All questions of Firsts in India (Female) for UPSC CSE Exam

Introduction
The journey of Indian athletes in the Paralympics has been remarkable, with many breaking barriers and achieving great heights. Among these athletes, Deepa Malik holds a significant place as the first Indian woman to win a medal at the Paralympics.
Deepa Malik's Achievement
- Historic Win: Deepa Malik won a silver medal in shot put at the 2016 Rio Paralympics, marking a pivotal moment in Indian sports history.
- Event: She competed in the women’s shot put F53 category, which is for athletes with disabilities affecting their lower limbs.
- Performance: Deepa's throw of 4.61 meters secured her the silver medal, showcasing her exceptional talent and determination.
Significance of the Medal
- Trailblazer: Her achievement paved the way for more women athletes in India to pursue sports despite disabilities, inspiring many.
- Recognition: Deepa Malik’s win brought significant attention to Paralympic sports in India, highlighting the need for support and recognition for athletes with disabilities.
Comparison with Other Athletes
- Sakshi Malik: While a celebrated wrestler and the first Indian woman to win a medal at the Olympics (2016), she is not a Paralympian.
- Mary Kom: A distinguished boxer and Olympic medalist, Mary Kom has not competed in the Paralympics.
- Karnam Malleswari: The first Indian woman to win an Olympic medal (2000), but she also does not belong to the Paralympic category.
Conclusion
Deepa Malik's historic achievement as the first Indian woman to win a Paralympic medal is a testament to her hard work and perseverance, inspiring future generations of athletes with disabilities in India.

Background on UNGA
The United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) is one of the six principal organs of the United Nations, where all member states have equal representation. It serves as a platform for international dialogue and decision-making.
First Woman President
- Vijaya Lakshmi Pandit was the first woman to hold the position of President of the UNGA.
- She served as the President during its 17th session in 1962-1963.
Significance of Her Presidency
- Pioneering Role: Vijaya Lakshmi Pandit broke gender barriers, demonstrating that women could lead in global diplomacy.
- Indian Diplomat: She was not only a notable Indian politician but also a distinguished diplomat, contributing to India’s post-independence international presence.
Other Notable Figures
- Sheikha Haya Rashed Al-Khalifa: Served as the 61st President of the UNGA in 2006-2007, but she was not the first woman.
- Angellah Kairuki and Maria Fernanda Espinosa: Both have held significant roles in the UNGA, but after Vijaya Lakshmi Pandit.
Legacy
- Vijaya Lakshmi Pandit’s presidency paved the way for future female leaders in international politics.
- Her leadership style and contributions continue to inspire women in diplomacy and governance around the world.
In conclusion, Vijaya Lakshmi Pandit’s position as the first woman president of the UNGA marks a crucial milestone in the representation of women in global leadership roles.

First Indian Woman to Win the Ramon Magsaysay Award:
The first Indian woman to win the Ramon Magsaysay Award was Aruna Roy. She received this prestigious award in 2000 for her work as a social activist.

Key Points:
- Aruna Roy is known for her efforts in promoting government transparency and accountability, as well as for her work in the grassroots movement for the Right to Information in India.
- She co-founded the Mazdoor Kisan Shakti Sangathan (MKSS), an organization that fights for the rights of workers and farmers.
- Roy's advocacy for the Right to Information Act played a crucial role in its eventual enactment in India in 2005.
- Her work has had a significant impact on empowering marginalized communities and promoting social justice in India.

Significance of the Ramon Magsaysay Award:
- The Ramon Magsaysay Award is considered one of Asia's highest honors and is often referred to as the Asian Nobel Prize.
- It is awarded to individuals and organizations that have made significant contributions to society, especially in the Asia-Pacific region.
Aruna Roy's recognition as the first Indian woman to win the Ramon Magsaysay Award highlights the importance of grassroots activism and advocacy in bringing about positive social change.

Leila Seth
Leila Seth became the first woman Chief Justice of India. She was appointed as the Chief Justice of the Himachal Pradesh High Court in 1991. Leila Seth was a distinguished lawyer and jurist who made significant contributions to the field of law in India.

Early Life and Education
Leila Seth was born in 1930 in Lucknow, India. She studied law at the University of Delhi and later went on to pursue a Master's degree in law from the Harvard Law School in the United States.

Legal Career
Leila Seth had a successful legal career spanning several decades. She practiced law in the Calcutta High Court and later became the first woman to be appointed as a judge of the Delhi High Court in 1978. She also served as the Chief Justice of the Himachal Pradesh High Court before retiring in 1992.

Legacy
Leila Seth was a trailblazer for women in the field of law in India. Her appointment as the Chief Justice of India was a significant milestone in the history of the Indian judiciary. She was known for her integrity, intelligence, and commitment to justice.

Conclusion
Leila Seth's legacy continues to inspire generations of women in India to pursue careers in the legal profession. Her contributions to the field of law have left a lasting impact on the Indian judiciary.

First Indian Woman in Space
The correct answer is option 'A', Kalpana Chawla. She made history as the first Indian woman to enter space, and her contributions to space exploration are significant.
Background of Kalpana Chawla
- Born on March 17, 1962, in Karnal, India, Kalpana Chawla pursued her education in aerospace engineering.
- She moved to the United States for higher studies and became a naturalized U.S. citizen.
Space Missions
- Kalpana Chawla first flew to space on November 19, 1997, as a mission specialist on the Space Shuttle Columbia during STS-87.
- Her second flight was during STS-107, which tragically ended when the shuttle disintegrated upon re-entry on February 1, 2003.
Legacy and Impact
- Kalpana Chawla inspired countless individuals, especially women, in the fields of science and engineering.
- Her achievements have been celebrated in India and internationally, making her a symbol of courage and determination.
Recognition
- Several institutions and awards have been named in her honor, acknowledging her contributions to space exploration.
- Her life and achievements continue to motivate aspiring astronauts and scientists around the world.
In summary, Kalpana Chawla's pioneering journey into space marks a significant milestone in Indian history and serves as an inspiration for future generations.