Social Work in India: Stuck in Childhood or Ready for Change?

Abstract

The social work profession in India, though nearly a century old, continues to face developmental, structural, and identity-related challenges. Despite significant contributions to social welfare, social workers struggle for recognition due to societal misconceptions, cultural barriers, and their frequent relegation to subordinate roles. Persistent issues such as caste hierarchies, gender norms, and political interference often impede their ability to implement sensitive interventions effectively. The discipline’s overdependence on Western theories has also hindered the evolution of indigenous frameworks. A lack of regulatory mechanisms, non-uniform curricula, and disparities in training quality weaken professional credibility. Additionally, limited government integration of trained social workers, unstable NGO funding, inadequate compensation, emotional burnout, and insufficient mental health support further undermine the sustainability of the profession. Strengthening regulatory bodies, enhancing educational standards, improving workplace conditions, and encouraging research and evidence-based practice are crucial for advancing professional social work in India.