UNFPA India Honors IUSSP for 2025 UN Population Award in Institutional Category

The United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) India honoured the International Union for the Scientific Study of Population (IUSSP) for winning the 2025 United Nations Population Award in the Institutional Category. The award recognises IUSSP’s outstanding work in population research and support for evidence-based policymaking worldwide.

The felicitation was held during the 46th Annual Conference of the Indian Association for the Study of Population (IASP), highlighting important discussions on India’s demographic future.

IUSSP Recognized for Global Contribution

IUSSP, led by Dr. Shireen Jejeebhoy (President, 2022-2025), received the award for its exceptional contributions to global population science and fostering collaboration among demographers.

Dr. Jejeebhoy said, “It is an honour for IUSSP to receive this award. Our work in research, capacity building, and global networks is recognised. At a time of changing demographics—from ageing populations to climate-related migration—independent, strong research is more important than ever.”

IASP Conference Focuses on India’s Youth

The IASP 46th Annual Conference (27–29 November 2025), themed “People, Planet, Prosperity: Demographic Drivers of India’s Inclusive Growth”, focuses on using India’s large youth population for inclusive and sustainable development.

The conference was organised by IASP along with the National Atlas & Thematic Mapping Organisation (NATMO) and the Anthropological Survey of India (AnSI).

Special Guest at the Felicitation

The session was attended by:

• Prof. K. N. Singh, Vice-Chancellor, Central University of South Bihar (Chief Guest)
• Shri Vijay Bharti, IAS, Secretary, Government of West Bengal (Guest of Honour)
• Prof. A. P. Singh, Director General, National Library, Kolkata (Special Guest)

Andrea M. Wojnar, UNFPA India Representative, gave the keynote address on the links between population dynamics, climate change, and equitable development. She highlighted India’s opportunity to turn its youth population into a demographic advantage for sustainable growth.

Importance of Data and Evidence-Based Policies

The conference emphasised that India’s demographic challenges require a rights-based approach. Policies must focus on reproductive health, youth well-being, and inclusive development. Generating accurate demographic data is crucial for shaping policies that leave no one behind.

About UNFPA

UNFPA is the United Nations sexual and reproductive health agency. It works to ensure every pregnancy is wanted, every childbirth is safe, and every young person reaches their potential. UNFPA supports reproductive rights, family planning, maternal health, and comprehensive sexuality education.