Dr. Swati is currently working as an Advisor at AIGGPA, Bhopal (Think tank of Government of Madhya Pradesh) in the Center for economic sector(CES) since 2019. Prior to that she worked as an Assistant Professor at Institute of Professional Educational & Research, Bhopal and taught various subjects on Finance and Research. Due to her keen interest in policy research she switched career from academics to public policy domain and now working on various issues such as Access to Finance for microenterprises, Financial Inclusion, Financial Literacy and sustainable development etc.
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/swati-chauhan-fpm-5b088822/
Twitter: twitter.com/chauhanswati02
ResearchGate: https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Swati-Chauhan
Insta: swati.chauhan09
Q. How has been your journey from IIFM so far?
A. The four-year Fellow Program in Management (FPM) at IIFM Bhopal significantly enhanced my knowledge, perceptual acuity, and research skills. The rigorous curriculum deepened my understanding of management principles while fostering critical thinking. Engaging with diverse subjects and research methodologies broadened my intellectual horizons, allowing me to perceive complex issues from multiple perspectives. Overall, the FPM journey at IIFM Bhopal played a pivotal role in shaping my intellectual growth and equipping me with advanced research competencies.
Q. What were some of the key milestones/learning in this journey that you would like to share with us?
A. There are many milestones to share, IIFM helped me to think in a broader perspective and apply my knowledge and skills in government set up to influence the masses through policy decisions. Since 2019 at AIGGPA I worked on various prestigious projects of Institutes and Government departments such as access to finance for MSMEs, Madhya Pradesh District level Financial Inclusion index, Madhya Pradesh’s vision of $5 Trillion Economy, revamping Madhya Pradesh Economic Survey 2023 and hosting Ph. D. colloquium & research workshops. Findings of these projects accepted by government and used in the policy decisions.
Q. What is the most satisfying part in your career?
A. The most satisfying part is working on public issues and providing solution to the Government and other stakeholders.
Q. Has your learning at IIFM helped in shaping how you approach your professional roles?
A. The extensive four-year course curriculum of the FPM at IIFM proved to be a profound exploration into diverse realms of research. This comprehensive journey not only provided ample opportunities to delve into various aspects of research methodology but also presented a unique lens through which to examine societal and environmental issues. What sets IIFM apart is its commitment to a multidisciplinary approach, offering a distinct advantage in understanding complex problems from multiple angles. This approach not only broadens our academic horizons but also equips us with a holistic perspective on the interconnected issues shaping our world.
Q. What would be your advice to freshers and IIFM graduates who are looking to choose similar sectors/roles.
A. In any profession, commitment and perseverance emerge as indispensable drivers. My advice to newcomers would be to maximize each day spent at IIFM by dedicating themselves to their work and actively seeking opportunities for daily learning.
Q. What are your favorite memories during your IIFM days?
A. The IIFM campus emanates a vibrant atmosphere, offering a dynamic backdrop for academic and personal enrichment. It has provided us with unique opportunities to cultivate enduring memories amidst the harmonious blend of nature, companionship with peers, and encounters with wildlife. Well-organized excursion trips, insightful field visits, and engaging discussions with esteemed faculty members have not only added a layer of practicality to our academic pursuits but have also contributed significantly to our professional and personal growth. IIFM‘s commitment to holistic education is evident in the diverse range of experiences it facilitates, making each facet of campus life a valuable and professionally enriching memory.
Q. In hindsight, what was the biggest contribution or take away from IIFM that you think played a critical role in shaping you as an individual or professional?
A. In retrospect, pursuing FPM at the Indian Institute of Forest Management (IIFM) has been a transformative academic experience, with several factors playing critical roles in shaping both my personal and professional development. The rigorous and interdisciplinary courses offered within the program provided a robust theoretical foundation, equipping me with the knowledge essential for advanced research in the field of forest management. The mentorship from distinguished faculty members proved instrumental, guiding me through the intricacies of scholarly inquiry and fostering intellectual growth. The well-equipped library facilities and access to cutting-edge resources facilitated comprehensive literature reviews and enriched the depth of my research. Networking opportunities with accomplished alumni and professionals provided real-world insights, enhancing the practical relevance of my research. Furthermore, the ethical considerations ingrained in the research culture at IIFM have instilled in me a sense of responsibility and integrity in my academic pursuits. Collectively, these elements have been the pillars of my academic journey, contributing significantly to my identity as a researcher and a professional in the realm of forest management.
Q. The best faculty at IIFM? Some memorable tidbits that you like to share?
A. The faculty members at IIFM are distinguished by their high qualifications and collaborative approach. Initially, we had the opportunity to engage with maximum faculty members regularly. Subsequently, as our focus shifted towards research endeavors, extensive interactions took place with members of the Thesis Advisor Committee (TAC). Notably, my thesis supervisor, Prof. Ashutosh Verma, exerted a significant influence on both my personal and professional development. His wealth of experience and guidance have been instrumental in shaping my career trajectory. I would like to acknowledge the impactful contributions of Prof. CVRS Vijaya Kumar and Prof. Advait Edgaonkar from my TAC, who also played crucial roles in my academic journey. Special mention to other esteemed faculty members, including Prof. P.K. Biswas (ex-IIFM Professor), Prof. Ashish David, Prof. Manmohan Yadav, and Prof. Suparva Patnaik, whose collective efforts have greatly enriched my academic experience at IIFM.
Q. As an alumni, what’s your advice to freshers or those are joining IIFM to get best out of the 2 years there?
A. As an alum, my advice to freshers is to fully immerse themselves in the learning experience. Engage actively with faculty members, participate in diverse activities, and build a robust network with peers and alumni. Embrace the multidisciplinary approach, as it enriches your perspective. Take advantage of every opportunity for practical exposure, internships, and industry interactions.
Q. What was your typical day at the work? And how does it look like while you are on a break?
A. A standard day commences at 10 AM with a team meeting, encompassing discussions on ongoing and upcoming projects. This may be followed by field visits or meetings with various Government departments.
Q. And how about weekends, hobbies, family and anything else you want to add?
A. Weekends are reserved for spending quality time with family and friends, often involving outings in the scenic city of Bhopal, and its nearby areas.
Q. Favorite Books, movies, authors?
A. My favorite non-fiction books include “I Do What I Do,” “The Third Pillar,” “Atomic Habits,” and “Sapiens.” Additionally, I enjoy reading fiction works by authors such as Amish Tripathi and Munshi Premchand.
Q. IIFM is driven by alumni’s passion and commitments towards its goal. How would you like to contribute to IIFM or IIFM alumni, students? Your engagement with IIFM Placement or OT/SI?
A. Earlier, I served as a mentor to junior FPM scholars, and I also delivered lectures on microfinance to PFM students annually. Given the proximity of AIGGPA to IIFM, numerous students come here for internships, and I can readily reach out to my faculties for any guidance. I am enthusiastic about continuing to offer guidance, as well as providing assistance in future internship and job opportunities.
Q. What do you think is different at IIFM now vs when you studied there?
A. While it’s challenging to pinpoint specific changes, I believe advancements in technology and teaching methodologies may have evolved at IIFM since my time of study. The curriculum may also have adapted to incorporate contemporary trends and emerging issues in the field of forest management.
Q. Any suggestions on who you want to get profiled/interviewed here?
A. I suggest my batchmates Mr Amit Kumar, Ankur Kumar, and my seniors Ruchika Bammi, Pooja Singh, and Poornima Mishra.