EPH-International Journal of Humanities and Social Science
Southern Cross Academic Press ISSN: 2208-2174(Online) EPH-International Journal of Humanities & Social Science (IJHSS) The EPH-International Journal of Humanities & Social Science (IJHSS) is an open-access, peer-reviewed journal providing scholarly publication of articles across the humanities and social sciences. Published by Southern Cross Academic Press, the journal supports research in fields such as anthropology, business studies, economics, and development studies. Journal Profile Established Year 2016 Frequency Quarterly Review Process Double-blind peer review Access Model Open Access Publisher Southern Cross Academic Press
MATRILINY AND GENDER NEGOTIATION IN KHASI SOCIETY: RE-READING WOMEN’S POSITION THROUGH SOCIO-CULTURAL STRUCTURES
The Khasi society of Meghalaya is widely recognised for its matrilineal structure, where descent, inheritance, and clan identity are traced through the female line. Such a system has frequently led to the assumption that Khasi women enjoy complete social empowerment and gender equality. However, a closer examination of Khasi social institutions reveals a more nuanced reality. This paper examines the socio-cultural framework of Khasi society with particular attention to kinship, inheritance, political institutions, and religious practices in order to analyse the actual position of women within the matrilineal order. The study argues that although women occupy a central role in lineage preservation and property inheritance, authority in political, ritual, and decision-making spaces has historically remained male dominated. The paper therefore attempts to understand the tension between matriliny and gender equality and its implications for literary representation and social understanding.
Copyright (c) 2026 Authors https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/deed.en
TRENDS, CHALLENGES AND OPPORTUNITIES OF INDIA’S FOREIGN POLICY 2014 TO 2024
Between 2014 and 2024, India's foreign policy experienced a dramatic change driven by a rapidly shifting global order, changing national goals, and new geopolitical realities. Under Prime Minister Narendra Modi's direction, a more assertive, strategically independent, and interest-driven diplomatic framework was solidified over this decade. The change from "Look East" to "Act East," the revitalization of relations with the United States, the expansion of involvement in the Indo-Pacific, the fortification of the Quadrilateral Security Dialogue (QUAD), and a renewed focus on the Global South were among the major trends. Through programs like "Neighbourhood First," India's neighbourhood diplomacy aimed to increase economic integration, security cooperation, and regional connectivity. However, it also had to deal with issues like border tensions, Pakistan-centric security concerns, and China's strategic rise. Key foreign policy instruments include energy security, digital collaborations, diaspora participation, economic diplomacy, and climate negotiations. But India also faced a number of difficulties, such as managing reputational perceptions in relation to domestic political events, navigating the Russia-Ukraine conflict, opposing China's Belt and Road Initiative, responding to global supply-chain disruptions, and striking a balance with rival global powers. However, these difficulties also brought about new opportunities, including strategic technology cooperation, leadership in multilateral forums like the G20, the growth of defence alliances, a renewed emphasis on the Indian Ocean Region, and India's ascent as a responsible voice of emerging countries. All things considered, India's foreign policy from 2014 to 2024 shows a complex interaction between resiliency, ambition, and pragmatism, establishing the nation as a rising global force influencing a multipolar international order.
