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Publications Category: Reports

Analysis of the Gram Panchayat Finances in the State of Chhattisgarh

The Gram Panchayat Development Plan (GPDP) emphasises the need for the planning at GP level for comprehensive development. With the PESA rules being notified, the GP level planning and budgeting has become all the more important. The successive State Finance Commissions have looked into the finances of PRIs as a whole and few sample PRIs […]

Scoping Study: Curriculum, Learning, and Assessment of Foundational Learning in India

With the acceptance of National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 and subsequent developments such as National Initiative for Proficiency in Reading with Understanding and Numeracy (NIPUN BHARAT) by the Government of India, the country has redefined the early years for education as covering children between 3–5 year-olds to 3-8 year-olds, which is close to a widely […]

Covid-19 and its effects on Nutritional Distribution in Karnataka – 2022

This study seeks to understand the potentials and limits of the comprehensive supplemental nutrition interventions such as Mid-Day Meals and Take-Home Rations in Karnataka, particularly within the context of COVID-19 (March 2020 to December 2021), provided mostly via Anganwadi Centres (AWCs) and schools. It also aims to recommend methods to establish ways to mitigate the […]

Public Expenditure on School Education and Quality of Educational Provisions in Assam Tea Garden Region Schools

This study examines the public expenditure on school education in Assam, focusing specifically on tea garden areas, which are home to approximately 10 lakh workers and represent a significant portion of the state’s population. The research highlights the challenges faced by tea garden schools, including high teacher-student ratios, irregular attendance, and poor compliance with the […]

Empowerment-based Mentoring Model for Adolescent Children: Action-Research in Bihar

This report presents the findings and methodologies of the Empowerment-based Mentoring Model for Adolescent Girls: Action Research in Bihar (BMP). The BMP was developed to address the educational challenges faced by adolescent children, especially girls, in Bihar, India. The project aimed to create an empowerment-based mentoring framework that could be seamlessly integrated into public school […]

Does the North East Need a Public Health Cadre? A Study of Four North Eastern States

This report examines the necessity and challenges of establishing a dedicated Public Health (PH) cadre in the North Eastern (NE) states of India, focusing on Assam, Manipur, Meghalaya, and Nagaland. The study utilised a variety of research methods, including expert consultations, literature reviews, personal interviews with stakeholders, and data analyses, to assess the prerequisites for […]

The Effect of the Covid-19 Pandemic and Economic Distress on Education: A View from the Margins

With school closures and a disruption of education during the Covid-19 pandemic, children across India suffered a loss of learning. However, children from the most marginalised groups faced a disproportionate impact. Long periods of school closure push children from deprived sections into labour, sexual and labour trafficking, early marriages and long-term drop outs from school […]

A Review of Government Notifications on COVID Protocols and Child Entitlements

The report reviews government notifications on COVID-19 protocols and child entitlements in Bihar, Uttar Pradesh (UP), Assam, and at the national level. Bihar provided food grains to students in place of mid-day meals, with door-to-door delivery for those with acute encephalitis syndrome. They also set up village-level book stalls. UP provided uniforms and shoes to […]

Bihar Mentorship Project: Endline Survey Key Findings Report

As part of the action-research project on creating an empowerment-based mentoring module for instigating critical thinking skills in adolescent children, CBPS had conducted a baseline survey in April 2018. The baseline survey covered 755 students across 10 schools from different regions in Bihar, collecting information on various parameters such as profile of students and their […]

Macro-economic Impact of Covid-19 on the Economy of Chhattisgarh: Report II on Economic Growth and Fiscal Health

The Covid-19 pandemic profoundly impacted the global economy, with India experiencing one of the most significant contractions in its economic history. According to the National Statistical Office (NSO), India’s gross domestic product (GDP) for 2020-21 contracted by 7.3%, marking a substantial decline from the previous fiscal year. This downturn was particularly pronounced in the services […]

Macro-economic Impact of Covid-19 on the Economy of Chhattisgarh: Report I

The COVID-19 pandemic has profoundly affected the global economy, with India experiencing a significant contraction in its Gross Domestic Product (GDP) during the fiscal year 2020-21. This report analyses the macroeconomic impact of the pandemic on Chhattisgarh’s economy, highlighting a GDP contraction of 22.8% and 7.5% in the first two quarters, respectively. Key sectors such […]

Examining the Role of Service Sector in Karnataka’s Economic Growth and Learning Policy Lessons

