Introduction
Social welfare administration is the process of planning, organizing, directing, and controlling social welfare programs. It ensures that social services reach the people who need them. In India, the concept of social welfare has been present since ancient times. Over the years, the approach to social welfare has evolved based on political, economic, and social changes. Understanding the history of social welfare administration in India helps us appreciate how systems have developed to support the needs of the people, especially the poor and marginalized.
Ancient and Medieval Period
1. Ancient Period
In ancient India, social welfare was mostly informal and based on religious values, charity, and community cooperation. Kings and rulers took responsibility for the welfare of their subjects. The concept of “Dharma” (duty) emphasized helping the poor, elderly, and sick.
- Temples and religious institutions provided food and shelter to the needy.
- Joint family systems supported orphans, widows, and aged members.
- Community members often came together during disasters or festivals to help each other.
2. Medieval Period
During the Mughal period, rulers like Akbar promoted welfare by building hospitals, rest houses, and educational institutions. However, these efforts were still informal and limited to religious and royal charity.
Social welfare was not systematized or managed through policies and administration as we see today.
British Period
The British colonial rule marked the beginning of formal social welfare administration in India. However, it was limited and mainly served British interests.
Major Developments:
- Introduction of modern education, especially after 1854.
- Development of health services and hospitals in urban areas.
- Establishment of the Indian Famine Commission in response to famines.
- Growth of voluntary organizations and social reform movements.
Leaders like Raja Ram Mohan Roy, Swami Vivekananda, and Jyotirao Phule started social reform movements to fight against caste discrimination, child marriage, and women’s oppression. Their efforts laid the foundation for modern social work in India.
Post-Independence Period
After independence in 1947, the Indian government adopted a welfare state approach. It took full responsibility for the well-being of its citizens, especially the poor and disadvantaged.
Constitutional Provisions:
- The Indian Constitution guarantees equality, justice, and freedom.
- Directive Principles of State Policy guide the government to promote welfare.
- Right to Education, Right to Work, and Right to Health were emphasized.
Five-Year Plans:
- The First Five-Year Plan (1951-1956) focused on agriculture, health, and rural development.
- Later plans introduced schemes for education, employment, women’s welfare, and tribal development.
- Ministry of Social Welfare was established in 1964 (now Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment).
Growth of Social Welfare Administration:
- Creation of Central and State Welfare Departments.
- Development of training institutions like the Tata Institute of Social Sciences (TISS).
- Introduction of various social welfare schemes like ICDS (for children), MNREGA (for rural employment), and pensions for elderly and disabled people.
Recent Developments
In recent decades, India has seen major changes in social welfare administration:
- Use of technology like Aadhaar for delivering services.
- Public-private partnerships and involvement of NGOs.
- Focus on women empowerment, skill development, and inclusive growth.
- Launch of Digital India, Beti Bachao Beti Padhao, and Swachh Bharat campaigns.
- Social audits and transparency in welfare schemes.
Challenges in Social Welfare Administration
- Corruption and misuse of funds.
- Lack of trained personnel in rural areas.
- Unequal distribution of services.
- Low awareness among people about available schemes.
Conclusion
The history of social welfare administration in India is rich and dynamic. From religious charity in ancient times to structured policies and schemes today, the journey has been long. With constitutional support, planned development, and dedicated institutions, India has made progress in providing welfare to its citizens. However, continuous efforts are needed to improve efficiency, transparency, and reach. Social workers and administrators play a vital role in ensuring that the benefits of welfare truly reach those who need them the most.