Draft:Centre for Social and Behaviour Change

The Centre for Social and Behaviour Change (CSBC) is an initiative of Ashoka University established in partnership with the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation. The centre focuses on advancing Behavioral Science in India to enhance developmental outcomes. CSBC has set up a Behavioral Insights Unit (BIU), akin to 'Nudge Units', at the Niti Aayog,  and has also set up BIUs in the states of Bihar and Uttar Pradesh. These units are instrumental in applying behavioural insights to improve public policy and program implementation.

The CSBC currently focuses on several key areas including nutrition, sanitation, maternal health, family planning, and financial services. Its approach to achieving its vision includes: collaborating on behaviour change programs with the Government of India and various non-governmental organisations; conducting foundational research to deepen the understanding of the needs and dynamics of poor and marginalised communities, as well as the most effective methods to reach and engage them; and enhancing capabilities by incorporating the latest developments in behavioural science, design thinking, data science, and implementation science to create more effective interventions.