The incident occurred as she was cycling back home from the London School of Economics (LSE) on the evening of March 19
London, UK
The Metropolitan Police in London has officially identified Cheistha Kochhar, a former employee of NITI Aayog, as the 33-year-old woman tragically killed in a road collision in north London. The incident occurred as she was cycling back home from the London School of Economics (LSE) on the evening of March 19.
Despite a week having passed since the incident, no arrests have been made, the police confirmed. Kochhar, who was pursuing her PhD in behavioural research at LSE, lost her life in a collision involving a refuse lorry on Clerkenwell Road near the junction with Farringdon Road.
The investigation into the circumstances surrounding the collision remains ongoing, with authorities appealing for witnesses and any individuals with dashcam footage from the scene to come forward.
In a heartfelt statement, the Kochhar family conveyed their deep appreciation for Cheistha’s remarkable qualities. Describing her as possessing “deep intelligence” and a “sprightly demeanour,” the family emphasized her ability to forge meaningful connections and friendships wherever she went.
Born in Bareilly in 1990, Cheistha’s academic journey was marked by notable achievements. After completing her high school education at the Convent of Jesus and Mary in New Delhi, she graduated from Delhi University with a BA in Economics and Mathematics in 2008. Subsequently, she pursued a PGP in Liberal Arts as a Young India Fellow from Ashoka University and obtained another post-graduation degree from the University of Chicago in International Development and Policy (MAIDP).
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As her family grapples with the immeasurable grief of her untimely passing, they find solace in the enduring legacy Cheistha leaves behind
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Through an online memorial page, adorned with poignant reflections and cherished memories, she continues to inspire those whose lives she touched profoundly
Throughout her career, Cheistha demonstrated a commitment to social impact. She initiated start-up ventures aimed at addressing food scarcity and unemployment among underprivileged communities in New Delhi. Additionally, her professional tenure included roles with McKinsey, the University of Chicago, and NITI Aayog, where she played a pivotal role in establishing the National Behavioural Insights Unit of India.
Despite her extensive experience in the corporate world, Cheistha remained dedicated to academia. Her pursuit of a PhD at LSE underscored her passion for tackling societal challenges, particularly those affecting the Global South. With aspirations to leverage her expertise for the betterment of her homeland, Cheistha embodied the spirit of a patriot committed to effecting positive change.
The tragic loss of Cheistha Kochhar has reverberated across borders, eliciting heartfelt tributes from colleagues, mentors, and friends. Former NITI Aayog CEO Amitabh Kant fondly remembered her contributions to the #LIFE programme and her relentless pursuit of knowledge in behavioural science.
As her family grapples with the immeasurable grief of her untimely passing, they find solace in the enduring legacy Cheistha leaves behind. Through an online memorial page, adorned with poignant reflections and cherished memories, she continues to inspire those whose lives she touched profoundly.
In the words of Cheistha herself, “What we create should last longer than we do.” Indeed, her legacy of compassion, intellect, and unwavering dedication will endure, serving as a beacon of hope for generations to come.
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