New Delhi: The Delhi Management Association (DMA) successfully organised the 15th Women Excellence Awards 2026 at the prestigious Silver Oak Hall, India Habitat Centre, New Delhi, celebrating outstanding women achievers who have made remarkable contributions across corporate leadership, governance, entrepreneurship, science, healthcare, social development, arts, media, and sports.

The event brought together distinguished leaders from government, industry, academia, and the social sector to recognise the transformative role of women in shaping India’s development narrative.

The event was also graced by Dr. Alka Mittal, Member (Administration), Capacity Building Commission and former CMD, ONGC, as the Guest of Honour, who spoke about the growing role of women in leadership and the importance of building inclusive institutions.

The programme featured keynote addresses, leadership talks, panel discussions, experience-sharing sessions, and interactive engagements with inspiring women leaders. The event also included a thought-provoking panel discussion featuring outstanding women achievers who shared their journeys, innovations, and lessons in leadership.

A major highlight of the ceremony was the Lifetime Achievement Award conferred upon Padma Shri Naina Lal Kidwai, one of India’s most respected leaders in banking and finance, recognising her pioneering contribution to financial leadership, sustainability, and women’s advancement.

Awards were presented across multiple categories, including Corporate Leadership, Entrepreneurship, Public Service, Science & Technology, Education, Social Service, Media & Culture, Health & Wellness, and Sports, recognising women who have demonstrated exceptional leadership and measurable impact.

A special highlight of the ceremony was the recognition of an illustrious group of Women of Eminence, honouring their exceptional leadership and lifelong contributions to their respective fields. The distinguished honourees included Padma Shri Geeta Chandran, renowned Bharatanatyam exponent; Ms. Ira Singhal, IAS, civil services topper and an inspiring symbol of resilience; Ms. Shallu Jindal, Chairperson, Jindal Foundation and a prominent social leader; Ms. Sarika Minda, Chairperson, Spark Minda Foundation and a noted philanthropist; Dr. Upasana Arora, Managing Director, Yashoda Medicity and a leading healthcare institution builder; Ms. Naghma Mulla, CEO, EdelGive Foundation and a leader in collaborative philanthropy; Ms. Abha Singh Yaduvanshi, former Additional Secretary, Lok Sabha and Shareholder Director, Canara Bank; Vidushi Jaya Bharti, Founder, Human Life Foundation; and Captain Yashika Hatwal Tyagi, Kargil War Veteran and leadership coach. These women were recognised for their outstanding achievements, inspirational journeys, and their role in shaping a more inclusive and progressive society.

Speaking on the occasion, Dr. N.K. Sharma, President, Delhi Management Association, welcomed the esteemed guests, awardees, and delegates. He appreciated the contribution of women in various spheres of professions and society at large. Further, he called upon women power to play an instrumental role in achieving the goal of Viksit Bharat by 2047, as per the vision of the Honourable Prime Minister.

Dr. Neelam Gupta, Vice President, DMA and Chairperson, Women in Management Committee, said that the Awards reflect DMA’s commitment to recognising women who are not only successful in their fields but are also creating pathways for others through leadership, resilience, and social impact.

The Women Excellence Awards, now in its 15th edition, marks an important evolution of DMA’s earlier Women Entrepreneurs Awards into a broader national platform recognising women across diverse domains of leadership and excellence.

Established in 1955, the Delhi Management Association is one of India’s oldest and premier professional bodies dedicated to promoting management excellence, leadership development, and knowledge exchange through conferences, awards, and thought leadership platforms.

The event concluded with a vote of thanks and networking interactions, reaffirming DMA’s continued commitment to promoting women’s leadership and inclusive growth.