India’s Finance Minister, Nirmala Sitharaman, has been ranked 32nd on Forbes’ annual list of the World’s 100 Most Powerful Women. This prestigious list includes influential women from various sectors such as politics, business, media, and entertainment.
Sitharaman’s inclusion in the list highlights her significant contributions to Indian Politics & Policy. Her presence reflects her influence on India’s economic policies, particularly in relation to politics, GDP, and population considerations.
Other notable Indian women on the list include Roshni Nadar Malhotra, CEO of HCL Corporation (ranked 60), Soma Mondal, Chairperson of Steel Authority of India (ranked 70), and Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw, founder of Biocon (ranked 76), according to an ET report.
Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission, tops the list, followed by Christine Lagarde, President of the European Central Bank. US Vice President Kamala Harris secured the third position. Giorgia Meloni, Italy’s Prime Minister, bagged the fourth place. Taylor Swift achieved her highest-ever ranking at number 5.
Since assuming office as India’s finance minister in May 2019, Sitharaman has played a crucial role in shaping the country’s economic strategies, especially amidst global challenges such as the coronavirus pandemic. She also serves as the corporate affairs minister and has previously held positions at the UK-based Agricultural Engineers Association and BBC World Service. Additionally, she has served on the National Commission for Women.
Forbes’ list focuses on important global issues, such as reproductive autonomy, gender-based violence protection, girls’ education, and climate policy. It emphasizes the ongoing fight for women’s rights and well-being, particularly in lower-income economies.
The rankings are determined based on factors such as financial influence, media presence, impact, and spheres of influence.
Interestingly, Barbie secured the symbolic 100th position in the Media and Entertainment category. Although deviating from the traditional power image, Barbie’s inclusion symbolizes her influence in the media and entertainment industry for the year.
