The evolution of social work education in India can be traced back to the early 20th century, marked by a gradual development from charitable and religious activities to a more formalized, professional education system. Social work, as a discipline, emerged as a response to the growing social problems in the country, such as poverty, caste discrimination, and the need for social reform. The history of social work education in India reflects both the socio-political changes in the country and the influence of Western ideas on Indian institutions.

In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, social work in India was primarily driven by charitable organizations and religious institutions. There were no formal institutions offering education in social work, and much of the work was done through voluntary services, often associated with philanthropic activities. These early efforts were aimed at addressing immediate social issues like famine, epidemics, and the needs of the poor and marginalized communities. The focus was more on service and charity rather than on professional social work.

The real turning point in the development of social work education came during the British colonial period when Western ideas of social welfare and social