Richa Bhardwaj

Researcher and Development Professional | Urban Specialist

---

Passionate about unravelling the complexities of urban landscapes, my research and practice focus is on the intricate interplay of urban poverty, community development, participation, planning, and governance. Exploring the urban socio-spatial policy arena, I aim to understand the multidimensionality and pathways of exclusion-inclusion. I integrate praxis into my work- bridging the realms of theory and practice. This holistic approach forms the foundation of my ability to navigate the diverse facets of urban development. Beyond the professional sphere, I am an avid explorer of city nooks, a reading enthusiast, and deeply interested in understanding about local arts and crafts. As a firm believer in work-life balance, my downtime is often spent in the company of my dog.

---

Professional Journey and Value Focus

I am a social worker, development professional, researcher and urbanist with over a decade of experience in the urban domain. I am passionate about unravelling the complexities of urban landscapes and working towards sustainable social change. Through my research and practice, I focus on the intricate interplay of urban poverty, community development, participation, planning, and governance. Belief in the strength of people’s agency and knowledge and the power of collectives form the foundation of my work. I believe sustainable social change can be achieved, when we put conscious efforts to understand the complexities on the grassroots in collaboration with the local communities. They have to become co-partners in influencing the designing, redesigning and implementation of policies and schemes to bring about inclusive transformations.

My Alma Mater: Tata Institute of Social Sciences