Marga Institute Center for Development Studies

The institute is a private, multidisciplinary research body set up as an autonomous, nonprofit Sri Lankan organization. Its main activity is development research within a value-oriented framework. The founding group felt the need for more systematic research to understand the issues relevant to the formulation of development policies in Sri Lanka and to devise strategies for their implementation. Although its primary function is research, the institute is engaged in several other activities. It has a continuing program of publications; organizes national, regional and international seminars on a regular basis; and has undertaken several experimental village development projects, which combine research with action in the field. Since 1983, the institute has also undertaken consulting work for the government and its agencies, international institutions and some private organizations in Sri Lanka. The main objective of this type of work is to utilize the research experience of the institute's staff for the evaluation of development programs implemented in Sri Lanka and elsewhere.