Evolution of social work in India: Socio-religious reform movement

Social work has a long history in India, dating back to the socio-religious reform movements of the late 19th and early 20th centuries. These movements sought to address social issues such as poverty, illiteracy, and the mistreatment of women and children.

 

The first major socio-religious reform movement in India was the Brahmo Samaj, which was founded in 1828 by Raja Ram Mohan Roy. The Brahmo Samaj sought to promote the worship of one God and to abolish caste distinctions. The movement also established schools and advocated for the education of women.

 

Another important socio-religious reform movement was the Arya Samaj, which was founded in 1875 by Swami Dayanand Saraswati. The Arya Samaj sought to promote the Vedic religion and to reform Indian society by promoting education and the emancipation of women. The movement also advocated for the abolition of child marriage and the caste system.

 

The social work activities of these movements paved the way for the emergence of modern social work in India. In the early 20th century, several organizations were established to address social issues. The National Council of Women in India, for example, was founded in 1925 to promote women's rights and to improve the status of women in society.

 

In 1936, the Tata Institute of Social Sciences was founded in Mumbai to provide professional social work education. Today, the institute is one of the most prestigious social work schools in India and offers degree programs in social work, social entrepreneurship, and development practice.

 

Over the years, social work in India has continued to evolve and expand. Today, social workers in India work on a wide range of issues, including poverty, healthcare, education, human rights, and environmental protection. They work in a variety of settings, including government agencies, non-governmental organizations, and private organizations.

 

As India continues to grow and develop, social work will continue to play an important role in addressing social issues and promoting social justice. By building on the legacy of the socio-religious reform movements, social workers in India can continue to make a positive impact on society.

 

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