India's Public Sector Undertakings (PSUs) were established post-independence to ensure sustainable economic growth for the country. For years, major PSUs were helmed by men but today more and more women are leading major Indian PSUs indicating the evolution of gender norms and women’s empowerment in India.
A nation’s steady economic growth requires foresight and adequate planning. Indian PSUs are the perfect examples of the Indian government’s systematic growth plans. A newly independent India was aware that pre-existing industries were inadequate for the country’s sustainable growth. Thus a host of government-owned enterprises were established to tackle critical sectors such as transport, manufacturing, energy, banking, oil & gas, etc.
These organizations are crucial to India's economic growth because they make substantial contributions to important industries. PSUs are in charge of carrying out significant national projects and are frequently founded to achieve strategic national objectives. Despite being government-owned, their level of autonomy and decision-making power varies according to different classifications, including Maharatna, Navratna, and Miniratna.
Indian PSUs are experiencing a transformative shift in leadership, with visionary women taking over the reins in traditionally male-dominated spaces. These women are breaking through glass ceilings and shattering stereotypes, promoting diversity and inclusivity in an unlike space.
Here are 9 Indian women leaders who have become leaders within Indian PSUs, demonstrating the evolving face of leadership in the public sector. Their journey, achievements, and impact on organizations are inspiring and contributing to economic growth and sustainability. Here is a closer look at these women changemakers.
Soma Mondal - SAIL
Soma Mondal is a well-known figure in the steel industry. She was the first female Chairman of the Steel Authority of India (SAIL) and its first Functional Director. She also served as the organization's former Chairperson. In addition, she led the company as its CEO.
Soma has over 35 years of experience in the metal industry and has been instrumental in SAIL products' branding and marketing initiatives. She was chosen to serve as the organization's chair of the Standing Conference of Public Enterprises (SCOPE), which is the Central Government Public Enterprises' representative, in March 2021.
Recognizing her prolific work, the Forbes' 2023 list of the World's Most Powerful Women, placed Soma at number 70. The "Queen of Steel" has made her name to "World's Most Powerful Women" in both the 2022 and 2023 editions of Forbes Magazine.
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