Yashraj Bharati Samman

Ms. Deepali Bhanushali

Chairperson and Trustee

Ms. Deepali Bhanushali is the Chairperson and Trustee of the Yashraj Research Foundation. As a pharmacist and philanthropist, she is a passionate advocate for tribal welfare and community development. She plays a pivotal leadership role in transforming the lives of underprivileged communities in Palghar, Maharashtra, through inclusive development initiatives ensuring access to education, healthcare, clean water, and sustainable livelihood opportunities. Her strategic vision and deep community engagement embody the Foundation's commitment to grassroots empowerment.

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Mr. Subhash S. Mundra

Trustee & Advisory Board Member

Mr. Subhash S. Mundra is the former Deputy Governor of the Reserve Bank of India with over 40 years of distinguished service in banking and financial regulation. His illustrious career spans multiple roles including contributions to monetary policy, banking regulation, and institutional development. Currently serving on multiple corporate boards including Havells India and CCIL, Mr. Mundra brings his extensive expertise in governance and financial oversight to the Foundation, strengthening its institutional framework and strategic direction.

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Ms. Vandana Bhansali

Board of Trustees Member

Ms. Vandana Bhansali is an accomplished professional with over 20 years of experience in financial inclusion and sustainable development. Holding a B.Sc. and M.Sc. in Human Development from Mumbai University along with a Diploma from NMIMS, she brings robust academic credentials and practical expertise to the Board. As a leader in human capital development, she champions initiatives focused on creating sustainable livelihood opportunities, women empowerment, and quality education access. Her strategic leadership has been instrumental in scaling grassroots impact.

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Shri D.K. Jain

Chair of Advisory Board

Shri D.K. Jain is the Managing Director of Yashraj Biotechnology Ltd. and Chair of the YBS Advisory Board. A former Chief Secretary to the Government of Maharashtra and Ex-Lokpal member, he brings exceptional leadership credentials. With B.Tech and M.Tech from IIT Kanpur and an MBA from the University of Hull, UK, he has served the Indian Administrative Service since 1983 across multiple government ministries. His comprehensive expertise in governance and institutional excellence shapes the Foundation's strategic initiatives.

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Mr. Om Porwal

Advisory Board Member

Mr. Om Porwal is a Chartered Accountant since 1985 and member of the YBS Advisory Board. As the Promoter and Whole-Time Director of Chartered Finance Management Limited, he brings extensive expertise in financial structuring, stress resolution, and project financing. With experience structuring over ₹15,000 crore in financial projects, his financial acumen and strategic insights contribute significantly to the Foundation's governance and financial oversight. His commitment to sustainable development informs the Foundation's resource optimization strategies.

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Mr. Syed Raza Haider

Advisory Board Member

Mr. Syed Raza Haider brings over 30 years of experience in development, documentary filmmaking, and media consultancy. As a media consultant to international organizations including ILO, WHO, FAO, and Plan International, he has produced over 1,000 documentaries showcasing grassroots development. His award-winning body of work, including the prestigious Jeevika Award, demonstrates his commitment to amplifying community voices and advancing development narratives. His expertise in participatory communication strengthens the Foundation's community engagement strategies.

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Mr. Ved Arya

Advisory Board Member

Mr. Ved Arya is a visionary social entrepreneur and founder of SRIJAN. Holding a B.Tech from IIT Kanpur (1979) and an MBA from IIM Ahmedabad (1981), he combines academic excellence with grassroots expertise. Through SRIJAN, he has directly benefited over 1.25 lakh rural families across six states, demonstrating transformative impact at scale. His grounded understanding of community-led development and systemic change informs the Foundation's strategic priorities, ensuring programs are community-centric and aligned with sustainable development goals.

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Dr. Haseeb A. Drabu

Board & Advisory Member

Dr. Haseeb A. Drabu is a distinguished economist and accomplished policymaker serving on both the YRF Board of Trustees and YBS Advisory Board. His illustrious career includes roles in the Planning Commission, Finance Commission, and Economic Advisory Council to the Prime Minister. As the former Finance Minister of Jammu & Kashmir (2015-2018), his policy expertise and economic insights have shaped development strategies. His intellectual rigor and progressive outlook contribute significantly to the Foundation's engagement with systemic development challenges.

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Mr. Jayesh Patel

Advisory Board Member

Mr. Jayesh Patel is a development practitioner and environmental sanitation advocate serving on the YBS Advisory Board. As the son of Ishwar Patel, known as the "Toilet God of India," he carries forward a legacy of grassroots impact. Currently serving as President of Harijan Sevan Sangh and co-founder of Manav Sadhna, Mr. Patel brings hands-on expertise in building sustainable social enterprises and community partnerships. His proven track record in scaling social impact informs the Foundation's strategies for creating systemic, scalable solutions.

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