Que: What gender gaps do you see in the current policies within the energy sector?

Ans: While the energy sector has traditionally faced gender disparities, current policies present a strong foundation to build more inclusive frameworks. Increasing emphasis on sustainability and skill development for emerging sectors creates opportunities to integrate gender considerations more intentionally. By aligning these policies with targeted initiatives—such as promoting women’s participation in technical training, leadership development, and emerging fields like green hydrogen, storage, and EV infrastructure—the sector can bridge representation gaps. With women already earning a significant share of STEM degrees, there is a clear opportunity to translate this talent into workforce participation, ensuring that future energy policies drive both innovation and equity.

Que: Have you personally encountered unconscious bias in your career? How was it handled (or not handled)?

Ans: As an investment banker, I advise founders and shareholders on important capital and business strategy decisions and help them execute on those decisions. In this capacity, one is required to draw upon one’s experience and expertise to give the best possible advice, which will help the company and the shareholders achieve their preferred outcomes. Thankfully, I have not had too many instances of bias. On one rare occasion, the founder expressed that he was uncomfortable taking advice from a woman, and I made sure we sent in a male colleague instead. It was unfortunate, but I preferred focusing on projects where the founder and I were perfectly aligned, which has almost always been the case for me. I believe a change in mindsets will happen when more and more women role models are showcased for their achievements.

Que: What do you think are the most common structural barriers preventing women from advancing in this sector?

Ans: The most common structural barriers preventing women from advancing in the energy sector include limited access to technical training and mentorship, unconscious bias in hiring and promotion, and a lack of gender-sensitive workplace policies. Many roles, particularly in field operations and project sites, are perceived as male-dominated due to inadequate safety measures, insufficient amenities, and inflexible work arrangements. Additionally, women often face networking gaps and fewer opportunities to participate in high-visibility projects or decision-making forums. These systemic issues collectively restrict career progression and contribute to the persistent underrepresentation of women in leadership and technical roles across the sector.

While it's heartening to see more women entering VC and impact investment spaces, especially in climate tech, we need many more decision-makers, fund managers, and partners who bring a gender lens to capital allocation. Having women at the table, across both operational and financial sides of climate innovation, is not a nice-to-have, it’s a must.

Que: What kind of visibility or recognition would help amplify women’s contributions in energy?

Ans: Amplifying women’s contributions in the energy sector calls for greater visibility through platforms that highlight their achievements, expertise, and leadership. Featuring women as keynote speakers at industry events, profiling their success stories in media and sector reports, and instituting awards or fellowships dedicated to women in clean energy can inspire wider participation. Recognition through mentorship programmes, leadership showcases, and inclusion in policy discussions not only validates their impact but also positions them as role models. By consistently celebrating women’s contributions, the sector can foster a culture where diversity is valued as a catalyst for innovation and sustainable growth. Also, it makes people more familiar with what women professionals are capable of.

Que: What specific gender-responsive policies do you think would have the most immediate impact in the energy sector?

Ans: High-impact gender-responsive policies in the energy sector would focus on building skills, increasing participation, and enabling workplace accessibility. Targeted technical training for women—especially in emerging areas like green hydrogen, storage, and EV infrastructure—can open long-term career opportunities, while mentorship programmes can support career advancement. Strengthening workplace safety protocols, improving site-level amenities, and offering flexible work arrangements would make field and project roles more accessible.

Que: How do you envision the energy sector transforming if gender-inclusive policies are truly implemented?

Ans: If gender-inclusive policies are fully implemented, the energy sector could become more innovative, equitable, and resilient, benefiting from the full potential of a diverse workforce. Greater participation of women in technical, operational, and leadership roles would bring fresh perspectives, collaborative problem-solving, and community-driven approaches to clean energy projects. Targeted policies addressing barriers to entry, career progression, and workplace flexibility would not only close the gender gap but also expand the talent pool, accelerating advancements in renewable energy, green hydrogen, storage, and EV infrastructure. Such inclusion would foster balanced decision-making, enhance social impact, and drive a just energy transition that reflects the needs and aspirations of all stakeholders.

Que: What message would you give to younger women aspiring to join India’s clean energy mission?

Ans: We encourage younger women to see India’s clean energy mission as both a promising career path and a platform for meaningful impact. With the sector evolving rapidly through advancements in renewable energy, storage, green hydrogen, and electric mobility, there is immense scope for diverse perspectives and innovative thinking. Women bring problem-solving abilities and community-focused approaches that can drive inclusive growth and transformative change. We urge aspiring professionals to build strong technical expertise, hone leadership skills, seek mentorship, and confidently step into roles in traditionally male-dominated spaces. By doing so, they can shape their careers while helping accelerate India’s transition to a cleaner, more equitable energy future.