The Institute of Social Sciences (ISS), established on August 28, 1985, is a premier think tank and resource center dedicated to advancing democratic decentralization, local governance, community-led development, and the political empowerment of women at the grassroots level. Registered under the Societies Registration Act of 1860, ISS began its operations in 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, ISS has significantly contributed to shaping discourse and practice in these areas, garnering national and international recognition.
ISS's strategic focus encompasses rigorous research, policy engagement, and innovative field interventions aimed at strengthening democratic institutions and processes. The Institute specializes in areas such as democratic decentralization, local governance, and community-led development, with a particular emphasis on empowering women politically at the grassroots level. By fostering participatory governance and inclusive development, ISS aims to catalyze and support transformative change within society.
ISS 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)
- 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.
ISS operates within a dynamic landscape of social science research institutions. Notable entities in this domain include:
- Social Science Research Council (SSRC): An independent, international nonprofit organization founded in 1923, SSRC fosters innovative research and mobilizes knowledge on important public issues.
- American Institutes for Research (AIR): A not-for-profit organization conducting behavioral and social science research to improve education and promote health.
- Urban Institute: A nonpartisan policy research organization examining social, economic, and governance challenges.
ISS's commitment to participatory democracy and development distinguishes it within this competitive landscape. By focusing on democratic decentralization and grassroots empowerment, particularly of women, ISS addresses critical societal needs that are often underrepresented. Its rigorous research, policy engagement, and innovative field interventions have significantly contributed to shaping discourse and practice in these areas, garnering national and international recognition.
ISS has established significant collaborations and partnerships to strengthen its market position and expand its capabilities. These alliances have been instrumental in advancing the Institute's mission and enhancing its impact on democratic decentralization and local governance.
ISS's strategic roadmap focuses on deepening its research initiatives, expanding policy engagement, and enhancing field interventions to further democratic decentralization and community-led development. By leveraging its strengths and building on its legacy, ISS aims to continue catalyzing and supporting transformative change within society.
