Discuss the major landmarks in the history of case work development in India
Case work is one of the primary methods of social work, focusing on helping individuals solve their personal and social problems. In India, the development of case work has a rich history shaped by social reforms, colonial influence, educational institutions, and the needs of a diverse population. This blog highlights the major milestones in the growth of case work in India in simple and clear language.
1. Traditional Social Support in Ancient India
Before the professionalization of social work, Indian society had its own traditional forms of helping. Families, caste groups, religious institutions, and local communities supported those in need. Though informal, this laid a cultural foundation for case work by encouraging care and support for individuals in distress.
2. Impact of Religious and Social Reform Movements
In the 19th and early 20th centuries, social reformers like Raja Ram Mohan Roy, Swami Vivekananda, Ishwar Chandra Vidyasagar, and others worked to address social evils such as child marriage, widow remarriage, and caste discrimination. Their work introduced organized efforts to support individuals facing injustice, a step towards structured case work.
3. Role of Christian Missionaries
Christian missionaries played a significant role in setting up schools, hospitals, and orphanages during British rule. They provided direct services to individuals in need, often through personalized attention and counseling. This closely resembled modern case work methods and influenced Indian approaches to social work.
4. Establishment of Professional Training – TISS (1936)
The Sir Dorabji Tata Graduate School of Social Work, now known as the Tata Institute of Social Sciences (TISS), was established in 1936 in Mumbai. It was the first institute in India and Asia to offer professional training in social work. Case work was one of the core methods taught, marking a turning point in its structured development in India.
5. Post-Independence Expansion
After India gained independence in 1947, there was a need to rebuild the nation and address poverty, health, education, and social welfare. Trained social workers were needed in various fields like family welfare, child development, and rehabilitation. Case work became essential in working with individuals facing personal problems, making it a commonly used method.
6. Growth of Schools of Social Work
Following TISS, other institutions began offering social work education across India, such as:
- Delhi School of Social Work (1946)
- Madras School of Social Work (1952)
- Nirmala Niketan College of Social Work, Mumbai
All these institutions emphasized case work as a core subject and practical training component.
7. Government and NGO Involvement
The Indian government began employing social workers in various departments like health, education, child welfare, and correctional institutions. NGOs also adopted case work for community and individual-based services. Case workers became an important part of both public and private welfare systems.
8. Use in Clinical and Psychiatric Settings
Case work also expanded into mental health and clinical settings. Hospitals and psychiatric clinics began employing medical social workers to deal with patients and families. Their job was to assess individual needs, provide counseling, and connect them with resources.
9. Integration with Social Development Programs
Case work methods were adapted to suit Indian conditions, particularly in rural areas. Programs like Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS), rural health missions, and women’s empowerment schemes used case work to support individuals within the larger community context.
10. Modern Developments
Today, case work is widely used in:
- Child protection services
- Rehabilitation of drug addicts
- Support for domestic violence victims
- Correctional institutions and probation services
- Hospitals and schools
Case work is now supported by technology, counseling techniques, and interdisciplinary approaches.
Conclusion
From informal help in ancient times to a professional method today, case work in India has gone through significant evolution. Each landmark—from social reformers and missionaries to institutions like TISS—has played a role in shaping the practice. With growing social challenges, the role of case work continues to be important in improving individual well-being and contributing to national development.