Ms. MEHAK GAUTAM

Profile Summary

Analytical and globally minded Research Analyst with a Master’s degree in International Relations and Security Studies. Experienced in geopolitical and security research with a focus on Africa, China, and the Indo-Pacific. Skilled in qualitative analysis, policy assessment, and open-source research with a demonstrated ability to synthesize complex information for policy and strategy insights.

Experience

Research Intern | Research and Information System for Developing Countries (RIS), New Delhi
(July 2024 – August 2024)

• Conducted policy research on India-China engagements in Africa, focusing on strategic and economic dimensions.
• Assisted in drafting analytical briefs and background papers for senior researchers.
• Collected and interpreted data related to foreign policy and regional development projects.
• Contributed to research presentations on India’s Africa engagement and South-South cooperation.

Education

M.A. International Relations and Security Studies | Rashtriya Raksha University, Gujarat (2023–2025)

Chinese Language Program (Intermediate B3) | National Chengchi University, Taiwan (2025)

B.A. Political Science (Honours) | University of Delhi (2019–2022)

Selected Research Work

• China in Africa: Assessing the Multiple Dimensions of China’s Investments in Africa
  Master’s dissertation examining China’s strategic and economic footprint in Africa.
• Russia’s ‘Pivot to the East’ — Presented at International Seminar on the Indian Ocean Region: Challenges & Opportunities (University of Mumbai, 2024).
• Echoes of the Savana: Exploring India-Kenya relations in Africa
  Presented at International Conference: Viksit Bharat 2047 and Agenda 2063, University of Delhi.
• India’s G20 Presidency: A Way Towards a New World Order
  Chapter published in Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam: Social Welfare and Inclusive Development (2023).

Key Skills

Geopolitical and Security Analysis • Policy Research • Strategic Writing • Cross-Cultural Communication • Academic & Policy Reporting

Languages

English (Fluent) • Hindi (Native) • Mandarin Chinese (Intermediate, TOCFL A1) • Korean (Basic)

Additional Experience

• Successful Liaison Officer for Dr. Ming-Shih Shen, Director of National Security Research Officer, Taiwan
• Liaison Officer for H E Kobbi Shoshani (Consulate General of Israel to India).
• Attended the Maharana Pratap Geopolitical Dialogue, Udaipur (2024).
• Assisted in organizing international academic and ITEC programs.