This report examines the transformative impact of the service sector on India’s economy during the post-globalization phase of the 1990s, highlighting its emergence as a key driver of gross domestic product (GDP) growth. The service sector’s rise, which accounted for approximately one-fourth of global trade between 1970 and 2014, challenges traditional economic paradigms that emphasise […]

An Institutional Mapping of Urban Local Bodies Through the Lens of Sanitation and Solid Waste Management Services

This study investigates the complexities of urban governance in India, particularly in the context of rapid urbanisation and its implications for service delivery in urban local bodies (ULBs). With India’s urban population projected to rise significantly, effective management of urban services such as sanitation and solid waste management is critical for sustaining productivity and enhancing […]

Report: Full Public Expenditure on Children

This report provides a comprehensive analysis of public expenditure on children across six Indian states: Assam, Jharkhand, Kerala, Maharashtra, Odisha, and Rajasthan. The study distinguishes between Child Specific Expenditure (CSE) and Child Inclusive Expenditure (CIE) to derive the Full Public Expenditure on Children (FPEC). Utilising both budgetary data and departmental inputs, the report captures expenditures […]

Quality and Systemic Functioning in Secondary Education in India: A Study in Andhra Pradesh and Rajasthan

Secondary education has gained relevance given India’s steady economic expansion over the previous two decades, spearheaded by high-skill industries like information technology, tourism, telecommunications, retail, etc. Employer surveys, however, suggest a scarcity of competent labor. Therefore, more people with secondary education are needed (World Bank, 2009) in order to maintain this scale of development. While […]

Estimating the Multiplier Effect of Social Sector Expenditure in Karnataka: An Exploration Through the Input–Output table and the Social Accounting Matrix

This report explores the critical role of public expenditure in social sectors as a catalyst for economic growth and human development, particularly in Karnataka, India. It highlights the tension between fiscal management and social investment, emphasising how prevailing views categorise social expenditures as mere consumption rather than essential investments. The historical backdrop of fiscal consolidation, […]

Life in the Time of Covid-19: Mapping the Impact of Covid-19 on the Lives of School-Going Children Especially Girls in India

The COVID-19 pandemic has disproportionately affected marginalised populations globally. With most schools being closed, and online education emerging as a common substitute, children from underprivileged backgrounds have been the worst hit. Not surprisingly, gender has added an additional layer to this disenfranchisement. In India, numerous girls at the intersections of gender, class and other structural […]

Estimating District Level Costs for Nutrition-Specific Interventions in Karnataka

The burden of malnutrition is ‘unacceptably high and progress unacceptably slow’ according to the recent global nutrition report. The report notes that of all the children under 5 years of age across the world, 150.8 million are stunted, 50.5 million are wasted, and 38.3 million are overweight. It also points out the criticality of malnutrition, […]

Public Expenditure Review of Secondary Education in Tamil Nadu

This report analysed public expenditure on secondary education in Tamil Nadu, focusing on its implications for educational access and quality. The study aimed to understand the directions, priorities, and reach of public spending in this critical sector, particularly given the state’s notable economic growth juxtaposed with significant disparities in educational attainment across districts. Data from […]

Report: Child-Centred Investments to Achieve Targets of Vision 2025 by WCD, Government of Telangana

The report Child-Centred Investments to Achieve Targets of Vision 2025 evaluates the Department of Women Development and Child Welfare’s (WD&CW) initiatives in Telangana to meet Vision 2025 goals and align with Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 2 and 5. It analyses child nutrition, health, and protection indicators alongside the effectiveness of flagship schemes like Arogya Laxmi, […]

Study on Governance at District Level and Below on Policies, Programme and Schemes Related to Children in Two States: Sitapur (Uttar Pradesh)

This report examines the governance structures at the district level and below, focusing on enhancing the welfare of marginalised communities, particularly children. It highlights the significance of a holistic approach to address disparities in income, representation, and access to rights. The research underscores the critical role of Panchayat Raj Institutions (PRIs) in implementing welfare schemes […]

Study on Governance at District Level and Below on Policies, Programmes and Schemes Related to Children in Two States: Chittoor (Andhra Pradesh)

The report examines the governance dynamics at the district level in India, focusing on the welfare of children, particularly those from marginalised communities. It emphasises the need for a holistic approach to address children’s rights and reduce disparities in income, representation, and access to entitlements. The study is framed within the context of the 73rd […]

