Soumya Swaminathan Releases Autobiography of Activist Kalpana Sankar

In a significant event celebrating women’s empowerment and social entrepreneurship, Dr. Kalpana Sankar’s autobiography, “The Scientist Entrepreneur: Empowering Millions of Women”, was unveiled at Cathedral Road. The book launch brought together notable figures from various fields, highlighting the impact of grassroots initiatives on women’s economic empowerment and community development.

The Launch Event: A Confluence of Minds

Setting the Stage

The event commenced with a powerful visual narrative:

• A short film was screened, showcasing the impactful work of Hand in Hand India, an international non-profit organization co-founded by Dr. Kalpana Sankar.
• This cinematic introduction provided attendees with a glimpse into the organization’s efforts in empowering women and transforming communities.

Key Figures Present

The launch was graced by several distinguished personalities:

• Dr. Soumya Swaminathan: Chairperson of MS Swaminathan Research Foundation and former WHO chief scientist, who officially released the book.
• Swaady Martin: Chairperson and CEO of Yswara, who received the first copy of the autobiography.
• Sridhar Vembu: Founder and CEO of Zoho Corporation, who participated virtually.
• Anu Hasan: Actor, who engaged in a fireside chat with Dr. Kalpana Sankar.

Insights from Dr. Soumya Swaminathan

Dr. Soumya Swaminathan, in her address, emphasized several crucial points:

Bridging the Gap

• She highlighted the significant role of NGOs in connecting government initiatives with community needs.
• Dr. Swaminathan praised Hand in Hand and similar organizations for their vital role in this ecosystem.

Lessons in Microfinance

• The autobiography was lauded for capturing valuable lessons from establishing and managing micro-finance initiatives.
• She noted that these insights would serve as inspiration for young men and women aspiring to make a difference.