Mallika Bhasin

MSc Economics, 2017

Based in:

India

Top tips for Warwick graduates who would like to work in your sector:

Warwick offers an ideal environment for students aspiring to work in the public sector, as there are no rigid boundaries, much like the University itself. At Warwick, professors consistently encourage students to select projects and societies that align with their interests. Similarly, the scope of work in the public sector is vast, allowing individuals to choose their areas of focus and make significant contributions. My advice: embrace the present moment and live fully in it. These experiences and memories will inevitably shape your personality and equip you to navigate uncertainties that once seemed daunting.

Consultant, NITI Aayog, Government of India

Describe your current role and what attracted you to it.

I am currently working as a Consultant at NITI Aayog. With over seven years of experience in the startup innovation ecosystem, I was drawn to this role for the unique opportunity it presents to contribute to the formulation and implementation of key reforms in India.

Essentially, NITI Aayog is the national policy think tank of India, tasked with fostering sustainable development through innovative solutions and strategic guidance. It works on formulating and implementing policies and programmes to drive socio-economic growth across the country.

My responsibilities include assessing the current status of projects, conducting comprehensive analyses, consulting with relevant stakeholders, and formulating reforms to be submitted to the relevant ministry for consideration. The Industry and Foreign Investment Vertical at NITI Aayog is dedicated to advancing the manufacturing sector in India and regularly publishes reports and studies to underscore the importance of the proposed reforms.

What’s your favourite part of the role?

What excites me most is the limitless scope of the work being undertaken, with no defined boundaries, as it spans across the entire country in many projects. Additionally, the young, innovative, and dynamic team shares a unified commitment to contributing to the development of India across all sectors.

What are the key skills you learnt at Warwick that have helped you with your career to date?

Warwick taught me two of the most essential skills: time management and confidence. It was a pivotal period in shaping my personality, as it marked the first time I lived independently, away from my family, when I had the freedom to explore the world on my own terms. The confidence I gained, along with my understanding of the value of time, has played a crucial role in my professional growth, enabling me to advance quickly while maintaining consistency, thoughtfulness, and self-motivation.

Did you have a specific career path in mind when you chose to study at Warwick?

When I began my Master's, I had a general direction in mind. I knew I wanted to pursue a career in policymaking, though I was uncertain about when that opportunity would arise. The education I received at Warwick, renowned for its excellence in Economics, provided a strong foundation and served as a jumpstart to my career.

What top tips do you have for Warwick graduates who would like to work in your sector?

Warwick offers an ideal environment for students aspiring to work in the public sector, as there are no rigid boundaries, much like the University itself. At Warwick, professors consistently encourage students to select projects and societies that align with their interests. Similarly, the scope of work in the public sector is vast, allowing individuals to choose their areas of focus and make significant contributions. My advice: embrace the present moment and live fully in it. These experiences and memories will inevitably shape your personality and equip you to navigate uncertainties that once seemed daunting.