An Institutional Study for Identifying Potential Pathways for Furthering the Interests of Children in Gram Panchayat: Towards Making a Child Friendly Gram Panchayat

In 2015, the revamping of the Karnataka Panchayat Raj Act of 1993 into the Karnataka Gram Swaraj and Panchayat Raj Act made necessary adjustments to make local self-governance more dynamic. It granted the PRIs additional autonomy with a heightened focus on the 3Fs – functions, finances, and functionaries. The Gram Panchayat (GP) is now entrusted […]

Adaptive Behaviour Among Pre-School Children: Constructing Contextually Relevant Assessment Tools

Early Childhood Care and Education (ECCE) has gained significant global attention due to its critical role in child development and long-term societal benefits. Research from neuroscience and developmental psychology highlights sensitive periods in early brain development, influencing lifelong outcomes (Woodhead, 2006). The rationale for investing in ECCE extends beyond educational improvements to encompass economic returns, […]

Public Expenditure on Children in India: Trends and Patterns

The report “Public Expenditure on Children in India: Trends and Patterns” examines the public spending on children by the union and sixteen state governments in India over seven years (2012-2019). It highlights the importance of investments in children’s health, nutrition, education, and protection, emphasising the direct impact of such expenditures on child development and overall […]

Public Expenditure on Health in Rajasthan

The report reviews public health expenditure patterns in Rajasthan from 2012 to 2018, focusing on the alignment of spending with the state’s healthcare needs. Rajasthan, home to approximately 5.6% of India’s population, faces significant health challenges, including high maternal and child mortality rates and a dual burden of communicable and non-communicable diseases. The study gathers […]

Public Expenditure Review of School Education in Select States

This study reviews public expenditure on education in India, focusing on the patterns and priorities across various stages of school education, including preschool, primary, upper primary, secondary, and senior secondary levels. The analysis encompasses six states—Himachal Pradesh, Kerala, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Odisha, and Rajasthan—covering the fiscal years from 2012-13 to 2019-20. Before conducting a detailed […]

Report: Public Expenditure Health in Maharashtra

Maharashtra, India’s second most populous state, faces significant health challenges despite its economic prominence. This Public Expenditure Review (PER) analyses trends in the state’s health expenditure from 2012-13 to 2017-18 and evaluates its alignment with the population’s health needs. The study focuses on critical issues, including maternal and child health (MCH), tribal and urban health […]

Mathrupoorna, Ksheera Bhagya and Srusti Schemes in Karnataka: A review of awareness and delivery

This report examines the Mathrupoorna, Ksheera Bhagya, and Srusti schemes in Karnataka, which aim to improve maternal and child health through nutritional interventions. The study assesses the level of awareness, utilisation, and perceived benefits of these schemes, along with the challenges faced during their implementation. Data was gathered through household surveys, focus group discussions, and […]

Report: Whose Fate and Whose Wealth? An analysis of the Bhagyalakshmi scheme in Karnataka

Gender disparity remains a significant challenge in Karnataka, as evidenced by declining sex ratios at birth. In response, the state introduced the Bhagyalakshmi Scheme (BL) in 2006-07, offering conditional cash transfers to girl children in Below Poverty Line (BPL) families. This report is part of the study conducted by CBPS to evaluate the effectiveness of […]

A Critical Sociological Analysis of the Skills Development Initiative of India

The Vocationalisation of Secondary and Higher Secondary Education (VSHSE) program was introduced in 2013 by the Ministry of Human Resource and Development (MHRD) to offer optional vocational courses in schools, alongside academic subjects. The VSHSE was launched in Karnataka in 2014-15. In the first phase of a study by CBPS to understand the social impacts and […]

A Randomised Control Trial Evaluation of the Mentor Together Life Skills Mentoring Program

The report evaluated the impact of Mentor Together (MT), a pioneering one-to-one mentoring program in India, on high school students in urban Bangalore. Despite initiatives like the Right to Education and Rashtriya Madhyamik Shiksha Abhiyan aimed at improving educational access, many adolescents face significant challenges, including high dropout rates, financial constraints, and early marriage. Recognising […]

Bihar Mentorship Project: Curriculum Linkages

The overall goal of the Bihar Mentoring Project (BMP) funded by the Malala Fund was to develop an empowerment-based mentoring model based on an action-research study of three years in ten urban and rural schools in Bihar. Focusing on adolescent boys and girls, the mentoring model introduced a new form of pedagogy that prioritised critical […]

