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1. Pre-1900s: Rani Lakshmibai
Leadership Role Achievements: •Queen of Jhansi and a key figure in the Indian Rebellion of 1857 •Led her army against the British, showing exceptional courage and military skills •Became a symbol of resistance against British colonial rule Impact on Society Women’s Leadership: •Inspired generations of Indian women to fight for their rights •Became an icon of bravery and patriotism in India’s freedom struggle •Encouraged women to actively participate in politics and defense -
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2. 1900–1950: Sarojini Naidu
Leadership Role Achievements: •Freedom fighter, poet, and first female governor of an Indian state (Uttar Pradesh) •Played a key role in India’s independence movement alongside Gandhi •First Indian woman to become the President of the Indian National Congress (1925) Impact on Society Women’s Leadership: •Paved the way for women in Indian politics •Advocated for women’s rights, education, and equal opportunities •Proved that women could hold leadership roles in governance and activism -
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3. 1950–2000: Kalpana Chawla
Leadership Role Achievements: •First Indian woman in space, NASA astronaut •Flew on Space Shuttle Columbia in 1997 •Lost her life in the Columbia disaster (2003) but left a lasting legacy Impact on Society Women’s Leadership: •Inspired Indian women to pursue careers in STEM and aerospace •Became a global symbol of determination and breaking barriers •Encouraged India’s interest in space exploration -
4. 2000–Present: Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw
Leadership Role Achievements: •Founder of Biocon, India’s largest biotech company •First Indian woman to lead a billion-dollar company •Revolutionized affordable healthcare and biotech research in India Impact on Society Women’s Leadership: •Opened doors for women entrepreneurs in India •Proved that women could excel in science, business, and leadership •Helped make critical medicines more affordable and accessible