Team-info – Sankala Org

Team

Sankala Foundation unites experts in sustainability, conservation, healthcare, and cultural heritage to empower communities and address global challenges. Through innovative partnerships and initiatives, we create sustainable solutions that inspire progress. Available for workshops and speaking engagements, we transform challenges into opportunities for a better, greener future.

Dr Malvika Kaul

Director (Research and Communications)

Dr Malvika Kaul

Director (Research and Communications)

Dr Malvika’s professional experience has been shaped by a myriad of interconnected, yet distinct sectors – academia, publishing and journalism – largely motivated by passion for diverse experiences. At Sankala, she provides direction to all aspects of research, documentation, and editorial supervision for all publications.

As a researcher and journalist, she has worked on issues like environment degradation, women empowerment, conflict and media challenges and the rights of the marginalised communities. In the last three decades and more, she has worked in the academia (government and private institutions), the media industry (Times of India, The Indian Express, The Pioneer, Hindustan Times), the development sector (ActionAid India, Plan International, UNICEF) and with various publishing houses.

Dr Malvika has engaged in research with some top-ranking universities like the New York University, Steinhardt and edited journals and other research reports for various publications. As an editor, she has developed an eye for the essential and urgent, and her association with the social sector has equipped her to tell stories through multiple lenses. She is a recipient of the international Panos fellowship that enabled her to research on how women use technology for economic growth and empowerment in Gujarat and Rajasthan. She regularly contributes to various news portals and publications and writes a blog on art, culture and heritage.

Mr Aakash Chaturvedi

Research Associate

Mr Aakash Chaturvedi

Research Associate

Aakash applies his expertise in biology, environmental sciences, and ecology towards the public policy and environmental sustainability projects at Sankala. He holds a Bachelor's degree in Biochemistry from the Amity Institute of Molecular Medicine and Stem Cell Research and a postgraduate degree in Environment and Development from Dr BR Ambedkar University, New Delhi.

His background includes research, writing, and corporate etiquette experience from his tenure at the Quality Council of India. During his postgraduate studies, Aakash conducted extensive socio-ecological research in the Mangrove Forests of the Indian Sundarbans, West Bengal, earning notable recognition for his work. Originally from Delhi, he enjoys writing and traveling, in his free time.

Dr Adeeba Parveen

Senior Research Associate

Dr Adeeba Parveen

Senior Research Associate

Adeeba works in the areas of water resource management and environmental sustainability, where she is dedicated to promoting sustainable water solutions. She holds a PhD in Geography from Aligarh Muslim University. Her research spans both rural and urban water systems, with a focus on water source sustainability, water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH), and water quality monitoring. Adeeba’s expertise in research complement her in-depth knowledge of evaluating water quality indices (WQI), water supply centralization, rainfall supply and use replaceability, wastewater supply replaceability, water demand, and water budgeting. Her skills also extend to spatial and geostatistical analyses, including Land Use/Land Cover (LULC) mapping, delineation of groundwater potential zones (GWPZ), land surface temperature (LST) analysis, and site suitability assessments. In her leisure time, Adeeba loves to cook, read, and explore nature.

Dr. Deepesh Goyal

Senior Research Associate

Dr. Deepesh Goyal

Senior Research Associate

Dr. Deepesh Goyal is an environmental researcher with expertise in ecosystem recovery, sustainable development, and Nature-based Solutions (NbS). He earned his Ph.D. in Environmental Science from Guru Gobind Singh Indraprastha University, focusing on vegetation succession and soil recovery in Uttarakhand's landslide-affected areas. His skills include data analytics, geospatial tools like ArcGIS and QGIS, and statistical modelling like CCA, RDA for environmental assessments.

His professional journey includes roles as a Senior Research Fellow and Teaching Assistant, contributing to research and educating future environmentalists. His publications address environmental challenges such as land subsidence and soil restoration, aligning with Sustainable Development Goal 15.

Ms Ishani Nangia

Communications and Outreach Associate

Ms Ishani Nangia

Communications and Outreach Associate

Ishani handles communications and outreach at the Sankala Foundation. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Journalism and Mass Communication from the University of Delhi and a Master’s degree in Development Studies from Dr BR Ambedkar University, Delhi. Passionate about leveraging communication for development initiatives, Ishani has built a diverse career with prominent think tanks and impact sector organizations. She is deeply committed to promoting environmental sustainability and fostering initiatives that drive long-term positive impact. Outside of work, Ishani is a movie buff and enjoys reading in her free time.

