ISRO Chief Highlights Women Leadership at US-India Space Forum

By: WE Staff | Wednesday, 11 February 2026

• ISRO Chairman V Narayanan addressed the US-India Space Business Forum in Bengaluru
• He said this showed growing participation of women in the space sector
• The forum saw a changing trend from male-dominated professions

ISRO Chairman V. Narayanan said on Tuesday that the high representation of women leaders at the US-India Space Business Forum reflected broader social progress, and that nearly 80 per cent of the main stage participants were women.

Speaking at the inaugural session in Bengaluru, Narayanan remarked, "The space and high-technology platform has been traditionally male-dominated. The forum basically shows a shift in that respect, where women are at the forefront of discussions on space business and international collaboration."

He mentioned that the presence of women leaders would reflect the ongoing efforts at women's empowerment within India and point toward increased participation in strategic and decision-making space sector roles. He added that involvement reflected substantive leadership rather than symbolic representation.

He also stated that since the space sector is continuously expanding through private participation, international partnerships must ensure equity for all participants.

The US-India Space Business Forum brought together the representatives of the government, industry leaders, and participants in the private sector of both countries to hold discussions on strengthening cooperation in the growing space business ecosystem.