Preface
The Economics Research Centre, under the University of Calicut, established in 2023, stands as a beacon of academic and research excellence. Known for producing world-class economists and scholars, India’s reputation for fostering innovative thinking is reflected in the work of this centre. Our mission is to encourage a culture of research and critical inquiry among students and faculty members, contributing to the progress of society and addressing the complex socio-economic challenges of the contemporary world. The centre actively supports interdisciplinary research, linking economics with related fields to promote a holistic understanding of the issues affecting communities locally and globally.

Role
The Economics Research Centre is dedicated to expanding knowledge in key areas of economic theory and practice, with a strong focus on addressing development challenges. By fostering a deep understanding of socio-economic systems, the centre aims to develop solutions that can improve livelihoods, reduce inequality, and promote sustainable development. Our research spans a variety of domains, from theoretical explorations to empirical analysis and policy recommendations, contributing to both the academic community and the broader societal discourse. Our work directly impacts daily life, influencing public policy, labor markets, migration patterns, and the well-being of marginalized communities.

Mission
The core mission of the centre is to advance research in development economics, focusing on pressing socio-economic issues such as poverty, inequality, and sustainable growth. Key research areas include:

• Development Economics: Understanding the mechanisms that drive economic growth, development, and the alleviation of poverty, especially in developing countries.
• Tribal Studies: Investigating the socio-economic conditions of indigenous and tribal communities, with a focus on land rights, education, healthcare access, and economic inclusion.
• Migration and Diaspora Economics: Examining the economic effects of migration, remittances, and labor mobility, both within and beyond India.
• Labor Economics: Studying labor market dynamics, wage determination, employment trends, and the socio-economic impacts of labor policies.
• Health Economics: Assessing healthcare systems, the economic burden of diseases, and the effectiveness of health policies, particularly for vulnerable populations.
• Inequality and Social Justice: Exploring the structural causes of economic inequality and designing policies that promote social justice and inclusive growth.

StrategicPriorities
In an era of rapid global changes, the centre aims to provide solutions for the most pressing economic issues of the 21st century. Our strategic priorities include:

• Sustainable Development: Proposing models of economic growth that align with environmental sustainability, focusing on the economics of natural resource management, climate change, and renewable energy.
• Social Inclusion and Poverty Alleviation: Designing and evaluating policies that target poverty reduction and enhance social mobility, with particular emphasis on rural development and marginalized communities.
• Migration and Labor Mobility: Addressing the socio-economic implications of migration, with a focus on policies that protect migrant rights and enhance their contributions to economic growth.
• Health and Well-Being: Advancing research on public health economics to improve health outcomes, particularly in underserved areas, through better resource allocation and access to healthcare.

Through innovative research and collaboration across disciplines, the Economics Research Centre strives to contribute solutions that will lead to a more equitable and sustainable future, ensuring that economic development benefits all sections of society.

 Research Progress

Dr. Azad P, Assistant Professor in the Department of Economics at MES Mampad College, is a recognized research guide at the Economics Research Centre. His research focuses on key areas such as migration, labor economics, happiness studies, and the socio-economic challenges faced by vulnerable populations. Through his work, Dr. Azad contributes valuable insights into the economic dynamics shaping these critical areas, fostering a deeper understanding of the issues affecting both local and global communities.