Ayush Gupta, Director (HR), GAIL (India) Limited, shared his perspectives on advancing women’s participation in the energy sector during the leadership session “Building Capacity, Shaping Careers: HR Perspective” at the National Conference on “Women in Energy: Leading Change, Powering the Future”, organised by the Women in Energy Forum of CIGRE India at YASHOBHOOMI, New Delhi.

Moderated by Ms Reya Ramdev, Director, Research, Power Line Magazine, the session also featured Naveen Srivastava, Director (Operations), Power Grid Corporation of India Limited; Paresh R. Ranpara, Director (Personnel), NHPC Limited; and Dr. Ritu Mathur, Senior Fellow and Director, TERI – The Energy and Resources Institute.

Ayush Gupta emphasised moving beyond traditional service-oriented roles to encourage women’s participation in technical domains and leadership, supported by safe, flexible and inclusive workplaces, and a shift in societal mindsets and parental expectations.

He also highlighted the importance of taking these conversations to schools and colleges, enabling students to engage with women leaders and envision careers in the energy sector. Addressing institutional biases and encouraging open dialogue on women’s needs are crucial to bridging the gender gap.

Greater representation begins with equal opportunities, inclusive ecosystems and collective action.