Religion and development share a complex and dynamic relationship in which religious beliefs, institutions, and values influence patterns of social, economic, and political change. In India, religion has historically shaped individual behaviour, collective identities, moral norms, and institutional structures. While modernization theories initially assumed that development would diminish the significance of religion, contemporary sociological studies demonstrate that religion continues to play an important role in promoting as well as constraining development. The relationship is therefore neither uniformly positive nor negative but depends upon historical context, interpretation of religious teachings, and the nature of social institutions. Classical sociologists have provided different perspectives on this relationship. Max Weber argued that religious ethics significantly influence economic behaviour. In his work on the Protestant ethic, he showed how religious values such as discipline, hard work, thrift, and rationality encouraged capitalist development. Although Weber focused on Europe, his framework has inspired studies of how religious values in different societies affect economic activities. Emile Durkheim viewed religion as a source of social solidarity, strengthening collective consciousness and social integration, both of which contribute to stable social development. Karl Marx, however, regarded religion as an ideological tool that could legitimize inequality and discourage resistance by promising rewards in the afterlife instead of addressing material deprivation. Religion contributes to social development by fostering values of compassion, cooperation, charity, and service. Religious organizations frequently establish schools, hospitals, orphanages, old-age homes, and relief centres that improve access to education, healthcare, and welfare services. In India, organizations such as the Ramakrishna Mission, Sikh Gurudwaras through the institution of langar, Christian missionary institutions, and numerous Islamic charitable trusts have significantly contributed to literacy, healthcare, disaster relief, and community welfare. Religion also promotes social capital by creating networks of trust, mutual support, and voluntary participation. These networks encourage community