Events in the year 1878 in India.
- National income - ₹3,960 million
- 20 September – The Hindu, an Indian newspaper, was founded.
- Vernacular Press Act[1]
- Indian Treasure Trove Act
- Sea Customs Act
- Dentists Act (British statute)
- Elders' Widows' Fund (India) Act (British statute)
- Territorial Waters Jurisdiction Act (British statute)
- 15 June - Shiv Dayal Singh, Founder and first Satguru of Radha Soami faith (born 1818).