Data science is a field that is reshaping industries, influencing decision-making, and revolutionizing the way we approach problems. Despite its transformative nature, one glaring issue persists-women remain significantly underrepresented in data science. This lack of gender diversity not only limits opportunities for women but also restricts the innovative potential of the field itself.

It’s time to reflect on the gender gap in data science, celebrate the strides women have made, and explore how we can collectively encourage more women to thrive in this critical domain.

The Current State of Women in Data Science

Globally, women comprise only 15-22% of data scientists, according to reports by the World Economic Forum and Boston Consulting Group. While India fares slightly better, with women making up 30% of the analytics workforce (Analytics India Magazine, 2022), there’s still a long road ahead to achieving gender parity.

Key challenges contributing to this disparity include:

Stereotypes and Biases: Societal norms often discourage girls from pursuing STEM fields, including data science.

Access to Opportunities: Women face barriers such as limited mentorship, fewer networking opportunities, and unequal access to education.

Workplace Dynamics: The tech industry’s traditionally male-dominated culture can deter women from joining or staying in the workforce.

Inspiring stories of women in Data Science

While the challenges are real, many women have broken barriers to excel in data science, inspiring the next generation to follow suit:

1. Fei-Fei Li

Fei-Fei Li’s contributions to computer vision through ImageNet revolutionized artificial intelligence. As an advocate for diversity in tech, she emphasizes the importance of ethical and inclusive AI practices.

2. Raji Arasu

An Indian-origin data leader and the CTO of Autodesk, Raji Arasu has been a driving force in using data to solve complex problems in engineering and design.

3. Ruchi Bhatia

In India, Ruchi Bhatia has emerged as a leading voice in HR analytics, demonstrating how data-driven strategies can transform workplace decision-making.

Why women in Data Science matter

The underrepresentation of women in data science is more than a gender issue-it’s a business and innovation problem. Diverse teams bring varied perspectives, which are crucial for designing inclusive, unbiased solutions.

1. Building Better Algorithms

A diverse workforce helps identify and mitigate biases in datasets and algorithms, ensuring AI solutions are equitable and fair.

2. Solving Real-World Problems

Women in data science bring unique insights to pressing global issues, from improving healthcare accessibility to developing climate change models.

3. Driving Economic Growth

According to a McKinsey report, bridging the gender gap in STEM could add $12 trillion to global GDP. Empowering women in data science is an investment in the future.

Initiatives Empowering Women in Data Science

Efforts to address the gender gap are gaining momentum, thanks to programs and initiatives aimed at creating opportunities for women:

1. Women in Data (WID)

This global community provides mentorship, skill-building workshops, and networking opportunities to support women entering and excelling in data science.

2. Women in Machine Learning and Data Science (WiMLDS)

WiMLDS focuses on increasing representation in machine learning and data science by organizing meetups, hackathons, and educational sessions.

3. Google Women Techmakers Scholarship

This program supports women pursuing technical degrees and helps them transition into data science careers.

4. India-Specific Programs

WiDS India (Women in Data Science): This annual conference brings together aspiring and established women in data science to share knowledge and network.

AI for All by Intel: Aims to introduce girls and women to AI and data science concepts, bridging the digital divide in underserved communities.

Corporate contributions through CSR

Corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives are playing a vital role in empowering women in data science. Some noteworthy programs include:

1. IBM STEM for Girls

This program focuses on equipping girls in secondary schools with digital skills and data science training, preparing them for tech careers.

2. P&G Shiksha

Though initially aimed at improving education infrastructure, this initiative has expanded to include digital literacy and coding skills for girls in rural areas.

3. Microsoft DigiGirlz

Microsoft’s program inspires high school girls to explore careers in technology by providing access to workshops, mentorship, and data science bootcamps.

4. TCS Ignite

Tata Consultancy Services’ Ignite program offers scholarships, internships, and training for women to enter data science roles in the tech industry.

Steps to Bridge the Gender Gap in Data Science

To see more women thrive in data science, we need a holistic approach:

1. Start Early

Introduce data science concepts in school curricula and run coding bootcamps specifically for girls. Programs like Girls Who Code have shown significant success in building early interest.

2. Mentorship and Role Models

Highlighting stories of women leaders in data science can inspire young girls. Structured mentorship programs can help women navigate challenges in the industry.

3. Inclusive Work Cultures

Organizations should focus on building supportive environments with policies like flexible work hours, maternity benefits, and mentorship programs for women re-entering the workforce.

