GRIDCON 2025 | Yashobhoomi, New Delhi
As part of the prestigious GRIDCON 2025, a special event titled “Women in Energy” was held on March 11, 2025, at Yashobhoomi, New Delhi.
This dedicated session wasn’t just a celebration of the incredible contributions of women in the power sector—it was a powerful call to action for greater inclusion, leadership, and equity in the energy transition journey.
Bringing together a diverse gathering of visionaries and changemakers, the session welcomed esteemed delegates from CPSEs, private organizations, academic institutions, and international bodies like the World Bank.
Breaking Barriers and Building Bridges: Advancing Gender Equality in the Power Sector
Focusing on the movement of intent, action, and inspiration. Moderated by Ms. Mandakini Kaul, The World Bank Group.
The Power of Women: Modernization and Innovation in the Energy Landscape
Exploring how gender inclusion accelerates technological and social transformation. Moderated by Ms. Surbhi Goyal, The World Bank Group.
Moderated by Ms. Mandakini Kaul (South Asia Regional Coordinator, The World Bank Group), the panel opened with a powerful insight: While India leads in engineering graduates, only 32% are women—and even fewer rise to leadership in technical roles.
Chairperson, NPTI, Faridabad
“We don’t want reservation—we want recognition based on capability.”
“Training builds confidence, and confidence builds leaders.”
VP, Burns & McDonnell, USA
“A mentor guides you—a sponsor fights for you when you’re not in the room.”
“Don’t wait to be picked. Be visible, and ask for what you deserve.”
Director (IS & P), BHEL
“Managerial intent matters more than policies. We must ask, not assume.”
“Don’t set women up to fail—handhold and equip them to succeed.”
Director, Indian Oil (IOCL)
“The real test of inclusivity is who rises to the top.”
“We don’t just frame policies—we challenge bias with data.”
Moderated by Ms. Surbhi Goyal (Senior Energy Specialist, The World Bank Group), the session highlighted that modernization in the energy sector cannot succeed without the full and equal participation of women.
Climate Policy Expert, TERI
“The energy transition isn’t just technical—it’s a social transformation.”
“Women must believe they are leaders of innovation.”
HOD, DTU (formerly DCE)
“Skill defines success—not gender.”
“Maths and machines aren't just for boys.”
Executive Director, NTPC
“Women must be in the driver’s seat of the growth engine.”
“Ask for the opportunity. You’re worth the investment.”
Hitachi Energy
“Stop chasing equality—claim your space with competence.”
“We’re already CEOs of our homes. Bring that to workplace.”
Smart Grids, Siemens
“Digitalization is the great equalizer. The time is now.”
“If you don’t find a seat at the table, build your own.”
Chief Engineer, CEA
“Women on site are the new normal.”
“I launched ‘Lineman Diwas’ to celebrate women on frontlines.”
The energy transition is no longer just about grids and gigawatts—it’s about courage, collaboration, and claiming space.