Women in India joined modern science professions at the beginning of this century. Starting with medicine they have since been entering all fields of science, including engineering. Almost one-third of women are engaged in bio sciences. Recently, pure sciences such as physics and chemistry have also been drawing greater number of women. In proportion to their number seeking employment, women scientists are well represented in public sector research and development laboratories; there is a greater tendency among women scientists to go in for teaching. The private sector seems to prefer employing men in the application areas. In professions such as engineering, some discrimination exists. So far, the number of women at the higher policy-making levels in organisations is small, and many women scientists do not feel accepted professionally by their male colleague and superiors. Women scientists in India have shown serious interest in science. There are, and have been, many individual women scientists who have contributed a great deal to science and society. However, most of them continue to accept fully their family roles as well, resulting in extra demands on their energy. The industrial Indian society is giving them all an opportunity to contribute to science, but the cultural awareness of their role at home may demand compromises from them in their careers.