4. Scholarships and Financial Support

Providing scholarships and grants for women to pursue data science degrees and certifications can make education more accessible.

5. Community Building

Encouraging women to join professional networks like WiDS or attend data science conferences fosters peer learning and collaboration.

Achievements by Indian Women in Data Science

Indian women are making significant strides in data science:

Shubha Nabar: A senior leader in AI at Salesforce, Shubha’s work has been pivotal in driving innovation in machine learning.

Manisha Raisinghani: Co-founder of LogiNext, she uses data science to revolutionize supply chain management and logistics in India.

Meghna Suryakumar: Founder of Crediwatch, Meghna leverages AI and data analytics to provide real-time credit insights for businesses.

These trailblazers serve as powerful examples of what women can achieve when given the opportunity and support to excel.

The Road Ahead

The gender gap in data science is a challenge, but it’s also an opportunity. By breaking barriers and creating inclusive ecosystems, we can not only empower women but also unlock the full potential of the field.

Women bring unique perspectives and insights to data science, driving innovation and solving real-world problems. By addressing systemic issues and fostering a culture of inclusion, we can ensure that more women take their rightful place at the forefront of data science, shaping a brighter, more equitable future.

The question isn’t whether women can succeed in data science-it’s how quickly we can create the conditions for them to thrive. The time to act is now.

Reference Links

1. https://www.ibm.com/blogs/corporate-social-responsibility/2020/12/ibm-stem-for-girls
2. https://wbcollaborative.org/insights/the-importance-of-women-in-data-science-and-analytics
3. https://www.mckinsey.com/featured-insights/future-of-work/the-future-of-work-in-india
4. https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/diversity/programs/digigirlz

Non-Governmental Organizations (NGO/SPOs) play a crucial role in addressing societal challenges, especially in a country like India, where socio-economic disparities are stark. With over 3.4 million registered NGO/SPOs, India boasts one of the largest networks of civil society organizations in the world. These organizations have been instrumental in improving education, healthcare, gender equality, disaster relief, and environmental conservation. However, the pressing question remains - are they truly making the impact they promise?

To answer this, we must analyze their contributions, challenges, and the way forward for sustainable change.

Transforming grassroots realities

1. Impact across sectors

NGO/SPOs in India have made remarkable contributions to several sectors:

• Education: Organizations like Pratham have revolutionized education at the grassroots level. Their Annual Status of Education Report (ASER) has provided critical insights into learning outcomes and influenced government policies.
• Healthcare: NGO/SPOs like Smile Foundation have addressed gaps in healthcare delivery, especially in rural and underserved areas, through mobile health clinics and awareness programs.
• Women Empowerment: SEWA (Self Employed Women’s Association) has empowered thousands of women by providing skill training and micro-finance support.
• Environmental Conservation: The Chipko Movement and contemporary efforts by NGO/SPOs like WWF India have brought environmental issues to the forefront.

2. Grassroots Impact of CSR Initiatives

Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) has amplified the impact of NGO/SPOs in India. The Companies Act, 2013 mandates companies to allocate 2% of their profits to CSR activities. According to the Ministry of Corporate Affairs, Indian companies spent over ₹24,865 crore on CSR initiatives in 2022-23, a significant portion of which was directed towards projects executed by NGO/SPOs.

• Tata Steel’s CSR initiative in partnership with NGO/SPOs has enhanced access to education and healthcare in tribal regions, benefiting over 2 lakh individuals.
• Similar partnerships between NGO/SPOs and corporates, like the Gates Foundation’s collaborations with local NGO/SPOs worldwide, have shown immense success in combating issues like malaria and polio.

NGO/SPOs and Government Collaborations: A winning formula

NGO/SPOs often work hand-in-hand with the government to achieve larger developmental goals:

• Mid-Day Meal Scheme: NGO/SPOs like Akshaya Patra partner with the government to provide nutritious meals to millions of schoolchildren, directly improving enrollment and attendance.
• Swachh Bharat Mission: Several NGO/SPOs have supported this flagship campaign by creating awareness about sanitation and constructing toilets in rural areas.
• National Rural Health Mission (NRHM): NGO/SPOs like Care India have played a pivotal role in maternal and child health programs under this mission.

Opportunities for growth

While NGO/SPOs have achieved remarkable milestones, addressing certain challenges can significantly amplify their impact and reach. These gaps present opportunities for improvement and innovation, ensuring that the sector becomes more effective and sustainable.