THE IMPACT OF SOCIAL MEDIA ALGORITHMS ON MENTAL HEALTH, SOCIAL BEHAVIOUR, AND DIGITAL IDENTITY AMONG GENERATION Z
Social media has undergone a dramatic transformation in how it is being used by generation Z; how they communicate, and their psychological experience as users. In digital settings, users are more and more encountering some content via social media algorithms, with which they interact and from which they experience emotional impact. This research aimed to examine how social media algorithm affects the mental health, social behaviours and digital identity development of Generation Z. The collected data were pre-processed and analyzed using descriptive statistics, correlation analysis and evaluation techniques based on regression analysis to analyze the relationship between algorithm-driven social media usage and psychosocial outcomes in Generation Z. The results showed that excessive use of personalized social media content was statistically significantly correlated with anxiety, emotional exhaustion, depression, fear of missing out (FOMO), and online validation dependency of the users belonging to Generation Z. Algorithmic recommendation systems also shaped social interactions, use of online platforms and the building of digital identities via engagement, or content exposure. The research additionally showed that the heavy users experienced emotional burnout, cyberbullying victimization, problems with privacy, and decreased face to face social interaction due to excessive social media use. In the meantime, social media also enabled younger people to share their knowledge of social issues, participate in culture and communication, and utilize digital media. The study concluded that algorithm-based digital environments can greatly influence users' psychological well-being and their social relationships in the Generation Z. The results highlight the need for digital literacy, ethical design of algorithms, mental health awareness and policy interventions for creating healthier online spaces in modern-day digital society.
TRIBAL NATURE OF LAW AND JUSTICE : HE KEBANG AS A LEGAL SYSTEM OF THE ADI TRIBE IN ARUNACHAL PRADESH
Society cannot progress until and unless there is a system for the adjudication of Justice among them. Without it, anarchy would prevail and there would be absolute chaos in the society. In the context of Arunachal Pradesh, the Adi tribe had their own system of dispensing justice among themselves since time immemorial. Even before the coming of modern courts, the administration of justice was carried out by the village councils known as Kebang according to their Customary Law for generations. Therefore, the paper attempts to highlight the function of Kebang as a Legal System of the Adi tribe in Arunachal Pradesh. The paper is descriptive and analytical in nature. It is based on both primary and secondary sources.
EDUCATIONAL EFFECTIVENESS OF TRADITIONAL VS. GAME-BASED LEARNING: A COMPARATIVE STUDY
The recent rapid development of educational technology has dramatically changed the pedagogical methods and practices that teachers and researchers have been critically analyzing in terms of the relative effectiveness of both traditional lecture-based instruction and game-based learning (GBL) in promoting the student achievement and engagement. With the growing role of digital tools in academic settings, the comparative effects of these tools on the educational outcomes have become an urgent concern in education research. This increasing discussion warrants stringent empirical research to inform instructional choices in a variety of learning situations. Current literature shows that there is substantive amount of research on the cognitive, affective and motivational aspect of both pedagogical methods; studies confirm that game-based learning has a greater engagement, motivation and skill to think on higher levels as compared to traditional methods which are still demonstrating their efficacy in structured delivery of knowledge as well as the performance in standardized assessment. The main aims of the study are to: (1) compare academic achievement of students in traditional teaching and learning in games; (2) to examine engagement, motivation and satisfaction in both teaching and learning; and (3) to find out which demographic and subject related variables will moderate the effectiveness of instruction. The research design of this study is a survey-based research design which will use structured questionnaires to 360 respondents. The results of data analysis showed that GBL students had significantly higher mean scores on all three constructs, that is, Academic Performance (M = 3.91 vs. 2.93), Engagement and Motivation (M = 3.67 vs. 3.11), and Contextual Moderators (M = 3.96 vs. 2.90). The d effect sizes of Cohen were very large (0.745 to 1.280). These results refute the original hypothesis that traditional instruction is still superior in terms of knowledge retention, and indicate that an integrated pedagogical model can provide the most educational outcomes across different learner profiles.
