Sasmita’s work largely focuses on the intersection of developmental issues including environment, health and labour. At The Council, she is currently handling projects on access to energy for healthcare, cooking and income generation. In her research, she is keen to understand the nuances of socio-economic contexts that define access to, and use of, energy.

Sasmita has six years of research experience in rural development, sustainability and social entrepreneurship. She has co-authored research on social entrepreneurship and facilitated multi-stakeholder projects across sectors. She has also conducted strategic research to support project development for donors and non-profits. Her work in sustainability involved assessment of policies and practices of industries on biodiversity and land use, health and safety, and carbon emissions.

Sasmita holds an M.Sc. in Development Studies from School of Oriental and African Studies (SOAS) and a Post-Graduate Diploma in Rural Management from Xavier Institute of Management, Bhubaneswar (XIMB).

Sasmita has been involved in the Women in Sustainability initiative at The Council since its inception, and is currently serving as co-chair.