Bihar Mentorship Project: Baseline Survey Report (English)

Funded and supported by the Malala Fund, the project titled Empowerment-based Mentoring Model for Adolescent Girls: Action Research in Bihar, created a mentoring model that aimed at honing leadership skills of adolescent girls and boys and providing them with tools and resources to develop critical thinking skills. In order to develop a responsive and scalable […]

Critical Evaluation-cum-Impact Study of the Report of the High Power Committee on Redressal of Regional Imbalances with Special Reference to Hyderabad-Karnataka Region 2016-17

Regional Disparity in socio-economic development is a well-established fact in the development discourse of India as well as in the context of Karnataka. The historical trajectory of development in the regions that constitute Karnataka has witnessed the development deficit resulting in north – south divide with regional variations in per capita income, literacy levels, low […]

Report 2 – Analysis of Samrakshane and Bhoomi Data to Examine Farmer Enrolment Patterns and Trends by Landholding Size, Seasons, Crops Grown And Farmer Type Across the Three Districts of Uttara Kannada, Gadag and Raichur

The Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana (PMFBY) is a multi-peril national level crop insurance scheme that was launched by the Government of India on 13th January 2016. It was subsequently rolled out in June 2016. PMFBY is a successor to earlier schemes such as the National Agricultural Insurance Scheme (NAIS) and the more recent Modified […]

An Analysis on Devolution of Funds to Panchayats Under 14th CFC and 4th SFC and Their Impact on Outcomes for Social Sector with Reference to Women and Children in Odisha

The study examines the impact of devolution through the Fourth State Finance Commission (FSFC) and the 14th Central Finance Commission (CFC) grants on social sectors, especially concerning women and children at the Gram Panchayat (GP) level. It investigates the implementation and monitoring mechanisms aimed at improving social outcomes using funds from FSFC and 14th CFC. […]

Report 4: Research Studies on ECCE – Recommendations and Policy Directions for ECCE in India: Lessons Drawn From the Three Research Reports on ECCE

This report summarises the findings of the three research studies on ECCE undertaken: Status of ECCE: Provisions and Gaps in India, with special focus on three states (Delhi, Odisha and Telangana) Analysis of ICDS: Provisions and Budgets Analysis of the Costs and Resources of select non-ICDS ECCE models.   Drawing on these studies, it provides […]

Report 2: Research Studies on ECCE – Integrated Child Development Scheme (ICDS): An Analysis of the National Budgets With Special Reference to Three States (Delhi, Odisha and Telangana)

This report presents an analysis of ICDS national and state budgets (for Delhi, Odisha and Telangana) for four years from 2014-15 to 2017-18. It analyses these budgets in relation to changes in financial planning in India, following the introduction of the Fourteenth Finance Commission, as well as in relation to the specific populations and additional/differential […]

Mahila Samakhya: A descriptive analysis of a baseline study in Haveri, Karnataka

This report analyses the impact of the Mahila Samakhya (MS) program on women’s economic empowerment in Haveri, Karnataka. The MS program aims to reduce gender inequality by promoting collective action and education among rural women. Our study uses a mixed-methods approach, including a randomised control trial (RCT) and embedded ethnography, to explore sustainable economic empowerment, […]

Boys’ Underperformance in Education: Revisiting the Issue in the Commonwealth

Every child, regardless of gender, has the right to an education that offers not only academic learning but also training in the skills they will need to be successful in their particular environment. However, as recent statistics indicate, a significant percentage of children are still unable to access good quality education and so are denied […]

Understanding the Potential of Crop Insurance in India: A Study of the ‘Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana’ (Prime Minister’s Crop Insurance Scheme) in the State of Karnataka

In India, more than half the population continues to be dependent on agriculture, and about 67% of the all cultivators are small or marginal farmers who own less than one hectare of land. Further, as in many developing countries, agriculture is highly susceptible to fluctuations in weather, especially rainfall, with nearly two-thirds of cultivated area […]

Report 1: Research Studies on Early Childhood Care and Education – Status Report on Implementation and Gaps of ECCE in India (With Special Focus on Delhi, Odisha and Telangana)

This section provides a context for the entire set of Research Studies on ECCE, commissioned by Save the Children, India. It presents a review of existing national and international literature on the significance of ECCE, the research evidence supporting its impacts, and various types of ECCE models and programmes from across the globe. Research in […]

Understanding Gendered Empowerment Through a Government Run Microfinance Programme: The Case of Stree Shakti in Karnataka

