In the past couple of decades, the status of women in Indian society has changed drastically. Today, women play a vital role in the growth of the Indian economy, making significant impacts and achieving success across various sectors. This transformation is particularly evident in the entrepreneurial landscape, where women's contributions are increasingly recognized and celebrated. Here, we highlight ten successful women entrepreneurs in India who have boosted the economy and inspired countless others.
Pioneering Women Entrepreneurs in India
Pioneering Women Entrepreneurs in India
Zia Mody One of India's leading corporate lawyers, Zia Mody has been the mastermind behind notable corporate deals, including those involving Airtel and Telenor Group, and Schneider Electric with Larsen & Toubro's electric and automation business. Her firm advises some of the most successful businesses in India.
Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw, one of India's richest self-made businesswomen, founded Biocon in 1978. Initially aspiring to a career in brewing, she accidentally became an entrepreneur. Today, Biocon is a leader in manufacturing a wide range of biopharmaceuticals.
Suneeta Reddy As the Managing Director of Apollo Hospitals, Suneeta Reddy has been instrumental in growing the hospital chain’s revenue by 14% in FY2018. Under her leadership, Apollo Pharmacy also grew by 18% and acquired Fortis Healthcare in a significant deal.
Alice G. Vaidyan Chairman and Managing Director of GIC (General Insurance Corporation of India), Alice G. Vaidyan has elevated GIC to be one of the top 10 global reinsurers. Her leadership saw GIC’s market share rise from 55% to 65%.
Mallika Srinivasan Chairman and CEO of TAFE (Tractors and Farm Equipment), Mallika Srinivasan transformed her company into the world's third-largest tractor manufacturer by volume. She diversified the company's product offerings and facilitated strategic mergers.
Zarin Daruwala CEO of Standard Chartered Bank since 2016, Zarin Daruwala turned the bank profitable within two years. Previously, she had a successful 20-year career at ICICI Bank.
Kaku Nakhate As President and Country Head of Bank of America Merrill Lynch in India, Kaku Nakhate has led the bank to become a prominent player in the Asia-Pacific region, facilitating significant mergers and acquisitions.
Shobhana Bhartia Chairperson and Editorial Director of HT Media, Shobhana Bhartia has overseen major editorial overhauls and improved the company's performance in Hindi media outlets, doubling net profit in FY 2017-18.
Renuka Ramnath Founder of Multiples Alternate Asset Management, Renuka Ramnath has created an independent equity platform managing over $1 billion in assets. She is also the only woman on the board of EMPEA, managing over $5 trillion in assets globally.
Shikha Sharma As the former CEO of Axis Bank, Shikha Sharma significantly increased the bank’s stock price fourfold between June 2009 and August 2018, solidifying her reputation as a respected banker in India.
Our views
When given opportunities, women often demonstrate exceptional efficiency, multitasking abilities, and emotional intelligence. They ensure that everyone's needs are met and that the team and company progress smoothly. Even in times of crisis, women have shown remarkable problem-solving skills. These qualities are evident in the success stories of the women highlighted above.
India Shining
India’s growth is intrinsically linked to the success of its women. Recognizing and nurturing women's contributions leads to a brighter future for the entire nation. Students can learn the art of micro-management and big-picture thinking from these pioneering women. Organizations must include women in all areas to foster growth and innovation. By viewing situations from all angles and creating win-win scenarios, we can collectively achieve greater success.
With more women entering the entrepreneurial domain, this trend is set to become the new mantra for businesses globally, and especially in India. The digital world provides an even more conducive environment for women to excel, and we are proud to be part of this global, democratic domain.
