Vice-President Jagdeep Dhankhar on Friday said the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) is a befitting example to other organisations in promoting gender diversity on the occasion of International Women’s Day.

Interacting with the scientific community at ISRO’s UR Rao Satellite centre (URSC) in Bengaluru, Dhankhar said, “I must, particularly on International Women’s Day, commend ISRO for its culture of gender diversity in all its endeavors and inclusivity in decision making process.”

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“Presently there are about 20 women in scientific and technical areas. More than 500 women employees are in leadership roles at different levels in managerial and administrative domains, including leading a Centre,” Dhankhar said.

He said that a woman is always in a leadership role, right from birth.

Commending the “indomitable spirit and contribution” of India’s women scientists, the VP said that ISRO has exemplified the theme of International Women’s Day 2024 – “Invest in Women: Accelerate Progress”.

“India’s Rocket Women are leading us to the sky and beyond. They have broken ceilings for themselves, and for our progress to go beyond benchmarks set earlier. Your indomitable spirit and contribution indeed resonates with the theme of International Women’s Day 2024: “Invest in Women: Accelerate Progress” and the campaign theme: ‘Inspire Inclusion’. ISRO has exemplified this in action. It is a befitting example to other organisations,” he said.

Lauding numerous achievements of ISRO including Chandrayan-3 and launching of several foreign satellites, Dhankhar said the space agency has showcased the country’s scientific prowess and technological expertise on the world stage, while enhancing the quality of life for millions of fellow citizens.

Observing that ISRO’s success has ignited the fascination of masses and brought space technology to every household, the VP praised ISRO’s support in disaster management, early warning and government programmes such as PM Fasal Bima Yojana and PM Awas Yojana.

Emphasising that space exploration and leveraging technology will play a pivotal role in realisation of Viksit Bharat@2047, he lauded ISRO for emerging as a key player and a contributor in enhancing India’s global diplomacy and soft power.

“I have no doubt that Bharat at 2047 will be not just a developed nation but a global space power,” he added.