Explore the Social Service League, founded by Narayan Malhar Joshi to improve living conditions. The League's diverse activities included education, legal aid, and social services. Joshi also established the All India Trade Union Congress in 1920.

The Social Service League, founded by Narayan Malhar Joshi in Bombay, played a crucial role in social reform movements in India. It focused on improving the living and working conditions of the masses through education, healthcare, and welfare activities. This topic is highly relevant for students and exam preparation as it connects with Indian freedom struggle and the rise of social organizations.

Founding and Activities of Social Service League in India (1911)

• The Social Service League was established to uplift masses and ensure better living standards.

  Founded in 1911 by Narayan Malhar Joshi, a close follower of Gopal Krishna Gokhale, the organization worked to improve social, educational, and economic conditions of common people.

  • (i) Focused on social welfare, education, and mass empowerment.
  • (ii) Inspired by Gokhale’s Servants of India Society.
  • (iii) Aimed at practical solutions for urban poor and working-class issues.

• Activities of the Social Service League in India

  The League engaged in wide-ranging welfare, educational, and health-based activities to uplift marginalized communities.

  • Educational and Cultural Initiatives

    The League promoted education and social awareness through institutions and cultural programs.

    • (i) Establishment of schools, libraries, and reading rooms.
    • (ii) Organization of day nurseries and cooperative societies.
    • (iii) Encouragement of gymnasia, theatrical performances, and excursions for slum dwellers.

  • Legal and Social Support

    To protect the poor and illiterate, the League extended legal and civic assistance.

    • (a) Police court agents’ work to support vulnerable groups.
    • (b) Free legal aid and advice for workers and slum dwellers.
    • (c) Sanitary drives and medical relief measures.

  • Youth and Community Programs

    The League inspired youth participation and built community-based initiatives.

    • Boys’ Clubs: Established for skill-building and discipline.
    • Scout Corps: Trained youth in leadership and community service.
    • Community Integration: Brought together people from diverse backgrounds for social change.

• Joshi and the Trade Union Movement in India

  Narayan Malhar Joshi extended his reformist vision into labor rights by establishing the All India Trade Union Congress in 1920.

  • (i) The Congress marked the beginning of organized labor rights in India.
  • (ii) It provided a platform for workers’ welfare, wages, and dignity.
  • (iii) Strengthened links between social reform and labor movements.

• Summary of the Social Service League and Its Importance

  The Social Service League, founded in 1911 by Narayan Malhar Joshi, emerged as a pioneering institution in India’s social reform and welfare movement. Its role in promoting education, legal aid, healthcare, and youth mobilization significantly shaped urban welfare. The League’s contribution, along with Joshi’s leadership in the 1920 All India Trade Union Congress, highlights its long-term impact. For students and exam aspirants, this is a vital topic linking freedom struggle, social reforms, and labor rights.