The year 2015 had begun well with the incumbent Director General taking up office in the first few months. The research portfolio of the last six months included both macroeconomic and sectoral issues covering a range of development problems confronting the country. Research on energy (e.g. price, inclusion of gender, reforms), competitiveness of agricultural products, food security, education, right to information, water and sanitation, rural transport, access to services, etc. were prioritised.