Pre-requisites

• • Master's Degree in Economics from a UGC recognized university.
  • Participants need to have knowledge of post-graduation level econometrics.
  • Stata software will be used in the practical session, so some basic understanding of the software is desirable.

Format 

• • 32-hours in-person modules with practical sessions spread over 8 working days.
  • Four lectures each day (three class discussions + one practical session using Stata software).

Course Content

Introduction to Causal Inference I 

• • Theory of Probability
  • Theory of Linear Regression
  • Logit and Probit Models
  • Discussion of published research papers and applied exercises using Stata

Introduction to Causal Inference II 

• • Understanding the concept of Causal Inference
  • Potential Outcomes Framework
  • Observational Data versus Experimental Data
  • Discussion of published research papers and applied exercises using Stata

Directed Acyclic Graphs (DAGs) for Causal Inference and Instrumental Variables

• • Rationale for Graph and basics elements of causal graphs
  • Causation, Confounding and Selection bias using DAGs
  • Collider and Backdoor Criterion, Collider Bias
  • DAG with a simple regression
  • Instrumental Variables
  • The problem of endogeneity in the regression model
  • Endogeneity test
  • Two-Stage Least Squares Regression
  • Discussion of published research papers and applied exercises using Stata

Propensity score matching (PSM) 

• • Introduction to Propensity Score Matching(PSM)
  • Conducting PSM
  • Matching Methods: Strengths and Limitations of PSM
  • Discussion of published research papers and applied exercises using Stata

Regression Discontinuity Design (RDD)

• • Introduction to RDD, Fuzzy vs Sharp RDD
  • Specification Tests and Sensitivity Analysis
  • Limitations of RDD
  • Discussion of published research papers and applied exercises using Stata

Difference in Differences (DiD)

• • Basics of DiD
  • 2x2 DiD set up
  • Assumptions for DiD
  • Discussion of published research papers and applied exercises using Stata

Pedagogy

The pedagogy will be highly interactive with an effective use of technology.

• • Lectures
  • Published paper discussions.
  • Hands on with Stata software

Course Outcomes

On successful completion of this course, students will be able to:

• • Understand the principles of causal inference
  • Use causal inference techniques to evaluate the effect of various programmes on outcomes.
  • Model causal relations in an econometric/statistical framework
  • Acquire software and technical skills to pursue research on causal inference

Target audience

Research scholars, early career economists in academia, corporate sector, government sector, and non-profit organisations.

Certification

Institute of Economic Growth shall issue a Certificate of Participation (CoP) on fulfilment of  100 percent attendance criteria, and other parameters.

Chair of The Winter School
Prof. Chetan Ghate (Director, IEG)

Chair of Course Committee
Prof. Sabyasachi Kar

Course Committee
Dr. Archana Dang
Dr. Gautam Kumar Das
Dr. M. Rahul
Dr. Parma Chakravartti
Dr. Sandhya Garg
Dr. Srishti Gupta
Dr. Sukhdeep Singh

Instructors
Dr. Archana Dang
Dr. Gautam Kumar Das
Dr. M. Rahul
Dr. Oindrila De
Dr. Parma Chakravartti
Dr. Sandhya Garg
Prof. Saudamini Das
Dr. Srishti Gupta
Dr. Sunaina Dhingra
Dr. Sukhdeep Singh
Prof. Vikram Dayal

Fee Structure

Enrolment fees for the course is Rs. 1000. Tuition fees is Rs. 5000 per head and includes lunch. For those who want to stay on campus during the course, additional accommodation charges (including bed, breakfast and dinner) is Rs. 4000 per head. A limited number of the selected candidates will get full waivers on tuition fees and accommodation charges on a first-come-first-serve basis.

Shortlisted applicants are initially required to pay the compulsory and non-refundable enrolment fee of Rs.1000. The remaining amount will need to be paid closer to the date of the Winter School.

Registration and Selection

Due to the course's interactive nature, final enrolment will be limited to 20 seats only. Registration concludes on September 15, 2024. To fill out the application form use your gmail account or create a new gmail account. To Register Click here. 

Participants would be assessed on their academic experience and motivation to complete the program, as demonstrated in the application form. The first 20 registered candidates who match the eligibility criteria and the assessments will be shortlisted. These candidates will be notified by email shortly afterwards. To secure their seat, participants must pay an enrolment fee of Rs. 1000 within 5 days of receiving the email. Otherwise, offers will be extended to individuals on the waiting list.

Accommodation

Participants who seek accommodation will be given boarding and lodging on the IEG campus, against the payment of accommodation charges. Those who wish to attend the Resilient Economy workshop will receive free boarding and lodging during the duration of the workshop.