Mr Mohammed Khalid

Deputy Director (Finance, Accounts & Admin)

Mr Mohammed Khalid

Deputy Director (Finance, Accounts & Admin)

Mr Mohammed Khalid, advocate by profession, is a former government officer from the august office of The Hon’ble President of India. He is a highly motivated officer with over 36 years of progressive experience in curating and managing high-profile Programmes, Foreign & Domestic visits, Protocol & Ceremonials, Constitutional Affairs, Parliamentary Affairs, Acts, Administration, Travel, Public Relations, Coordination, etc. with various high ranking foreign and national offices and institutes of repute. He has been part of the Presidential Entourage and travelled to 37 countries across 5 Continents of the world namely, Asia, Africa, Europe, North America, and South America besides travelling to all States and Union Territories in India up to district & village levels.

He is an insightful and result-driven professional with a proven track record of maintaining smooth operations through exceptional administrative and decision-making expertise. He possesses excellent communication skills and a dynamic approach to resolving day-to-day challenges. An energetic self-starter and effective team builder, he demonstrates the ability to navigate high-pressure situations and consistently achieve goals on time and under budget.

Mr Narendra Kumar

Graphic Designer

Mr Narendra Kumar

Graphic Designer

Narender specialises in graphic design with over a decade of experience across various industries, including media houses, the education sector, print and publication, advertising agencies, digital marketing, and political campaign management. He holds a Bachelor’s degree in Arts from Delhi University.

Ms Palak Chakraborty

Research Associate

Ms Palak Chakraborty

Research Associate

Palak contributes to the research for various health projects at Sankala. She holds an MSc in Development Studies from the London School of Economics and Political Science and an undergraduate degree in Economics from the University of Delhi. Her passion for India’s public health sector drives her to identify ground-level challenges in healthcare delivery and develop solutions to address them. Her interests include public health, climate change, education, and women’s and children’s rights.

In her free time, Palak enjoys cooking, reading, and sketching. She also runs a social media page where she and her friends regularly discuss updates from the field of climate change through engaging and interactive infographics.

Dr Pramod K. Yadav

Programme Associate

Dr Pramod K. Yadav

Programme Associate

Pramod leads the team that conducts research and advocacy on sustainable livelihoods, wildlife management, biodiversity conservation, and socio-ecological systems. His work also focuses on strengthening the conservation agenda for seven big cat species (e.g., Cheetah, Jaguar, Leopard, Lion, Puma, Snow Leopard, and Tiger) across their 96 range countries. With a PhD from Clemson University, South Carolina, USA, Pramod applies his expertise in conservation social science theories, methods, and analyses to policy, governance, and sustainability research.
With over a decade of experience, Pramod has explored various facets of environmental research, including community resilience, sustainable livelihoods, illegal wildlife trade, human-wildlife interactions, environmental impact assessment, conservation governance, political ecology, and natural resources management. Outside of work, he enjoys playing tennis and gardening in his free time.

Ms Ravina Yadav

Research Associate

Ms Ravina Yadav

Research Associate

Ravina contributes her expertise across a diverse range of subjects within the organization’s various verticals, with a strong focus on environmental sustainability and wildlife conservation. She holds a bachelor’s degree in Zoology from Sri Venkateswara College, University of Delhi, and a master’s degree in Biodiversity and Conservation from GGSIPU, Delhi. During her summer training at the Wildlife Institute of India in Dehradun, she studied the social behavior of Jungle Babblers and conducted a diet analysis of Barn Swallows. Her dissertation at ESG Book, Delhi, provided her with valuable experience as a Data Analyst. Outside of work, Ravina is a fitness enthusiast who dedicates her free time to workouts and playing volleyball. She also enjoys reading fiction, which she finds immensely enjoyable and enriching.

Mr Satish Chopra

Administrative Officer

Mr Satish Chopra

Administrative Officer

Satish manages the administrative and finance work at the organization. He holds a Bachelor of Commerce from Ramjas College, University of Delhi. Before joining Sankala he worked in the finance and accounts department at Indian Railways which he retired from after 30 years of service. Outside of work, Satish enjoys playing badminton in his free time.

