Mandakini Kaul is the World Bank’s Regional Coordinator for South Asia, bringing over 25 years of experience in international development and economic policy. She works across countries and sectors to design and deliver programs that create jobs, expand economic opportunities, strengthen institutions, and make growth more inclusive, resilient, and sustainable.
Committed to advancing gender equality, Mandakini has been a strong advocate for placing women and girls at the center of development. She has helped integrate gender perspectives into sectors where they have traditionally been overlooked, ensuring that policies and investments translate into tangible benefits for women, families, and communities. In her current role, Mandakini leads strategic programs and partnerships with development partners, civil society, the private sector, and governments that foster collaboration, innovation, and knowledge sharing across South Asia. Her work focuses on driving results that improve lives, create jobs, and promote a more equitable and sustainable future for all.
Mandakini previously led the World Bank’s programs in Bihar and Rajasthan and contributed to key institutional strategies. She has authored several World Bank publications, including Good Neighbours: Advancing Regionalism in South Asia; Good Neighbours 2: Connecting for an Empowered South Asia; The World Bank’s Approach to South Asia Regional Integration, Cooperation, and Engagement; Bihar: Towards a Development Strategy; and India Systematic Country Diagnostic.
Mandakini holds degrees in Economics from St. Stephen’s College, University of Delhi, and the University of Cambridge, United Kingdom.