At the Institute of Social Sciences (ISS), we believe that knowledge is not power until it is shared—and capacities are not built until communities can rise with them. We are a dynamic hub where research meets action, and ideas translate into impact.

Founded on 28 August 1985, and registered under the Societies Registration Act of India, 1860, ISS was born out of a compelling vision: to make participatory democracy the heartbeat of sustainable development.

Today, ISS stands as a nationally and internationally acclaimed think tank, a vibrant intervention platform, and a resource-rich knowledge centre. Our mission is simple yet profound—to empower people with the tools, insights, and capacities they need to shape better futures.

Through innovative research, transformative field interventions, and thought-provoking advocacy via conferences, seminars, and workshops, ISS continues to influence policies and practices that directly touch lives and communities.

We don’t just study change, we catalyze and support it.