Mumbai girl wins gold medal at the European Girls’ Mathematical Olympiad

Notably, this was only the second time India fielded an all-woman contingent at EGMO. As per the information shared by the HBCSE, although India has been participating at the EGMO as a guest nation since 2015, among the leaders of the team, there was always a male member. But since last year, the entire team, including the leaders and observers, has been all women.

The team’s medal tally was further bolstered by Sanjana Philo Chacko from Kerala, who clinched the silver, and Shivani Barath Kumar from Tamil Nadu, who secured the bronze. Shrimoyee Bera from Kolkata was also part of the four-member team. The contingent was guided by Dr. Vaidehee Thatte (Team Leader), Dr. Mrudul Thatte (Deputy Leader), and observer Aditi Muthkhod.

The EGMO, launched in 2012 to address the underrepresentation of women in elite mathematics competitions, is one of the most challenging international contests for high school girls. Modeled on the International Mathematical Olympiad (IMO), it features two days of rigorous examinations that test deep problem-solving skills and mathematical creativity. The idea is to attract more girls toward mathematics by providing a platform to foster their mathematical talent, and with an aim to boost female participation in STEM.

This year’s edition saw participation from 260 students across 67 countries, including 41 European nations. India’s breakthrough performance not only underscores the growing strength of its young mathematicians but also signals a powerful shift toward greater inclusion of girls in advanced STEM fields.

The HBCSE located in Mumbai is a premier autonomous institution under the purview of the Department of Atomic Energy, Government of India, and serves as the pivotal hub for identifying, nurturing, and preparing talented students for participation in prestigious international Olympiads in Physics, Chemistry, Biology, Astronomy, and Mathematics. The HBCSE conducts the National Olympiad Examination, the gateway for aspirants to advance through various stages and secure a coveted spot in the final team to represent India at various international Olympiads.