TISS Mumbai condoles demise of former director Armaity S Desai

The Tata Institute of Social Sciences (TISS) has expressed grief over the demise of former director Armaity S Desai. Born in 1934, Desai pursued her education in sociology from the University of Mumbai and social work from TISS. She served as TISS director from 1982 to 95.

Desai earned her PhD in social work from the University of Chicago in 1969. She was also the chairperson of the University Grants Commission (UGC) in 1995-99 and was also associated with the College of Social Work, Nirmala Niketan, from 1957-82.

Desai made contributions to shape social work education and higher education policy in India and extended her engagement globally through her work with organisations like the United Nations, the Commonwealth Secretariat, and various Planning Commission committees. She was a recipient of awards and honorary doctorates and leaves behind a legacy of scholarship, leadership, and service.

“A legend has passed away who contributed to lakhs of people in society through her actions and vision in social work,” said her close friend Noshir at her Funeral today.

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Former director of TISS

According to the official statement, her friend said, as a director of TISS , if anyone sent a note to her, it would come back the next morning with her comments. Such was her dedication and efficiency. Above all, she was a kind, compassionate, and generous person who personally cared for each employee and their families.

Additionally, she had also started and nurtured the Day Care Centre with a permanent position at the care centre with a teacher and a caretaker position for women employees, so that women can work without worrying about their children. She founded the rural campus of TISS at the Tuljapur campus of 100 acres of land in the Solapur district of Maharashtra, which is known as the rural campus of TISS today.

Her funeral took place with close ones at Parsi Cremation Hall, Hindu Shamshan Ghat, Worli, at 3:45 pm. The faculty members of TISS and other retired members were also present.