Meet Our Team 2

The People Behind the Purpose

PANI is built on the strength of its people – grassroots leaders, social architects and changemakers who work hand in hand with communities to create lasting transformation. PANI is not just an organization; PANI is a movement of listeners, facilitators and problem-solvers, deeply rooted in the realities of those it works with.

Guided by our Secretary & Chief Functionary, Shri Bharat Bhushan, a steadfast advocate of Gandhian principles, our team blends experience with purpose – bringing together seasoned development experts, field facilitators and thought leaders to drive change where it matters most.
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Our expertise spans education, gender justice, sustainable livelihoods, governance, health and climate resilience, but our true strength lies in our unwavering belief that communities hold the power to shape their own futures.

From village lanes to policy tables, our team works with humility, integrity and an unshakable commitment to equity, dignity and self-reliance. We are here to amplify voices, break barriers and co-create solutions. Because we believe that true change is not delivered from the outside; it rises from within.

List of Executive Committee (Governing Board) Members
[Elected on May 2022]

Our Board

Mrs Neelam Prabhat

Chairperson – PANI

Address: 120, Laxmanpuri, (Near
Formative Day School), Indira
Nagar, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh

Mrs Neelam Prabhat

Chairperson – PANI

Neelam Prabhat is a dedicated social leader and a champion of gender equality with over three decades of experience in social development. As Chairperson of Peoples’ Action for National Integration (PANI), she has been instrumental in promoting women’s rights, particularly in the agricultural sector, ensuring women receive due recognition as farmers under the AROH program. She also serves as an advisor to the Uttar Pradesh State Rural Livelihoods Mission (UPSRLM), enhancing women’s participation in rural economies.
In September 2024, she was appointed as a member of the Uttar Pradesh State Women’s Commission, where she plays a pivotal role in addressing women’s grievances and strengthening policy interventions. Her hands-on approach includes public hearings and direct engagement with government officials to ensure swift action on issues affecting women.
Mrs. Neelam holds a postgraduate degree in Medieval History from Allahabad University (1992) and a B.Ed. She began her social work journey with Vanvasi Ashram in Sonbhadra, focusing on the upliftment of tribal and farmer women. A long-time leader in the Rashtriya Sevika Samiti, she has shaped social movements in the Vindhyachal region, amplifying women’s voices at the grassroots level.
Her expertise spans women’s empowerment, governance, and rural development, with a deep commitment to bridging policy and action. At PANI, her leadership continues to drive impactful change, nurturing inclusive growth, social justice and community resilience.

Dr. Sanjay Bhatt

Vice-Chairperson, PANI

Address: principal Bainglow, 3 University
Road, Delhi School Of Socal Work,
malika Ganj, New Delhi 110007

Dr. Sanjay Bhatt

Vice-Chairperson, PANI

Dr. Sanjai Bhatt is a distinguished academician, social work educator and development consultant with over three decades of experience. Retired from Delhi School of Social Work, University of Delhi, since 1993 where he served as a professor and head of the department, Mr. Bhatt holds a Master’s, Doctorate in Social Work and a Law degree from Lucknow University.
An expert in non-profit organizations, social legislations, occupational social work and community development, Dr. Bhatt has mentored numerous scholars, authored eight books and contributed extensively to research and policy evaluation. His pioneering initiatives UDAI-I for earthquake relief in Gujarat and UDAI-II for flood rehabilitation in Bihar exemplify his commitment to bridging theory and practice.
A former executive member of the International NGO Forum on ADB, he has been actively involved in movements for child rights, human rights, environmental conservation and governance reforms. His contributions extend globally, with research interests spanning corporate social responsibility, poverty alleviation and social welfare.
At PANI, Dr. Bhatt’s expertise strengthens governance, strategic planning and grassroots empowerment to drive impactful and sustainable change.

Mr. Bharat Bhushan

Secretary & Chief Functionary, People’s Action for National Integration – PANI

Address: Village/ PO.- Chachikpur , BlockBhiti, District- Ambedkarnagar, Uttar Pradesh