The Stree Shakti programme (SSP) was conceptualised in 2000-2001 as a women’s empowerment programme to strengthen their access to financial resources. TSSP was based on the principles of self-help groups (SHGs), wherein skill development and other incentives are provided to rural women through micro-credit and savings to enhance their opportunities for economic and social mobility. […]

Whose Fate and Whose Wealth? An Analysis of the Bhagya Lakshmi Scheme in Karnataka

The Bhagya Lakshmi (BL) scheme in Karnataka addresses gender disparities, focusing on birth rates and social indicators. Initiated in 2006-07, it offers conditional cash transfers to Below Poverty Line (BPL) families upon fulfilling specified criteria. Primarily targeting the declining sex ratio at birth and enhancing girls’ education and health outcomes, BL holds significant implications for […]

Public Expenditure on Child Nutrition in Karnataka

Nutritional initiatives have immense potential to transform national economies and significantly improve individual lives. These initiatives require meticulous planning, effective implementation, adequate human resources, and a continuous supply of provisions, among other factors. While these programs are not always inexpensive, it is essential for state-run institutions to ensure they remain adequately funded, operate efficiently, and […]

Reviewing the Status of Education in Tribal Areas in Maharashtra

The Indian education system has historically struggled with expanding access to education without ensuring equitable opportunities or maintaining the quality of education, particularly for marginalized communities. Despite the introduction of the Right to Education Act (2009), learning outcomes remain inadequate, especially for children from tribal communities who face multiple layers of disadvantage—economic, social, cultural, and […]

Midterm Review of M Venkatarangaiya Foundation’s Programme on “Ensuring Education for Children in Vulnerable Areas Across Two States in India”

The MV Foundation (MVF) project on ‘Ensuring Education for Children in Vulnerable Areas Across Two States in India’, was funded by the Tata Trust foundation with the purpose of ensuring universal enrolment and retention of children in schools through social mobilisation and awareness building, to pilot a model of teacher-led systemic change towards child friendly […]

Scoping Study for Starting Interventions in Karnataka for Room to Read

CBPS conducted a feasibility study for Room to Read, an education-focused nonprofit organization, in the areas of literacy and girls’ education. Since 2003, Room to Read has helped set up libraries in government schools, trained teachers on literacy instruction, and provided material, academic, and life skills support to girls. The feasibility study aimed to map […]

Working Conditions of Teachers: State Report for Karnataka

This report presents findings from a comprehensive study conducted by the Centre for Budget and Policy Studies (CBPS), Bangalore, under the project “National Study on Working Conditions of Teachers: Karnataka and Jharkhand,” as part of the NUEPA Research Reports Publications Series. The study focuses on documenting and analysing the working conditions of elementary and secondary […]

Review of the Newly Introduced Online Process for Admissions Under Right To Education Act Section 12 (1) (C) in Private Unaided Schools in Karnataka

This paper explores the challenges of ensuring equitable access to primary education in Bangalore, one of India’s fastest-growing urban centers, in the context of the Right to Education (RTE) Act of 2009. Despite constitutional guarantees and legal mandates for free and compulsory education, urbanization and migration complicate the equitable provision of education. The study highlights […]

The Kalikayatna Approach Towards Primary Education: A Study of the Learning Initiative of Prajayatna

This report seeks to evaluate the strengths and limitations of the Kalikayatna approach, an alternative learning method implemented in selected clusters across five districts in Karnataka. Despite Karnataka being one of India’s educationally advanced states, challenges like poor learning outcomes and significant urban-rural literacy gaps persist. A survey by the Karnataka School Quality Assessment and […]

Tracing the Education and Employment Status of Open School Graduates in India

Open education refers to a style of education with flexibility of admissions, as well as the when, where and what to learn. On the same theme, distance education refers to the process by which all or most of the instruction in an educational setting is conducted by someone removed in space and/or time from the […]

Reducing Child Marriage in India : A model to Scale Up Results

This report by the Centre for Budget and Policy Studies in collaboration with UNICEF, addresses the persistent and widespread issue of child marriage in India, where approximately 30% of women aged 20-24 were married before the age of 18. Despite some progress, with the rate of child marriage decreasing from 1% per year between 1990 […]

Analysis of Health Budgets with a Special Focus On RCH and MCH Components of National Health Mission in Bihar, Rajasthan and Tamil Nadu