1. Strengthening accountability

Transparent fund utilization is crucial for building trust with stakeholders and attracting sustainable funding. While some NGO/SPOs lack robust reporting mechanisms, many are adopting tools and platforms like GuideStar India to enhance their transparency.

2. Collaborative efforts for greater impact

NGO/SPOs often work in silos, which can lead to duplication of efforts. However, many organizations have started forming alliances to pool resources and expertise. For instance, partnerships like those under the India Development Review (IDR) facilitate knowledge-sharing and coordinated action.

3. Overcoming resource constraints

Smaller NGO/SPOs often struggle with limited funding and manpower. Yet, many are finding innovative ways to stretch resources, such as leveraging technology for outreach and impact measurement. Initiatives like crowdfunding through Ketto and Milaap have enabled small NGO/SPOs to scale their operations.

4. Addressing sectoral gaps with targeted focus

While NGO/SPOs have excelled in education and healthcare, sectors like mental health, disability rights, and climate adaptation remain underserved. However, the growing awareness around these issues presents an opportunity for targeted interventions. For example, organizations like The Banyan have pioneered mental health initiatives, providing scalable models for others to replicate.

How small NGO/SPOs can make a big impact

1. Focused approach

• Small NGO/SPOs can create measurable impact by focusing on specific local issues.
• Example: Goonj, a Delhi-based NGO/SPO, started as a small initiative to recycle urban waste into rural resources. Today, it impacts millions through disaster relief and livelihood programs.

2. Leveraging Technology

• Digital tools can help small NGO/SPOs reach wider audiences, optimize fund utilization, and measure impact. Platforms like Milaap and Ketto have enabled crowdfunding for grassroots initiatives.

3. Collaboration

Partnering with larger organizations or corporates can amplify the reach and effectiveness of small NGO/SPOs.

Also Read :How Indian Companies Approach CSR

How Corporates and Governments can support NGO/SPOs

1. Increased Funding and Capacity Building

• Corporates can allocate a portion of their CSR budgets for capacity-building programs for smaller NGO/SPOs, ensuring better fund utilization and scalability.

2. Policy Reforms

• The government should streamline processes for NGO/SPO registration, funding approvals, and compliance to reduce bureaucratic hurdles.

3. Building Collaborative Ecosystems

• The government and corporates can establish platforms for NGO/SPOs to collaborate, share best practices, and pool resources.
• In the United States, initiatives like Nonprofit Collaboration Networks facilitate partnerships between NGO/SPOs and corporates for greater impact.

NGO/SPOs in India have undoubtedly brought about transformative changes at the grassroots level, but the road to maximizing their impact is long and challenging. By addressing gaps in accountability, funding, and collaboration, and focusing on underrepresented sectors, NGO/SPOs can fulfill their promises and drive sustainable development.

Corporates and governments have a critical role in enabling NGO/SPOs through financial support, policy reforms, and collaborative frameworks. Together, they can ensure that India’s NGO/SPOs not only continue to bridge societal gaps but also set a benchmark for impactful social change globally.

As we look ahead, the goal is clear - strengthening NGO/SPOs to create a more equitable, inclusive, and sustainable society.

Reference Links

1. https://thecsrjournal.in/india-inc-spent-rs-29986-92-on-csr-in-fy23-national-csr-portal/
2. https://indiacsr.in/tata-steel-foundation-purpose-and-works/
3. https://www.akshayapatra.org/includefiles/financialreports/Annual_Report_2020-21.pdf
4. https://nhm.gov.in/index1.php?lang=1&level=2&lid=218&sublinkid=822

Team DevSol4, which won the first edition of Code4Change 2023-24, shares why more data science professionals should participate in this unique event

CDSSI held the first edition of Code4Change 2023-24 (C4C) at the SAIACS CEO Centre on May 24 in Bengaluru. The event culminated with team DevSol4 being declared the winner. The team, from Development Solutions (DS), included Jagan (MEL Manager), Agrima (Project Manager), and Research Associates Sidra and Mallika, was among five finalists who presented their solutions to an esteemed jury, including Dr. Anand Rao (Professor of Data Science and AI at Carnegie Mellon University), Jayita Bhattacharya (Senior Director of Insights & Data at Capgemini), and Mayukh Choudhury (Co-founder of MILAAP).

The jury evaluated the teams on factors like relevance, methodology, data analysis, delivery, and impact. Teams were tasked with identifying key factors driving financial vulnerability in households, and assessing their impact on risk prediction. This required developing a model to identify, predict, and map the financial vulnerability of women-headed rural households. They were given a dataset that included household demographic profiles, socio-economic factors such as resource access and asset ownership, information on access to government schemes, and digital footprints of households. DevSol4 talks about their experience:

Why did you participate in Code4Change?

