Every year, March brings with it the powerful reminder that we are still fighting for women’s rights, despite more than a century of celebrating International Women’s Day. Women have made incredible strides across business, politics, education, and social change, yet deep-rooted barriers continue to hinder their progress. It’s no longer a question of whether women are capable—they have always been. The real question is, are we doing enough to create an equal playing field?
I have always believed that the future belongs to women—not because of tokenism or forced inclusion, but because when given equal opportunity, women excel in every sphere. I have had the privilege of working with women educators, entrepreneurs, corporate leaders, and change makers over the years, and they have never been anything less than extraordinary. The education sector, in particular, is dominated by women, with 53% of educators in India and 67% globally being female. And yet, leadership roles in education remain largely male-dominated.
The Value Gap
Globally, 119 million and in India 23 million girls drop out of schools and colleges annually due to socio-economic barriers, reinforcing the cycle of inequality. Even those who make it into the workforce face pay disparity, underrepresentation in leadership, and the burden of balancing work and family. Worse still, workplace harassment and gender biases continue to make professional spaces unsafe for women.
his And yet, recent shifts in global policies related to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) threaten to push back years of progress. While businesses and educational institutions once embraced inclusion as a necessity, many now treat it as an optional agenda, affecting not just diverse populations but women most of all.
Less Talk, More Action
The only way to truly achieve equality is through action, not words. For India, in particular, we must move beyond the conversation and create real opportunities for women. This means:
Encouraging more women to take leadership roles in education, business, and governance
Ensuring equal pay for equal work
Providing mentorship, funding, and resources to women entrepreneurs
Addressing workplace and social harassment through strict policies and accountability
As someone who has worked alongside brilliant women leaders, I can confidently say that the world is not lacking in female talent, intelligence, or ambition. My mother has spent over 40 years in social service, dedicating her life to helping others. My sisters are professionals, excelling in their fields. My wife is a working woman, and I see firsthand the challenges women face while balancing multiple roles. These women, and the countless others I’ve interacted with, do not need help or charity—they need access, recognition, and a fair chance to lead.
Looking Ahead
Are We There Yet? The reality is, we are not there yet. The world still suppresses women’s voices, and societies still dictate what they can and cannot do. But I believe in a different future—one where we don’t just talk about empowering women but actively create platforms, policies, and opportunities for them to rise. The real question is how long before we stop talking about gender equality and start living it? It’s time to stop waiting for change and start making it happen. Let’s not just celebrate women this month—let’s give them the space to lead, grow, and succeed all year round.
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