J-PAL South Asia

J-PAL South Asia, based at the Institute for Financial Management and Research (IFMR) in Chennai, leads J-PAL’s efforts to advance evidence-informed policymaking in the region. By conducting rigorous randomized evaluations, forging impactful strategic partnerships, and scaling effective programs, we strive to deliver better evidence to help governments design better policies so people can live better lives. 

Established in 2007, J-PAL South Asia is the oldest and the largest among all J-PAL offices. We have 255 ongoing and completed evaluations in the South Asia region across 11 sectors to date. In India, our deep understanding of the policy priorities of governments complemented by pioneering academic research from J-PAL’s researcher network have resulted in more than 30 research, policy, and training partnerships with governments across 20 states. 

In 2011, J-PAL South Asia was selected to host the South Asia Center for CLEAR, a global initiative by the World Bank’s Independent Evaluation Group. CLEAR South Asia supports governments and partner organizations in strengthening their monitoring and evaluation systems and capacities through training courses, technical advisory services, and knowledge sharing. CLEAR South Asia is a core implementing partner of the Global Evaluation Initiative (GEI).

With evidence-informed policymaking gathering global momentum, J-PAL South Asia continues to find creative and innovative ways to bring transformative and enduring changes in the lives of millions of people in the region.