Policy Research Residency Program by Centre for Civil Society

Are you an undergraduate or recent graduate passionate about public policy, governance, or economic law reform? Apply now for the 25th edition of CCS’s flagship policy research training – Researching Reality 2026!

What is Researching Reality?

Researching Reality is the Centre for Civil Society’s annual flagship public policy research training program, offering eight weeks of immersive learning, research, and mentorship. Regarded as one of India’s premier policy research residency programs, it is designed for undergraduate students and fresh graduates who are keen to build careers in law, economics, policy analysis, governance, or social impact sectors.
Over the last 25 years, this program has equipped aspiring researchers with critical tools to understand, evaluate, and influence India’s policy landscape. Going strong, we’re back with the 26th edition of Researching Reality.

Theme for 2026: Economics of Education – Understanding how public financing and budgeting shape India’s K–12 schools.

India’s vision of a Viksit Bharat depends on strengthening its education system through effective implementation of the National Education Policy (2020). While allocations for school education have steadily increased, overall public spending remains around 4% of GDP, below the 6% target set by NEP. More critically, higher expenditure has not consistently translated into improved learning outcomes, with foundational literacy and numeracy levels still lagging. These gaps make it essential to examine not just how much is spent on education, but how effectively those funds are allocated, structured, and utilised.

Against this backdrop, Researching Reality 2026 will focus on budget expenditure on K–12 school education in India. The program aims to demystify government budgets and encourage rigorous, critical analysis of key financial statements and policy documents related to the education sector, focussing on school education. 

Program Dates & Location

Duration: 1 June – 31 July 2026
Location: Centre for Civil Society, Hauz Khas, New Delhi
Commitment: In-person | Full-time | 40 hours/week

Who Should Apply

• Pursuing or recently completed a degree in economics, public policy, or other related social sciences
• Demonstrated interest in public policy, with strong research aptitude and comfort in quantitative analysis.
• Strong analytical, writing, and communication skills in English and Hindi

Why Join Researching Reality?

Rigorous Research Training

40+ hours of expert-led sessions in qualitative and quantitative research, policy analysis, data visualization, and fieldwork design.

Mentorship & Guidance

Work closely with experienced researchers and policy practitioners throughout your residency.

Policy Publication

Contribute to a published research compendium and co-author a policy research essay on India’s regulatory reforms.

Enriching Community

Engage in weekly reading groups, policy roundtables, and knowledge-sharing sessions with CCS’s wider research community.

Program Stipend

Monthly stipend of ₹10,000 per month for the duration of the program.

Application Link

Please complete the application form by 11:59 p.m. on 27 March 2026.
Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis, and early submissions are strongly encouraged.

About Centre for Civil Society (CCS)

The Centre for Civil Society (CCS) is India’s leading liberal think tank, working to advance social change through public policy. CCS conducts research, pilot projects, and advocacy across key areas such as education, livelihoods, governance, and ease of doing business. By engaging with policymakers, academia, media, and grassroots communities, CCS strives to bring greater freedom and choice to individuals, while promoting accountability and transparency in governance.