Mr Shikhar Mohan

Photographer & Junior Fellow

Mr Shikhar Mohan

Photographer & Junior Fellow

Shikhar provides visuals and photographs for various projects and research publications at Sankala. He holds a B.Com. LL.B. (H) from Amity Law School, Delhi. After a brief stint in the legal field, he transitioned to wildlife photography, a passion he has pursued with great enthusiasm. Previously, he has worked as a photography mentor and tour leader, leading several wildlife photography expeditions in India’s national parks and tiger reserves. Though he did not receive formal training in wildlife or photography, he has acquired substantial knowledge through hands-on experience and trial and error. On weekends, Shikhar can often be found on the badminton court or enjoying bike rides with friends to the dhabas around Delhi.

Ms Shivani Solanki

Research Associate

Ms Shivani Solanki

Research Associate

She has done her master's in Environmental Management from the Forest Research Institute, Dehradun, and holds a Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.) in Zoology from the University of Delhi. She has previously worked with various government organisations such as the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, Wildlife Institute of India, Ministry of Jal Shakti and National Tiger Conservation Authority. Her expertise lies in studying Protected Area Networks, Wildlife Management Strategies, Biodiversity Conservation, and Eco-development Planning. Her research interest lies in understanding long-term shifts in wildlife behaviour patterns in response to climate change, through field-based studies and community outreach. Apart from her professional interests, Shivani loves to travel, trek, read, and listen to music. She also enjoys photography and engages in nature conservation activities during her leisure time.

Ms Shriya Saraswat

Research Associate

Ms Shriya Saraswat

Research Associate

Shriya works in the areas of WASH (Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene) and health, with a strong passion for enhancing the well-being of the communities she serves. She holds a Master’s in Social Work (Urban & Rural Community Development) from Chhatrapati Shahuji Maharaj University in Kanpur Nagar. Previously a SBI Youth Fellow, Shriya has also contributed to Gail India’s CSR project "Arogyam" in Guna, Madhya Pradesh, and has participated in several Ganga Cleaning Drives as well. Her expertise encompasses stakeholder management, Participatory Rural Appraisal (PRA), program planning and implementation, and extensive fieldwork. Outside of her professional interests, she enjoys travelling, poetry, and doodling to add a creative touch to her life.

Ms Utkarsha Rathi

Research Associate

Ms Utkarsha Rathi

Research Associate

Utkarsha Rathi is a skilled professional with a strong academic background in botany, ecology, and environmental sciences, complemented by expertise in the WASH (Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene) sector. Holding a Master of Science in Botany (Plant Sciences) from the University of Delhi and a Master of Education from Maharishi Dayanand University, Utkarsha has developed a robust foundation in ecological systems, sustainable development, and scientific research, and inclusive education and gender perspective. She is committed to both academic excellence and practical application. With over 5 years of experience, she has worked with eminent universities and research institutions in DBT and DST funder projects, where she contributed significantly to research and project management. She has led research on DNA barcoding for medicinal plants, CRISPR-Cas Technology and has hands-on experience in laboratory techniques, field-based surveys, and data analysis. Her work also involved systematic documentation, academic writing, and training undergraduate students, showcasing their ability to bridge scientific research with knowledge dissemination. She has previously worked with the Ministry of Jal Shakti in the WASH sector. She has a vast knowledge base in event coordination, knowledge management, and communication strategies and for high-profile initiatives.She has been part of national-level events, and conducted news analysis on water-related issues. As a research associate in Sankala, Utkarsha is poised to contribute to sustainable development initiatives with a focus on ecology and the WASH sector. Leveraging her expertise in ecological conservation, research methodologies, and stakeholder engagement, she aims to develop innovative solutions for water resource management, sanitation, and hygiene. Their interdisciplinary background and passion for environmental sustainability will enable them to drive impactful projects that balance human needs with ecological preservation.

Ms Yamini Rajora

Research Associate

Ms Yamini Rajora

Research Associate

Yamini works on projects related to wildlife conservation, tribal empowerment, and natural heritage. She holds a B.Sc. in LL.B. (Intellectual Property Law Honours) from National Law University, Jodhpur, and has completed her LL.M. in Environmental and Natural Resources Law from TERI School of Advanced Studies, New Delhi. Her interests lie in legal instruments and governmental policies concerning climate change, wildlife conservation, forest preservation, and tribal rights.

She is a registered advocate with the Bar Council of Delhi and has previously worked with an intellectual property law firm in Gurugram, Haryana, on trademark and copyright matters. Apart from work, Yamini is a remarkable home cook and an avid gardener who tends to nearly 200 plants at her home. She enjoys spending time with her dog.

