The Takshashila Institution is an independent, networked think tank and public policy school based in India. It focuses on strategic affairs, public policy and governance. The Takshashila Institution is registered as a non-profit trust.
Mission
The institution provides intellectual leadership for public policies that promote the well-being, prosperity, happiness and security of the people, based on responsible citizenship, economic freedom, realism in international relations, an open society and a culture of tolerance. It also aims to increase public awareness and education on strategic affairs, international relations, national security and economic policies, through the publication of articles, periodicals, books and online activities.
The institution takes its name from the ancient city of Takshashila, now in modern-day Pakistan. The city was the earliest center of advanced learning of India, exerting a sort of intellectual suzerainty over the rest of the country. Generally, a student entered Takshashila at the age of sixteen. The Vedas and the Eighteen Silpas or Arts, which included skills such as archery, hunting, and elephant lore, were taught, in addition to its law school, medical school, and school of military science. Students came to Takshashila from far-off places such as Kashi, Kosala and Magadha, in spite of the long and arduous journey they had to undergo, on account of the excellence of the learned teachers there, all recognized as authorities on their respective subjects.
Takshashila's Graduate Certificate in Public Policy programme aims to equip dynamic Indians with knowledge, skills and exposure to public policy. The intensive 12-week graduate-level course provides a firm understanding of the fundamentals of public policy and governance and enable participants to apply them in their professional lives and political discourse. The programme is designed to prepare participants to better engage in the public arena, as analysts, public officials, leaders or indeed, as active citizens. It is primarily delivered through online distance learning with two weekend policy workshops. Students and faculty interact on the learning management system, interactive webinars and on social media. The faculty consists of both academic experts and senior professionals from various disciplines including applied economics, geoeconomics, urban policy, healthcare policy, energy, national security and international relations.
Journal
The institution publishes Pragati - The Indian National Interest Review a monthly publication on strategic affairs, public policy and governance. Pragati has been in continuous publication since April 2007.
