Ashim Ghosh
Social development professional
Ashim Ghosh is a social development professional with 27 years of experience in the social sector. During this time, he has been associated with a pan-India organization, implementing projects in remote locations to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals, with a focus on ensuring gender equity and reducing vulnerabilities among marginalized and deprived communities. He has a proven track record of working in challenging terrains such as conflict zones, civic unrest areas, tribal regions, urban vulnerable pockets, and hotspots, contributing to the growth of districts recognized as inspirational by the Government of India.
Ashim has been actively involved in developing policy documents, Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), and action plans on behalf of the government stakeholders. A graduate of XISS, he is highly regarded for his skills in project planning, data analysis, and training.
In his leisure time, Ashim enjoys cooking and riding his Royal Enfield Bullet. An avid traveler, he loves engaging with indigenous communities, immersing himself in their lifestyles, food, culture, and languages.
Bani Mitra
Retired Political Science lecturer
Bani Mitra is a retired Political Science lecturer with a master’s and MPhil degree in the subject. She began her career as a social welfare officer in the Department of SocialnEducation, West Bengal, serving at the block level in Bankura. Later, she joined Saradamoni Mahavidyapith as a young lecturer of Political Science, dedicating over 20 years to teaching before moving to Behala College, Kolkata, where she continued her academic career until retirement. A passionate social worker and activist, Bani has positively impacted many lives through guidance, resolving issues, and offering financial support.
Known for her kindness and motherly warmth, she embraces everyone with love. An excellent cook and homemaker, she balances family and work seamlessly. Currently, she has been appointed as Special Tabulator at the University of Calcutta’s Result and Review section and authors textbooks for undergraduate political science students. At 77, Bani remains active through yoga, swimming, and walking and she loves traveling. A trailblazer, she inspires her granddaughters to pursue their dreams.
Shanto Bakshi
Working in the field of humanitarian aid
Shanto Bakshi has been working in the field of humanitarian aid for more than 24 years, since June 2000. Over this period, he has been involved in various interventions related to education, anti- trafficking, biodiversity (disaster relief and conflict management: flora and fauna versus humans), HIV/AIDS prevention, general health, and income generation.
His roles have included serving as an external resource person and as a project employee across 17 states and 3 union territories of India. His skills encompass project implementation, needs assessment and research, training on developing monitoring systems, conducting evaluations, and documentation.
He is an avid reader and movie enthusiast. Described as a kind-hearted giant with a constant smile, Shanto is loved by his colleagues, friends, and family for his sense of humor.
