Anjali Makhija

Director by IOD

S M Sehgal Foundation

India

Dr. Anjali Makhija is a highly respected leader in the social impact sector, with more than 32 years of experience driving initiatives in gender equity, food and water security, and community leadership across rural India. As CEO and Trustee of S M Sehgal Foundation, she plays a pivotal role in shaping organizational strategy, stakeholder engagement, and people management. Her expertise spans women’s leadership, farmer training, climate resilience, and grassroots empowerment, making her a key voice in advancing sustainable development. Her contributions have been recognized nationally, including the Appreciation Certificate for Rural Development by Amazing Indians, Times Now (2022) and the Social Impact Leader and Change Maker Award by BusinessWorld (2023).

Her leadership extends beyond the foundation into advisory and institutional roles. She is a Certified Corporate Director from the Institute of Directors and a member of the National Association of Professional Social Workers in India (NAPSWI). She serves on the Undergraduate Board of Studies in the Department of Social Work at BPS University, Sonipat, and is an Equity Champion committed to transforming women’s leadership. Dr. Makhija has also contributed to internal committees at organizations such as Abhey Oswal Group, Marks & Spencer, Li & Fung, Mother Dairy, and Mosaic India Ltd., ensuring compliance, equity, and ethical practices.

Dr. Makhija’s influence is evident in her extensive advisory work, including curriculum development for TERI SAS, outreach programs at Maharshi Dayanand University, and contributions to NCERT and the Haryana Institute of Rural Development. She has also served on the Training Subcommittee of the Global Compact Network of India and held leadership roles such as State President of the Haryana Agriculture Council of WICCI. Through her multifaceted engagements, she continues to champion women’s empowerment, grassroots leadership, and sustainable development, inspiring communities and institutions alike to embrace equity and resilience.