The research underscores the critical importance of investing in early childhood care and education (ECCE), demonstrating that such investments yield high returns of 7-10% per annum through improved educational, health, and economic outcomes, as well as reduced crime rates. The Global Financing Facility (GFF), launched by the World Bank Group alongside the governments of Canada, […]

An Assessment of Criteria for Block Grants and Current Practices and Capacity of Gram Panchayats

As part of the Government of Karnataka’s (GoK) larger drive to improve decentralisation in the state, the Karnataka Gram Swaraj Project (KGSP) was initiated in 2006 to improve capacities of local governments and strengthen decentralisation efforts. The Project Development Objective (PDO) for the same was to ‘improve the effectiveness of the service delivery Karnataka’s Gram […]

A Review of Expenditure and Services of Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS) in Karnataka

The ICDS is a central government programme, managed by the Department of Women and Child Development, and it provides a comprehensive package of services related to primary healthcare, nutrition, education, water and sanitation. The programme also provides a convergent platform for communities, state programmes, non-government organisations (NGOs) and international development agencies to come together in […]

Residential Schooling Strategies: Impact on Girls’ Education and Empowerment

This study examines the various residential schooling strategies for girls within India’s publicly funded education system. While multiple initiatives exist, there is no cohesive national policy specifically targeting residential schooling, particularly for girls. Information about the performance and impact of these programs remains uneven and sporadic, with even less available on similar programs in the […]

Emerging Employment Opportunities and Women’s Experiences of Empowerment and Violence

The Information Technology (IT) industry has dramatically transformed India’s small towns and cities, driving innovation, economic opportunities, and new forms of employment. This transformation has created both upward mobility and increased social inequalities, with women being central to these changes. Women, particularly middle-class, English-speaking workers, have found new roles in this globalized industry, enjoying higher […]

Seminar on Enhancing Performance through Improved Budgeting held on 18-19 May 2015

Budget is an instrument that helps translate public policies into concrete actions and desired outcomes. It is a blue print for converting intentions into reality. Like any tool it needs continuous honing. The budgetary practices in India have, however, largely remained unchanged over the years. A few ‘innovations’ such as the performance budgeting introduced in […]

Millenium Development Goals and Karnataka: A Status Report

The United Nations General Assembly adopted the UN Millennium Declaration in September 2000. This declaration set quantifiable targets for every nation to achieve by 2015 in sectors of poverty, education, health, gender empowerment and environmental sustainability, among others. Eight Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) were arrived at, which consisted of a total of eighteen targets and […]

Backward Region Grant Fund – An Analysis of Expenditures, Processes and Capacities in BRGF Districts of Karnataka

In 2006-07, Government of India launched the Backward Region Grant Fund (BRGF) with the objective of redressing persistent regional imbalances in development by providing financial resources for supplementing and converging existing development inflows into the identified 272 backward districts across 27 states. This report reviews the planning, implementation and capacity building process under BRGF programme […]

National Study on Working Conditions of Teachers: State Report for Jharkhand

This report presents findings from a comprehensive study conducted by the Centre for Budget and Policy Studies (CBPS), Bangalore, under the project “National Study on Working Conditions of Teachers: Karnataka and Jharkhand. It presents a detailed analysis of teacher management practices in government schools across Jharkhand, India. Through a combination of desk reviews, data analysis, […]

Pre Budget Advocacy for Enhanced Allocation: Early Childhood Care and Education

Article 45 of the Constitution of India highlights the importance of early childhood care and education (ECCE), directing the State to “endeavor to provide early childhood care and education for all children until they complete the age of six years.” This report, submitted by CBPS to the Additional Chief Secretary to the Government of Karnataka […]

Orientation Programme on Urban Finances and Governance for Elected Representatives and Officers of Local Government and Provincial Councils, Sri Lanka

This report details the events and technical learnings from the orientation programme designed and organised by CBPS on urban finances and governance practices from elected and bureaucratic representatives from the Sri Lankan local government and provincial councils. The orientation programme was organized by Centre for Budget and Policy Studies, Bengaluru with support from The Asia […]

Bengaluru Rural District: Human Development Report 2014 (English)

The Bengaluru Rural District Human Development Report utilizes various indices, including HDI, GII, FSI, and others, to provide a comprehensive analysis of human development at the taluk level. The analysis is based on data from the Bengaluru Rural Zilla Panchayat and line departments for 2010-2011. Additional data sources, including Census, National Sample Surveys, District Level […]

