of India (Uttar Pradesh, 1947).
Impact on Society Women’s Leadership:
Advocated for women’s rights and education.
Proved that women could hold high-ranking political positions. -
Period: to
1950–2000: Indira Priyadarshini Gandhi (1917–1984)
Leadership Role Achievements:
Prime Minister of India (1966–1977, 1980–1984).
Led India during the Bangladesh Liberation War (1971).
Introduced economic and agricultural reforms (Green Revolution). Impact on Society Women’s Leadership:
Strengthened India's global presence.
Inspired women in politics and leadership roles worldwide. -
Period: to
2000–Present: Nirmala Sitharaman (Born 1959)
Leadership Role Achievements:
First full-time female Finance Minister of India (2019–present).
Former Minister of Defence (2017–2019), overseeing military modernization.
Played a key role in economic reforms, including policies supporting women entrepreneurs.
Impact on Society Women’s Leadership:
Broke barriers in finance and defense sectors, traditionally male-dominated.
Advocates for women’s economic empowerment.