women empowerment

New mothers often face unsolicited and hurtful comments about breastfeeding that can affect their confidence and emotional well-being. Here, we highlight common remarks to avoid, share expert advice from a paediatrician, and offer supportive affirmations every breastfeeding mother deserves to hear.

What do you do with a weed that grows back in 14 days and kills everything in its path? In Trichy, 25-year-old ecologist Sushmita Krishnan found an answer — she turned it into handmade paper and trained 150 women to do the same.

Dr GS Roshni, a former Doordarshan newsreader, defies societal expectations as Kerala’s only certified female snake rescuer. With over 800 rescues, including a King Cobra, she breaks barriers and inspires young women to pursue their passions, regardless of gender stereotypes.

In 19th-century India, Kadambini Ganguly fought courts, colleges and societal norms to study medicine and heal others. She kept saving lives till 15 minutes before her death.

HERB HEAVEN, led by the Mir family in Pampore, Kashmir, is taking the region’s prized saffron to the world. By blending tradition with modern methods, they empower local women artisans, providing stable jobs and preserving Kashmir’s cultural heritage through sustainable farming and quality products.

After becoming a mother, Bhawna Dehariya didn’t pause her mountaineering dreams — she climbed higher. From a tribal village in Madhya Pradesh to Everest, she now inspires other women to rise without choosing between ambition and motherhood.

Pulicat Lake is under threat from illegal worm poaching and a proposed port expansion. Local tribal women are patrolling the lake and protecting mangroves.

In 2012, life took an unexpected turn for Reeva Sood when her husband was diagnosed with cancer. Coming back to her home in Himachal, she transformed barren land into a thriving 70-acre farm. Doing so, she also empowered 300 rural women and generated a ₹1 crore turnover annually.

This isn’t just a stitching class. It’s where 200+ women are reclaiming self-worth through employment, skills, and basic education in a place built on sisterhood and compassion.

Dr Megha Saxena transformed pine needle waste into valuable biochar-based products, addressing one of the root causes of forest fires while enhancing agriculture. Her startup, EcoChar, not only improves soil fertility but also promotes sustainable farming.