Mr. Bharat Bhushan

Secretary & Chief Functionary, People’s Action for National Integration – PANI

Mr. Bharat Bhushan, a founding member of PANI Sansthan, is a visionary leader committed to empowering marginalized communities. Born into a family deeply rooted in India’s freedom movement and Gandhian principles, Mr. Bhushan actively participated in the 1975 Sampoorna Kranti Movement led by Jai Prakash Narayan, advocating for justice and equality.
As PANI’s Chief Functionary, he has led impactful initiatives in sustainable livelihoods, gender equality and integrated community development. His leadership has been pivotal in aligning PANI’s work with Gandhian ideals of rural self-sufficiency, economic equality and social justice.
Mr. Bhushan believes that “With determination and hard work, the impossible can be achieved.” This philosophy drives the continuous progress of PANI, ensuring its role in creating lasting social change. He is particularly focused on leveraging technology, including AI, to enhance PANI’s programs in education, health and development while balancing ethical concerns and its impact on labour.
In his vision for 2025, Mr. Bhushan calls for small, consistent efforts in driving larger societal transformations, encouraging a collaborative approach to sustainable change. His leadership has been instrumental in making PANI a beacon of hope, nurturing future leaders who strive to make the world a better place.
“Small steps lead to big dreams, every effort ignites new hopes. Those who persevere in struggles create history.”

Mrs. Leelawati

Board Member – PANI

Address: Village- Rohanpara ,PO.-
Balapaikauli, Block- Bhiti, Distt.
Ambedkarnagar,U.P.

Mrs. Leelawati

Board Member – PANI

Leelawati Ji is a respected community leader who has dedicated over three decades to strengthening women and adolescent girls in rural India. Born and raised in Rohanpara village, Gosaiganj, she overcame deeply entrenched societal norms to become a guiding force for change in her community.
Her journey with PANI began in 1991, when, despite societal restrictions, she took the initiative to work on women’s health. Starting with surveys conducted discreetly from within her home, she gradually became a leader, traveling 40 kilometers daily on a bicycle to connect with women, raise awareness about maternal health, and promote institutional deliveries. Over time, her efforts expanded to supporting adolescent girls, child rights and women’s access to government entitlements.
Leelawati Ji’s dedication to organizing women’s groups has led to greater awareness of policies, access to land rights, and stronger links to government welfare programs. Her leadership in projects like Aaroh and Plan India International’s child rights initiative has positively impacted thousands of marginalized women.
Today, as a governing board member of PANI, she continues to guide and inspire initiatives that challenge gender norms and promote self-reliance among rural women and girls. Her life’s work is a testament to resilience, education and the power of collective action in transforming communities.

Mr. Shivendra Mani

Board Member – PANI

Address: Village- Semari, Post Office – Kodari, District – Gorakhpur, Uttar Pradesh, India

Mr. Shivendra Mani

Board Member – PANI

Mr. Shivendra Mani Tripathi is a public health and rural development expert with over two decades of experience. As a District Program Manager with the National Rural Health Mission, he has led large-scale health programs, policy advocacy and grassroots interventions. With a strong background in social work and project leadership, he has managed programs funded by DFID, PATH and the Government of India. At PANI, he drives health and governance initiatives, strengthening community-led solutions for sustainable impact.

Dr. Poonam Singh

Board Member – PANI

Address: 7/15/381A, Janora, District –
Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh,
India

Dr. Poonam Singh

Board Member – PANI

Dr. Poonam Singh is a renowned scientist in sustainable agriculture and environmental microbiology, currently serving as a Principal Scientist at CSIR-National Botanical Research Institute (NBRI). With a deep focus on biological control, plant-microbe interactions and eco-friendly agricultural innovations, she has pioneered research on microbial disease control, biofertilizers and soil health restoration. Her work on Trichoderma-based solutions has led to patented technologies that support sustainable farming. A prolific researcher with numerous publications, she is committed to bridging science and grassroots development. At PANI, Dr. Singh applies her expertise to enhance rural agricultural practices, environmental sustainability and climate-resilient farming solutions.

Mr. Girjesh Kumar

Board Member – PANI

Address: 483, Jawahar nagar, District – Unnao, Uttar Pradesh,
India

Mr. Girjesh Kumar

Board Member – PANI

Mr. Pandey is a respected social leader and a vital pillar of PANI’s governing board, bringing over 35 years of experience in grassroots initiatives and social welfare. Hailing from Unnao, he has been actively involved in transformative community movements, including the Tarun Sangh Sena (1972) and Jayaprakash Narayan’s Movement (1976). A law graduate and former practicing lawyer, he has used his legal expertise to support social causes and community development.
As a founding member and General Secretary of the SATHI Network, Mr. Pandey has played a key role in mobilizing communities for justice and empowerment. His dedicated work in drug de-addiction programs earned him national recognition from the Government of India. With strong associations with Vikas Bharti Organisation and other esteemed institutions, he continues to support PANI’s mission, reinforcing the belief that true change is driven by collective action rather than individual recognition.
A strong believer in social welfare, Mr. Pandey remains committed to upholding and strengthening PANI’s core values, ensuring they continue to inspire future generations.

