Female admissions at IITs stuck at 20%: Policy met its quota; deeper barriers remain

Despite policy interventions like the Supernumerary Seats Scheme, female enrolment in IIT BTech programmes remains stagnant at around 20% as of 2025. While the number of women admitted has risen in absolute terms, the proportional share has seen minimal growth since 2020. Social, cultural, and institutional barriers—including safety concerns, high coaching costs, and confidence gaps—continue to limit access. Data over five years highlights the need for deeper reforms beyond reserved seats.