Global recognition for a grassroots changemaker
Varsha Deshpande Receives Global Honour for Women’s Rights Advocacy: In a landmark recognition of grassroots activism, Varsha Deshpande, a noted women’s rights advocate from Satara, Maharashtra, has been named the recipient of the 2025 United Nations Population Award. The honour, announced on World Population Day (July 11) in New York, applauds her persistent efforts to fight gender discrimination and protect the rights of the girl child.
This award marks four decades of the UN Population Award, which acknowledges significant contributions in the fields of population and reproductive health.
Over three decades of relentless work
Deshpande’s journey in social reform began in 1990 when she established the Dalit Mahila Vikas Mandal, an organisation committed to uplifting marginalised women. Her activism has particularly focused on curbing sex-selective practices and enhancing the social and legal status of women from oppressed backgrounds.
One of her most impactful contributions has been her use of sting operations to uncover illegal gender-based abortions. These efforts significantly bolstered the enforcement of the Pre-Conception and Pre-Natal Diagnostic Techniques (PCPNDT) Act, aimed at preventing misuse of technology for sex selection.
Static GK fact: The PCPNDT Act is a critical Indian law passed in 1994 to stop female foeticide and ensure regulation of prenatal diagnostic techniques.
Champion of multiple women-centric causes
Beyond fighting sex-selective abortions, Deshpande has led numerous campaigns to end child marriage, secure legal rights for women, and create pathways for economic empowerment. Her vision has been deeply rooted in community-based activism, particularly benefiting Dalit women and those in rural India.
Static GK Tip: As per UNICEF data, India accounts for a third of the world’s child brides, making the fight against early marriage a vital social issue.
Her approach combines legal literacy, social mobilisation, and policy advocacy, making her a force for sustainable gender reform at the grassroots level.
A proud moment for Indian social sector
The United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), which administers the award, hailed Deshpande for confronting deeply rooted issues related to caste, gender, and religion. Andrea M Wojnar, the UNFPA India head, emphasised the long-term impact of Deshpande’s work on reproductive choices and dignity for women.
In her acceptance remarks, Deshpande dedicated the award to all those who fight for equality and said it represents collective action toward a just and inclusive society.
Static GK Tip: The UN Population Award has been honouring individuals and organisations since 1983 for exceptional contributions in population-related work, including family planning and reproductive rights.
Award with a mission
The 2025 honour reaffirms the global importance of community-led activism in addressing pressing social challenges. Deshpande’s work stands as a testament to how sustained local efforts can lead to international recognition and drive real policy change.
Static Usthadian Current Affairs Table
Varsha Deshpande Receives Global Honour for Women’s Rights Advocacy:
| Topic | Detail |
| Award Name | UN Population Award 2025 |
| Winner (Individual) | Varsha Deshpande |
| Event Date | July 11, 2025 (World Population Day) |
| Organisation | United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) |
| Key Work Area | Gender equality and anti–sex selection campaigns |
| Organisation Founded | Dalit Mahila Vikas Mandal (1990) |
| Law Advocated | PCPNDT Act, 1994 |
| Other Causes | Child marriage prevention, women’s legal rights |
| Event Location | New York, United States |
| Award Established | 1981, first given in 1983 |
