The BBC has unveiled its prestigious list of 100 inspiring and influential women for 2024, recognizing the contributions of women across various fields globally. This year’s list includes several remarkable Indian women, such as social activist Aruna Roy, who co-founded the Mazdoor Kisan Shakti Sangathan (MKSS) and played a pivotal role in securing transparency and fair wages for rural communities in India. Her tireless advocacy helped bring about a landmark law in 2005, empowering citizens to demand accountability from the government.
Pooja Sharma, honored in the Culture and Education category, has been recognized for her compassionate work in Delhi, where she has performed the last rites for over 4,000 unclaimed bodies in the past three years. Pooja’s journey began after a personal tragedy, when she performed the final rites for her brother.
Vinesh Phogat, a decorated wrestler with multiple medals from the World Championships, Commonwealth Games, and Asian Games, was also featured. Vinesh made history by becoming the first Indian female wrestler to reach an Olympic final, despite facing challenges. Beyond her sporting career, she has entered politics and continues to speak out against sexism in sports, notably leading protests against the Indian Wrestling Federation president accused of sexual harassment.
The list also highlights the achievements of Indian-American women, such as Sunita Williams, a retired NASA astronaut who holds the record for the most spacewalks by a woman and made history by running a marathon in space in 2007. Currently on an extended mission aboard the International Space Station, Sunita will return to Earth in February 2025.
Sneha Revanur, a 20-year-old AI expert and activist, rounds out the list. As the founder of Encode Justice, Sneha is advocating for safe and equitable AI. Her global movement has gained significant attention, earning her recognition as one of TIME magazine’s 100 most influential voices in AI.
