Future Female Forward 2025 honours trailblazing women shaping India’s future

1 / 13Hema Kumari, sarpanch of Pekeru village, Andhra Pradesh, was recognised for her transformational leadership in grassroots governance, spearheading initiatives in rural development, education and women’s empowerment.2 / 13Dr Aanchal Gupta, founder of Netram Eye Foundation, has been a champion of sight, working tirelessly to provide affordable and accessible eye care services, restoring vision for thousands across India.3 / 13Chef Amninder Sandhu, a culinary innovator, has revolutionised the food industry with her heritage low-heat cooking techniques and a zero-waste philosophy, setting new sustainability benchmarks in fine dining.4 / 13Group Captain Monica Bijlani, director of media and public relations at the Indian Air Force, was felicitated for her efforts in bridging communication between the IAF and the public, playing a crucial role in strategic storytelling and defence outreach.5 / 13Kaamya Karthikeyan, a prodigious mountaineer, was recognised for her record-breaking achievements in high-altitude climbing, inspiring young girls to pursue adventure and push their limits.6 / 13Archana Priyadarshini, a venture capitalist, has been instrumental in funding and mentoring women-led start-ups, fostering innovation and economic empowerment.7 / 13Ruchi Kalra, co-founder of Oxyzo and OfBusiness, was recognised for her role in transforming India’s fintech and SME lending landscape, making financing more accessible for businesses.8 / 13Vaishali Nigam Sinha, a climate and sustainability advocate, has led impactful initiatives in clean energy, ESG and gender diversity in corporate leadership.9 / 13Padmaja Chunduru, a banking veteran, former Managing Director & CEO of National Securities Depository, has played a significant role in financial inclusion, driving digital banking and corporate governance reforms.10 / 13Chetna Gala Sinha, social entrepreneur and founder of Mann Deshi Bank, was honoured for her pioneering work in financial independence for rural women, enabling thousands to become entrepreneurs.11 / 13Dr Shefali F, a medical expert and New York Times bestselling author, has been at the forefront of advancements in women’s healthcare and reproductive medicine. A pioneer in conscious parenting, she is a global voice in psychology, empowering millions to break generational cycles and live authentically.12 / 13Shanti Ekambaram, deputy managing director at Kotak Mahindra Bank and a stalwart in the banking sector, was recognised for her strategic leadership and significant contributions to India’s financial ecosystem.13 / 13Ila Arun, the celebrated singer and actor, was honoured for her rich contributions to Indian music and theatre, preserving and promoting folk traditions.

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