Bengaluru Rural District: Human Development Report 2014 (Kannada)

The Bengaluru Rural District Human Development Report utilizes various indices, including HDI, GII, FSI, and others, to provide a comprehensive analysis of human development at the taluk level. The analysis is based on data from the Bengaluru Rural Zilla Panchayat and line departments for 2010-2011. Additional data sources, including Census, National Sample Surveys, District Level […]

Study of Own Source Revenues of Panchayats

The 73rd Amendment established a three-tier local government system in rural areas under the Panchayat Raj Institutions (PRIs), providing the legal basis for their independent functioning as envisaged in the Constitution. Article 243G directs states to devolve powers and functions to the PRIs, enabling them to function as local self-governments. While the Constitution lists functions […]

Study of Own Source Revenues of Panchayats with a Focus on Property Tax

The 73rd Amendment established a three-tier local government system in rural areas under the Panchayat Raj Institutions (PRIs), providing the legal basis for their independent functioning as envisaged in the Constitution. Article 243G directs states to devolve powers and functions to the PRIs, enabling them to function as local self-governments. While the Constitution lists functions […]

Public Expenditure on Children in Karnataka

Children represent one of the most vulnerable sections of a society. In India, a large proportion of children face marginalisation and discrimination that significantly diminish their opportunities and life chances. Investing in children of all ages can ensure that they can be brought out of the vicious cycle of poverty, discrimination and exploitation. By ensuring […]

A Study on Community Engagement with Schools in Five States

A number of basic education projects began in the 1990s supported by international agencies with the clear focus of promoting decentralisation in the realm of educational governance. Examples of this include the District Primary Education Programme (DPEP) or Sarva Shiksha Abhiyaan (SSA) schemes and the institutionalisation of School Management Committees (SMCs) as part of the […]

Report: Evaluation of the Educational Leadership Development Programme (ELDP)

Despite significant investment in a number of reformatory measures in the elementary education sector, indicators relating to the quality of Karnataka’s elementary education have not shown significant improvement. Blame tended to be levelled at exogenous factors like poverty and material difference, though studies indicated towards shortcomings in the outlooks of teaching cadre as well as […]

Interactive Radio/Audio Interventions in Elementary Schools in Karnataka, India: A Policy Simulation Exercise

Advancements in the capabilities and reach of technology have enabled massive adoption of technology in various areas. One example of the same is in distance education programs, with governments and international organisations collaborating for the development and implementation of technology based educational tools to aid the regular teaching process. Amongst the various tools available, special […]

Case Studies of Best Performing Panchayats under PEAIS Scheme: Karungal Gram Panchayat

This case study delves into the performance and functioning of Karungal Gram Panchayat situated in Dindigul District of Tamil Nadu, with a particular focus on its response to the Panchayat Empowerment and Accountability Incentive Scheme (PEAIS). The PEAIS, introduced by the Ministry of Panchayati Raj, aims to encourage states and union territories to devolve powers […]

Case Studies of Best Performing Panchayats under PEAIS Scheme: Leepuram Gram Panchayat

This case study delves into the performance and functioning of Leepuram Gram Panchayat (GP) in Kanyakumari District, Tamil Nadu, under the Panchayat Empowerment and Accountability Incentive Scheme (PEAIS). The study employs a comprehensive assessment framework focusing on various aspects such as management practices, engagement with the community, and good practices observed within the GP. Leepuram […]

Case Studies of Best Performing Panchayats under PEAIS Scheme: Koppa Taluk Panchayat

This report presents a case study of Koppa Taluk Panchayat, recognized for its outstanding performance under the Panchayat Empowerment and Accountability Incentive Scheme (PEAIS). Through a comprehensive analysis, this study sheds light on the governance model, demographic features, management practices, transparency initiatives, and good practices employed by Koppa Taluk Panchayat. With a focus on empowering […]

Case Studies of Best Performing Panchayats under PEAIS Scheme: Bearhatty Gram Panchayat

This paper presents a detailed examination of Bearhatty Gram Panchayat, located in the Coonoor block of Tamil Nadu’s Nilgiris District. Sponsored by the Ministry of Panchayat Raj, Government of India, the study aims to highlight the factors contributing to Bearhatty’s success as a model panchayat. The study delves into the governance practices, achievements, and challenges […]

Case Studies of Best Performing Panchayats under PEAIS Scheme: Ghatboral Gram Panchayat

