I am a social scientist at the International Water Management Institute (IWMI), specialising in Agricultural Extension with a focus on policy analysis, agricultural innovation systems, and digital agriculture. My research delves into livelihoods, nutrition, and the role of technology in climate change adaptation and mitigation.
Extensive fieldwork and engagements with public and private sector stakeholders have fuelled my interest in policy research. I am currently leading research on policy landscapes, focusing on demand-side water management, participatory governance, and capacity development to empower communities in decision-making and accountability processes. Additionally, my work explores the drivers of smallholder prosperity, aiming to transform agriculture into a sustainable and equitable avenue for improving the livelihoods of smallholder farmers.
Previously, I conducted a Department of Science and Technology-funded study on climate-smart agricultural systems in Telangana, India, examining policy ecosystems and drivers of crop diversification amid climate and market uncertainties.
At ICRISAT’s Agribusiness and Innovation Platform (AIP), I analysed the socio-economic impacts of development interventions, focusing on smallholder capacity building and nutritional programs for vulnerable groups, including pregnant women, lactating mothers, and children.
As a MANAGE Fellow at the National Institute of Agricultural Extension Management, India, I researched Extension and Advisory Services, conducting value chain analyses to inform policy advocacy.
I hold a PhD in Agricultural Extension from the Central Agricultural University, Imphal. I am passionate about bridging research, policy, and practice to drive impactful changes in agriculture and rural development.