1. Dr. Anamika Wadhera – Preventive Health & Public Policy Expert
Dr. Anamika Wadhera is a young and dynamic public health and preventive healthcare expert with over 15 years of experience spanning community engagement, government collaboration, and national policy advocacy. A former leader at the Centre for Community Medicine, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, she has led major initiatives on micronutrient deficiencies, anaemia control, and tobacco control reforms.
She has worked extensively with WHO, MOHFW, UNICEF, Food Safety and Standards Authority of India, YWCA, All India Women’s Conference, ESIC Hospital, DU NSS platform, Safdarjung Hospital, and AIIMS.
Her expertise also extends to cancer nutrition and onco-nutrition, strengthening preventive and supportive care frameworks. A strong advocate for mental health, women’s safety, and consumer rights, she continues to drive impact from grassroots communities to high-level policy platforms.
2. Namita Thapar – Executive Director, Emcure Pharmaceuticals
A key leader in India’s pharmaceutical industry, she plays a crucial role in expanding access to high-quality, affordable medicines across domestic and global markets. Through her presence on Shark Tank India, she mentors young entrepreneurs and encourages innovation in health-tech and wellness startups. She is also vocal about women’s health, workplace equality, and leadership development.
3. Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw – Founder, Biocon
A trailblazer in biotechnology, she built Biocon into a global biopharmaceutical enterprise focused on affordable insulin and life-saving biologics. Her leadership has strengthened India’s research capabilities and global credibility in biosimilars. She is also deeply committed to philanthropy, supporting cancer care and healthcare infrastructure development.
4. Dr. Gagandeep Kang – Vaccine & Infectious Disease Expert
An internationally respected scientist, Dr. Kang has significantly advanced vaccine research and public health surveillance in India. She has contributed to strengthening immunization programs and evidence-based health policy. Her work has enhanced India’s global reputation in infectious disease research and pandemic preparedness.
5. Dr. Soumya Swaminathan – Global Health Strategist
Former Chief Scientist at the World Health Organization, she played a pivotal role in shaping global health research strategies and pandemic response frameworks. With extensive experience in tuberculosis and infectious disease research, she has influenced health policy at both national and international levels. Her leadership continues to inspire women in science and global public health.
This Women’s Day, we celebrate these extraordinary women who are redefining healthcare leadership through innovation, research, entrepreneurship, and policy impact—building a healthier India for generations to come.
