MUMBAI, 01 September 2025 – The United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) India announced the appointment of acclaimed actor, producer and entrepreneur Kriti Sanon as its Honorary Ambassador for Gender Equality today. The announcement was made at an event in Mumbai, underscoring their joint commitment to advancing gender equality and empowering women and girls across India. In her new role, Ms. Sanon will advocate for the rights and well-being of women and girls, extending her support to addressing critical issues such as empowerment, education, ending gender-based violence and ensuring equal opportunities for all.
While progress is evident with more women than ever before in education, leadership, and the workforce, harmful social norms continue to limit opportunities for women and girls in India and around the world. As UNFPA India’s Honorary Ambassador for Gender Equality, Kriti Sanon will work with partners to champion solutions that help women and girls learn, lead, and thrive.
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Key Facts on Gender Equality in India
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Speaking at the event, Kriti Sanon expressed her commitment to her new role, saying, “I am deeply honored to join UNFPA India as their Honorary Ambassador for Gender Equality. This role provides an incredible platform to advocate for the rights and choices of women and girls, ensuring they have the freedom to make their own decisions, pursue their dreams, and live free from violence and discrimination. I am deeply passionate about empowering every woman and girl, helping amplify their voices, tell their stories, and inspire collective action towards a more equal and just society. I look forward to working closely with UNFPA India to make a tangible difference in their lives.”
Andrea M. Wojnar, UNFPA India Representative, welcomed Ms. Sanon, stating, “We are thrilled to welcome Kriti Sanon as our Honorary Ambassador for Gender Equality. Her powerful voice, passion, and widespread influence will be instrumental in amplifying our message and reaching a broader audience, especially young people. Kriti’s dedication to advancing the rights, opportunities, and safety of women and girls aligns perfectly with UNFPA’s vision of an equal and just society. We are confident that her efforts will inspire meaningful change and accelerate progress towards ensuring that every woman and girl can live with dignity and fulfil her potential.”
Pio Smith, UNFPA Regional Director for Asia and the Pacific, extended his congratulations, adding, “Kriti Sanon’s appointment as UNFPA India’s Honorary Ambassador for Gender Equality is a powerful and significant milestone in our pursuit of the full and equal rights of all women and girls. Her influence extends far beyond India, and her voice will resonate across the Asia-Pacific region, where millions are striving for equal rights and opportunities. By championing their aspirations, Kriti will amplify the call for gender equality, inspire young people and help accelerate progress towards a future where every woman and girl can thrive.”
As Honorary Ambassador, Kriti Sanon’s two-year engagement plan with UNFPA India includes a series of impactful activities designed to further the cause of women and girls. These initiatives will involve field visits to UNFPA programme sites, allowing her to directly engage with communities. She will raise awareness through campaigns and opinion pieces, and join UNFPA events and advocacy efforts nationally and internationally to champion the empowerment of women and girls.
For over five decades, UNFPA India has partnered with the Government of India and civil society to advance gender equality, eliminate gender-based violence, and expand opportunities for women and girls. Together with Ms. Sanon, UNFPA will continue to work towards a future where every woman and girl in India can live with dignity, make her own choices, and fulfil her potential.
