India’s X Factor

With Nirmala Sitharaman’s elevation as Defence Minister, the whole country has been talking about our women breaking the glass ceiling. Yes, Indian women have repeatedly breached the glass ceiling in every sphere of the workplace, at home and abroad.

But what these women also need to do is to break the glass floor so that many others can reach for the ceiling. And not only do away with the sticky floors but help crash the ceiling too. In this issue, we bring stories of some such women who have sure-footed what was known to be a ‘Man’s World.’ Indian women have been on the top of the corporate and business ladders for a while now. We not only profile women at home who have done us proud but also those who were born in India but achieved fame, glory, and success in other parts of the world. These women earned their spurs across countries, but one thing's for sure: you can't take India and their Indianness out of them. After all, many of them are what and where they are because of their cultural roots, and their ability to adapt them to a new milieu.

We also bring you a short profile of our new Defence Minister and her journey through the dusty world of politics and into governance. And then the Vedica Scholars, a unique MBA programme designed exclusively for women.This 18-month residential, postgraduate management course specifically for young women is sure to make a huge difference in the corporate world.

In London, the British Council’s UK/India Year of Culture celebrates with an event, Illuminating India, which commemorates 70 years of our Independence. A curtain raiser and peek into what’s on offer.

The Indian Army is looking at some major reforms from ‘Tooth to Tail’ which is going to impact are combat readiness. In Platform, we look at how this is going to work for India. Under Economy, a quick look at how demonetisation has impacted our economy a year after the bold move.

And of course, the usual mix of columns, politics, books and fashion. Not to forget the great festival of Diwali, a time to light up our lives and spread good cheer. So out darkness, and in light. Let’s all light a diya for a better world this Diwali. Jai Ganesha!