Technical Team

Core Team

Deo Datt Singh

Director, Operations, People’s Action for National Integration – PANI

Deo Datt Singh

Director, Operations, People’s Action for National Integration – PANI

Mr. Deo Datt Singh, a seasoned agri-business expert with over 20 years of experience, specializes in rural economic development, ecological farming and agribusiness systems. His work spans for-profit and non-profit sectors in managing private sector-led agricultural programs and collaborating with governments and corporates to strengthen value chains, especially in fruits and vegetables. As Director of Operations at PANI, he integrates climate adaptation and resource management into projects to promote sustainability. A regular COP participant since 2015, his vision focuses on building climate resilience in rural communities by blending advanced agricultural techniques with sustainable practices, driving climate-smart farming and environmental stewardship.

Ambarish Singh

Director, HR, PANI Head Office, Ayodhya

Ambarish Singh

Director, HR, PANI Head Office, Ayodhya

Ambarish Singh has been an integral part of PANI Sansthan since 2002, bringing over two decades of experience in organizational development and management. Over the years, he has played a pivotal role in shaping and optimizing departmental systems across finance, HR, administration and program management. As the Director of Human Resources, Ambarish is responsible for ensuring the seamless and efficient operation of the organization’s HR functions. His role encompasses strategic workforce planning, designing and managing employee benefits and compensation programs, overseeing training and development initiatives and fostering a positive and productive workplace culture. Additionally, he provides expert guidance on conflict resolution, employee relations and HR budgeting to align with organizational goals. Mr. Singh’s enduring commitment and leadership have been instrumental in strengthening PANI’s operational foundation and driving its mission to empower communities and create sustainable development.

Jagdish Giri

Head, Programs, People’s Action for National Integration – PANI

Jagdish Giri

Head, Programs, People’s Action for National Integration – PANI

Mr. Jagdish Giri, a science graduate from Allahabad University, has 24 years of experience in the development sector. At 51, his mission is to empower marginalized communities in underdeveloped regions of Uttar Pradesh and India. As Head of Programs at PANI, he specializes in project life cycle management, resource mobilization, partnership development and organizational growth. Mr. Giri has extensive experience in implementing community-based projects focused on women and adolescent girls’ empowerment, integrated community development, healthcare and livelihood development. His leadership aims to improve living conditions and promote sustainable change for the poorest and most vulnerable populations.

Mr. Shashi Bhushan Singh

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Mr. Mukesh Sadana

Director, C-CARD (Centre for Climate Action and Rural Development)

Mr. Mukesh Sadana

Director, C-CARD (Centre for Climate Action and Rural Development)

Mukesh Sadana has more than 22 years of rich experience in successfully designing and managing large projects and leading multi-sectoral teams. He is an expert in digital financial services, rural banking, policy, regulation, program design, implementation and management, risk analysis and risk management. He has worked with leading financial institutions, mobile network operators, regulators, aggregators, government ministries & departments and donor agencies in more than twelve countries in India, Indonesia, Bangladesh, Nepal, Vietnam, Philippines, Malaysia, Papua New Guinea, Kenya, Malawi, U.S.A. and Belgium. Mukesh comes with a deep understanding of distribution channels, financial products and consumer behaviour. He has strong analytical and writing skills and has conducted multiple trainings for central banks, regulators and corporates. Mukesh has led the development of digital banking strategy for new deployments; developed roadmaps for government agencies and regulators; designed financial products to be delivered over digital financial services platforms, facilitated the rollout process; and has conducted large sector wide studies for international donors. Mukesh holds a Post Graduate Diploma in Rural Management from the Institute of Rural Management, Anand (IRMA).

Project Teams

Mr. Ravi Bhushan Singh

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Mr. Prakash

Mr. Prakash, a distinguished sociology graduate from Awadh University, brings over four decades of diverse professional experience to his role. A seasoned expert in logistics, Mr. Prakash served with distinction in the Indian Air Force, where he honed his skills in operations and management.
Throughout his career, Mr. Singh has undertaken specialized training in Material Management, Disaster Management and Disaster Response. These trainings equipped Mr. Prakash with the expertise to handle complex challenges with efficiency and precision. His work extends to community health, with a particular focus on HIV/AIDS awareness and response.
In addition to his professional achievements, Mr. Prakash is deeply committed to the promotion of human rights and the dissemination of constitutional values. These interests align seamlessly with his role as a resource person and his dedication to driving meaningful change. Associated with PANI since 2004 in various capacities, Mr. Prakash has been an integral part of the organization’s journey, contributing his knowledge and leadership to support its mission of empowering communities for sustainable development.

