Savitribai Phule, along with her husband Jyotirao Phule, played a pivotal role in advocating for women's education and rights in the 19th century.

Pandita Ramabai established Sharada Sadan in 1889 as a refuge and educational institution for widows, enabling them to gain knowledge and skills.

Sarojini Naidu was elected to the Central Legislative Assembly in 1923, becoming the first woman to hold this position.

Vijayalakshmi Pandit played a crucial role in establishing the United Nations Commission on the Status of Women in 1946, serving as its first chairperson.

Justice Fathima Beevi was appointed as the first woman judge of the Supreme Court of India in 1989, breaking a long-standing gender barrier.

Gaura Devi, a village woman from Uttarakhand, spearheaded the Chipko movement in the 1970s, highlighting the importance of forest conservation and women's role in environmental protection.

Rani Gaidinliu, a Naga leader from Manipur, led an armed rebellion against British rule in the 1930s, earning her the title 'Iron Lady of Manipur'.

Sucheta Kripalani was a freedom fighter who actively participated in the Quit India Movement and went on to become the first woman Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh in 1963.

Mother Teresa, a Catholic nun who dedicated her life to serving the poor and destitute in Kolkata, was the first woman to receive the Bharat Ratna in 1980.

Savitribai Phule, along with her husband Jyotirao Phule, played a significant role in promoting women's education and rights in the 19th century, establishing schools and advocating for social change.

Pratibha Patil was elected as the first woman President of India in 2007, serving until 2012.

Periyar E.V. Ramasamy, also known as Periyar, was a social reformer and rationalist who led the Self-Respect Movement in Tamil Nadu, promoting social justice, women's rights, and the eradication of caste discrimination.

As of 2023, there has not been a woman appointed as the Chief Justice of India.

Medha Patkar is an environmentalist and social activist who has been actively involved in the Narmada Bachao Andolan movement, fighting for the rights of people displaced by dam projects and promoting sustainable development.

Mother Teresa was the first Indian woman to receive the Ramon Magsaysay Award in 1962 for her selfless service to the poor and destitute in Kolkata.