This first chapter introduces the thematic areas of this book within the Indian context and establishes its overall goals as well as those of each chapter. It explains the critical importance of gender equality in the sciences using both global and Indian perspectives, and emphasizes the impact of progress in this area. We hope that readers will be inspired to learn more about the complex and interconnected challenges that women face in pursuing a career in science, and why it is such an important subject of discussion. This chapter presents the expertise of the United Nations and the Indian Government, as well as eminent scholars from around the globe, setting the stage for the more in-depth discussions  to follow. There is a wealth of information on the importance of gender equality in the sciences that no single publication can give a full account of. To help readers navigate this growing field of study, we have shared online links, references for further reading, and pointers to public resources as often as possible.

链接地址：https://unesdoc.unesco.org/notice?id=p::usmarcdef_0000380700&posInSet=631&queryId=d1c350a4-ea3b-4372-b9cb-9ba3a56768be