Reema Arora

Lead – Strategic Partnership & Growth

Reema Arora

Lead – Strategic Partnership & Growth

Reema has Over 16 years of experience in the field of research, advisory, program and project management, training & capacity development, strategic business planning & implementation in the fields of social and financial Inclusion, Digital Financial Services and livelihood promotion. At PANI, Reema manages key client accounts for projects focussing on livelihoods enhancement, women empowerment, social protection, government entitlements, financial inclusion and climate change. Prior to PANI, she has worked with multiple organisations such as, MSC Consulting, Srei Sahaj E-Village limited, FINO (now a payment bank), Evalueserve.com Pvt. Ltd. She is fluent in English and Hindi languages. She holds a Masters of Business Administration (MBA) degree in Marketing and Information Technology from GGS Indraparastha University, Delhi.

Anoop Kumar

Program Manager, Head Office, Ayodhya

Anoop Kumar

Program Manager, Head Office, Ayodhya

With over 23 years of extensive experience in agro-based livelihood promotion, natural resource management (NRM) and climate change adaptation, Anoop Kumar is a distinguished professional dedicated to rural development. At PANI, he serves as the Program Manager, overseeing the operations of key projects, including DACCWSR, ISLD, SARAL, CSAL and FRDP. His responsibilities encompass strategic planning, project management, capacity building and fostering partnerships with government agencies, agricultural institutions and private sector stakeholders. Mr. Anoop has successfully led impactful initiatives that promote sustainable agriculture, water conservation and climate-smart practices, benefiting over 100,000 small and marginal farmers. His expertise includes developing Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs), enhancing community resilience and integrating innovative agricultural techniques. An M.Sc. graduate in Agriculture (Animal Nutrition) from GB Pant University of Agriculture & Technology, Pantnagar, Anoop has authored three research papers, including contributions to the Indian Journal of Animal Nutrition.

Sima Verma

With 18 years of experience in development work, Sima has been instrumental in advancing women’s empowerment, child development and equal rights. Currently, she manages the Empowering Adolescent Girls (EAG) Project, overseeing team capacity building, strategic planning and stakeholder coordination.
Previously, she led impactful initiatives such as the SAMANTA Project (PLAN India), advocating for equal wages for women and the Empowering Rural Women (ERW) Project (Tata Trust), strengthening women’s collectives to demand food and work rights. Her work in the Integrated Child Development Project (Child Fund India) emphasized early childhood education and SHG formation.
Sima specializes in community mobilization, capacity building and government partnerships. She has successfully led programs challenging gender stereotypes, supporting grassroots advocacy and linking marginalized groups to livelihood opportunities. Passionate about gender equality, she continues to drive change through strategic interventions and empowerment initiatives.

Suneel Behra

– Project Manager | Livelihoods & Natural Resource Management

Suneel Behra

– Project Manager | Livelihoods & Natural Resource Management

With over 14 years of experience across the corporate and development sectors, Sunil Kumar Behera specializes in livelihoods, natural resource management and climate resilience. Currently serving as Project Manager at PANI in Balrampur, he leads the CSAL-1 project, focusing on sustainable agriculture, water conservation and rural development. His career spans key roles such as HR Manager, Project Coordinator and MIS & Documentation Coordinator, contributing to impactful projects like Sujalam Sufalam, SWERA and FASAL-2. His expertise includes strategic planning, reporting, data management and HR functions. An adaptable and results-driven professional, Sunil thrives in both team and independent roles, bringing strong leadership, analytical and time-management skills. Passionate about rural transformation, he is committed to creating lasting change through innovative and community-driven solutions.

Sukhvinder

With extensive experience in rural development, Sukhvindar Singh is a dedicated agricultural professional committed to improving the livelihoods of marginalized farming communities. Currently serving as Project Manager at PANI in Siddharthnagar, he leads agricultural initiatives that enhance crop productivity and farmers’ incomes through innovative and sustainable practices. His expertise spans project management, community engagement and technical support, ensuring impactful implementation of agricultural strategies. Previously, he has held key positions such as Subject Matter Specialist (SMS), Project Coordinator and Team Leader, contributing to transformative projects across Uttar Pradesh and Rajasthan. Sukhvindar’s dedication to continuous learning drives his commitment to empowering farmers with knowledge and resources. With a strong foundation in agronomy and rural development, he strives to create sustainable agricultural solutions, fostering resilience and prosperity within farming communities.