CROPPING PATTERN VARIABILITY AND AGRICULTURAL TRANSFORMATION IN SIKKIM HIMALAYA
Agriculture in Sikkim is characterized by diverse cropping patterns shaped by variations in altitude, topography, and climatic conditions. This study examines the spatial and temporal dynamics of cropping systems in Sikkim, highlighting the role of agro-climatic diversity in determining crop combinations and agricultural practices. The findings reveal that cropping patterns vary significantly across altitudinal zones, with mono-cropping dominating higher elevations and multiple cropping systems prevalent in lower and mid-hill regions. Major cropping systems include rice-based, maize-based, potato-based, ginger-based, and millet-based patterns, each associated with specific ecological conditions and seasonal cycles. The study also identifies a transition from traditional subsistence agriculture to market-oriented cultivation, marked by the increasing importance of cash crops such as ginger, potato, and horticultural produce. Intercropping, relay cropping, and mixed farming systems are widely practiced to maximize productivity under limited land availability and steep terrain. However, the state continues to face challenges such as low productivity, dependence on external food supply, and environmental constraints. The paper concludes that sustainable agricultural development in Sikkim requires the promotion of climate-resilient cropping systems, improved resource management, and the integration of traditional knowledge with modern agricultural practices to enhance food security and farmers’ livelihoods.
YOUTH UNEMPLOYMENT AND GENDER INEQUALITY IN GLOBAL LABOUR MARKETS: IMPLICATIONS FOR SOCIAL DEVELOPMENT FROM 2014 TO 2024
Youth unemployment and gender inequality remain major concerns in global labour markets because they directly affect economic participation, social inclusion, and long-term development. This study examines unemployment patterns across countries, sex categories, age groups, and years from 2014 to 2024. A quantitative descriptive research design was adopted to analyse global unemployment trends, youth-adult differences, gender-based disparities, combined age-gender patterns, and country-wise unemployment variations. The study used publicly available unemployment data covering 189 countries and annual unemployment rates disaggregated by sex and age category. The findings show that overall unemployment declined from 12.80% in 2014 to 11.25% in 2024, although a sharp increase occurred in 2020. Youth unemployment remained substantially higher than adult unemployment throughout the period, confirming young people’s greater vulnerability in labour markets. Female unemployment was also consistently higher than male unemployment, showing a persistent gender gap. The combined analysis revealed that female youth experienced the highest unemployment burden across all demographic groups. Country-wise results further showed that unemployment pressure was concentrated in selected countries, with especially high female youth unemployment in 2024. The study concludes that youth unemployment and gender inequality continue to limit inclusive social development. Targeted employment policies, gender-responsive labour-market strategies, and stronger youth transition support are required to reduce these disparities.
THE IMPACT OF ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE ON EMPLOYMENT AND WORKFORCE TRENDS: EVIDENCE FROM AUTOMATION RISK, JOB MARKET PROJECTIONS, REMOTE WORK, AND GENDER DIVERSITY
This study examines the impact of artificial intelligence on employment and workforce trends using evidence from automation risk, job market projections, remote work, and gender diversity. The study uses a quantitative, descriptive, and exploratory research design based on the AI Job Trends Dataset, which includes occupation-level and industry-level information related to AI impact, automation risk, current job openings, projected openings, remote work ratio, education requirements, location, job status, and gender diversity. The analysis applies descriptive statistics, comparative analysis, cross-tabulation, correlation analysis, and visual presentation to identify patterns across major workforce indicators. The findings show that AI is associated with employment transformation, but its effects are not uniform across jobs, industries, education levels, and locations. Jobs with high AI impact are not necessarily linked with employment decline; rather, they show stronger projected employment growth than low AI impact jobs. Automation risk is present across the dataset, but it does not strongly explain projected employment change. Remote work and gender diversity remain relatively stable across most categories, suggesting a limited direct association with AI impact level. The study concludes that AI should be understood as a force of workforce transformation rather than simple job replacement. The findings highlight the need for reskilling, adaptive education, responsible AI adoption, and inclusive workforce planning.
