Think Tanks and Policy Research

What think tanks do, how economists work in policy research institutions, and how their work influences government decisions.

Think tanks are organisations that research policy issues and publish recommendations.

What they do

Research: studying issues like trade, agriculture, health, energy or urban policy.
Policy briefs: short, clear documents for decision-makers.
Data: building datasets and indicators.
Events: conferences and workshops.
Media: commenting on policy debates.

Types of think tanks in India

Government-linked: such as NITI Aayog’s research bodies or institutes funded by ministries.
Independent: research institutions working on economics, public policy and development.
University-based centres.
International organisations’ research units.

Jobs for economists

Research assistants or associates, often after a bachelor’s or master’s degree.
Fellows and senior fellows with PhDs or experience.
Data analysts.

Skills needed

Research and data analysis.
Clear writing for non-specialists.
Understanding of institutions and policy processes.

Influence

Think tanks influence policy through research, advice and public debate. Their independence and funding sources matter for credibility.

A good starting point

Many young economists start as research assistants, gaining experience before further study or other careers.

The research assistant

A new economics graduate joins a think tank as a research assistant, cleaning survey data on farm incomes. Her analysis feeds into a policy brief that is cited in a parliamentary debate.

Thinking think tanks only publish opinions

Good think tanks produce evidence-based research and data.

Key takeaways

Think tanks research policy issues and publish recommendations.
They include government-linked, independent and university-based institutions.
Research assistant roles are a common starting point.
Credibility depends on independence and research quality.