Dr. Ranjana Kumari

Our Director- 

Renowned champion of women’s empowerment, tireless advocate for gender equality, and esteemed leader in the field of social justice, Dr. Ranjana Kumari has dedicated her life to transforming lives and shaping a more inclusive world. With an unyielding commitment to uplift marginalized voices and eradicate discrimination, she has become an indomitable force driving positive change on both local and global stages.

Dr. Kumari’s extraordinary journey began with a deep-rooted passion to dismantle gender-based barriers and fight for the rights of women. Armed with a formidable intellect and an unwavering spirit, she fearlessly delved into the realms of academia, obtaining a Doctorate in Political Science and subsequently pioneering groundbreaking research on women’s empowerment and gender issues.

As the Director of the esteemed Centre for Social Research (CSR), Dr. Kumari has spearheaded numerous pioneering initiatives that have revolutionized the landscape of women’s rights. Her unparalleled leadership has been instrumental in creating transformative programs that empower women economically, socially, and politically, enabling them to break free from the shackles of inequality and emerge as strong agents of change.

A true visionary, Dr. Ranjana Kumari has left an indelible mark through her tireless advocacy at national and international forums. Her powerful voice has resonated across platforms, galvanizing governments, civil society organizations, and individuals alike to rally behind the cause of gender justice. Her expertise has been sought by prestigious organizations such as the United Nations, where she has served as a consultant, and she has played a pivotal role in shaping policies and frameworks that promote gender equality on a global scale.

An inspiring orator and prolific writer, Dr. Kumari has authored numerous influential publications, shedding light on the multifaceted challenges faced by women and marginalized communities. Her thought-provoking contributions have ignited meaningful conversations and inspired countless individuals to take action, fostering a collective movement towards a more equitable and inclusive society.

Recognizing her exceptional contributions, Dr. Kumari has received innumerable accolades and awards, including the prestigious Lotus Leadership award .Her unwavering determination and unwavering pursuit of justice have made her an icon for aspiring change-makers, and she continues to serve as an inspiration for future generations to challenge societal norms and strive for a world where every individual is treated with dignity and respect.

In a world that still grapples with inequality and prejudice, Dr. Ranjana Kumari stands tall as an embodiment of resilience, compassion, and relentless dedication. Through her unwavering pursuit of gender justice, she has become a shining beacon of hope, illuminating the path towards a more just and equitable world for all.

Present Position

  • Director, Centre for Social Research, Vasant Kunj, New Delhi
  • President, Women Power Connect, Only lobbying Organization in India
  • Member, National Mission for Empowerment of Women, GOI
  • Member, Central Advisory Board (statutory body) on “Pre Conception and Pre Natal Diagnostic Tests Act, 2001”, GOI
  • Member, Central Advisory Committee for Prevention of Trafficking in Women and Children, Government of India
  • Member, Regional Complaints Committee (against sexual harassment) Reserve Bank of India, Government of India
  • Member, Committee on EU-India Relations, India Office, European Union
  • Coordinator, South Asia Network Against Trafficking (SANAT) in Persons

Positions held

  • Member, Education Consultative Committee, Planning Commission, GOI
  • Senior Advisor, Ministry of Labour, Government of India (2002)
  • National Committee on Eradication of Child Labour, GOI (2003)
  • Member, Academic Committee, NIPCCD (2000)
  • Member, Core Drafting Committee for National Policy on Women, GOI (1999)
  • Member, Task Force on Industrial Relations International Labour office, Geneva (1996-97)
  • Vice President Centre for Asia-Pacific Women in Politics
  • General Secretary, Mahila Dakshata Samiti, New Delhi (1985 -2000)
  • Vice President, Mahila Dakshata Samiti, New Delhi (2000-2005)
  • Coordinator, South Asia network Against Trafficking in Women and Children
  • Coordinator, South Asia Network on Women in Politics (1995-2001)
  • Coordinator, Joint Action Front for Women (1997-2004)
  • Director, Gender Training Institute, New Delhi (1998-2002)
  • Member Advisor, SAARC Chamber of Commerce and Industry, South Asia
  • Founder Member, South Asia Forum for People’s Initiative (SAFPI)( 1993)
  • Assistant Professor, Delhi University (1978-79)

Books Published             

  1. Reign She Will: Women’s Strife for Political Space, Har-Anand Publications, New Delhi (2011)
  2. Gender, Work and Power Relations, Har-Anand Publications, New Delhi (1998)
  3. Women Parliamentarians: A Study in the Indian Context, Har-Anand Publications, New Delhi (1994)
  4. Women in Decision Making (ed.) Vikas Publishers, New Delhi (1992)
  5. Dahej Pidit Mahilayen (Hindi), Maral Prakashan, New Delhi (1991)
  6. Grameen Bharat Mein Stree Pradhan Parivar (Hindi), Maral Prakashan, New Delhi (1991)
  7. Brides Are Not For Burning: Dowry Victims in India, Radiant Publishers, New Delhi (1989)
  8. Growing Up in Rural India: Problems and Needs of Adolescent Girls, Radiant Publishers, New Delhi (1989)
  9. Widows Abandoned and Destitute Women in India, Radiant Publishers, New Delhi (1989)
  10. Women Headed Households in Rural India, Radiant Publishers, New Delhi (1989)
  11. Female Sexuality and Bodily Functions in Hindu Religious Traditions, Joint Women’s Programme, New Delhi (1989)
  12. Higher Education and Scheduled Tribe Youth: A Case Study of Chattisgarh, Radiant Publishers, New Delhi (1989)
  13. Impact of Education on Scheduled Caste Youth in India: A Study of Social Transformation in Bihar and Madhya Pradesh, Radiant Publishers, New Delhi (1989)

Accolades

  • Apolitical’s list of 100 Most Influential People in Gender Policy 2019
  • Recipient of United Nations Development Fund for Women (UNIFEM) Achievement Award inrecognition of CSR’s role in significantly improving the lives of women in India
  • Recipient of Honour of the Nation award in 1990 from the President of India
  • Recipient of African Women Award in 1996 for making important contributions to humanity
  • Felicitated by Lt. Governor of Delhi for working towards protecting the rights of women of Delhi and improving their quality of life
  • Recipient of Honour for commendable work under Crisis Intervention Centre for rape Victims( South West District) from Delhi Commission for Women
  • Recipient of Sahajan and Saraswati Award
  • Received national and international recognition for working towards women’s empowerment
  • Delhi Commission for Women honoured for working towards protection of the rights of women of Delhi and improving their quality of life. The award received on 18th January 2001 from H.E. Shri Vijay Kapoor, Lt. Governor, and NCT of Delhi.
  • Recipient of the The Sally Mugabe Memorial Awards (1996) given to women for making important contributions to humanity through their various careers.
  • The President of India, Gyani Zail Singh gave her Honour of the Nation award in 1990 for her contribution made towards the empowerment of women.