Gita Sen - A Lifestory
Feminist Voice Empowering Change: Scholar Shaping Equality, Globally

Gita Sen is a distinguished Indian economist and feminist scholar renowned for her contributions to development economics, gender studies, and population studies. Her academic journey began with a Ph.D. in Economics from Stanford University, which laid the foundation for a career dedicated to addressing inequalities and promoting social justice. Throughout her career, Sen has held prominent positions in various academic and research institutions. She is currently a Professor at the Public Health Foundation of India (PHFI) and also heads the Ramalingaswami Centre for Equity and Social Determinants of Health.
Sen's research interests are broad and impactful, encompassing areas such as poverty, inequality, reproductive health, and women's empowerment. She has extensively analyzed the complex interplay between economic policies, social structures, and health outcomes, particularly focusing on how these factors affect marginalized communities. Her work often employs an interdisciplinary approach, drawing insights from economics, sociology, and public health to offer a nuanced understanding of development challenges.
Gita Sen's contributions extend beyond academic research. She has actively engaged in policy advocacy, working with governments and international organizations to promote evidencebased policies that address gender inequalities and improve the wellbeing of vulnerable populations. She has served on numerous advisory boards and committees, lending her expertise to shape development agendas and influence policy decisions. Her commitment to social justice and her rigorous scholarship have made her a highly respected figure in the field of development studies, inspiring generations of scholars and practitioners to work towards a more equitable and sustainable world. Her publications are widely cited and have significantly contributed to the theoretical and empirical understanding of development processes.