As MEL Specialist, Kirthi’s work involves promoting, monitoring and measuring the use of knowledge and learning from development research programmes and projects. She contributes across an innovative portfolio to diverse thematic research areas designing and implementing theories of change, supporting the development of MEL frameworks, designing and facilitating reflection spaces, and gathering and analysing qualitative and quantitative data for accountability and learning.

She also develops impact stories that provide evidence of how research evidence and engagement activities have contributed to policy conversations or influenced decision makers’ and other key stakeholders’ attitudes and behaviours.

Prior to IDS, Kirthi has worked at the International Initiative for Impact Evaluation’s Delhi office promoting evidence use and supporting strategic communication in national and international development projects relating to immunisation, climate change, women’s economic empowerment, urban informal workers, and curbing democratic backsliding. She has also worked in the inclusive finance sector and in inclusive education as a qualitative field researcher, apart from working as a reporter covering policy in India.