About the Centre for Socio-Economic Studies
Founded as an independent research institution, CSES bridges the gap between empirical field data and public policy. Driven by a mission to advance human development and economic growth, CSES adheres to strict standards of academic independence, research ethics, and financial transparency across all its regional and national operations.*
Vision, Mission, and Core Approach
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Vision: To serve as a premier independent institute for socio-economic research, driving equitable growth and evidence-informed public policy in Odisha and India.
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Mission: To generate high-quality empirical data, conduct objective policy evaluations, and foster intellectual dialogue among scholars, policymakers, and communities.
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The CSES Approach: Combining primary household surveys with macro-statistical modeling to capture ground-level realities without institutional bias.
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Institutional Structure & Governance
CSES functions under a structured three-tier institutional governance framework:
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Advisory Board: Provides strategic direction, ensures research quality control, and maintains alignment with critical policy issues. Composed of eminent economists, former policymakers, and senior social scientists.
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Governing Council: Oversees fiduciary matters, institutional policy, and operational compliance. Composed of senior institutional leaders and independent trustees.
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Research Team: Executes primary data collection, quantitative modeling, policy writing, and field management. Composed of full-time fellows, senior researchers, and field survey directors.
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Transparency & Ethics
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Ethical Compliance: Strict adherence to human-subject research ethics, informed consent in field surveys, and anonymized data protection.
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Financial Integrity: Full publication of annual reports, audited financial statements, and complete public disclosures of all funding sources.
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Institutional Independence: Maintenance of non-partisan analytical autonomy across all commissioned or independent studies.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Why does CSES maintain a specific focus on Odisha?
Ans: Odisha presents a unique developmental context with rich natural resources, a large tribal population, vulnerabilities to natural disasters, and evolving industrialization, offering critical insights for broader Indian socio-economic policy.
Q2: Where are the CSES offices located?
Ans: CSES operates dual offices in Bhubaneswar (Odisha Regional Office in Palasuni) and New Delhi (Sarita Vihar).
Q3: How does CSES ensure the independence of its research?
*A3:CSES maintains research autonomy through a strong advisory board, transparent funding disclosures, and strict institutional non-partisanship.