Dharmendra Singh

Program Manager, Dumariyaganj, Siddharth Nagar

Dharmendra Singh

Program Manager, Dumariyaganj, Siddharth Nagar

Dharmendra Singh is a seasoned development professional with over two decades of experience in the sector. As a Program Manager, he oversees project implementation, provides technical support to teams and farmers, manages stakeholders and ensures timely reporting and strategic planning. His role also includes fostering linkages with government bodies and donors while documenting key processes. Since 2002, Dharmendra has worked extensively on community mobilization, project evaluation and livelihood promotion. He has led impactful initiatives, such as forming milk cooperatives under IFAD-Aajeevika in Uttarakhand, promoting line sowing in Prayagraj and advocating micro-irrigation practices in 100 villages. His efforts in Bihar raised awareness about clean drinking water, benefiting over 5,000 families. Passionate about women empowerment, water management and sustainable agriculture, Dharmendra continues to drive meaningful change in marginalized communities through strategic planning and execution.

Purunendu Shekhar

Purnendu Shekhar is a dedicated professional working with People’s Action for National Integration (PANI) as a Project Coordinator in the Youth Mental Health Program. He holds a postgraduate degree in Clinical Psychology from Banaras Hindu University (2013) and has extensive experience in mental health, community development and livelihood programs.
He began his career in 2014 with HelpAge India in Kedarnath Valley, Uttarakhand, working on Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) support for families affected by the disaster. He then led a Mobile Medical Unit, focusing on elderly physical and mental health, as well as overall well-being.
Following this, he worked with the Watershed Management Department (JALAGAM), a Uttarakhand Government project under the Integrated Livelihood Support Program, where he served as a Team Leader, helping enhance the turnover and profitability of four livelihood cooperatives.
Since 2021, Purnendu has been an integral part of PANI, leading projects on citizen entitlements and building climate change resilience. Currently, he heads the Youth Mental Health Program, working towards mental health awareness and support for young individuals.
He brings expertise in project implementation, team management, stakeholder liaison and counseling & guidance, making significant contributions to community development and well-being.

Shivanand Shukla

Shivanand is currently leading two key projects at PANI: DWLL in Lucknow’s Mall Block, which enhances women’s agency for entitlement realization and Buniyaad in three blocks of Balrampur, focusing on early childhood care and education. With a Master’s degree in Social Work from Banaras Hindu University, he brings 9 years of diverse experience in rural development, spanning livelihoods, health, nutrition, education, WASH, Panchayati Raj institutions and infrastructure. Before joining PANI, he contributed to UP State Rural Livelihood Mission, Tata Trusts and HCL Foundation, strengthening grassroots interventions across domains. He strongly believes in the role of state machinery in driving sustainable development and is committed to creating high-impact strategies for rural transformation. A passionate traveler, Shivanand explores new places to gain fresh perspectives on development challenges. His expertise and vision align with nurturing scalable, impactful solutions in livelihoods, health, nutrition and education for rural communities.

Shiv Kumar

Project Manager, PANI

Shiv Kumar

Project Manager, PANI

Shiv Kumar Gupta is a seasoned development professional with over 10 years of experience in leading and managing large-scale social programs. As a Project Manager at PANI, he oversees the ECCE project in Balrampur, supported by Tata Trusts, ensuring strategic planning, execution and collaboration with government and community stakeholders to improve early childhood education.
His expertise includes curriculum development, teacher training, program evaluation and data-driven implementation. He has worked extensively on education, food security and rural development, previously leading projects funded by HDFC Bank, Oracle and HCL Foundation. His contributions include developing assessment tools, training Anganwadi workers and enhancing digital learning methods.
Shiv has conducted national and international workshops on education and governance. Passionate about holistic rural development, he remains committed to empowering marginalized communities through innovative and sustainable solutions that enhance learning and social well-being.

Shravan Verma

Shravan is a communications professional with expertise in CSR, sustainability and organizational growth. He brings extensive experience in designing and executing impactful projects, crafting strategies and developing impact frameworks aligned with global development goals. Known for building strong partnerships and driving transformative change, Shravan is a dynamic leader in his field. A 2017 graduate of the Tata Institute of Social Sciences, Mumbai, he has contributed to landmark initiatives such as the Clean India Mission and the National Nutrition Mission. His research collaborations with academic institutions like IIM-L have focused on enhancing district and state economies through industrial growth under DPIIT’s guidance. Deeply passionate about DevComms, Research, Business Sustainability and Strengthening State Capacities, Shravan is dedicated to shaping India’s 2047 Agenda of Viksit Bharat.

