Forbes releases list of world's 100 most powerful women; 3 Indians among global trailblazers

Forbes unveiled its 21st annual ranking of the world’s most powerful women. The list celebrates exceptional women who have shattered glass ceilings and transformed their industries, countries, and organizations. (Photos: Agencies)

Ranked first on the list is Ursula von der Leyen, the first woman to lead the European Commission. She has been shaping legislation for over 450 million EU citizens since 2019, following a 14-year tenure in Angela Merkel's cabinet. (Photo: Reuters)

Ranked 2^nd on the list, Lagarde became the first woman to helm the European Central Bank in 2019, navigating Europe’s economic policies and addressing challenges such as growth in a high-inflation climate. (Photo: Reuters)

Ranked 3rd on the list is Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni. First female prime minister, she assumed office in 2022. As president of the right-wing Brothers of Italy party, she is redefining the nation’s political scene. (Photo: Reuters)

Ranked 4^th, Sheinbaum is Mexico’s first female and Jewish president elected in 2024. Her historic victory and October swearing-in signify a new chapter in the nation’s political narrative.

As the first woman to lead a major US automaker, Barra has spearheaded GM’s push for electric vehicles, aiming to produce 1 million EVs by 2025, solidifying GM’s innovation in the industry. (NYT photo)

Ranked 6^th on the list, Johnson has led Fidelity since 2014, managing $5.5 trillion in assets and owning a 28.5% stake. Her leadership reinforces the firm’s dominance in the global financial sector. (Image credits: X)

Since 2019, Sweet has steered Accenture’s growth as its CEO, previously serving as its general counsel and North America head, the company’s largest market.

Nirmala Sitharaman as India’s finance minister featured at the 28^th spot on the list. Roshni Nadar Malhotra who leads HCL Technologies and Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw who drives Biocon’s US biopharmaceutical success featured at the 81^st and 82^nd spot on the list respectively.