The Tata Institute of Social Sciences (TISS) was established in 1936 with the vision of engaging in a continuous study of social issues and problems, and imparting education in social work to meet the emerging need for trained human resources. In 1964, TISS was recognized as a Deemed University by the Government of India. Since then TISS has been expanding continuously in terms of educational programmes and infrastructure and currently has five schools and four independent centres that go far beyond its initial concern of social work education.
 

TISS has been undertaking innovative Field Action Projects (FAPs) since 1930s. These FAPs focus on the empowerment of marginalised groups, testing new approaches and strategies in response to changing social realities, facilitating development of field-based knowledge and practice–theory continuum. The institute has made significant contributions to policy, planning, action strategies and development of human service professionals in several areas ranging from sustainable rural and urban development to education, and health. Because of this kind of contribution, it has gained immense recognition from different ministries of Government of India, multilateral agencies like United Nations, national and international non-government organisations, and corporate.

 

TISS has had a long history of responding to various crises such as floods, riots, cyclones, industrial disasters and such, in different parts of the country. The work has been focused not just on immediate relief but also on preparedness measures, long term recovery and reconstruction activities.

With a 5-star rating in 2002 and “A” grade with a 3.88 score on scale of 4 by NAAC in 2009, TISS continues to be one of the prestigious institutes in the country and attracts students from across the country and abroad.