Mr Sanjeev Kumar

Administrative Resource Staff

Mr Sanjeev Kumar

Administrative Resource Staff

Sanjeev is a key member of Sankala’s office team, contributing significantly to our daily operations and keeping everything running smoothly. Originally from the Singrauli district in Madhya Pradesh, Sanjeev is an 8th-grade graduate who brings a practical and hands-on approach to his role. When he’s not working, he enjoys repairing electronics and learning about cars and auto parts.

Consultants

Ms Deepna Kaveriappa

Consultant

Ms Deepna Kaveriappa

Consultant

A communications consultant with more than 5 years of experience, Deepna is responsible for conceptualizing communication strategies and crafting impactful collaterals. With a focus on Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WaSH), she has successfully organized multiple conferences at Sankala, enhancing dialogue and collaboration in the field. In addition to her organizational expertise, Deepna oversees social media communications, forging valuable digital partnerships and engaging in extensive outreach efforts to amplify their message and impact.

Mr Saurabh Dutta

Consultant

Mr Saurabh Dutta

Consultant

Saurabh contributes to the research and communication efforts in the water sector at Sankala. He holds a bachelor’s degree in chemistry from St. Stephen’s College, Delhi and master’s degrees in chemistry from IIT Roorkee and chemical engineering from University of Twente, Netherlands where he studied on a full scholarship from Royal Dutch Shell. He has diverse experience in project implementation and management, research, engineering, and consulting in the environment sector.

Earlier, he worked with the Office of the Principal Scientific Advisor to GoI where he performed a key leadership role in ideation, strategy, implementation, management and outreach for all projects and initiatives under their Waste to Wealth Mission. As part of his work, he engaged with diverse stakeholders including urban local bodies, domestic and international technology companies, ministries, academia and non-profits to identify problems statements in waste management, develop technology evaluation frameworks, evaluate and recommend innovative technologies in municipal solid waste, agricultural waste, waste to energy, wastewater and sanitation space for uptake by end users.

He led the implementation, techno-commercial management, monitoring, and evaluation of two pilot projects with Municipal Corporation of Delhi on decentralized waste management and urban drain desilting. He also has extensive experience in engineering and consulting on water, sewage and industrial effluent treatment projects, techno-commercial studies, science communication, onboarding of partners and technical experts, vendor and contract management, program budget management, organizing events, roundtables etc. His other interests include reading, writing, traveling, photography, filmmaking, movies, music, and cooking.

Dr Abha Jaiswal

Visiting Fellow

Dr Abha Jaiswal

Visiting Fellow

Dr Abha Jaiswal supports the public health vertical at Sankala. She holds a Master’s in Public Health from the City University of New York and an undergraduate degree in Dentistry. Her diverse experience spans research, advocacy, program implementation, and teaching in the public health field. Abha is driven by her commitment to advancing public health and tackling healthcare challenges. She is also multilingual, with proficiency in English, Hindi, Spanish, Bengali, and Nepali. In her free time, Abha enjoys watching movies, reading, cooking, and spending quality time with family and friends. On weekends, Shikhar can often be found on the badminton court or enjoying bike rides with friends to the dhabas around Delhi. Her expertise encompasses stakeholder management, Participatory Rural Appraisal (PRA), program planning and implementation, and extensive fieldwork. Outside of her professional interests, she enjoys travelling, poetry, and doodling to add a creative touch to her life.

Dr Abha Jaiswal

Visiting Fellow

Dr Abha Jaiswal

Visiting Fellow

Dr Abha Jaiswal

Visiting Fellow

Dr Abha Jaiswal

Visiting Fellow

Dr Abha Jaiswal

Visiting Fellow

Dr Abha Jaiswal

Visiting Fellow

Advisors

Mr Vidya Bhushan Kumar

Distinguished Fellow

Mr Vidya Bhushan Kumar

Distinguished Fellow

Mr V.B. Kumar is a retired Indian Forest Service officer of 1987 batch, with over 34 years of demonstrated experience across diverse sectors, including forestry, wildlife conservation, eco-tourism, water resources, and large public-sector governance. He has held key leadership roles in designing and implementing major projects, collaborating with international organizations such as the World Bank, UNWTO, ADB, and JBIC. His expertise spans policy advisory, strategic planning, environmental conservation, project execution, monitoring & evaluation and cross-sectoral collaboration. Mr Kumar holds post graduate degree in Physics from Delhi University, and MBA in Public Policy from University of Ljubljana with master degree thesis on “Economic Valuation of Forests - A Case Study of Punjab”. In addition, he has completed certification courses in tourism from University of George Washington, D.C.USA and leadership and ethics from Harvard Kennedy School.

