VS

VIVEK SINGHAIR 276· 2025

Question Q.20GS1GS1

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

Open scan (p.48)

Introduction

According to Economic Survey, 42% of STEM graduates are women and only 16% STEM employees are women. Above data highlights apathy of women in STEM jobs. Measures to improve retention in STEM:

32 words

Main Body

According to Economic Survey, 42% of STEM graduates are women and only 16% STEM employees are women.

Above data highlights apathy of women in STEM jobs.

Various socio-cultural factors contributing high attrition rate in STEM careers :

1Stereotype: Science based jobs are meant for men and humanities for women.
2Motherhood: pregnancy often leads to break in professional life making them lag in their career progression.
3Time poverty: STEM jobs requiring high 'double work': weight and time, women are forced to do home + job work.
4Safety at workplace: STEM jobs dominated by males makes women feel uneasy and lack of companionship.
5Lack of family support: married or unmarried families fails to show up-conditional support and social roles takes precedence over career growth.
6High workload and lack of empathetic work environment: women sensitive work culture after lagging in STEM jobs.

Measures to improve retention in STEM:

(a) Inclusive institutions: for example creche facilities, women toilets, etc.

(b) POSH implementation: through training and Internal Complaints Committee.

(c) Social change through: publicity of women contributions in STEM @ kalpana Chawla, etc.

(D) Encouragement in school through: science exhibitions, vocational training, etc. like China's women workforce training in ITIs.

(E) Nudging private/corporate sectors to improve gender ratio: @ Acrobat's 50% female recruitment policy.

(F) Over all safety and security of women is state's responsibility.

(G) Breaking stereotypes, breaking glass ceiling by masculinity oneself to bring about charge. @ Kiran Bedi = 44 women IPS of credit.

As Swami Vivekananda said, "A nation can not progress with women like a bird can not fly on single wing. Inclusive, participative, safe and encouraging work environment are needed in STEM jobs."

280 words16 paragraphs

Conclusion

As Swami Vivekananda said, "A nation can not progress with women like a bird can not fly on single wing. Inclusive, participative, safe and encouraging work environment are needed in STEM jobs."

32 words

  • Data-backed opening statement showing disparity
  • Comprehensive identification of socio-cultural barriers
  • Clear analysis of systemic issues (stereotypes, safety, family support)
  • Recognition of intersectional challenges (pregnancy, domestic responsibilities)
  • Specific institutional measures provided
  • Legal framework integration (POSH)
  • Use of role models for cultural change
  • Holistic approach combining policy and social measures
  • Specific corporate examples cited (Acrobat, Kiran Bedi)
  • International comparison (China's model)
  • Strong concluding quote from Swami Vivekananda
  • Comprehensive policy recommendations covering education to implementation

Topper

VIVEK SINGH

AIR 2762025

Subject & Paper

GS1GS1

Topic

Role of Women and Women's Organization

Women in STEM careers

Socio-cultural barriers and retention strategies

Writing Stats

344

Total words

16

Paragraphs

prescriptive and solution-focused

Tone