Aakash Sunaratiya

Project Manager | Agronomy & Watershed Management Expert

Aakash Sunaratiya

Project Manager | Agronomy & Watershed Management Expert

Aakash Sunaratiya is a dynamic agricultural professional with a strong background in agronomy and watershed management. As Project Manager at PANI, he leads the Watershed Management Project in Hardoi, funded by DCM Shriram Foundation, focusing on sustainable agricultural practices and rural development. Hailing from Shajapur, Madhya Pradesh, Aakash holds an M.Sc. in Agronomy from G.B. Pant University, Pantnagar and a B.Sc. in Agriculture from JNKVV, Jabalpur. Securing All India Rank 17 in ICAR-JRF/PG (2021), he has made significant academic contributions, including research on Integrated Weed Management in Blackgram, 19 published articles and four book chapters in national and international publications. Aakash is passionate about leadership development in the rural sector and is committed to fostering future leaders, ensuring sustainable agricultural growth and contributing to PANI’s mission of empowering communities.

Shilpi Singh

Associate Project Head, Carbon Kisan Connect

Shilpi Singh

Associate Project Head, Carbon Kisan Connect

Shilpi Singh is a dynamic leader in sustainable agriculture and climate action, currently spearheading Uttar Pradesh’s largest carbon farming initiative – Carbon Kisan Connect – at PANI. With a Master’s in Social Work (Rural Development) and MSc. in Botany (Plant Pathology), she bridges scientific expertise with grassroots impact.
Her 15+ years of experience in carbon project management, climate resilience, biodiversity conservation and regenerative agriculture has transformed rural landscapes. She has led tree plantation drives exceeding two billion trees under the Mahindra Hariyali Project, ensuring a 75% survival rate while promoting agroforestry and ecological sustainability. Her agricultural interventions have positively impacted over 100,000 lives across Uttar Pradesh and Punjab.
Beyond environmental impact, Shilpi has driven social change, preventing 430 child marriages and ensuring the enrolment of 12,000+ girls in education programs. Her previous roles with UNICEF, Naandi Foundation and Care India (USAID) reflect her commitment to community-led development, education and women’s empowerment.
At PANI, she is pioneering climate-smart agriculture, leveraging her expertise in strategic planning, MRV methodology and risk mitigation to build a carbon-resilient rural economy.

Akash Patel

Agriculture | Water Resource Management

Akash Patel

Agriculture | Water Resource Management

With over three years of experience in the development sector, Akash Patel specializes in sustainable agriculture, watershed management and rural livelihoods. His expertise includes organic and natural farming, conservation agriculture and agribusiness development, focusing on strengthening value chains and promoting climate-smart solutions.
As a Project Manager in Watershed Management, he leads initiatives on pond renovation, plantation and community-driven conservation programs. His work in organic certification, bio-input production and farmer capacity-building strengthens rural economies while ensuring environmental sustainability.
Akash has successfully collaborated with government agencies, corporates and grassroots organizations to implement agricultural interventions that enhance productivity and farmer incomes. His experience in animal husbandry, natural resource management and entrepreneurship further strengthens his impact in rural development. A skilled trainer and strategist, he is committed to advancing sustainable agricultural practices that drive economic growth and environmental resilience in rural communities.

Rohit Raj

Rohit Raj is a committed Project Coordinator at PANI Sansthan, leading the Empowering Adolescent Girls Program in Pahari, Chitrakoot. He ensures seamless program execution, monitors progress, addresses challenges and provides strategic guidance to his team. With expertise in rural management and agriculture, Rohit previously worked as an Associate Block Coordinator for an agriculture project in Gonda. He holds a PGDM in Rural Management from NIRDPR Hyderabad (2024) and a B.Sc. in Agriculture (2022). Passionate about sustainable development and community empowerment, Rohit combines analytical skills with hands-on experience to drive impactful initiatives. His ability to adapt, collaborate and deliver results makes him a valuable asset in the development sector. Dedicated to continuous learning, he strives to create meaningful change through innovative and community-centric solutions. Rohit’s leadership and commitment reflect his vision of fostering inclusive growth and resilience in rural communities.

Aliya Naaz

Program Coordinator | Leadership, Monitoring & Quality Assurance Expert

Aliya Naaz

Program Coordinator | Leadership, Monitoring & Quality Assurance Expert

With over 14 years of experience in the development sector, Aliya is a seasoned program coordinator specializing in leadership, monitoring and quality assurance. Holding a MA in Sociology and an MSW, she plays a crucial role in overseeing complex projects, ensuring they are impact-driven, efficient and aligned with organizational objectives. Aliya is deeply committed to capacity building, serving as a trainer and mentor to empower teams with technical knowledge and strategic skills. Her expertise in data analysis strengthens program evaluation, providing insights for informed decision-making and optimized project outcomes. Beyond program management, she is a liaison expert, adept at coordinating with government departments and key stakeholders. Her strong communication skills, mentorship abilities and dedication to fostering a collaborative environment make her an invaluable asset to any initiative she leads.

