“Empowering Indian women in AI isn’t just a national goal—it’s a global game-changer,” says Kirthiga Reddy, former Managing Director of Facebook India (now Meta) and the first female investing partner at SoftBank’s $130B+ AI-focused Vision Fund. Now CEO and co-founder of Verix, a trust-tech platform, Reddy spearheads AI Kiran, launched on April 21, 2025, aligning with UN World Creativity and Innovation Day.
AI Kiran aims to elevate Indian women in AI through mentorship, funding, and global connections. Hosted on the Manthan Platform, it fosters a diverse AI community for students, professionals, and researchers. Despite women outnumbering men in Indian STEM, only 33% hold junior GenAI roles, dropping to 19% at senior levels.
Using blockchain for verified credentials, AI Kiran ensures transparent recognition. It offers tailored learning, branding, and high-profile events to boost leadership and visibility. Reddy notes India’s AI market could hit $17B by 2027, emphasizing government, industry, and NGO collaboration. Partnered with the Principal Scientific Adviser’s office and INK Women, AI Kiran initially highlights 250 women leaders in healthcare, education, sustainability, and tech.
With allies like Nasscom, AspireForHer, and global groups like AnitaB.org, the initiative targets reaching 1M women in AI within a year. A $3M fundraising campaign via INK Women Foundation will fund summits, scholarships, and global storytelling.
Stay updated with Indian Express for news, politics, sports, and entertainment. Subscribe to our newsletter or download our Android/iOS app.