Shaping gender-inclusive space sector in India: policy insights and strategies

Recent ISRO initiatives have shifted the narrative where the prominence of women in space science is highlighted. Despite this the gender gap persists as a challenge that can impede India’s goal of becoming a space‑faring developed nation by 2047. Therefore it is imperative to achieve a diverse and sustainable talent pool ensuring equitable opportunities and participation of all. Through multimodal digital ethnography this research analyzes the media portrayals of women scientists and gathers insights from various stakeholders on issues such as media impact on personal life and in shaping public perceptions, workplace dynamics, and work‑life balance. It also reviews key government STEM policies promoting participation of women. The study proposes three policy recommendations: embed gender equity in space policy, normalize women’s roles in the sector, and promote inclusive media content.