The Council of the Indian Academy of Sciences had in January 2003 constituted a committee on "Women in Science" to look into the issues of women scientists. This led to the formation of a Panel for "Women in Science" (WiS), in January 2005, to study the issues of women scientists and to suggest measures for obtaining suitable solutions. 

The Panel is currently chaired by Prof. Rohini M Godbole. The Panel has undertaken several initiatives towards fulfilling its objectives.