Ragini Vishwakarma

Program Coordinator, PANI

Ragini Vishwakarma

Program Coordinator, PANI

With over a decade of experience in grassroots social work, Ragini Vishwakarma is committed to women’s empowerment, rights advocacy and community development. She holds an M.A. in Social Work from Uttar Pradesh Rajarshi Tandon University, Allahabad.
Her journey with PANI began in 2012, working extensively in Ambedkar Nagar to ensure women’s entitlements, combat domestic violence and strengthen livelihoods. She has contributed to the Swachh Bharat Mission and Mahila Kalyan Vibhag, tackling key issues of sanitation, education and gender-based violence.
Now rejoining PANI, she is actively leading initiatives under the Empowering Women and Girls program, ensuring systemic change and resilience at the grassroots level.

Kritika Pandey

Program Coordinator, PANI

Kritika Pandey

Program Coordinator, PANI

Kritika Pandey is a driven education advocate dedicated to empowering adolescent girls and bridging learning gaps in rural India. With a B.Sc. in Biology and an M.Sc. in Design & Innovation in Rural Technology, she combines grassroots innovation with digital education to create lasting impact.
Since joining PANI in October 2024, she has led the Empowering Adolescent Girls project in Sultanpur, driving community engagement, rights awareness and life skills programs. Previously, she has supported 8,000+ underprivileged girls, mobilized 300+ volunteers across 200+ schools and facilitated digital learning initiatives.
Kritika is a strategic leader, leveraging technology, data and community action to transform education and empower young girls.

Alok Kumar

Project Coordinator | MIS & Project Management Expert

Alok Kumar

Project Coordinator | MIS & Project Management Expert

Bringing over a decade of experience in MIS, documentation and project management, Alok Kumar has honed his expertise in data analysis, reporting and program execution within the development sector. Currently serving as Project Coordinator at PANI in Chitrakoot, he plays a key role in overseeing project implementation, monitoring and stakeholder coordination. His prior experience includes roles such as Documentation & MIS Coordinator, Consultant – Data Manager (CVLR Project) and M&E Coordinator with ChildFund India. He has also led projects as a Project Manager with PANI, contributing to multi-district initiatives. Proficient in MS Excel, Google Sheets, pivot tables and data visualization tools, Alok combines technical and managerial skills to drive impactful interventions. His commitment to data-driven decision-making and community development makes him a valuable asset in rural transformation efforts.

Sateesh Chauhan

Program Coordinator, PANI

Sateesh Chauhan

Program Coordinator, PANI

Sateesh Chauhan is a dedicated social development professional with extensive experience in community mobilization, rural development and women’s empowerment.
His journey in social work began with a deep commitment to ensuring entitlements for marginalized communities. Over the years, he has worked on grassroots initiatives addressing health, education, livelihood and gender justice. His expertise includes capacity building, advocacy and strengthening local governance systems to drive sustainable change.
At PANI, he plays a key role in empowering women and adolescent girls, ensuring their access to education, healthcare and economic opportunities. With a strong belief in community-led transformation, Sateesh continues to champion holistic rural development through strategic interventions and on-the-ground engagement.

Avinash

Avinash Singh is an accomplished Associate Project Coordinator at PANI, currently leading the PRUSKAR/DACCWSR project in Gonda, Uttar Pradesh. Since 2019, he has been overseeing daily project operations, managing team performance and ensuring timely execution of deliverables. Previously, as Manager-MLE for the SWERA project, Avinash provided technical leadership in monitoring, evaluation and learning (MLE). He developed data collection tools, ensured data quality, conducted impact assessments and facilitated capacity-building initiatives. With over a decade of experience, including his tenure at IFMR (2011-2019) as a Project Associate, Avinash has expertise in project management, strategic planning, stakeholder coordination and data analytics. His skills extend to liaising with government and non-government agencies, capacity development and community mobilization. Avinash is passionate about using data-driven insights to enhance program efficiency and impact. His leadership and analytical abilities make him a key asset in driving sustainable development initiatives.

Vinay

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Lakshitha Ahuja

Manager, HR | PANI Head Office, Ayodhya

Lakshitha Ahuja

Manager, HR | PANI Head Office, Ayodhya

Lakshitha Ahuja has been an integral part of PANI since 2022, serving as Manager – HR at the organization’s Head Office in Ayodhya. She plays a pivotal role in overseeing HR operations, including human resource planning, talent acquisition, performance management, policy implementation, conflict resolution, employee development and recognition programs. Her work ensures that PANI maintains a strong, motivated and high-performing workforce aligned with its mission. Lakshitha began her career in 2018 at HDFC Bank as a Bank Teller, where she managed financial transactions and banking operations. She then transitioned into the education sector, taking on the role of Coordinator at JB Bal Sadan in Ayodhya. There, she was responsible for delivering early childhood education, managing school operations, ensuring child safety and implementing school policies. Additionally, she successfully oversaw the Nursery Teachers’ Training program, guiding young women through enrollment, training and job placements. With a diverse professional background spanning banking, education and human resource management, Lakshitha brings strong organizational, leadership and people management skills to her role at PANI.

