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Eroding Family Values: A Nation at the Crossroads – The Need for a Social Work Council in Viksit Bharat

As Viksit Bharat takes shape, the Supreme Court’s concerns over the rise of one person, one family highlight a deepening crisis in our social fabric. The erosion of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam calls for urgent action. A Social Work Council is the need of the hour—to empower trained professionals in strengthening family bonds and addressing youth well-being

The recent concerns expressed by the Supreme Court about the erosion of family values and the increasing trend of "one person, one family" have sparked an important conversation about the state of social cohesion in India. As our country moves towards the vision of Viksit Bharat, it becomes imperative to uphold the ethos of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam—the belief that the world is one family. This evolving societal structure necessitates the urgent need for a structured and competent social work council to address the real-life issues faced by young individuals and families today.


The establishment of a Social Work Council is crucial for responding to the emerging social challenges and ensuring that social workers are well-equipped to navigate complex family and youth-related issues. Social workers play a pivotal role in addressing mental health concerns, substance abuse, domestic conflicts, and the overall well-being of individuals within the family unit. By establishing a national regulatory body, we can ensure that trained social workers receive recognition, accreditation, and structured pathways for professional development.
The National Institute for Social Defence (NISD) has been actively involved in sensitizing social work educators about the widening scope of social defence. As highlighted by Suneel Vatsyayan, CEO of Vidya Lead Academy and a resource person for various NISD courses, social defence is intricately linked to the social work profession. The NISD’s efforts showcase how social defence can be a pillar in strengthening social work as a profession, ensuring that trained professionals are well-equipped to handle social crises effectively.

The National Commission for Women’s decision to establish pre-marital counseling centers is a commendable move towards strengthening family structures. These centers, staffed by accredited social workers, can provide guidance on relationship management, financial planning, conflict resolution, and emotional well-being. With proper training and recognition, social workers can play a crucial role in reinforcing family values and preventing marital discord.

The Need for a National Council for Social Work: Bridging the Gap Between Education and Practice

As Viksit Bharat envisions a progressive society, the role of trained social workers in addressing pressing social challenges cannot be overlooked. However, the gap between social work education and practice remains a significant barrier. The Supreme Court’s concerns about the erosion of family values highlight the urgent need for skilled professionals who can navigate societal shifts and strengthen social bonds.

To bridge this gap, the establishment of a National Council for Social Work is vital. According to the 2021 proposal submitted to the Ministry of Education, key reforms are needed, including a database of social work institutions and programs, a structured human resource plan, updated curricula, and standardized training for online and distance learning. Without these measures, the profession risks stagnation, and the country loses out on a well-equipped social workforce.

Initiatives like NISD’s social defense programs and the National Commission for Women’s premarital counseling centers underscore the growing demand for trained social workers. Yet, without formal recognition and accreditation, their impact remains limited. Sustained efforts are required to implement these reforms and ensure that social work education evolves to meet India’s changing social landscape. Strengthening the social work profession is not just about education—it is about creating a resilient society. 

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