Mandakini Kaul is the World Bank’s Regional Coordinator for South Asia Regional Integration.
With over 25 years of experience in international development and economic policy, Mandakini is a recognized expert in designing and implementing regional programs that address complex cross-border challenges, inclusive trade and economic connectivity, and integrating gender-sensitive approaches into traditionally gender-blind sectors, ensuring equitable development outcomes.
In her current role, Mandakini leads high-level policy dialogues on regional cooperation, oversees strategic relationships with governments, civil society, development agencies, private sector institutions, and think tanks, and facilitates knowledge-sharing initiatives across South Asia and its neighboring regions. Her work focuses on fostering partnerships that advance regional cooperation and connectivity, while addressing key socioeconomic challenges. Mandakini has previously led the World Bank’s programs in the low-income states of Bihar and Rajasthan and contributed to key institutional strategies. She is the author of several World Bank publications including Good Neighbours: Advancing Regionalism in 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. Her extensive experience and commitment to fostering regional collaboration make her a key voice in the field of international development.
Mandakini holds degrees in Economics from St. Stephen’s College, Delhi University, and the University of Cambridge, United Kingdom.