The Centre for North East Studies and Policy Research (C-NES) was established in 2000 to conduct research on issues relating to the North East of India in a broad range of areas. It seeks to disseminate information, develop alternate policy structures which reflect peoples’ perceptions and mobilize public opinion. C-NES’ interests include governance, environment, information, gender, human resources, strengthening civil society, culture and heritage, communications and connectivity as well as regional cooperation. It is envisioned that its primary role will be in the fields of concept development and field research, as initiator, disseminator and articulator of information and policies in and for the area while creating a bridge between field and policy as well as between the North-East and the rest of India.
- C-NES recognizes the right of every individual in the region to live in dignity, peace and safety because only under such conditions can the quality of their lives be improved and their deepest aspirations met.
- Values the unique ethnic and ecological diversity of the North East and sees this heritage as an advantage.
- Encourages local governance, decision- making and initiatives as the key to social and economic development.
- Advocates for such policy changes at the national, regional, state and district levels which it believes is necessary to build a just society.
- Supports regional cooperation as a strategy to create long term, sustainable economic development
The Centre’s programme priorities includes the following:
- Livelihood generation
- Infrastructure and transport
- Documenting cultural and environmental diversity
- Development of data-banks
- Studies of migration,internal displacement and refugee flows
- Local governance / media exchanges and communication
- Horticulture and innovative farming
- Networking among different groups and partnerships with organizations sharing goals
C-NES has been registered as a trust under Sec.80G/ Income Tax Act 1962 and its tax-exempt status has been renewed until 31.3.2011.The trust is also registered under the Foreign Contribution Act (FCRA).It has an eminent Board of Trustees and an Advisory Council comprising prominent individuals from the cultural, academic, corporate, media
and environmental sectors.