It was founded in 1987 by Devnandandasji Swami, usually addressed as HDH Bapji[2] by his devotees and followers,[3][4] It propagates the preaching and teaching of Swaminarayan[5] as explained by Jivanpran Abajibapashri.

Multifaceted activities in areas like social, cultural, educational, religious fields are carried out by SMVS under the directions and guidance of Bapji and his second in-command and current Guru Satyasankalpdasji Swami, who is usually addressed as HDH Swamishri.

[6] Many of their saints and devotees have visited India, UK, USA, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Kenya, Uganda, Zambia, Bahrain, Kuwait, Dubai, and other parts of the world to propagate preaching and teaching of Sahajanand Swami and also to monitor construction[6] and expansion of SMVS Swaminarayan temples as well as other related religious and cultural activities such as functioning of medical centres, old age homes, schools, hospitals, and other charities.

Thus, by speeding up temple construction projects,  SMVS is not only helping the betterment of society but also, is playing an important role in spreading the principles and values of the Swaminarayan sect.

Shortly, hundreds of pieces of land will be acquired for the construction of temples in every state of India and every district of Gujarat and taluka thereof.

These youth groups cultivate, spiritual values such as simple living, observing basic conduct of religion, worshipping Bhagwan Swaminarayan, learning to lead an austere life.

There are more than 20,000 spiritual assemblies[12] are conducted every year by saints of SMVS in which thousands of followers acquire religious knowledge.

The force of 10,000 volunteers is always ready and equipped on the command of HDH Bapji for relief programs and upliftment of society.

With its laudable service, more than 5 such medical centres have been opened in Ahmedabad, Gujarat The land of Panchmahal has been overshadowed with poverty for many decades.

Due to the lack of literacy, tribal people are entrapped in evil deeds like addiction, delusion, superstition, burglary, and robbery.

[19] Currently, SMVS is conducting many social and spiritual activities in more than 200 villages of the Panchmahal district for tribal upliftment.

Thereafter, by HDH Bapji's inspiration, SMVS joined the ‘Clean India' campaign organized by the Central Indian Government.

By the help of women ascetics, SMVS conducts the spiritual activities of all-female dhun mandals, VCD Satsang centers, etc.

[21] Bhakti Niwas Bhagwan Swaminarayan initiated a new tradition in which women could also lead an ascetic life and worship God, just like men.