Colonial legacy and professional imperialism in social work: Calls for Bharatiyakaran / Indianisation of social work education in India

Abstract

Overreliance on linear theories of social change particularly and denial of autonomy to indigenous fundamental social institutions are major tentacles of colonial legacy which has created obstacles for developing independent perspectives on social work in India. It has also critically examined the adverse impacts of colonial legacy on indigenous social institutions and traditional practices in India related to health, family welfare and women empowerment, environment conservation and village development besides making recommendations for revival of the social work discipline in India with a vision to place it on right track for meaningful national and global contributions. The paper has recommended for adopting the Bharatiyakaran/Indianisation of social work education in India.

Key Terms: Social Change, Professional Imperialism, colonial legacy, Bharatiyakaran/Indianisation of Social Work Education, Afrocentric
Social Work