Vipassana Research Institute (VRI), founded by S. N. Goenka in the tradition of Sayagyi U Ba Khin, is a non-profit organization that conducts scientific research into the sources and applications of the Vipassana Meditation Technique.

Vipassana meditation is a powerful technique that allows individuals to observe and explore their mind-body phenomena, leading to a purification of the mind and a transformative change in an individual's attitude and behavior. This technique has immense potential as an instrument for better education, health, organization, management development, and social change. VRI is dedicated to exploring the theory and practice of Vipassana through various projects and programs.

VRI's main areas of focus include exploration of sources of Vipassana in the Tipitaka, offering Pāli study programs, conducting practical research on the application of Vipassana in daily life, and publishing books and other inspirational material related to Vipassana. VRI has undertaken the monumental task of publishing the entire Pali canon and allied commentaries to preserve the ancient teachings of the Buddha. They have also prepared a CD-ROM containing the Pali Tipitaka, which facilitates study and research by computer search programs capable of locating any word or phrase in the Tipitaka in seconds.

With its commitment to research, preservation, and dissemination of Vipassana teachings, VRI plays a vital role in advancing the understanding and practice of this profound meditation technique