IMPACT OF SOCIAL MEDIA ON MENTAL HEALTH AND ACADEMIC PERFORMANCE AMONG STUDENTS
The rapid growth of social media has significantly influenced students’ daily lives, raising concerns about its impact on mental health and academic performance. This study aimed to analyze the relationship between social media usage, psychological well-being, and academic outcomes among students using a dataset-driven approach. A publicly available dataset on student social media addiction was utilized to examine patterns of usage, addiction levels, sleep behavior, and their association with mental health scores and academic performance. The findings revealed that excessive social media usage is strongly associated with lower mental health scores, reduced sleep duration, and negative academic outcomes. Students with higher daily usage and addiction levels were more likely to report decreased academic performance and increased psychological distress. The study also highlighted the role of behavioral and lifestyle factors, such as sleep disruption and social conflicts, in mediating these relationships. While social media offers potential benefits for communication and learning, its uncontrolled use poses significant risks to student well-being and academic success. The results emphasize the need for balanced and responsible usage, along with targeted interventions to promote digital well-being. Overall, this study contributes to a better understanding of the complex interactions between social media behavior, mental health, and academic performance, providing valuable insights for educators, policymakers, and students.
GLOBAL HAPPINESS DYNAMICS: A COMPARATIVE SOCIOECONOMIC ANALYSIS OF WELL-BEING, GOVERNANCE, AND SOCIAL TRUST
The determinants of global happiness by a comparative socioeconomic model, which looks at the contributions of economic prosperity, social support, and the quality of governance. The research uses cross-national data of the world happiness data set to adopt a quantitative approach to examine cross-country variations in subjective well-being. The results suggest that the combination of economic and non-economic has a role in determining happiness, and GDP per capita, social support, life expectancy, and freedom to make life choices turned out to be important predictors. Of these, social support proves to have a particularly strong effect, which is why interpersonal relationships and social cohesion prove to have a stronger influence on determining well-being. Governance, which is proxied by corruption perceptions, also demonstrates a significant contribution, implying that institutional trust and transparency have a crucial role in improving life satisfaction. Conversely, the role of generosity in happiness appears to have a rather weak impact. The paper highlights the multidimensionality of well-being and reiterates that sustainable increases in happiness must be achieved through a multi-faceted approach beyond economic growth. The research becomes part of the larger discussion on global well-being and it provides the policy developers with insights on developing inclusive and sustainable development.
DIGITAL LIFESTYLES AND SOCIAL OUTCOMES: A CROSS-SECTIONAL ANALYSIS OF SOCIAL MEDIA USAGE PATTERNS
The study examines the relationship between digital lifestyles and social outcomes, focusing on how social media usage patterns influence psychological well-being and social behavior. Using a quantitative cross-sectional design and secondary data from a Kaggle dataset (N = 705), the study analyzes key variables including daily usage duration, sleep patterns, mental health, social conflicts, and addiction levels. Descriptive statistics, correlation analysis, and multiple regression models were employed to assess associations and predictive relationships. The findings reveal that higher social media usage is significantly associated with increased addiction (β = 0.066, p < 0.01), greater interpersonal conflicts (β = 0.487, p < 0.001), and negative academic impact (β = 0.596, p < 0.001), while showing strong negative relationships with sleep duration (β = -0.174, p < 0.001) and mental health (β = -0.585, p < 0.001). A secondary model confirms that excessive usage and conflict significantly reduce mental health, whereas adequate sleep improves it. The study contributes to digital sociology by providing an integrated framework linking usage patterns with multidimensional social outcomes. The results highlight the importance of balanced digital engagement and inform policy and educational strategies aimed at promoting digital well-being.
