New Delhi: Forbes has recently released its annual list of the Most Powerful Women, featuring four accomplished Indians in its 2023 edition. Topping the list among Indian women is Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, securing the 32nd spot.
The Forbes list of the world’s most powerful women features names like Taylor Swift and US Vice President Kamala Harris. The three other Indian women includes HCL Corporation CEO Roshni Nadar Malhotra (ranked 60), Steel Authority of India Chairperson Soma Mondal (ranked 70), and Biocon Founder Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw (ranked 76).
Nirmala Sitharaman (ranked 32)
Sitharaman, a prominent figure in the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), has held key ministerial positions, serving as the Minister of Finance and Minister of Corporate Affairs since 2019. Previously, she made history as India’s second female Defence Minister from 2017 to 2019. Forbes acknowledged her as the 36th most powerful woman in 2022 and elevated her to the 32nd position this year.
Roshni Nadar Malhotra (ranked 60)
Roshni Nadar Malhotra, at 42, stands as an Indian billionaire and philanthropist, heading HCL Technologies. Notably, she made history as the first woman to lead a listed IT company in India. Continuously featured in Forbes’ powerful women rankings, she secured the 60th spot in 2023.
Soma Mondal (ranked 70)
Soma Mondal, 60, currently chairs the Steel Authority of India, breaking barriers as the first woman in this role since January 2021. With over 35 years of industry experience, her journey includes being the first woman Functional Director and Chairman at SAIL. Recognized for her corporate achievements, she holds the 70th position on the Forbes list.
Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw (ranked 76)
Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw, a 70-year-old billionaire entrepreneur, founded and led Biocon Limited and Biocon Biologics Limited in Bangalore, India. Beyond her contributions to biotechnology, she served as the former chairperson of the Indian Institute of Management, Bangalore. Honored with the 76th spot on the Forbes list, Mazumdar-Shaw has received accolades such as the Othmer Gold Medal in 2014 and the title of EY World Entrepreneur Of The Year in 2020.