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.
The Institute of Social Sciences (ISS) was established on 28 August 1985 and registered under the Societies Registration Act of 1860. It began functioning from Safdarjung Enclave, New Delhi, before relocating in May 1999 to its own premises at 8 Nelson Mandela Road, Vasant Kunj, New Delhi – 110070. Guided by the vision of intertwining participatory democracy with development, the Institute has emerged as a premier think tank and resource centre dedicated to advancing democratic decentralization, local governance, community-led development, and the political empowerment of women at the grassroots. Through rigorous research, policy engagement, and innovative field interventions, ISS has significantly contributed to shaping discourse and practice in these areas, garnering national and international recognition.
The Institute has been led by a distinguished line of scholars and public intellectuals who have chaired its Governing Board: Prof. D.T. Lakdawala (1985–1992), Prof. Malcolm S. Adiseshiah (1992–1994), Prof. Sarvepalli Gopal (1994–1998), Prof. U.R. Ananthamurthy (1998–2011), and Dr. George Mathew (2011–present). Their leadership has ensured that ISS remains at the forefront of research and advocacy on participatory governance and inclusive development. The Institute continues to serve as a dynamic platform for dialogue, capacity building, and the generation of knowledge aimed at strengthening democratic institutions and processes in India and beyond.
Our Vision
A future where every individual and community have the opportunity and capacity to live with dignity, comfort, security, and sustainable growth.
Our Mission
Our mission involves fostering growth and development within various communities by providing knowledge support tailored to their specific needs. We aim to equip leaders and policymakers with reliable data and actionable insights to make informed decisions that promote sustainability and progress. Through collaboration, research, innovative strategies and field interventions, we strive to create positive changes and enhance the quality of life for individuals and communities in diverse settings.
Aims of the Institute
- Conduct multi-disciplinary research to understand societal challenges and develop sustainable solutions.
- Inform and influence policies and practices that benefit people and communities.
- Collaborate with communities to co-create knowledge and build local capacities.
Our Values
- We believe diverse perspectives lead to stronger, more inclusive solutions—so we collaborate.
- We value the leadership of women shaping institutions and driving development.
- We are committed to equality, fairness, and justice, guided by data and evidence.
- We respect and integrate lived experiences as essential to rigorous and relevant analysis.
- We uphold objectivity and maintain a nonpartisan, ideologically independent stance.