An Indian student, Cheistha Kochhar, tragically lost her life in London last week after being struck by a truck while cycling back to her apartment.
This devastating incident was shared via a social media post by Amitabh Kant, the former CEO of Niti Aayog. At 33 years old, Cheistha was pursuing her doctoral degree at the London School of Economics, as confirmed by her father, retired Lieutenant General Dr. SP Kochhar, in a LinkedIn post. Having previously served at NITI Aayog, Cheistha was deeply engaged in her studies, focusing on behavioral science at LSE.
In his social media tribute, Amitabh Kant fondly recalled Cheistha's contributions to the LIFE program at NITI Aayog, describing her as a vibrant and impactful individual. The LIFE program, a global initiative led by India, aims to mobilize communities towards environmental preservation.
The grieving Lieutenant General Kochhar (Retd) shared the ongoing anguish of arranging for his daughter's remains to be brought back home. Through a heartfelt LinkedIn post, he conveyed the profound sorrow felt by their family and the extensive network of friends Cheistha had touched with her vibrant personality and warm spirit.
Cheistha's academic journey, detailed on her LinkedIn profile, showcased her relentless pursuit of knowledge and excellence. Before her doctoral studies at LSE, she had served as a senior advisor at India's National Behavioural Insights Unit, Niti Aayog, and had held the position of Associate Director at the Centre for Social and Behaviour Change. Her educational pursuits had taken her through esteemed institutions such as Delhi University, Ashoka University, and the Universities of Pennsylvania and Chicago.
The tragic loss of Cheistha Kochhar reverberates deeply within academic and professional circles, leaving behind a void that serves as a poignant reminder of life's fragility. As her loved ones navigate through this profound grief, they cling to cherished memories of Cheistha's brilliance, warmth, and unwavering zest for life.
