Aneek Chowdhury is a Senior Research Associate at IWWAGE, where he contributes to research grounded in economic theory and quantitative analysis. His current work focuses on examining and measuring women’s unpaid work, with an emphasis on strengthening the evidence base for labour market policy.

He holds a Bachelor’s degree in Economics from Heramba Chandra College (City College South), University of Calcutta, and a Master’s degree in Economics from Ambedkar University Delhi. His academic training has shaped his interests in game theory, social choice, and political economy, with a strong analytical orientation.

Aneek’s research interests lie at the intersection of economic theory and real-world policy challenges.

Anjali is a Research Associate at IWWAGE with a strong interest in understanding informal and unpaid forms of labour through qualitative research and fieldwork. Her work engages deeply with questions of gender and caste, particularly in the Indian context.

She holds a Master’s degree in Development Studies from Ambedkar University, Delhi, where she developed a strong foundation in participatory research methods and critical social analysis.

Outside of research, Anjali creates hand-made illustrations for people’s movements and research initiatives, and actively engages with theatre as a stage and screen artist.

Arpita Paul is a statistician and demographer with over 10 years of expertise in gender equality, women’s empowerment, and public health research. As Research Fellow at IWWAGE-LEAD, she contributes as mixed method expert for the SWAYAM project under DAY-NRLM (MoRD). Her landmark contribution is developing and handing over the EQUAL MIS platform to DAY-NRLM, enabling nationwide tracking of gender-disaggregated data across SHGs. Built with Digital India Corporation, this digital solution monitors women’s empowerment indicators in real-time, driving evidence-based policy decisions.

She conducts comprehensive Gender Resource Centre (GRC) evaluations and leads quantitative analysis for national GBV campaigns (Nayi Chetna 2.0–4.0). She excels in mixed-methods research, integrating FGDs, IDIs with advanced STATA/R quantitative analysis, and trains field teams on use of MIS for Gender Campaign. She is part of gender integration workshop, SOPs writeshops and MIS EQUAL training.

She has a PhD & MPhil degree in Population Studies from IIPS Mumbai and completed her MA and BA Statistics from BHU. Also attended Max Planck IDEM Winter Program (Germany, fully funded).

Her work transforms gender data into policy impact, strengthening women’s agency through DAY-NRLM. Her ability to translate complex data into actionable insights positions her as a pivotal contributor.

Bidisha Mondal is a mixed-methods researcher with expertise in quantitative analysis. Her research focuses on multiple dimensions of the gender gap, with a particular emphasis on the Indian labour market. Her recent work has examined measurement issues in women’s work, enablers of and barriers to female labour force participation, women’s challenges and opportunities in the digital economy, and the impact other emerging labour market dynamics on women’s employment outcomes in India.

She holds a Master’s degree from the University of Calcutta and a PhD from the Centre for Economic Studies and Planning, Jawaharlal Nehru University. Prior to joining IWWAGE, she worked at the National Institute of Public Finance and Policy (NIPFP). Her research has been published in several national and international peer-reviewed journals.

Bidisha’s work bridges academic research and policy discourse on inequality and social justice.

Divya Singh works at the intersection of gender equity and environmental sustainability. At IWWAGE, her focus areas include gender budgeting, child budgeting, and climate finance, with experience spanning national and international development contexts.

She holds an MA and MPhil in Political Science from Jawaharlal Nehru University and an MSc in Environmental Assessment and Management from the University of East Anglia. Prior to joining IWWAGE, Divya worked with a range of development organisations on issues related to public finance and environmental governance.

Her work reflects a strong commitment to integrating gender perspectives into sustainability and climate policy.

Jyotsna Raju is a social sector professional with experience in livelihood promotion, project management, donor and grant management, monitoring, and gender training curriculum design & dissemination.

At IWWAGE, she manages BRAC’s Samaveshi Aajeevika Yojana (SAY) project and leads gender integration across SAY states. She holds a Master’s degree in Sociology. Prior to joining IWWAGE, Jyotsna worked with Kudumbashree (Kerala State Poverty Eradication Mission), Snehitha Gender Help Desk, and Industree Craft Foundation. At Kudumbashree, she had also contributed to establishing Gender Resource Centres (GRCs) and an Anti-Human Trafficking project. She has managed projects funded by USAID, CSR initiatives, and philanthropic donors, including Avendus, Bank of America, BNP Paribas, Cartier Philanthropy, Empowerment Foundation, HCL, HDFC, HSBC, KANTAR India, Target Foundation, Wells Fargo, and 360One.

