The International Women’s Day falls on 8th March. Starting from today, All India Radio News will bring you stories of Women Achievers from diverse fields. India has one of the highest numbers of female graduates in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) as compared to other developed nations. We bring you the story of Dr Purnima Jalihal, a senior scientist who heads the Energy and Fresh Water group in National Institute of Ocean Technology under the Ministry of Earth Sciences.<br />”&nbsp;<b>&nbsp;</b><br />”Dr. Jalihal, a minority in the field of off shore has many firsts in her name. She co-ordinated the first ever ocean thermal gradient based desalination plant at Kavaratti islands in Lakshadweep. Talking to All India Radio News, Dr Jalihal explained how the plant has eased the life of the locals who were facing challenges due to the quality of drinking water.<br />”&nbsp;<br />”Dr. Jalihal was awarded the Vishwakarma medal in 2006 by the Indian National Science Academy. Apart from this Dr. Jalihal is engaged in several other clean and green energy projects.<br />”&nbsp;<br />”<span style="color: #222222;">Dr. Jalihal believes that women can rise to higher positions with self belief and determination.&nbsp;</span><br />