Bhargavi S. Rao is an independent researcher and consultant working at intersections of community action with law, policy, planning and governance. She has worked with the Azim Premji Philanthropic Initiatives (APPI), Environment Support Group (ESG),and Dept of Microbiology and Cell Biology, Indian Institute of Science, Bengaluru. Rao has coordinated various research, campaign, advocacy and training initiatives on protection of biodiversity and commons, democratic governance, and advancing social and environmental justice.