Breaking Barriers: Dr. Devaunshi Kaul Becomes First Woman President of National Doctors’ Body, Inspiring Change in Indian Medical Leadership

New Delhi, September 25, 2025 — In a groundbreaking milestone for Indian medical leadership, Dr. Devaunshi Kaul from Safdarjung Hospital was unanimously elected as the first woman president of the Federation of Resident Doctors’ Association (FORDA) India on September 22, 2025. This historic achievement marks a transformative moment for gender representation in a traditionally male-dominated sphere, shedding light on both the challenges women have historically faced and the emerging opportunities for more balanced and empathetic leadership in Indian healthcare.

A Historic Win in Medical Leadership

Dr. Kaul’s election — the first ever for a woman in this national-level resident doctors’ association — was celebrated widely by medical professionals across the country. According to meeting records of the National Governing Council of FORDA held at Lady Hardinge Medical College, New Delhi, the unanimous decision reflects increasing recognition of women’s contributions and leadership potential in Indian medicine. Alongside Dr. Kaul, other key positions were also occupied by women, such as Dr. Meet Ghonla from the National Institute of TB and Respiratory Diseases and Dr. Sarada Prasad Sahoo from Lady Hardinge Medical College, who were elected General Secretaries of FORDA.

Dr. Kaul expressed humility and determination, emphasizing the significance of her role: “Women have had very limited representation in such positions, not because we cannot lead, but because opportunities are rarely given to us. I am grateful for the seniors who believed in me and gave me this chance… I hope this inspires other women to step forward”. Her leadership style, described as “less aggressive, more balanced, and more empathetic,” brings a much-needed perspective in an association that navigates complex negotiations involving doctors, hospital administrations, and government authorities.Context: Women in Indian Healthcare Leadership

The election of Dr. Kaul resonates deeply with broader challenges and progress for women in healthcare leadership roles in India. Despite women comprising nearly 29% of doctors nationally and forming the backbone of the healthcare workforce—including nearly 100% of Accredited Social Health Activists (ASHAs) and 80% of nurses —their representation in leadership is disproportionately low. Studies show only 18% of leadership roles in Indian healthcare are held by women , and professional medical associations (PMAs) have seen minimal female representation historically. A study published in PLOS Global Public Health highlights persistent gender disparities with cultural, societal, and structural barriers contributing to women’s limited rise to leadership positions.

For example, in the Indian Medical Association (IMA), the largest and oldest doctors’ organization in India, only 9 of its 46 state associations currently have women leaders, and since its inception in 1928, only one woman had served as national president until recent years. A significant milestone was achieved in September 2025 when Dr. Manjusha Giri, a renowned developmental pediatrician from Nagpur, was elected the first woman president of Maharashtra State IMA, a role she will formally assume in November 2026.

Expert Perspectives

Dr. Rekha Arcot, Dean of Dr D.Y. Patil Medical College, underscores that women bring essential qualities to leadership roles—such as empathy, collaboration, and balanced decision-making—that are critical in healthcare delivery and policy-making. Nevertheless, she stresses systemic changes are necessary to create inclusive work environments, and promote equitable access to leadership opportunities.

Dr. Sneh Bhargava, former Director of AIIMS and one of the few women to break top leadership barriers, reflects on the gender bias she confronted: “My calm demeanor was mistaken for weakness, my silence for submission,” highlighting how ingrained stereotypes challenge women’s visibility and authority in Indian healthcare.

Implications for Public Health and the Medical Community

Enhancing women’s participation in healthcare leadership is more than an issue of equity—it directly impacts patient care quality, policy responsiveness, and organizational efficiency. Diverse leadership teams are linked to improved decision-making, innovation, and greater attention to holistic health outcomes. As Dr. Kaul’s historic appointment demonstrates, empowering women to lead not only inspires aspiring female doctors but also enriches the profession with perspectives attuned to the complexities of contemporary healthcare challenges.rochecanada

Limitations and Outlook

While these leadership breakthroughs are significant, challenges remain. The deep-rooted societal expectations around caregiving and family responsibilities disproportionately affect women’s career trajectories, limiting their ability to pursue leadership roles without systemic support. Further, professional bodies and healthcare institutions must address unconscious biases and create transparent, mentoring-centric pathways to nurture female leaders.

Conclusion

Dr. Devaunshi Kaul’s pioneering presidency of FORDA and Dr. Manjusha Giri’s milestone in Maharashtra IMA symbolize hopeful momentum toward gender balance in Indian medical leadership. Their stories encourage not only female doctors but the entire healthcare ecosystem to acknowledge and support the indispensable role women play in shaping a healthier India.

Medical Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult with qualified healthcare professionals before making any health-related decisions or changes to your treatment plan. The information presented here is based on current research and expert opinions, which may evolve as new evidence emerges.

References

1. “Dr. Devaunshi Kaul makes history as first woman president of FORDA.” Medical Dialogues, Sept 24, 2025.