Her work centres on building inclusive community-led development systems.

Kunwar Parijat Kumar Singh is an experienced Administration and Operations professional with over 14 years of expertise across development, academic, and public–private sector organizations. He has a strong track record of managing multi-location offices and delivering efficient, scalable administrative systems that support organizational goals.

His core expertise includes facility and infrastructure management, procurement, vendor and contract management, budgeting, compliance, and audit coordination. He has successfully led office setups, expansions, and renovations while ensuring smooth day-to-day operations and adherence to statutory, safety, and organizational standards.

He has also managed high-level meetings, leadership events, roundtable discussions, and board engagements, ensuring seamless planning, coordination, and execution. In addition, he supports key HR functions such as onboarding, employee coordination, and engagement initiatives, contributing to a positive and productive work environment.

Known for strong communication, negotiation, and problem-solving skills, he works effectively across teams and stakeholders at all levels. With a calm and solution-oriented approach, he consistently manages multiple priorities and delivers reliable operational support aligned with organizational needs.

Moumita Sarkar works on livelihoods and gender, with a focus on policy, research, training, and advocacy. At IWWAGE, she contributes to strengthening gender-responsive programme design and implementation.

She holds an undergraduate degree in Chemistry (Honours) from the University of Calcutta and a postgraduate degree in Rural Development and Management from the University of Kalyani. Moumita has worked with national and international organisations, including the Ministry of Rural Development (Government of India), UN Women, UNDP, J-PAL, and the Centre for Integrated and Inclusive Development (CInI, Tata Trusts). Her experience includes drafting policy documents, commissioning action research under MGNREGS, developing the DAY-NRLM Gender Protocol, and delivering gender-focused training at institutions such as NIRD&PR, IIPA, and VVGNLI.

Her core interests lie in livelihoods, gender equality, and institutional transformation.

Nabankur Huda is a Senior Research Associate at IWWAGE. He holds a Master’s degree in Economics from the University of Calcutta.

Before joining IWWAGE, he worked as a Research Associate at LEAD at IFMR in the Financial Well-Being and Social Protection vertical. He has also worked at ISI Delhi, where he contributed to a randomised controlled trial on skilling and women’s employment, and at IIM Calcutta, where he was involved in research on education, agricultural productivity, and farmer assistance. His research interests span Labour, Gender, Political Economy, and Post-Colonial Studies.

Nabankur describes himself as more of a social justice ‘worrier’ than a ‘warrior.’ Outside of work, he enjoys travelling to new places, exploring cities, and discovering local cuisines.

Neeraj Upadhyay is a results-oriented professional with experience in project management, partner management, grant management, donor coordination, and administration. At IWWAGE, he supports effective grant and donor management across programmes.

He holds a Master’s degree in Project Management. Prior to joining IWWAGE, Neeraj worked with organisations such as Learning Links Foundation, CARE India, Action contre la Faim (ACF, Paris), and the World Health Organisation. He has managed projects funded by major international donors, including the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, USAID, UNICEF, and FHI 360, as well as corporate donors such as Dell, Ashok Leyland, Cargill, and GSK.

His work ensures strong partnerships and accountable programme delivery.

Prakriti is a mixed-methods researcher with extensive experience in field-based studies and development practice. Her expertise spans designing and supervising primary data collection, conducting desk reviews, analysing qualitative and quantitative data, and contributing to analytical reports.

At IWWAGE, she supports research projects across diverse thematic areas, bringing a grounded, application-oriented approach to evidence generation. She has worked with a wide range of stakeholders, including the ILO India, UNICEF Uganda, IFAD India, and NITI Aayog.

She holds a postgraduate degree in Sustainable Development Practice from the TERI School of Advanced Studies. Her work is defined by a strong commitment to translating research into actionable insights for development policy and practice.

Preeti is a development-sector professional with extensive experience in organisational operations, human resources, and administrative systems. She works closely on strengthening institutional processes, compliance, and people-centric practices that support efficient and well-functioning organisations.

She brings over 17 years of experience in HR and administration. Prior to joining IWWAGE, she worked as an Administration Manager with Catalyst, a project of LEAD (IFMR Society) at Krea University. She also spent nearly a decade with FHI 360 in various capacities, including administrative support to the Country Director. Preeti holds a degree in Economics from the University of Delhi, a Diploma in Office Management from YMCA, a Diploma in Operations Management from MIT, and a Post Graduate Programme in Management from the Great Lakes Institute of Management.

