How did Chonira Belliappa Muthamma contribute to gender equality in the Indian public service?

Chonira Belliappa Muthamma was the first woman to clear the examination for public services in 1948 and join the Indian Foreign Service in 1949. She faced strong gender bias, as women had to sign undertakings to resign if they got married. Despite this, she conducted a distinguished diplomatic career and became India's first woman ambassador in several countries. When unjustly denied promotion, she approached the Supreme Court. Justice Krishna Iyer struck down gender-biased provisions as violating the Constitution. Her struggle remains a milestone in the pursuit of gender equality in the Indian public service.