30-05-2025
Women in leadership essential, not optional: Soumya Mishra
Hyderabad: Let's build a world where women can rise, shine and lead, said Soumya Mishra, director general, (prisons and correctional services) on Thursday, adding how in today's world, it is no longer optional but essential to have women in leadership roles.
Speaking at the Times Power Women Conclave 2025 Hyderabad, Mishra, who was the chief guest at the event, said that in every sector — from governance to grassroots, innovation to education — women are no longer waiting for permission. "They are claiming their rightful place at the table," she said, terming the event as a celebration of not just success, but of the spirit and resilience of women who are reshaping the world through extraordinary leadership.
She advised women leaders to create pathways for other women to rise. Mishra pointed out that there is a need to address systematic challenges that hinder women from growing into leadership roles. "There is a need for structural shifts in legislation, education and economic representation to help women grow," she added.
A total of 35 women from various fields, including badminton player Saina Nehwal, G Padmaja Reddy, classical Kuchipudi dancer, Anuradha Reddy, heritage activist, Pratibha Kunda, FICCI chairman, among others, received awards at the event.
by Taboola
by Taboola
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The event, which also saw a panel discussion on 'the future of work: empowering women in a hybrid and automated world', discussed how work from home opportunities and hybrid work culture can help women, especially those who had to take a career break, to come back into the workforce.
"There is fear, anxiety, nervousness and loss of confidence when women take a break. Structural intervention is needed to ease them back into career.
They need access to tech or learning platforms, support from the ecosystem, especially bosses, a clear career patting and learning opportunities and to take care of their well being — physical, social, mental and financially," said Mamatha Madireddy, managing director and head of HSBC, who was one of the panellist's and awardees.
She added that at their firm women get six month maternity leave plus an option to take one year work from home post leave.
The panellists, however, added that the decision to take WFH should be of women alone as it might also have adverse affect on their mental health, if it is opted for wrong reasons.
