At East-West Seed, we recognize the vital contributions of women in agricultural science and innovation. In celebration of International Day of Women and Girls in Science, we spoke with Shakuntala Hosamani, one of our Senior Associate Plant Breeders based in India, about her role, achievements, and the importance of supporting women in the field of agricultural research.

As a Senior Associate Plant Breeder, how do you see your role contributing to global food security and sustainability? 

Shakuntala (S): My role directly impacts global food security by developing resilient crop varieties that can withstand climate change, pests, and diseases. These improvements ensure a stable and sustainable food supply for communities worldwide. 

How does it support or create opportunities for women in agriculture or related fields?

S: Plant breeding creates meaningful opportunities for women in agriculture by fostering leadership, research, and innovation. By actively involving women in breeding programs, we empower them with knowledge and resources, promoting a more diverse and inclusive agricultural sector. This diversity drives innovation and long-term sustainability.

Can you share a significant achievement in your work that you believe has had a meaningful impact on society or the environment?

S: One of my key achievements in tomato breeding has been the development of varieties resistant to Tomato Leaf Curl Virus (ToLCV), a major threat to tomato crops in tropical regions. These resistant varieties help farmers secure a reliable harvest while reducing the need for pesticides. This promotes sustainability, improves farmers’ profitability, and ensures consumers have access to high-quality, nutritious tomatoes.

What inspired you to pursue a career in plant breeding, and what challenges did you overcome? How do you drive change in your field?

S: Growing up in an agrarian family, I witnessed firsthand the struggles farmers faced—unpredictable weather, pests, diseases, and low profits. This experience fueled my passion for plant breeding and inspired me to develop climate-resilient hybrids that address these challenges. Overcoming gender stereotypes in agricultural sciences was not always easy, but I remained committed to my vision. I drive change in my field by fostering collaboration among breeders, farmers, and policymakers to develop practical, adaptable crop solutions that meet real-world agricultural needs.

How do you mentor and support young women interested in pursuing careers in agricultural sciences, and why do you think diversity is critical in scientific research?

S: I am deeply passionate about mentoring young women in agricultural sciences because I believe that diversity fuels innovation. I guide and support them by building their confidence and encouraging them to pursue careers in plant breeding and agricultural research. Diverse teams bring fresh perspectives, resilience, and creativity—qualities that are essential in addressing global food security and sustainability challenges. Supporting young women in this field is not just about their personal success; it is about fostering a more inclusive and effective research environment.

What advice would you give to policymakers and educators to better support women and girls in science, especially in agricultural and environmental fields?

S: To better support women in science, policymakers and educators should create an environment of equality, inclusivity, and opportunity. Key steps include:

• Promoting equal access to education and resources;
• Establishing mentorship and networking programs;
• Encouraging inclusive curricula and research;
• Addressing gender biases and stereotypes;
• Developing leadership opportunities for women; and
• Recognizing and celebrating women’s contributions to science.

Creating a supportive ecosystem for women in agricultural and environmental sciences requires collaboration across education, policy, and community initiatives. By addressing systemic barriers and providing tangible support, we can empower more women to enter and thrive in these fields. This will lead to a more diverse and innovative scientific community, well-equipped to tackle critical challenges such as food security, climate change, and sustainability.

“By developing resilient crop varieties and empowering women in agriculture, we are not just shaping the future of farming—we are ensuring a more food-secure and sustainable world.”

– Shakuntala, Senior Associate Plant Breeder

At East-West Seed, we are proud to support and celebrate the contributions of women in agricultural science. Their work is shaping a more sustainable and food-secure future for all.