Known for her strong interpersonal and counselling skills, Preeti is deeply committed to creating supportive and effective workplace environments in the development sector.

Rachita is a development communications professional with a strong focus on communication for development, social and behaviour change, public health, health systems strengthening, and nutrition. She works at the intersection of evidence, policy, and practice, shaping clear and engaging narratives that make research accessible and meaningful for diverse audiences.

She has collaborated with national and international organisations, including Piramal Foundation, UNICEF (as a consultant), Save the Children, and Navjyoti India Foundation, contributing to communication strategies, knowledge products, and advocacy efforts. Rachita holds a Master’s degree in Development Communication and Extension from Lady Irwin College, University of Delhi.

A keen traveller and a committed advocate for children’s rights, she is motivated by the belief that thoughtful communication can help create more equitable systems and improve outcomes for children and communities.

Sharati Madhur Roy is a Research Associate with experience working with central and state government bodies. Her research interests include human development and international politics, with a focus on gender.

She holds a Bachelor’s degree from Lady Shri Ram College for Women and a Master’s degree in Political Science from the University of Delhi.

In her free time, Sharati enjoys reading and exploring films and theatre.

Srijoni Mitra is a development professional with experience in communications, policy advocacy, and social impact initiatives. At IWWAGE, her work spans women’s empowerment, education, livelihoods, health, and social inclusion.

She holds degrees in English Literature from the University of Calcutta and Social Work from Rabindra Bharati University, and is a Gandhi Fellow with the Piramal Foundation. Prior to joining IWWAGE, she worked with organisations across Delhi, leading communications and advocacy efforts.

Outside of work, Srijoni enjoys travelling, exploring new cultures, and listening to music.

Sruthi’s work spans policy research, government engagement, and feminist advocacy. Her areas of interest include feminist economics, women’s entrepreneurship, gender-responsive policy design, and gender-sensitive urban planning.

Before joining IWWAGE, she worked with UN Women as the Coordinator of the Feminist Policy Collective and has collaborated with think tanks, government agencies, civil society organisations, and citizens’ groups on a range of development issues. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Engineering from the University of Mumbai, a Master’s degree in Public Policy and Governance from Azim Premji University, Bengaluru, and a Postgraduate Diploma in Communications from the Xavier Institute of Communications, Mumbai.

She is constantly curious about uncovering feminist perspectives in everyday life and integrating them into policy discourse and practice.

Surabhi’s work focuses on qualitative research, policy analysis, and strengthening women’s institutions, agency, and empowerment.

She has previously worked as a consultant with the National Human Rights Commission, providing research support on issues related to women and children. Before joining IWWAGE, she led the research team for the Geography of Philosophy Project based at IIT Delhi and hosted by the University of Pittsburgh (USA). Surabhi holds an M.Phil. in Social Work from the University of Delhi and was awarded a Junior Research Fellowship by the University Grants Commission. Her research interests include gender, labour, and changing family institutions, with training in narrative inquiry and ethnography.

Outside of work, Surabhi enjoys cooking, researching food history and food science, and spending time with her cats.

Vidhi is a Research Associate working at the intersection of gender and data with a focus on mixed-methods research. Her work integrates quantitative and qualitative approaches to generate policy-relevant evidence on gender norms, women’s labour force participation, and the gendered dimensions of climate change. She holds a Master’s degree in Public Policy and Governance from Azim Premji University, Bengaluru.

Prior to joining IWWAGE, she worked as a Research Analyst with a private consulting firm in Lucknow, where she contributed to data-driven research and analysis. She has also gained field and policy experience through internships with SEWA Bharat and PRS Legislative Research. Vidhi has been engaged in gender advocacy since her school years and remains committed to advancing evidence-based policy frameworks. Outside of her professional work, she enjoys travelling and has a keen interest in Hindi cinema; she is a long time admirer of Shah Rukh Khan’s work.

Sona has been working in the area of women and development for the last one and a half decades. Her core research interests are in areas related to women’s economic empowerment. She has looked extensively into the causalities of low work participation rates of women in India within a political economy framework and has studied in great detail the gender gaps in the existing labour-force surveys conducted by the Government of India.

Sona completed her masters and PhD in Economics from Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi. Her doctoral thesis looked at the relationship between macro-economic growth and women’s employment in India since the 1990s.

