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UNFPA Celebrates IUSSP's Achievement and Focus on India's Youth

Recognizing Global Contributions to Population Science

UNFPA Celebrates IUSSP's Achievement and Focus on India's Youth

  • 02 Dec, 2025
  • 528

UNFPA Honors IUSSP for 2025 UN Population Award

The United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) India recently honored the International Union for the Scientific Study of Population (IUSSP) for its achievement in winning the 2025 United Nations Population Award in the Institutional Category. This prestigious award recognizes IUSSP's exceptional contributions to population research and its commitment to evidence-based policymaking globally.

Celebrating IUSSP's Global Impact

The award ceremony took place during the 46th Annual Conference of the Indian Association for the Study of Population (IASP), where significant discussions regarding India's demographic future were highlighted. IUSSP, under the leadership of Dr. Shireen Jejeebhoy (President, 2022-2025), was recognized for its outstanding contributions to global population science and its role in fostering collaboration among demographers.

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

Focus on Youth at the IASP Conference

The IASP 46th Annual Conference, held from 27–29 November 2025, centered around the theme “People, Planet, Prosperity: Demographic Drivers of India’s Inclusive Growth.” The conference aimed to leverage India's large youth population for inclusive and sustainable development.

This event was organized by IASP in collaboration with the National Atlas & Thematic Mapping Organisation (NATMO) and the Anthropological Survey of India (AnSI).

Special Guests at the Felicitation Ceremony

The session featured notable attendees, including:

  • 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, delivered a keynote address discussing the connections between population dynamics, climate change, and equitable development. She underscored India's potential to transform its youth population into a demographic advantage for sustainable growth.

The Importance of Data and Evidence-Based Policies

The conference highlighted the necessity for a rights-based approach to address India’s demographic challenges. Policies should prioritize reproductive health, youth well-being, and inclusive development. Generating accurate demographic data is essential for formulating policies that ensure no one is left behind.

About UNFPA

UNFPA is the United Nations sexual and reproductive health agency. Its mission is to ensure that every pregnancy is wanted, every childbirth is safe, and every young person reaches their potential. UNFPA advocates for reproductive rights, family planning, maternal health, and comprehensive sexuality education.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1. What is the purpose of the UNFPA?
Answer: The UNFPA aims to ensure that every pregnancy is wanted, every childbirth is safe, and every young person can reach their full potential through various programs focused on reproductive health and rights.

Q2. Why was IUSSP awarded the 2025 UN Population Award?
Answer: IUSSP received the award for its exceptional contributions to population research and its efforts in promoting evidence-based policymaking in the field of population science globally.

Q3. What was the theme of the IASP 46th Annual Conference?
Answer: The theme was “People, Planet, Prosperity: Demographic Drivers of India’s Inclusive Growth,” focusing on leveraging India's youth population for sustainable development.

Q4. Who delivered the keynote address at the conference?
Answer: Andrea M. Wojnar, the UNFPA India Representative, delivered the keynote address, discussing the links between population dynamics, climate change, and equitable development.

Q5. What are the key areas of focus for India's demographic policies?
Answer: Key areas include reproductive health, youth well-being, and inclusive development, emphasizing the need for accurate demographic data to inform policymaking.

UPSC Practice MCQs

Question 1: What organization awarded the 2025 UN Population Award?
A) UNFPA
B) IUSSP
C) NATMO
D) AnSI
Correct Answer: B

Question 2: Who is the President of IUSSP for 2022-2025?
A) Dr. K. N. Singh
B) Dr. Shireen Jejeebhoy
C) Andrea M. Wojnar
D) Prof. A. P. Singh
Correct Answer: B

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