The globalization era is characterized by rapid changes in the economy around the world. The “New Economy” has opened up significant opportunities for the SMEs as well. Or more precisely, the world today is moving the SME way.

Changes as above, have a special significance, especially as they relate to SMEs and livelihood activities. There is an obvious surge in the “new economy”, the effects of which on the economic activities of the common man, are differently perceived by the professionals, on the one hand, and the laymen on the other. Unless we are able to establish a clear link between the two perceptions- that of the ordinary people and of the economic technicians-we run the danger of trying to manipulate public opinion behind a smoke-screen of high-sounding economic technicalities. This necessitates a close monitoring of such developments on a continuous basis, both from the angle of policies and strategies. The research agenda of the Institute covers a wide spectrum, though there is a significant focus on the core mandate areas. Such research offers the vital inputs for the other and related activities of the Institute.