DEMOCRATIC GOVERNANCE AND CITIZEN PARTICIPATION: ASSESSING THE ROLE OF PUBLIC INSTITUTIONS IN SOCIAL DEVELOPMENT
This article examines the relationship between democratic governance, citizen participation, public institutions, and social development. It argues that democratic governance becomes socially meaningful only when citizens are able to participate in public decision-making and when public institutions are capable of responding to citizen needs. The study adopts a qualitative thematic research design based on secondary data. It draws on selected institutional reports and scholarly literature related to governance, civic engagement, open government, participatory development, accountability, and public service delivery. Thematic analysis was used to identify recurring patterns concerning institutional accountability, levels of participation, inclusion, public trust, digital engagement, service responsiveness, and barriers to meaningful participation. The findings show that citizen participation can strengthen accountability, improve service delivery, enhance public trust, and support inclusive social development. However, the impact of participation depends on institutional transparency, administrative capacity, civic awareness, and the extent to which citizen input influences actual decisions. The analysis also shows that participation may become symbolic when public institutions lack responsiveness or when marginalized groups face social, political, economic, or digital barriers. The article concludes that public institutions play a decisive mediating role between democratic participation and social development outcomes. Strengthening participatory governance therefore requires accountable institutions, inclusive engagement mechanisms, effective grievance redressal, accessible information, civic education, and digital participation systems that do not reproduce existing inequalities.
ANALYSING VISITOR BEHAVIOUR IN TOURISM DESTINATIONS: EVIDENCE FROM USER RATINGS AND PREFERENCES
The growing application of the digital platforms has changed the manner in which visitor behaviour in the tourism destinations is analysed with the user-generated ratings and preferences being some of the crucial indicators of the visitor’s response. This research explored visitor behaviour in a quantitative research methodology that was based on secondary data. The problem was analysed in terms of the effects of destination attributes on the ratings of visitors that were considered as proxies of behavioural responses. The descriptive statistics, correlation and regression analyses were used to establish the patterns and relationships in the data. The analysis noted that visitor rating was largely skewed towards positive ratings, which suggest that there are positive perceptions of tourism destinations. The destination characteristics that were identified to have a significant impact on visitor reaction were: category, popularity, and accessibility. Also, there were several behavioural patterns identified between tourists, and this indicated that there was a difference in the evaluation styles and preferences. This discovery of the various visitor segments further highlighted the heterogeneity of tourist behaviour and the need to consider such differences in the study of tourist behaviour. These results are shown to indicate that user created rating data can be a useful source of information concerning visitor behaviour in tourism situations. The research has a contribution to the research on behavioural tourism by offering a data-grounded view of the perception of destination by tourists and the development of tastes and preferences. It also provides practical implication to tourism stakeholders in enhancing the management of the destination, and the experience of the visitor.
Exploring The Trends Of Economic Downturns On Suicide Rates Over The Course Of History
This paper explores the trends of the suicide rates due to economic downturns over the course of history. The paper aims to explore the causes of suicide, how it affects the victims’ families, the change in suicide rates with every passing year and in different geographical areas and how society gets affected by it. This paper also aims to raise awareness on this lesser-acknowledged factor in society to prevent such happenings and their consequences. The crucial drivers of suicide and self-harm are the lack of economical and psychosocial support, along with the challenges faced by individuals to secure available jobs, like prejudice in society. This paper discusses the causes and cross-sectoral mitigation efforts to address these gaps, with the goal of building a healthy community and bringing global awareness.
REIMAGINING LUXURY HOSPITALITY IN SOUTH ASIA: A TRIPLE BOTTOM LINE ANALYSIS OF SUSTAINABILITY PRACTICES IN MAJOR INDIAN HOTEL CHAINS
The Indian luxury hospitality sector currently functions as a highly dynamic economic engine within South Asia, valued at an estimated USD 8.5 billion. Driven by rising domestic incomes, robust tourist inflows, and strategic government initiatives such as the Incredible India 2.0 campaign, the industry is experiencing unprecedented growth. However, the traditional operational model of luxury hospitality remains highly resource-intensive, resulting in a severe environmental toll characterized by excessive energy consumption, water depletion, and high greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. In an era defined by climate change and resource scarcity, the conventional paradigm of conspicuous consumption is increasingly unsustainable. This paper conducts a Triple Bottom Line (TBL) analysis to evaluate the sustainability practices of major Indian hotel chains. By examining the intersection of economic viability, environmental stewardship, and social responsibility, the study investigates how the industry is reimagining luxury.