Prior to joining IWWAGE, Sona has worked with the Centre for Budget and Governance Accountability (CBGA), National Institute for Public Finance and Policy (NIPFP), and Centre for Women’s Development Studies (CWDS). She has been an independent consultant with UN agencies working on women’s empowerment and has been a technical adviser to studies conducted by the Action-Aid, UN Women (India), and ICRW. She also teaches a course on Labour and Development under the Master’s in Economics program at Ambedkar University, Delhi, and regularly publishes articles in peer-reviewed journals, chapters in books, and opinion pieces in leading newspapers and magazines.

Soya Thomas is a gender and development practitioner with over 27 years of experience advancing women’s empowerment and gender equality across India. She works at the intersection of policy, practice, and capacity building, strengthening gender-responsive systems and designing scalable interventions that embed gender perspectives into livelihoods and community institutions.

She has held leadership roles across government and civil society, including with Kudumbashree and Industree Foundation, and currently works with IWWAGE on gender integration within NRLM. Her work spans curriculum design, training of trainers, institutional strengthening, and community-based approaches to addressing gender-based violence and promoting women’s leadership. Soya holds extensive experience in collaborating with government systems, civil society organisations, and development partners.

Deeply committed to creating inclusive and empowering ecosystems, she is particularly passionate about working with women and adolescents to build agency, leadership, and access to rights and opportunities.

Sunandita Banerjee is a gender and development professional with over a decade of
experience advancing women’s empowerment across rural and community-led development
programmes. Her work focuses on strengthening gender-responsive interventions, enhancing
women’s agency, and integrating gender perspectives into large-scale livelihoods and poverty
alleviation initiatives.

She has worked extensively with grassroots organisations such as SRIJAN and PRADAN, and
has been associated with institutions including the International Center for Research on
Women (ICRW) and the South Asia Women Foundation through short-term research and
advisory engagements. Currently, she leads the Gender Intervention under DAY-NRLM as a
Senior Consultant placed by IWWAGE, supporting the design and implementation of gender-
integrated strategies within the national livelihoods framework.

Sunandita holds a Master’s degree in Social Work and Rural Development from the Tata
Institute of Social Sciences (TISS) and an Honours degree in English from St. Xavier’s
College, Kolkata. She is deeply motivated by collaborative processes and enjoys working with
diverse stakeholders to co-create scalable solutions that drive meaningful and sustained social
change.

Mohd. Naseem is a seasoned monitoring, learning, and evaluation professional with over 15
years of experience in administration, data management, and program assessment. His work
focuses on strengthening data-driven decision-making, designing robust monitoring frameworks,
and enhancing operational efficiency within public health and development initiatives.

He has worked extensively with leading international organizations, including the World Health
Organization (NPSP) as a Senior Data Analyst, Jhpiego as a Program Associate, and the
Immunization Technical Support Unit (ITSU) at the Public Health Foundation of India (PHFI).
Currently, he serves as an MLE Coordinator- Consultant, Gender NMMU, DAY-NRLM, MoRD,
where he supports the design and implementation of monitoring strategies, leveraging
advanced technical tools such as Power BI, VBA, and MS Excel to drive evidence-based
planning.

Mohd. Naseem holds a Master’s degree in Commerce (M. Com) and a Master’s in
Sociology, complemented by an Advanced Diploma in Software Technology. He is deeply
motivated by the intersection of technology and social development, enjoying the challenge of
transforming complex data into actionable insights that drive meaningful and sustained program
impact.

Shashi is a public policy enthusiast and strategic communications professional with over seven
years of experience in the social development sector. His work weaves together education,
livelihoods, skills, and gender initiatives in close partnership with governments, NGOs, UN
agencies, and communities across rural and urban India. Through storytelling, documentation,
and thoughtful communication, he helps programmes find their voice and policies reach the
people they are meant for.

Before joining IWWAGE, his journey has taken him through the Gandhi Fellowship under NITI
Aayog’s Aspirational District Programme and the AIF William J. Clinton Fellowship. Later,
he led communication, documentation, and strategic initiatives for Saath Charitable Trust and
PRADAN-Madhya Pradesh. He had been an independent Communication Consultant with
UNICEF Hyderabad Field Office and the Ministry of Electronics and Information
Technology (MeitY). Currently, he leads end-to-end communication, documentation, and
outreach efforts for the Gender Intervention under DAY-NRLM.

Shashi holds a Master’s degree in Rural Development and a background in Mass
Communication from the Central University of Jharkhand. Shashi is a strong advocate for
experiential learning through Fellowships and youth leadership. He leads the SAMARTH
Initiative to support aspiring professionals in building meaningful careers in the social sector.
Outside work, he enjoys travelling with friends, watching films and social documentaries in his
little home theatre, and finding joy in cooking simple meals.