Senior Strategist

Background

Energy transition away from coal is inevitable, but justice and human transition is not.

Growing up in Jharkhand, amid the irony and complexities of energy poverty in one of the nation’s coal mining hotspots, I witnessed how mineral wealth fuelled growth but also triggered environmental degradation and social disparities—sparking my interest in sustainable development and energy governance.

My educational journey—beginning with a Materials Science Engineering degree from the National Institute of Technology (NIT) and culminating in an MS in Ecology and Environment Studies from Nalanda University—has given me an interdisciplinary perspective. Before joining the Forum, I led technical and scientific research at the World Resources Institute’s Energy Program, advancing sustainable energy transitions, particularly in hard-to-abate sectors. As an attaché to India’s first State-level Task Force on Sustainable Transition (Govt. of Jharkhand) and collaborating with NITI Aayog (Govt. of India), I actively contributed to shaping both sub-national and national decarbonization strategies.

Previously, I worked with organizations in the climate and sustainability space—such as Swaniti Global and the Piramal Foundation—where I engaged with diverse stakeholders—government, civil society, and the private sector—to navigate governance complexities, build coalitions, and co-design innovative solutions to climate challenges.

This experience has allowed me to understand the scientific, technological, and environmental facets of sustainability challenges, while also appreciating the socio-economic implications and the need for inclusive governance for futures.

I’ve been recognised as an NAAEE 30 Under 30 and Commonwealth100 leader for my efforts to promote environmental education and sustainability. Additionally, I was a Gandhi Fellow spearheading grassroots-level community development projects and advocating for evidence-based policies that integrated marginalised communities into local governance frameworks.

Throughout my career, I’ve explored the intricate relationships between energy, development, and governance—particularly from a community-centric perspective. And, through robust action-research, a systems change approach, and strategic engagement, I seek to contribute to the pursuit of a just transition to a sustainable future.

My dream project

My dream project, inspired by the book Cradle to Cradle: Remaking the Way We Make Things is to create a regenerative energy ecosystem that transforms the way we produce, consume, and renew energy. I envision a world where every element of the energy transition—operates in harmony with natural systems, empowering communities and creating cycles of abundance rather than depletion. It's about rethinking energy not just as a resource but as a catalyst for life and equity.

What floats my boat outside work?

Outside of work, I'm drawn to slow science—where knowledge prioritises reflection over rapid progress—along with exploring the intersection of art, nature, and sustainability. Whether hiking lush trails, experimenting with photography that captures the environment, or immersing myself in thought-provoking books, these pursuits recharge me and deepen my connection to the world.

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