PROTECTION GAPS AND LEGAL REMEDIES: ACCESS TO JUSTICE FOR CONFLICT INDUCED INTERNALLY DISPLACED CHILDREN IN CHHATTISGARH
Internal displacement is one of the worst human rights and humanitarian crises that the world faces today which disproportionately affects children. The major contributors to this phenomenon are conflicts, disasters, climate change, development etc. The present study examines the case of a tripartite violence between Naxalites, Salwa Judum-the state supported vigilante group and state forces, which shook the Bastar region of Chhattisgarh in the 2000s and forced the displacement of hundreds of thousands of people within and outside the state. This paper explores the manifold vices of conflict induced internal displacement on children including their recruitment as child soldiers, loss of education, trafficking, labour exploitation, separation from family, psychological trauma etc. These are intensified by India’s lack of a uniform policy for conflict induced IDPs despite India’s obligation under various international conventions. The paper further highlights various aspects like lack of reliable data, institutional co-ordination and sustainable rehabilitation frameworks and argues that in order to ensure access to justice to displaced children, there should be collective efforts from state as well as non-state entities. The paper concludes by suggesting incorporation of GPIDs into Indian law,designation of dedicated monitoring agencies and reintegration of displaced children for effective realization of their constitutional and human rights.
FEMININE IDENTITY AND VOICE IN SUJATA BHATT'S POETRY
The study presents a narrative review of the idea of feminine identity and poetic voice in the poems of Sujata Bhatt and the ways of how these two elements are constructed and conveyed through the lens of feminism, postcolonialism, and linguistics. The review recaps the literature available, to explore how the work of Bhatt reflects the subtleties of the diasporic experience where identity is gained in the process of cultural displacement, memory and hybridity. It indicates that feminine identity in her poems is not necessary but moves, it is negotiated in different spaces and cultural and linguistic. The paper also examines the poetic voice as a vehicle of agency and resistance that enables one to speak out against the marginalized experiences and reidentify oneself beyond the patriarchal framework. The role of language as a marker of identity and conflict zone is described as a special one and can be exploited to explain the significance of linguistic choices on belonging and cultural tenacity. This review provides a complete image about the overlapping of identity and voice in the poetry of Bhatt by integrating the views of the theory and thematic analysis. The results play out in a wider field of literature in terms of gender studies, cultural discourse and diasporic literature, where the importance of literary expression to current issues of identity, representation and inclusion can be discussed.
LABOUR CODE REFORMS AND YOUTH WORKFORCE INTEGRATION IN INDIA: IMPLICATIONS FOR EMPLOYMENT DYNAMICS IN THE MSME SECTOR
This study examines the transformation of India’s labour regulatory framework through the consolidation of 29 labour laws into four comprehensive codes: the Wage Code (2019), Industrial Relations Code (2020), Social Security Code (2020), and the Occupational Safety, Health, and Working Conditions Code (2020). This restructuring represents a significant shift toward simplifying labour compliance while aligning with global standards and contemporary workforce needs. The new framework aims to enhance employee welfare, improve workplace safety, and reduce the regulatory burden on businesses. A key focus of this research is the impact of these reforms on youth employment within small and informal enterprises, which continue to dominate India’s labour market. Traditionally characterized by unstructured hiring practices and limited adherence to formal regulations, this sector plays a crucial role in providing employment opportunities for young workers. The study critically compares the pre- and post-reform labour regimes to assess changes in employment patterns, workplace conditions, and social protection mechanisms. Using recent academic literature, policy reports, and government data from the past three years, the research evaluates implementation outcomes and identifies both achievements and challenges. Findings suggest that revised standards have improved workplace safety and expanded access to social security benefits for young employees. Additionally, enhanced coordination between industries has contributed to better workplace dynamics. However, disparities in enforcement across states and persistent informal practices continue to limit the full effectiveness of these reforms. Overall, the study highlights both the progress made and the gaps that must be addressed to ensure inclusive and equitable labour outcomes.
