@article {49984,
	title = {Underutilization of India{\textquoteright}s trained science and technology workforce: Impact on gender disparity},
	journal = {Proceedings of the Indian National Science Academy},
	volume = {91},
	year = {2025},
	month = {NOV},
	pages = {1526{\textendash}1537},
	type = {Article},
	abstract = {<p>
	<span style="font-family: Merriweather, serif; font-size: 18px;">The growing STEM workforce of India faces remarkable underutilization, mostly among women and early-career researchers. A survey was conducted among 106 research professionals showed that 46\% of the respondents experienced career breaks while only 20{\textendash}22\% perceived sufficient employment opportunities across educational levels. Gender disparity has become a remarkable, associated factor, influenced by and perpetuating the underutilization of the workforce, shaped by career interruptions associated to marriage, childbirth, and societal norms, which disproportionately affect 65\% of women respondents. While over 50\% respondents showed their interest in developing entrepreneurship, awareness of government schemes such as Startup India and Skill India remains inadequate. The findings from the study supports the short-term actions like childcare support and flexible re-entry policies, medium-term incorporation of entrepreneurship programs with scientific careers, and long-term development of R\&amp;D through increased investment and mentorship programs. Addressing systemic and gender-based obstacles is vital for optimizing scientific workforce and promoting development driven by innovation in India. Additionally, the promotion of scientific entrepreneurship and start-up schemes is essential for boosting research sector growth. Addressing the systemic barriers and supporting gender equity in science and academia can help India fully leverage its qualified STEM talent.</span></p>
},
	doi = {https://doi.org/10.1007/s43538-025-00612-x},
	author = {Jugran, Arun K. and Sardana, Neha and Fatima, N. Nishad and Maheshwary, Sugandha and Sengupta, Durba and Chakravorty, Nishant}
}
