A series of La1-xSrxFeO3 (x = 0.0-1.0) oxides were prepared to study the influence of A-site substitution in perovskite-type mixed oxides LaFeO3 (ABO(3)-type perovskites) on the catalytic transfer hydrogenation of aromatic nitro compounds using propan-2-ol as hydrogen donor and KOH as promoter. The conventional method for the preparation of perovskites requires conductive heating for extended periods at elevated temperatures. We have used microwave irradiation method for the rapid synthesis of La1-xSrxFeO3 (x = 0.0, 0.2, 1.0) perovskites and the catalytic activity of these samples has been tested for the reduction of nitrobenzene. Kinetic studies have also been performed for nitrobenzene reduction. (C) 2004 Published by Elsevier B.V.