Balancing The Equation: A Qualitative Inquiry into the Work-Life Struggles of Indian Women in Stem Careers

Abstract

Career and family emerged as important topics for current and future researchers and managers due to the major demographic-technological-organizational shifts in modern society and the work environment. Even though women are educated and employed in STEM fields, they face challenges such as Gender stereotypes, unequal division of domestic workload, women's representation crisis, and career interruption. These challenges are compounded by the fact that STEM careers are usually demanding in time and require constant training. High levels of stress and worry, marital discord, job burnout, and an inability to reach one's full potential are all major effects of a poor work-life balance. A massive secondary data is collected from journals, research papers, and articles to explore the socio-cultural, workplace, and personal factors affecting Indian women in STEM careers, proposing strategies to enhance their career sustainability. It emphasizes the need for systemic changes to promote gender equity and retain talent in India's STEM workforce.