Qualifications: Post Graduate Diploma in Rural Development, Xavier Institute of Social Service

Email: swati@dakshin.org 

Profile: Swati Barla belongs to a tribal community of Jharkhand but has spent most of her life in the Andaman Islands, where her grandfather migrated to Port Blair during the post-Independence resettlement campaign of 1948. Inspired deeply by his values of service and compassion, Swati grew up with a strong desire to uplift others. While her peers debated conventional career paths, she felt a clear calling to work for the underprivileged.

Although she graduated in commerce, her passion for social impact led her to pursue a Postgraduate Programme in Rural Development from the Xavier Institute of Social Service. Swati began her professional journey as a Field Coordinator for a tsunami rehabilitation programme in the Andaman district under Save the Children UK.

With over 16 years of experience, she has contributed extensively to the sectors of child rights, tribal rights, livelihood development, and green mobility. Her cross-sectoral exposure, combined with her deep understanding of community realities, equips her to address unemployment in the Andaman & Nicobar Islands through a holistic and sustainable lens. Swati is committed to developing impactful solutions that enhance livelihood opportunities for the youth and women of the islands.