Women in Leadership Breaking the Glass Ceiling in Corporate India

In recent decades, India has witnessed a slow but steady rise in women assuming leadership positions in the corporate sector. However, despite progress, the proverbial glass ceiling—the invisible barrier preventing women from reaching top executive roles—still exists in many organizations.

According to a report by Grant Thornton (2024), only 19% of senior leadership roles in India are held by women. While this marks improved, compared to a decade ago, it also highlights the need for sustained efforts towards gender diversity, inclusive leadership, and organizational reform. This gap presents both a challenge and an opportunity for institutions like Poddar Business School, which actively promotes leadership development and women empowerment through its best MBA programs.

One of the key challenges women face is the bias in recruitment and promotion practices, often rooted in deep-seated stereotypes about women's roles in society. Cultural expectations regarding marriage, motherhood, and caregiving responsibilities also hinder career progression. Moreover, the lack of mentorship and networking opportunities further isolates women from leadership pipelines.

Yet, there are success stories. Leaders like Indra Nooyi (former CEO of PepsiCo) and Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw (Biocon)are iconic female CEOs who serve as role models for aspiring women enterpreneurs. These women exemplify how vision, resilience, and innovation can break traditional barriers. Today, many companies are adopting diversity policies, leadership training for women, and flexible work arrangements to support female talent.

Business schools, especially reputed institutions like Poddar Business School, have a crucial role to play in this transformation. By integrating gender studies, promoting inclusive case studies, and encouraging female leadership programs, they can help nurture the next generation of women leaders. Ranked among the best MBA colleges in Jaipur, Poddar’s commitment to management education in India helps close the gender gap in leadership roles.

To truly shatter the glass ceiling, it’s not just women who need to lean in—but also organizations, educational institutions, and policymakers who must lean forward.