Who is First Female Engineer in India– Ayyalasomayajula Lalitha, known as A Lalitha, holds an important place in Indian history as the first female engineer in India. Her remarkable path, unwavering resolve, tenacity and pioneering accomplishments, laid the foundation for numerous women who aspired many women to join the field of engineering.
Ayyalasomayajula Lalitha – Early Life and Education
Birth date: 27th August 1919
Birthplace: Madras, India
- She was born on 27th August 1919 in Madras, India. A Lalitha got married at the age of 15 and In 1935, She became a mother to her daughter, Syamala. Lalitha’s husband died just four months after their marriage, leaving her a young widow. Lalitha’s father supported her to pursue engineering at the College of Engineering, Guindy (CEG).
Ayyalasomayajula Lalitha – Graduation and Apprenticeship
In 1943, She received graduation with a degree in electrical engineering and finished a one-year apprenticeship at Jamalpur Railway Workshop.
Ayyalasomayajula Lalitha – Early Career
She worked at the Central Standards Organization in Shimla and collaborated with her father on research.
Ayyalasomayajula Lalitha – Associated Electrical Industries (AEI)
In the year 1948, she became part of Associated Electrical Industries (AEI) in Calcutta and contributed to the design of the Bhakra Nangal Dam.
Ayyalasomayajula Lalitha – IEE Membership
- She joined as an associate member of the Institute of Electrical Engineers (IEE) in London in 1953, and in 1966, She received full membership.
- Lalitha participated in the First International Conference of Women Engineers and Scientists in New York in 1964 and was appointed as a member of the British Women’s Engineering Society in 1965.
Ayyalasomayajula Lalitha – Death
In 1979, Lalitha passed away due to a brain aneurysm. Her legacy as India’s first female engineer inspires women in engineering.