Research for a stronger, more inclusive tomorrow
Public Policy Foundation is a policy research platform dedicated to examining critical economic and social challenges through rigorous research, evidence-based analysis, and practical policy recommendations. We seek to contribute to informed policymaking, effective public institutions, and development outcomes that improve people's lives.
Our work focuses on two interconnected pillars of development: Economic Development and Social Development. Through research, data analysis, policy publications, and examination of development challenges, we aim to generate insights that support inclusive growth, expand opportunities, and strengthen the foundations of a prosperous and equitable society.
Public Policy Foundation is founded on the belief that sound public policy must be informed by credible research, reliable evidence, and a clear understanding of real-world challenges.
Our Story
We examine relationships between policy, institutions, and outcomes to understand development challenges, evaluate potential solutions, and contribute to constructive discussions on India's development priorities. Our approach seeks to bridge the gap between research, policymaking, and implementation.
Our mission
To undertake and disseminate rigorous policy research that generates actionable insights, informs public decision-making, and contributes to inclusive, sustainable, and equitable development.
Our vision
A prosperous, inclusive, and equitable society in which public policies are informed by evidence, institutions work effectively, and development opportunities are accessible to all.
Research Areas
- Growth, productivity and structural transformation
- Labour markets, employment and wages
- Public finance, taxation and fiscal policy
- Infrastructure and its returns
- Trade, investment and industrial policy
Our objective is to generate insights that support inclusive growth and strengthen the economic foundations of long-term prosperity.
- Health systems and outcomes
- Education quality and learning
- Nutrition and food security
- Gender equality and women's empowerment
- Inequality, poverty and social protection
Our objective is to improve access to essential services, address persistent development gaps, and strengthen the social foundations of prosperity.
Our Approach
Evidence-Based Research
We emphasise systematic inquiry, reliable data, relevant literature, and analytical rigour to understand policy issues and assess possible solutions.
Policy-Relevant Analysis
We focus on research questions that matter to policymakers, institutions, development practitioners, researchers, and the wider public.
Practical Recommendations
We seek to translate research findings into clear, relevant insights that can inform policy formulation, programme design, implementation, and evaluation.
Accessible Communication
We present complex findings in ways that are readable and useful to a non-specialist audience, from policymakers to engaged citizens.
Independent Perspective
Our research is conducted without partisan affiliation, seeking to contribute to evidence-based policy regardless of which party or government is in office.
What We Do
Public Policy Foundation undertakes and publishes research designed to improve understanding of public policy and development issues. Our work includes:
- Research Reports — In-depth examination of economic and social development challenges.
- Working Papers — Analytical contributions to ongoing policy debates and research.
- Policy Commentaries — Research-informed perspectives on emerging policy questions.
- Data and Charts — Publicly shared data visualisations, including the 353 charts in this book.
- Policy Briefs — Concise summaries of research findings for decision-makers.
- Books and Monographs — Longer-form research like Rich Country, Poor Citizens.
Our Commitment
By examining evidence, questioning assumptions, and exploring practical alternatives, Public Policy Foundation seeks to contribute to a more informed and constructive public policy discourse. Public Policy Foundation welcomes engagement with researchers, academics, policymakers, public institutions, civil society organisations, and others interested in evidence-based approaches to development.
Through research and knowledge sharing, we aim to contribute to meaningful policy discussions and a stronger understanding of the choices that shape our collective future.
Read the book
India built fast. It delivered slowly on what citizens feel. Forty-three chapters, 353 charts, 2004 to 2036.
Read Rich Country, Poor Citizens →