Women in Space Leadership Program (WiSLP): Empowering Women

The Women in Space Leadership Programme (WiSLP) is a collaboration between the Department of Science and Technology (DST) and the British Council, part of the UK-India Education and Research Initiative (UKIERI).

Programme Overview

Department of Science and Technology (DST) and British Council launch Women in Space Leadership Programme (WiSLP)
Part of the UK-India Education and Research Initiative (UKIERI)
Aims to support 250 early career researchers (ECRs) in space sciences
Focuses on developing a strategic leadership framework for women
Coventry University serves as the delivery partner

Programme Objectives

Create a gender-inclusive environment in space sciences
Equip women with tools to navigate gender biases and barriers
Build sustainable mentoring networks and peer-to-peer support
Enhance scientific innovation by integrating gender perspectives
Strengthen gender-inclusive practices and policies in institutions

Key Features and Approaches

Incorporates networking, awareness-building, and mentoring mechanisms
Based on three pillars: intersectionality, culturally sensitive approaches, and leadership theory
Addresses unique contexts, challenges, and opportunities for women in academic leadership
Expands focus to diverse areas such as engineering and social sciences
Aims to transform workplace culture to recognize female leaders

Stakeholder Perspectives

Dr. Vandana Singh (DST): Emphasizes empowering women in scientific research and innovation
Michael Houlgate (British Council): Stresses collaboration in solving global challenges
Dr. Elena Gaura (Coventry University): Highlights importance of transforming culture, not just reproducing it
Prof. Annapurni Subramaniam (IIA): Encourages early engagement of women in space science

Critical Mineral Recycling 2025

The Government of India has launched a new ₹1,500 crore incentive scheme to promote critical mineral recycling. This initiative is part of the National Critical Mineral Mission (NCMM) and was approv

National Red List India 2025

India is set to unveil its first-ever National Red List India 2025 at the IUCN World Conservation Congress 2025, scheduled in Abu Dhabi, UAE, from October 9 to 15, 2025. This national initiative w

SECL Korba Central Store Unit

In a remarkable stride towards women-led development in India’s industrial sector, South Eastern Coalfields Limited (SECL), a subsidiary of Coal India Limited (CIL), inaugurated its fi

NHAI QR Code Sign Boards

In a major step towards digital transformation and commuter convenience, the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has introduced NHAI QR Code Sign Boards across various stretches of Nationa

India ICAO Part II Re-Election

India has been re-elected to India ICAO Part II, reaffirming its position as a major contributor to international civil aviation. The announcement was made during the 42nd ICAO Assembly 2025 held

MSP Increase for Rabi Crops 2025

The Union Cabinet, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, recently approved the National Pulses Mission and announced a significant MSP Increase for Rabi Crops 2025. These initiatives are part of th

RSS Centenary Celebrations

The RSS Centenary Celebrations mark a historic milestone in the journey of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), which completed 100 years in 2025. To commemorate this achievement, Prime Minister

National Security Act 1980

Recently, climate activist Sonam Wangchuk was detained under the National Security Act 1980 (NSA Act) for leading demonstrations demanding statehood for Ladakh and Sixth Schedule protections. This

Women in Agriculture India

The role of Women in Agriculture in India has been gaining attention, especially with the latest Periodic Labour Force Survey (PLFS) 2023-24 highlighting a significant increase in female participa

AVAS System for EVs in India

The Indian government is taking a significant step to improve EV safety with the introduction of a mandatory AVAS system for EVs. From October 1, 2027, all electric vehicles (EVs) in India will be