The Women Force 2026 conclave is currently being held at Indian Institute of Technology Gandhinagar, beginning on 26 February and continuing through 27 February 2026. The event brings together leading women scientists, researchers, and innovators from across India.
It marks an important step toward improving gender representation in advanced research fields such as quantum technology, artificial intelligence, and semiconductor design. These are areas where India is pushing hard to build capability and global standing.
Key Highlights of the Conclave
Participation from Top Institutions
More than 300 women scientists and researchers are attending the event. Participants come from major institutions across the country, creating a rich mix of experience and expertise:
- Indian Institute of Science
- Various IITs
- Indian Space Research Organisation
- Defence Research and Development Organisation
The gathering provides a strong national platform for collaboration and networking. Researchers who might otherwise work in isolation now have a chance to connect, share ideas, and build partnerships.
Theme of 2026 Edition
This year’s theme focuses on “Leading the Quantum and AI Revolution.” Discussions revolve around how women researchers are contributing to emerging technologies that are central to India’s long-term development goals.
Special sessions covered:
- Quantum computing research and its future applications
- Artificial intelligence applications across sectors
- Semiconductor innovation and design challenges
The timing is significant as India pushes forward with its technology ambitions.
Focus on National Quantum Mission
Several keynote sessions highlighted progress under the National Quantum Mission. Experts discussed:
- India’s roadmap for quantum research over the coming decade
- Opportunities for women scientists in deep-tech fields
- Future research funding and collaboration models
The National Quantum Mission represents a major investment in India’s technological future. Ensuring women scientists play a leading role in this mission is both an equity issue and a strategic necessity.
The timing of the event is significant as Gujarat is expanding its semiconductor ecosystem in cities like Sanand and Dholera. These emerging facilities will need skilled researchers and engineers, and women must be part of that workforce.
Conclave Overview
| Detail | Information |
| Event | Women Force 2026 Conclave |
| Dates | 26–27 February 2026 |
| Venue | IIT Gandhinagar |
| Participants | 300+ women scientists and researchers |
| Theme | Leading the Quantum and AI Revolution |
| Key Focus | Quantum tech, AI, semiconductor research |
Major Objectives of Women Force 2026
Mentorship Network Launch
A digital mentorship platform is being introduced to connect senior women scientists with PhD scholars and early-career researchers. The platform will facilitate ongoing guidance, advice, and support beyond the conclave’s duration.
The goal is to address the “leaky pipeline” issue, where many women leave STEM careers due to lack of long-term support and mentorship. When senior researchers actively mentor younger women, retention rates improve and careers flourish.
Policy Recommendations
At the conclusion of the conclave, a policy document is expected to be prepared and submitted to relevant government departments. The recommendations will focus on:
- Support systems for women returning to research after career breaks
- Institutional reforms to make workplaces more inclusive
- Greater inclusion of women in leadership roles across research institutions
These recommendations, if implemented, could create structural changes that benefit women researchers for years to come.
Innovation Showcase
An exhibition at the event features more than 50 patents and prototypes developed by women-led startups. These aren’t just theoretical ideas – they’re practical innovations with real-world applications.
These startups are supported by the innovation and entrepreneurship ecosystem at IIT Gandhinagar, highlighting practical outcomes of women-driven research. From hardware solutions to software platforms, the showcase demonstrates that women researchers are not just participants but leaders in innovation.
Significance for Gujarat
Gujarat is positioning itself as a growing semiconductor and high-tech manufacturing hub. The conclave reinforces the importance of including women in this expansion.
Officials emphasized that women are expected to make up at least 30 percent of the workforce in upcoming semiconductor facilities in the state. This is not just a target – it’s a recognition that a diverse workforce is a stronger workforce.
This focus aligns with Gujarat’s broader vision of becoming a center for advanced manufacturing and research-driven industries. The state has attracted major investments in electronics and semiconductors, and now needs the talent to staff these facilities.
Why This Conclave Matters
Women Force 2026 represents multiple important dimensions of India’s research and development landscape.
Stronger representation of women in STEM – The sheer number of participants and the quality of institutions represented shows that women are already contributing significantly. The challenge is to maintain and grow this representation.
National collaboration among research institutions – Bringing together scientists from ISRO, DRDO, IITs, and IISc creates connections that can lead to joint projects and shared resources.
Focus on emerging technologies – Quantum computing, AI, and semiconductors are where the future lies. Women researchers are working at the frontiers of these fields.
Policy-level discussions for structural change – The policy document emerging from the conclave could influence government decisions on funding, support systems, and institutional reforms.
As India accelerates its push in quantum, AI, and semiconductor sectors, ensuring equal participation is becoming a national priority. The Women Force 2026 conclave at IIT Gandhinagar is one step in that direction – a gathering of minds, a sharing of ideas, and a statement of intent.