Abhishek Gupta

Program Manager | Rural Development & Livelihoods Expert

Abhishek Gupta

Program Manager | Rural Development & Livelihoods Expert

Abhishek Gupta is a rural development professional with expertise in agriculture, livelihoods and community-based interventions. As Program Manager at PANI, he leads the Focused Rural Development Program in 25 villages of Gaindas Bujurg Block, Balrampur, driving sustainable agricultural growth and livelihood enhancement. With a master’s degree in Rural Management, Abhishek has four years of experience in the development sector. His proficiency spans livelihoods, farmer producer organizations (FPOs), health and education programs. Skilled in managing small and large-scale projects, he ensures alignment with organizational priorities and CSR initiatives. Before joining PANI, Abhishek worked with BAIF Livelihoods as a Senior Project Officer in Uttar Pradesh, gaining hands-on experience in rural development strategies. He is committed to empowering communities through innovative, scalable solutions that improve agricultural productivity and economic resilience.

Suresh Kumar

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Bhuwan Joshi

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Vikram Pratap

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C-CARD

PANI established the “Center for Climate Action and Rural Development” (C-CARD) in December 2024. C-CARD designs innovative models to develop community resilience against climate change and its impact on livelihood, health, agriculture, water, and overall well-being.

C-CARD serves as a resource center for peer civil society organizations, researchers, academicians, practitioners, and policy makers. C-CARD provides training, conducts project evaluations, impact assessments, and collaborates on efforts undertaken by any organization or agency to address climate change hazards.

This is a humble beginning of an ambitious dream. With unlimited passion, the C-CARD has set out on a journey to make a difference.

C-CARD will gather evidence of the impact of implementation of various programs and activities designed and implemented by philanthropies, civil society organizations, government agencies, and others who are trying to support the rural population through adaptation and mitigation efforts.

Data, information, and evidence will be distilled to develop knowledge material, training modules, and policy inputs for respective stakeholders. C-CARD believes in continuous learning and the power of collaboration, and therefore we welcome ideas, suggestions, and collaboration opportunities.

Mr. Mukesh Sadana

Director, C-CARD (Centre for Climate Action and Rural Development)

Mr. Mukesh Sadana

Director, C-CARD (Centre for Climate Action and Rural Development)

Ms. Shivanjali Raturi

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Shravan Verma

Sima Verma

Satish Srivastava

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Rekha Saleela Nair

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Advisors

Together in Work, Equal in Values

At PANI, we believe that every role is essential and every individual matters. Our structure is not about hierarchy in power, but about ensuring smooth coordination and shared responsibility. It helps us work effectively while staying true to our values of collaboration, respect and inclusivity.

Each person, regardless of their role, contributes equally to our mission. We listen, we learn and we lead together. Our framework is simply a way to organize our efforts, so we can serve communities better while honouring the spirit of collective leadership.

The People Behind the Purpose

Our Board

Mrs Neelam Prabhat

Dr. Sanjay Bhatt

Mr. Bharat Bhushan

Mrs. Leelawati

Mr. Shivendra Mani

Dr. Poonam Singh

Mr. Girjesh Kumar

Technical Team

Core Team

Deo Datt Singh

Ambarish Singh

Jagdish Giri

Mr. Shashi Bhushan Singh

Mr. Mukesh Sadana

Project Teams

Mr. Ravi Bhushan Singh

Mr. Prakash

Reema Arora

Anoop Kumar

Sima Verma

Suneel Behra

Sukhvinder

Dharmendra Singh

Purunendu Shekhar

Shivanand Shukla

Shiv Kumar

Shravan Verma

Aakash Sunaratiya

Shilpi Singh

Akash Patel

Rohit Raj

Aliya Naaz

Ragini Vishwakarma

Kritika Pandey

Alok Kumar

Sateesh Chauhan

Avinash

Vinay

Lakshitha Ahuja

Abhishek Gupta

Suresh Kumar

Bhuwan Joshi

Vikram Pratap

C-CARD

Mr. Mukesh Sadana

Ms. Shivanjali Raturi

Shravan Verma

Sima Verma

Satish Srivastava

Rekha Saleela Nair

Advisors

Together in Work, Equal in Values

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