AP

ANKITA PATILAIR 140· 2025

Question 20Analyze the socio-cultural factors... Suggest measures to improve their retention in STEM.GS1GS1

Analyze the socio-cultural factors contributing to the high attrition rate among women in STEM (Sciences, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) careers in India. Suggest measures to improve their retention in STEM.

Open scan (p.50)

Introduction

According to the AISHE report 43% of women are taking up STEM courses in India, that is more than global average. However, only 14% of women are present in STEM jobs.

31 words

Main Body

FACTORS CONTRIBUTING TO ATTRITION RATE IN STEM CAREERS

5[Social]
1Limited freedom choice only restricted to educational courses in STEM

(b) Patriarchal social structure limits female participation in STEM careers.

(b) Lack of female hiring in technical jobs.

4Pink clarification of administrative, low paying jobs in technical sectors.

(D) [Cultural]

1Urban women preferring homemaker role for familial needs.
2Lack of trust, confidence in capability of women in STEM careers.

(b) Bias regarding female productivity.

3Skewed gender ratio in workplace needs increases attrition rate.
4Prevalence of sexual harassment and unsafe workplace environment. (EG) Harassment instances in corporates.
5Lack of female leadership in projects.

MEASURES TO IMPROVE RETENTION

1Altering societal mindset regarding female leadership.
(b) ILO reportfemale managers are 20% more productive than male.
2Effectivizing campaigns for women

(EG) Women in Technology raising NEW campaign of Amazon.

3Promotion of successful women in STEM to induce attitudinal change.

(EG) ISRO female scientists in Mangalyan mission.

4Support system for entrepreneurship by encourage women led enterprise.
5& Development of open application platform for women.

(b) Strengthening of workplace security and gender sensitization.

190 words3 paragraphs

Conclusion

Women are the 'untapped potential of a country'. Hillary Clinton. Women in STEM career advance the motto of sustainable and vigorous vision.

22 words

Diagram

Educational choices box connects to Occupational choices box with STEM arrow. Shows Humanities→STEM with Traditional housewife roles and Pink colonisation of menial jobs as factors. Labeled as 'Fig: Women's choice regarding STEM careers'

  • Strong statistical opening (43% enrollment vs 14% in jobs)
  • Clear analytical framework with diagram
  • Identifies the enrollment vs. employment paradox
  • Uses AISHE report for credibility

Topper

ANKITA PATIL

AIR 1402025

Subject & Paper

GS1GS1

Topic

Role of Women

Women in STEM

Role of Women

Writing Stats

243

Total words

3

Paragraphs