This hackathon was an excellent opportunity for us to showcase our ability to create real-time impactful solutions. We participated because:

1. We wanted to leverage data science in developing innovative solutions to pressing problems.
2. It was an opportunity for our research associates to gain valuable exposure and actively enhance their skills, thereby deepening their learning curve.

Tell us about the process. How did you work on your solution?

We created a Financial Vulnerability Index (FVI) to understand and measure the financial challenges faced by women-headed households in India, helping policymakers focus on those who need support the most. Through secondary research, we identified key barriers such as low income, limited financial knowledge, and poor access to services. Based on these insights, we developed four categories within the index: Banking and Digital Access, Asset Ownership, Social Welfare Support, and Income and Savings, reflecting the many factors that contribute to financial vulnerability. Further, we used a dimensionality reduction technique called Principal Component Analysis to determine the most relevant components and arrive at a single composite index. To enhance its accuracy, we employed a machine learning algorithm.

What did you discover?

Our analysis uncovered significant regional disparities in vulnerability. West Bengal, Telangana, and Tamil Nadu displayed the lowest levels of financial vulnerability, while Daman & Diu and Chandigarh showed the highest, with Chhattisgarh also emerging as highly vulnerable.

What kind of impact can your solution have?

The Financial Vulnerability Index (FVI) developed by the team can serve as a useful tool for social sector organisations, policymakers, and financial institutions to guide targeted assistance to financially vulnerable women-headed households in three ways:

Targeted Policy Interventions: The FVI can help policymakers identify the most vulnerable households, enabling focused social welfare efforts, such as subsidies, microfinance loans, and digital literacy initiatives, to ensure resources reach those in greatest need.

Strategic Planning for SPOs: SPOs can use the FVI to pinpoint high-need areas, allowing them to design programs - like financial literacy workshops, entrepreneurship training, and digital financial services - to support economic empowerment.

Enhanced Predictive Capabilities: The FVI’s machine learning model predicts future vulnerabilities, offering SPOs a proactive tool for planning. It can be scaled to offer insights at more localised levels, enabling tailored interventions for specific communities.

What were your learnings from the hackathon?

One of our biggest takeaways was how different teams came up with fundamentally different solutions (and findings) to the same problem using the same dataset. While all of us had a particular lens through which we approached the problem, there is merit in pooling our collective expertise in solving "wicked" social and policy problems.

Would you recommend Code4Change to others?

Of course! It is a great platform to bring together different stakeholders, all working on similar economic and social problems but with different approaches and expertise. It helps understand where there are gaps in evidence and research, and how they can be overcome. This can help with more efficient planning and allocation of resources. The judges too were open, collaborative and learned in their field, offering all participants insight into solving such problems.

It’s an avenue to use technological and data-related advancements in novel areas, and think beyond traditional quant and qual research methods. It’s also an opportunity for networking, collaboration, and knowledge sharing.

The Code4Change is a bi-annual social sector hackathon conducted by ISDM CDSSI.

Learn more about the hackathon here: https://www.isdm.org.in/cdssi/projects/code4change

The dream of achieving gender equality in education isn’t just an ambitious goal—it’s essential for building a just and thriving society. Yet, for millions of girls in India, even the basic right to attend school feels like a distant dream. Cultural norms, financial hardships, and deep-seated biases keep countless girls from stepping into a classroom. For every girl who overcomes these challenges, there are many more whose aspirations remain unfulfilled.

The United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goal 4—ensuring inclusive and equitable quality education for all by 2030—sets an inspiring benchmark. But here’s the tough question: Are we doing enough to make it a reality?

The Reality for Girls in India

India has made noteworthy progress in girls’ education over the years. Initiatives like the Right to Education Act (2009) and Beti Bachao Beti Padhao (BBBP) have significantly improved enrollment numbers. According to the Annual Status of Education Report (ASER) 2022, several states now report near-equal enrollment rates for boys and girls in primary schools—a commendable achievement.

However, the road ahead remains riddled with challenges.

