Population Research Centre (PRC) at the Centre for Research in Rural and Industrial Development (CRRID), Chandigarh, was established in 1986. The PRC at CRRID has been working primarily in the state of Punjab and Union Territory of Chandigarh though it undertook research studies in the states of Haryana, Rajasthan and Uttarakhand. The mandate of the PRC is to carry out research in the field of population studies and related subjects and to undertake evaluation of the state level population and health programmes and schemes, as entrusted by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare from time to time. Since its inception, PRC at CRRID is engaged in various kinds of analytical, evaluative and interventionist demographic studies, with special focus on northern region of India.

The PRC also undertakes studies sponsored by other agencies including state government, national and international organizations with the approval of the parent institute and MoHFW. The faculty and research staff of the PRC bring out publication in areas of their respective interest besides regular participation in seminars, conferences, workshop, etc. in India and abroad. Periodic reviews by the expert/advisory committees appointed by the CRRID and MoHFW not only give broad directions to the activities of the Centre but also oversee its overall functioning. The Governing Body of CRRID is the final authority with regard to affairs in PRC at CRRID.