Samaj Bikshan Kendra was established in 1981 with the mission of coordinating research projects and supporting reconstruction work. Over time, the organization expanded its focus to include homes for the aged and programs for scholars. In addition, Samaj Bikshan Kendra has actively undertaken training programs, organized seminars and workshops, and documented data on the evolving conditions in rural communities.
Since its inception, the Kendra has facilitated numerous research projects sponsored by the Indian Council of Social Science Research (ICSSR), the Indian Council of Historical Studies, and the William Carey Research Centre. Our Director has been recognized with a Senior Fellowship from both ICSSR and the Centre for the Study of Developing Societies (CSDS), Delhi. Notable initiatives include a Baseline Survey on Water and Sanitation, conducted across multiple districts and in Calcutta, with several findings later published as project reports.
In the late 1980s, Samaj Bikshan Kendra established an Old Age Home in Jhargram, Dist. Midnapore (now Jhargram). Although this Home was later discontinued due to local disturbances, the organization continued to engage in meaningful fieldwork. Between 2006 and 2012, alongside conducting election studies, our team assisted scholars from the University of Tokyo in collecting data on women’s self-help groups in Hooghly and 24 Parganas districts.
The Kendra has consistently supported eminent scholars and artists, including the late artist Shyamal Dutta Roy and Vidyasagar biographer Indra Mitra. We also organize centenary celebrations, commemorative seminars, and observe important national and cultural days.
Our initiatives in community development have included providing monthly scholarships to underprivileged students from villages and slums. Under the AUJ Pratipalan Project, we supplied young goats to poor families, whose offspring were subsequently distributed to other BPL (Below Poverty Line) beneficiaries. Self-help groups in Kachuberia village, 24 Parganas (South), Kulpi block, have also benefited from this initiative.
In 2014, the Kendra conducted a survey in Purulia district at the request of the Confederation of Indian Industries (CII) to assess industrial and employment potential. We regularly undertake survey and qualitative data collection projects on a contractual basis. Additionally, we provide consultancy services to promote handicrafts and support ethnic craftsmen, compiling data across districts in Orissa and Bihar.
Following the disaster of Cyclone “Umphan,” our relief team, in collaboration with the Kachuberia Development Action Group, provided aid to affected communities.
As part of a planned organizational transition, Samaj Bikshan Kendra is undertaking a complete makeover process starting 1st July 2025, which is expected to conclude by 30th June 2026.