• High Dropout Rates: Around 40% of rural girls drop out before completing secondary school.
  • Take the case of Pooja from Rajasthan, who had to leave school at 14 because her family prioritized her brother’s education. Thanks to intervention by a local NGO, Pooja is now back in school and excelling.
• Child Marriages: About 27% of Indian girls are married before the age of 18, cutting their education short.
  • Anita, from Bihar, was married off at 16, forcing her to abandon her studies. Organizations like Girls Not Brides are tirelessly working to change this narrative, but shifting ingrained cultural practices is a slow process.
• The Digital Divide: The pandemic highlighted glaring inequalities, with nearly 47% of rural girls unable to access online learning due to a lack of smartphones or internet connectivity.
  • Rekha, a tribal girl from Madhya Pradesh, missed two years of school during the pandemic for this very reason. Thankfully, a local NGO set up a community learning center, enabling her to continue her education.

In urban areas, the outlook is somewhat better, but for girls in rural and tribal communities, barriers such as poor infrastructure, unsafe roads, and regressive social norms persist.

Barriers Hindering Progress

1. Cultural Norms and Safety Concerns

For many families, educating a boy is seen as an investment, while educating a girl is still viewed as unnecessary. Safety concerns, such as long commutes to schools, often force parents to withdraw their daughters.

• In parts of Uttar Pradesh, for example, parents stopped sending their daughters to school because the nearest school was 8 kilometers away and unsafe to access. Programs like UNICEF’s Transport for Education aim to address this, but change is slow.

2. Financial Pressures

In low-income households, girls are often pulled out of school to contribute to household chores or earn a living.

• Asha, from Maharashtra, had to quit school to work as a domestic helper. Thanks to evening classes provided by Pratham, she’s now balancing education and her responsibilities.

3. Policy Implementation Gaps

While India has several robust policies, like the Kasturba Gandhi Balika Vidyalaya (KGBV) scheme, poor execution limits their effectiveness.

• For instance, in Odisha, a KGBV school faced severe teacher shortages, leaving students without lessons for weeks. Media coverage eventually prompted action, but these systemic gaps shouldn’t exist in the first place.

4. Transitioning to Higher Education

Even when girls complete primary schooling, advancing to secondary or higher education is often a challenge due to inadequate infrastructure or safety concerns.

• Farida, a gifted student from Assam, couldn’t pursue college because there were no hostels nearby. Initiatives like Tata Trusts’ residential schools are making strides, but the demand far exceeds the supply.

Ongoing Efforts to Empower Girls

The government, non-profits, and corporate entities are taking active steps to improve the situation:

Government Initiatives

• Beti Bachao Beti Padhao (BBBP): This campaign has helped shift societal mindsets and increase girl enrollment rates, particularly in states like Haryana.
• Kasturba Gandhi Balika Vidyalaya (KGBV): These residential schools enable marginalized girls to access education safely.
• Samagra Shiksha Abhiyan: By focusing on infrastructure and digital tools, this program is bridging gaps in remote areas.

Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) Programs

• Project Nanhi Kali (Mahindra Group): Supporting over 500,000 girls, this initiative provides school supplies and remedial classes.
• Tata Steel’s Thousand Schools Program: Targeting tribal regions, it has brought education to over 200,000 children, many of them girls.
• IBM STEM for Girls: Teaching digital and STEM skills, this program inspires girls to pursue careers in technology.

The Road to 2030: What Needs to Change?

To achieve gender parity in education by 2030, we must address the root causes of inequality with urgency and innovation.

1. Enforce Policies Effectively:

• Ensure proper funding and monitoring of initiatives like BBBP and KGBV.
• Empower local authorities to implement policies effectively.

2. Close the Digital Gap:

• Provide affordable smartphones and internet access in rural areas.
• Launch grassroots digital literacy programs to include entire communities.

3. Improve Infrastructure:

• Build more schools with clean sanitation facilities for girls.
• Offer safe transportation options for students in remote areas.

4. Shift Social Norms:

• Train local women as teachers to serve as role models.
• Conduct community campaigns to challenge traditional gender roles.

5. Incentivize Education:

• Offer scholarships, menstrual hygiene kits, and vocational training to make education more accessible.

A Brighter Future Is Possible

So, can India achieve gender parity in education by 2030? The answer is a resounding yes - but only if we treat it as a national priority. Stories like those of Pooja, Anita, and Rekha prove that while the barriers are real, they are not insurmountable.

The key lies in channeling resources where they’re needed most - into villages, schools, and local communities. Educating girls isn’t just about them; it’s about uplifting families, transforming societies, and shaping the nation’s future.

This isn’t just a question of whether we can achieve gender parity. It’s a matter of commitment. Because every girl deserves the chance to learn, grow, and thrive - and the world is a better place when she does.