WHEN WORK NEVER ENDS: UNDERSTANDING WORK–FAMILY CONFLICT AMONG WOMEN IN GURUGRAM’S IT SECTOR
The expansion of the Information Technology (IT) sector in urban centres such as Gurugram has significantly enhanced women’s participation in the workforce, positioning the industry as a space of economic mobility and professional advancement. However, alongside these opportunities, the nature of IT work has introduced new challenges that complicate the balance between professional and personal responsibilities. This paper explores the dynamics of work–family conflict among women employed in the IT sector, focusing on how organisational structures intersect with gendered expectations within the household. The study aims to examine the extent to which factors such as extended working hours, global time-zone coordination, performance pressures, and expectations of constant availability contribute to role conflict. It is based on primary data collected from 168 women professionals in Gurugram using a structured questionnaire, supported by qualitative insights. The findings indicate that work–family conflict is largely shaped by structural and cultural features of the workplace rather than individual limitations. Long working hours, unpredictable schedules, and constant connectivity blur boundaries between work and home. These pressures, combined with persistent caregiving expectations, intensify strain among women. The paper highlights the need for organisational reforms that promote realistic workloads, boundary protection, and more inclusive definitions of professional commitment.
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REFORMING CORPORATE RESOLUTION: THE 2025 AMENDMENT BILL AND CODIFICATION OF GROUP INSOLVENCY
The Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code, 2016 (IBC), introduced as a framework for resolving insolvency in India, has significantly transformed the corporate restructuring landscape over the past decade. However, the complex economic realities of modern corporate structures which include vast conglomerates, special purpose vehicles, and integrated enterprise groups, have exposed critical legislative gaps in the Code’s original single-entity approach. To rectify these gaps, the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code (Amendment) Bill, 2025, was introduced. This article critically examines the approach of group insolvency in India. It highlights the necessity of transitioning from ad hoc judicial interventions to a codified, statutory mechanism, as envisioned by the proposed Chapter VA and Section 59A of the Code. Furthermore, it examines important court decisions in cases like Videocon, Adel Landmarks, Lavasa, and IREO that filled the legal gap before the 2025 Amendment Bill. The article further analysed the other relevant legislations, such as the UNCITRAL Model Law on Enterprise Group Insolvency (MLEGI) 2019, the European Union's EIR Recast 2015, the United States Chapter 11 framework, the German Insolvency Code (InsO), and the Italian Code of Corporate Distress. Finally, this article outlines the optimal regulatory framework to maximise asset value and ensure fair recovery for creditors in complex group insolvencies in a time-bound manner.
INDIA'S BATTLE WITH ADDICTION: BETWEEN LAWS AND LOST SOULS: A COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS
Drug addiction in India has evolved from a peripheral social concern to a critical public health and criminal justice challenge affecting millions. This comprehensive research paper examines the historical development of India's drug control framework, beginning from the colonial period through contemporary legislative reforms, institutional mechanisms, and policy implementations. The study critically analyses the efficacy of the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 1985 (NDPS Act), the cornerstone of Indian drug policy, alongside its three landmark amendments (1989, 2001, 2014). India's geographical position between the Golden Triangle (Myanmar-Laos-Thailand) and the Golden Crescent (Iran-Afghanistan-Pakistan) has established the nation as both a transit route and increasingly as a consumer market for narcotics. Current epidemiological data from the 2019 National Survey reveals that approximately 16.6 crore Indians consume alcohol, with 5.2% manifesting dependency; cannabis affects 3.1 crore people; and opioid dependence impacts 2.06% of citizens, necessitating professional treatment for approximately 60 lakh individuals. This paper argues that while the NDPS Act demonstrates legal sophistication, it remains inadequately effective due to over-criminalization, institutional implementation gaps, and insufficient integration of public health approaches. The research explores the complex interplay between supply reduction and demand reduction strategies, examines the role of international conventions in shaping Indian legislation, and evaluates contemporary national action plans. Through critical analysis of judicial interpretations, enforcement mechanisms, rehabilitation infrastructure, gender dimensions, youth vulnerabilities, socioeconomic determinants, and mental health comorbidities, this paper proposes a balanced, evidence-based approach combining proportionate criminal enforcement with health-oriented rehabilitation. The findings indicate that meaningful reform requires integration of treatment modalities, capacity building for law enforcement, expansion of de-addiction infrastructure, gender-responsive interventions, socioeconomic support mechanisms, and community-based prevention programs aligned with international best practices and constitutional guarantees of fundamental rights.
