Indian chess Grandmaster R Vaishali, along with scientists Elina Mishra and Shilpi Soni, took over Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s social media accounts on International Women’s Day, using the platform to share messages of inspiration, resilience, and empowerment.
Vaishali, a 23-year-old chess champion, expressed her pride in representing India in global tournaments and encouraged young women to chase their dreams fearlessly. Reflecting on her journey, which began at the age of six, she credited her family and mentors, including her brother, Grandmaster Praggnanandhaa, and her coach, Vishwanathan Anand, for their unwavering support.
“I want to encourage women to break barriers in any field they choose because I know they can,” Vaishali wrote, urging families to support their daughters’ ambitions.
Joining her, scientists Elina Mishra and Shilpi Soni highlighted India’s dynamic scientific landscape, calling on more women to explore careers in nuclear and space technology.
“India is the most vibrant place for science, and thus we call upon more women to pursue it,” they stated, emphasising the growing opportunities for women in nuclear research, space exploration, and defence technology.
Mishra, associated with the Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (BARC), has contributed to accelerator physics and electromagnetic research, while Soni has played a key role in developing RF and microwave subsystems for over 35 ISRO communication and navigation missions.
The initiative follows a similar effort in 2020, when PM Modi handed over his social media platforms to seven women achievers, reinforcing his commitment to celebrating and amplifying women’s contributions across various fields.
