India, a nation renowned for its diversity and culture, has a rich history of remarkable women who have defied societal norms and made historic contributions in a wide range of fields. From being the first woman doctor to achieving milestones in aviation, politics, and science, these women have set the foundation for future generations. This post is dedicated to highlighting the “First Women of India” in various sectors, their incredible journeys, and their lasting impact on society.
The Trailblazers: First Women in India Across Different Fields
1. Anandi Gopal Joshi – First Female Doctor of India (1887)
Anandi Gopal Joshi became the first Indian woman to earn a degree in Western medicine in 1887, a significant achievement in a society that traditionally restricted women’s education. She studied at the Woman’s Medical College of Pennsylvania and returned to India, where her story continues to inspire many women pursuing medicine today.
2. Savitribai Phule – First Female Teacher in India (1848)
Savitribai Phule is considered India’s first female teacher, starting her career in 1848 when she and her husband, Jyotirao Phule, opened a school for girls. Her efforts in promoting education for women were groundbreaking and laid the foundation for gender equality in education.
3. Kiran Bedi – First Female IPS Officer in India (1972)
In 1972, Kiran Bedi became the first Indian woman to join the Indian Police Service (IPS). Known for her tough stance on law enforcement and her work in prison reform, Bedi’s career exemplifies courage and dedication. Her pioneering role inspired countless women to pursue careers in law enforcement.
4. Sarla Thakral – First Female Pilot in India (1936)
In 1936, Sarla Thakral became the first woman in India to earn an aviation pilot license at the young age of 21. She later pursued a commercial pilot license, breaking barriers in a male-dominated field and inspiring women to chase their dreams in aviation.
5. Indira Gandhi – First Female Prime Minister of India (1966)
Indira Gandhi remains one of the most iconic figures in Indian history. She served as India’s first and only female Prime Minister, holding office from 1966-1977 and again from 1980-1984. Under her leadership, India saw significant changes, including the Green Revolution and the nationalization of banks.
6. Pratibha Patil – First Female President of India (2007)
Pratibha Patil made history as India’s first female President, serving from 2007-2012. Her presidency marked a turning point for women in Indian politics, and she remains a symbol of female empowerment in leadership roles.
7. Kalpana Chawla – First Female Astronaut from India (1997)
Kalpana Chawla became the first Indian woman in space in 1997, flying on the Space Shuttle Columbia. Although her second mission in 2003 ended tragically, her legacy continues to inspire Indian women to reach for the stars.
8. Bhawana Kanth – First Female Fighter Pilot in India (2016)
Bhawana Kanth became one of the first three women to be inducted into the Indian Air Force fighter squadron in 2016. She shattered barriers by becoming a fighter pilot in a role that was previously restricted to men.
9. Sucheta Kripalani – First Female Chief Minister of India (1963)
Sucheta Kripalani served as India’s first female Chief Minister in Uttar Pradesh from 1963 to 1967. Her political career helped pave the way for women in leadership positions at the state level.
10. Kamala Sohonie – First Female Scientist to Join the Indian Science Congress (1936)
Kamala Sohonie was the first Indian woman to earn a Ph.D. in a scientific discipline. Her research in biochemistry and her groundbreaking admission into the Indian Science Congress marked a significant moment in Indian science.
11. Lalitha Ayyalasomayajula – First Female Engineer in India (1937)
Lalitha Ayyalasomayajula was the first woman to earn a degree in engineering from Madras University in 1937. She contributed significantly to the fields of electrical engineering and continues to be an inspiration for women in STEM.
12. Thanjavur Santhanakrishna Kanaka – First Female Neurosurgeon in India
Dr. Thanjavur Santhanakrishna Kanaka became the first female neurosurgeon in India, pushing the boundaries of medical expertise and breaking barriers in an otherwise male-dominated field.
13. Bachendri Pal – First Indian Woman to Climb Mount Everest (1984)
In 1984, Bachendri Pal became the first Indian woman to successfully summit Mount Everest. Her achievement encouraged many other women to venture into extreme sports and mountaineering.
14. Mother Teresa – First Woman from India to Win the Nobel Prize (1979)
Mother Teresa, born in Macedonia but naturalized as an Indian citizen, won the Nobel Peace Prize in 1979 for her humanitarian work in India. She remains an enduring symbol of compassion and selfless service to humanity.
15. Surekha Yadav – First Female Train Driver in India (1988)
Surekha Yadav became the first woman to drive a train in India in 1988, marking a historic moment in Indian Railways and demonstrating that women could succeed in any profession.
16. Chonira Belliappa Muthamma – First Female IFS Officer in India (1949)
Chonira Belliappa Muthamma was the first woman to join the Indian Foreign Service in 1949. Her career in diplomacy was filled with remarkable achievements, paving the way for future generations of women in the service.
17. Arundhati Roy – First Indian Woman to Win the Booker Prize (1997)
Arundhati Roy became the first Indian woman to win the prestigious Booker Prize in 1997 for her novel The God of Small Things. Her contribution to literature has been internationally recognized.
18. Indira Gandhi – First Woman to Receive the Bharat Ratna (1971)
In addition to being Prime Minister, Indira Gandhi became the first woman to receive India’s highest civilian award, the Bharat Ratna, in 1971 for her exceptional contribution to the nation.
19. Sarojini Naidu – First Female Governor of India (1947)
Sarojini Naidu was appointed the first female Governor of an Indian state (Uttar Pradesh) in 1947, making her one of the most prominent figures in Indian politics.
20. Ashapurna Devi – First Woman to Receive the Jnanpith Award (1976)
Ashapurna Devi became the first woman to receive the Jnanpith Award, India’s highest literary honor, for her outstanding contribution to literature in 1976.
Also Read Latest Current Affairs 2024
Anandi Gopal Joshi became the first female doctor in India in 1887.
Sarla Thakral was the first female pilot in India, earning her pilot license in 1936.
Kiran Bedi became the first female IPS officer in 1972.
Indira Gandhi was the first and only female Prime Minister of India, first elected in 1966.
Pratibha Patil was the first woman to serve as the President of India (2007-2012).
Kalpana Chawla was the first Indian woman astronaut, going to space in 1997.
Sucheta Kripalani became the first female Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh in 1963.
Lalitha Ayyalasomayajula became the first female engineer in India in 1937.
Thanjavur Santhanakrishna Kanaka became the first female neurosurgeon in India.
Bachendri Pal became the first Indian woman to climb Mount Everest in 1984.
Mother Teresa won the Nobel Peace Prize in 1979.
