The Institute of Social Sciences was registered under the Societies Registration Act of India 1860 on 28 August 1985. The first governing body of the Institute met on 1 September 1985 under the chairmanship of D.T. Lakdawala, renowned economist and former Deputy Chairman of the Planning Commission, Government of India. Dr.George Mathew, Founder Director, heads the Institute. The Institute started functioning at B-7/81, Safdarjung Enclave, New Delhi and continued till April 1999. From May 1,1999, it moved to its own premises at 8 Nelson Mandela Road, New Delhi- 110070, near Jawahar Lal Nehru University.
Aims of the Institute:  Multi-disciplinary social science advanced research. Developing an informed and action-oriented public opinion. Ushering in a society in which power to the people is a reality. The Institute which has already completed more than two decade of its existence, pursues a strategy of “ Integrating Research with Action”
Objectives:  To study contemporary social, political and economic issues and problems with an inter-disciplinary perspective.  To make its findings and recommendations available to government bodies, civil society organizations, policy makers, social scientists and all concerned citizens, so as to widen their options for action.   In the first publication of the Institute, it was stated: Institute of Social Sciences is dedicated to systematic study of social issues and problems that confront India, in trans-disciplinary perspective. Its finding and recommendations are made available to the members of the decision-making organization such as government bodies, trade unions, people's organization and corporate bodies and scientific communities to encourage them to enlarge the options for action. The evolution of an informed and action-oriented public opinion is our primary aim.

 

	Chairman of the Institute - Past and Present