Why STEM needs ‘real’ stories of women scientists

Preface of The Real Deal re-published with permission in Confluence, April 2026

"The Real Deal is not just a book about succeeding in science but also a thoughtful exploration of what it means to live a life in science, with honesty, resilience, and curiosity at its core."

Science Prism newsletter, April 2026

"The realities of building a career in science—beyond awards, breakthroughs, and public recognition". 

Digital and Print Interview, Frontline, 19 and 27 March 2026

"The massive ‘leak’ in India’s STEM pipeline, as seen by the sharp loss of women scientists during the transition from science education to the research workforce, is a consequence of social, structural, and systemic challenges"

The Hindu, 8 March 2026, International Womens Day

"Women in science are building interesting career paths for themselves, often not depending on the system to provide them with an opportunity. I think this comes from a recognition that a career in science is no longer about ‘a job’, instead it is about finding the intersection of priorities, interests, and skills. More young women in science are chasing their Ikigai!"

Indian Express, 28 February 2026, National Science Day

"If The Real Deal leaves readers with anything, it is this: careers in science are rarely linear, and detours are not evidence of failure. They are part of how the system actually works. Life in STEM rarely follows a straight line. But as Karishma Kaushik’s story shows, it is often the detours that make the deal real."

In Rukhmabai Initiatives, 11 February 2026, International Day of Women and Girls in Science