Research and Evidence Synthesis
Research and evidence synthesis are vital for generating insights, identifying priorities, and shaping effective strategies in the social impact sector. They help organisations make informed, evidence-based decisions and allocate resources to what works. Our team not only produces original research but also synthesizes large bodies of evidence to uncover gaps and generate actionable insights. We apply a range of methodologies, including systematic reviews, meta-analyses, rapid evidence assessments (REA), and evidence gap maps (EGM) amongst many others. Our team also brings deep expertise in policy research, market research for social enterprises, and implementation science research.
Projects
Uncovering HIV Transmission and Risk Patterns Among Adolescent Girls and Young Women in Urban India
Globally, nearly 39 million people live with HIV, including 2.3 million in India—most of whom are over the age of 15. Additionally, about 6% of India’s adult population is affected by one or more sexually transmitted infections (STIs) at any given time. The transmission of HIV and STIs has remained a significant public health concern in India for decades. Despite a considerable burden of HIV among adult women, there is limited data and evidence on the specific vulnerability of adolescent girls and young women (AGYW) aged 15–24, particularly in the Indian context. This study was undertaken in alignment with Sustainable Development Goal 3.3, which aims to end the HIV epidemic by 2030. Using a mixed-methods approach, it combined both primary and secondary data to assess the vulnerability of AGYW to STI/HIV infections in selected urban settings—Delhi NCR and Mumbai.
A rapid review of 96 peer-reviewed studies published between January 2021 and March 2023 revealed that AGYW are particularly susceptible to STI/HIV due to low awareness of sexual risk behaviors, modes of transmission, and available treatment options. Behavioral vulnerabilities include engaging in unsafe sex to maintain relationships, limited capacity to refuse sex, and a general lack of sexual resilience. The review also identified trusted sources of health information among AGYW, such as female family members, peers, neighbours, mass media, and digital platforms—highlighting key channels that can be leveraged for effective awareness and prevention efforts.
Assessing the Impact of UP-TSU’s Health Systems Platform: A System-Level Perspective
Population Council Consulting (PCC), in partnership with the Institute of Public Health, Bengaluru and with support from the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, documented the efforts of the Uttar Pradesh Technical Support Unit (UPTSU) in strengthening health systems in the state. The study examined the pathways of health systems strengthening (HSS), including constructs of theory of change, systems capacity, adaptability, resilience, and the functioning of key health system pillars aimed at improving service delivery.
Using a theory-driven, mixed-methods approach, the documentation explored and tested change pathways and assumptions underlying HSS efforts. It highlighted the critical role of technical assistance (TA) in supporting the Government of Uttar Pradesh, showcasing how collaboration between the TSU, implementing partners, and donors contributed to measurable programmatic improvements.