Social Impact & Environment · Raised in Chandigarh

JanakPalta McGilligan

Social worker and Padma Shri recipient

  • Born
  • HometownChandigarh (raised)
Typographic poster for Janak Palta McGilligan
  • 26years leading Barli

Janak Palta McGilligan is a Padma Shri–awarded social worker. She was founding director of the Barli Development Institute for Rural Women in Indore for 26 years and now leads the Jimmy McGilligan Centre for Sustainable Development.

A Chandigarh education

Growing up in Chandigarh, she earned an MA in English literature and political science, an MPhil with distinction and a PhD, along with the Sangeet Visharad in sitar, while working at the Provident Fund office, the High Court and the Centre for Rural and Industrial Development.

Barli and beyond

From its founding on 1 June 1985 until 2011 she directed the Barli Development Institute for Rural Women. She now directs the Jimmy McGilligan Centre for Sustainable Development, advises Solar Cookers International, and supports breast-cancer patients through Sangini Cancer Care.

Timeline

  1. 1985Founding director, Barli Development Institute
  2. 2007Joins Sangini Cancer Care society
  3. 2011Retires from Barli after 26 years

Honours

  • Padma Shri

Quick questions

Is Janak Palta McGilligan from Chandigarh?

Born into a Punjabi family, she grew up in Chandigarh, where she studied and worked — including at the High Court and the Centre for Rural and Industrial Development.

When was Janak Palta McGilligan born?

Janak Palta McGilligan was born in 1948.

What is Janak Palta McGilligan known for?

Janak Palta McGilligan is known for Barli Development Institute, Sustainable development and Solar cooking.

What awards has Janak Palta McGilligan received?

Honours include Padma Shri.

The next generation

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