Ghatboral Gram Panchayat, situated in the Humnabad taluk of Bidar District, Karnataka, stands out as a beacon of effective grassroots governance amidst challenging socio-economic conditions. This case study explores Ghatboral’s journey towards excellence in local administration and community development. Despite being located in a historically neglected region characterised by agrarian livelihoods and low literacy rates, […]

Case Studies of Best Performing Panchayats under PEAIS Scheme: Dakshina Kannada Zilla Panchayat

The Dakshina Kannada Zilla Panchayat (ZP) in Karnataka has been recognized for its exemplary performance in local governance and development initiatives. This case study explores the structure, management, and achievements of the ZP, highlighting its adherence to principles of transparency, accountability, and community engagement. Under the Panchayat Empowerment and Accountability Incentive Scheme (PEAIS), the ZP […]

Case Studies of Best Performing Panchayats under PEAIS Scheme: Madamakki Gram Panchayat

This study examines the performance and best practices of Madamakki Gram Panchayat in Udupi District, Karnataka, under the Panchayat Empowerment and Accountability Incentive Scheme (PEAIS). Utilising a Devolution Index developed by the National Council of Applied Economic Research (NCAER), the study evaluates the devolution of finance, functions, and functionaries to local bodies. Madamakki Gram Panchayat’s […]

Case Studies of Best Performing Panchayats under PEAIS Scheme: Edapaddy Panchayat Union

This study examines the performance of the Edappadi Panchayat Union in Salem District, Tamil Nadu, within the framework of the Panchayat Empowerment and Accountability Incentive Scheme (PEAIS). Utilising a multidimensional approach, the analysis assesses various aspects of Panchayat functioning, personnel capacity building, planning and budget formulation, income generation, performance, and accountability. The findings reveal noteworthy […]

Study on Micro Irrigation in Karnataka (Drip and Sprinkler Irrigation)

In India, irrigation uses around 80% of the available water. Given the relative scarcity of water in India and the population abundance, there exists a space for the propagation of more efficient and resource sensitive methods for irrigation. Given this context, there is large scope for the adoption of micro-irrigation in agriculture, with micro-irrigation having […]

Analytical Study on the Criteria and Processes for Devolution of Plan Funds through Centrally Sponsored Schemes and Central Assistance

This report investigates 16 prominent centrally sponsored schemes and additional central assistance programs. The researchers utilise a multifaceted methodological approach, which involved collecting and analyzing data on the disbursement and utilization of funds across the various schemes, as well as examining the interstate allocation of these funds. Additionally, the researchers conducted an analytical desk review […]

Study on the Role of MGNREGA in Enhancing Financial Inclusion

The Government of India had mandated in 2009 that MGNREGA worker wages be paid through banks and post offices to enhance transparency and reduce fraud, and introduce these workers from poor and marginalized communities to formal financial institutions, with the expectation that this would promote greater financial inclusion. This report examines the impact of MGNREGA […]

Study on Teacher Motivations and Incentives in Bihar

Though having a reputation for being one of the least developed states in India, Bihar has taken crucial steps towards development in multiple areas in the recent years. However, numerous challenges still beset the state in its drive towards achieving universal elementary education, with issues of low participation amongst marginalised groups, inadequate infrastructural and human […]

Study on User Charges to Meet Public Expenditure on Services

This paper examines the principal rationale behind the levy of user charges, while also providing insights into factors and issues to be taken into consideration while framing a user charge policy. The paper primarily examines the user charge practices in Karnataka’s Urban Water Supply department, Irrigation department and Roads department. The research conducted as part […]

Namma Metro – A Study

The original plan for the Bengaluru Metro Rail was approved in 2004, with the project intended to serve as a mass rapid transportation system to decongest the city’s road network. However, the nature of its design necessitated the falling of many trees across the proposed lines of coverage, including a popular botanical garden in the […]

Citizen’s Participation, Urban Governance and Right to Information

The Right to Information is an empowerment tool in the hands of the citizens; as it allows them to seek any accessible information from a public authority. Since its passing in 2005, the RTI Act has been much discussed and debated at various forums by the civil society organizations and the government. The debates have […]

Productivity and Food Security: A Marginal Situation Case Study

This report discusses findings from a study conducted to assess the relative poverty status of new members of micro-finance or self-help groups (SHGs) in two panchayats of the Boipariguda block in Koraput district of Orissa, with the aim of the study to find out the relative poverty status of new members in comparison to non-members. […]