His expertise in integrating environmental sustainability with developmental goals has led to impactful initiatives, including the pioneering conservation efforts in Green Punjab Mission, promotion of Trees Outside Forests, initiation of carbon credit compensation in Punjab and eco-restoration of Shivalik Hills with community participation. Mr Kumar has not only been instrumental in drafting Tourism Master Plan for Punjab and securing ADB assistance for tourism infrastructure, but also enabling institution building and successfully implementing ADB project. His role in the Government of India in MoEFCC and Water Resource ministry at policy framing and advisory role has been equally challenging and fulfilling. As Chief Vigilance Officer of Defence PSU, he has immensely contributed in institutionalising preventive vigilance and ethical management framework in corporate governance. Now, as an advocate for sustainable conservation practices, Mr Kumar continues to leverage his vast cross-sectoral experience to support the protection of India’s unique ecosystems and biodiversity.

At Sankala Foundation, he guides the initiatives on eco-restoration, environmental sustainability, promotion of nature conservation and documentation of natural heritage and related activities. Mr Kumar is an avid photographer and enjoys nature and wildlife photography, bird watching, and exploring impact study tours.

Mr. Umakant IFS (Retd)

Senior Fellow

Mr. Umakant IFS (Retd)

Senior Fellow

Mr. Umakant is a seasoned forestry and environmental governance expert with over two decades of distinguished service in the Indian Forest Service (IFS). A Gold Medalist in Botany from Bhagalpur University, he has held key positions across various states, addressing complex challenges in forest conservation, climate resilience, and sustainable land management.

His tenure includes pivotal roles as Additional Principal Chief Conservator of Forests in Goa, Chief Wildlife Warden, and Director at the Ministry of Development of North Eastern Region (DoNER). He has spearheaded watershed management projects, represented India at global forums like UNCCD COP 14 & 15, and played a crucial role in policy development for land conservation and afforestation.

Beyond administration, he has been instrumental in training over 1,000 forestry professionals, enhancing capacity building and field-level management. As a Senior Fellow at Sankala Foundation, he continues to contribute to environmental sustainability, policy advocacy, and conservation efforts at national and international levels.His expertise spans wildlife protection, climate change adaptation, project implementation, and ecological policy, making him a leader in sustainable development and environmental stewardship.

Dr Abha Jaiswal

Visiting Fellow

Dr Abha Jaiswal

Visiting Fellow

Dr Abha Jaiswal supports the public health vertical at Sankala. She holds a Master’s in Public Health from the City University of New York and an undergraduate degree in Dentistry. Her diverse experience spans research, advocacy, program implementation, and teaching in the public health field. Abha is driven by her commitment to advancing public health and tackling healthcare challenges. She is also multilingual, with proficiency in English, Hindi, Spanish, Bengali, and Nepali. In her free time, Abha enjoys watching movies, reading, cooking, and spending quality time with family and friends. Her expertise encompasses stakeholder management, Participatory Rural Appraisal (PRA), program planning and implementation, and extensive fieldwork. Outside of her professional interests, she enjoys travelling, poetry, and doodling to add a creative touch to her life.

Dr Aarti Mahajan

Senior Fellow

Dr Aarti Mahajan

Senior Fellow

Dr. Aarti Mahajan is a passionate researcher with a PhD in Agricultural Chemicals from IARI, New Delhi and Masters from University of Delhi. She’s all about agrochemicals, bio-pesticides, and pest management, with hands-on experience in pesticide formulation and phytochemical analysis. She’s a pro at using advanced analytical instruments like UV-VIS, IR, NMR, GC, HPLC, and GC-MS. Her research on Piper longum even led to a patent for potential fungicides! Over the years, she’s worked at Shriram Institute and IARI, diving deep into bio-pesticide development and eco-friendly insect control. With multiple research papers, conference presentations, and fellowships like NET qualification and an IARI scholarship, she’s made her mark in the field. She is fluent in English, Hindi, Assamese and Bengali.

Dr Abha Jaiswal

Visiting Fellow

Dr Abha Jaiswal

Visiting Fellow

Dr Abha Jaiswal

Visiting Fellow

Dr Abha Jaiswal

Visiting Fellow

Voice for a Sustainable Planet

Team

Consultants

Advisors