THE EVOLUTION AND TRANSFORMATION OF TEACHER EDUCATION: A COMPREHENSIVE GLOBAL AND NATIONAL ANALYSIS OF POLICY, PEDAGOGY, AND DIGITAL INTEGRATION
The architecture of a nation’s development is inextricably linked to the quality of its educational institutions, and at the heart of these institutions lies the teacher. Teacher education is defined as the system designed to equip prospective and practicing educators with the knowledge, attitudes, behaviors, and skills necessary to perform their roles effectively within the classroom, the school, and the broader community.1 Far from being a static training program, teacher education is a continuous process that encompasses the initial preparation of new teachers, their induction into the profession, and their ongoing professional development throughout their careers.2 In the modern era, the role of the teacher has undergone a radical transformation, shifting from a mere disseminator of knowledge to a facilitator of inquiry, creativity, and inclusive learning.2 This evolution reflects a growing recognition that high-quality teaching is the most significant school-based predictor of student achievement and that consecutive years of outstanding instruction can offset the learning deficits of even the most disadvantaged students.
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DR BABASAHEB AMBEDKAR: A CHAMPION OF DALIT RIGHTS AND HIS QUEST FOR THE JUSTICE OF THE MARGINALIZED COMMUNITY
As we All know that Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar was the Chairman of drafting comittee of the Indian Constitution. He is still respected and remembered by many people. His ideas changed Indian politics and society in a big way. He fought for the rights of Dalits. He wanted them to live with dignity and equal status. For centuries, In India, Dalits were treated unfairly and pushed to the margins of society. Ambedkar’s thinking was shaped by many things. He was influenced by social movements and Western education. But most importantly, his own life shaped him. He was born into a Dalit family on 14 April 1891. From childhood, he faced caste discrimination. Those painful experiences made him stronger and determined to bring change. He was many things at the same time. He was a political thinker and also a politician. He was a sociologist and a social activist too. His ideas did not come only from books. They came from real life experiences. That is why his thoughts are still important today. Even after his death, his ideas continue to grow and stay relevant. During his life, he worked hard to improve the condition of Dalits in India. But he did more than that. He left behind strong political and social ideas. Because of those ideas, Dalits were able to take part in politics. They also gained more respect and a stronger place in society. Dr. Ambedkar believed that real change in a country must start with social and cultural change. He thought this was the base of nation-building. His ideas came from his life experiences. They were also influenced by Buddhism and Western thinking. He studied caste, varna, and religion in a deep and practical way. He looked at them through history and society, not just faith. He believed the caste system stayed strong because it was supported by Hindu religious laws. To end it, he said reforms in religion were needed. He also believed people should change social habits. Inter-caste marriages and changes in food practices were important steps to break the caste system. His message is still relevant today: real progress happens only when society breaks down old barriers, respects everyone’s rights, and allows each person to reach their full potential.
STRUCTURAL RECONFIGURATION OF TEACHER EDUCATION FOR THE ADVANCEMENT OF QUALITY INSTRUCTION AND CRITICAL INQUIRY
The contemporary educational imperative, codified by the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 4, seeks to move beyond the rudimentary metrics of school enrollment toward the substantive realization of equitable quality education and lifelong learning for all.1 This transition necessitates a profound re-evaluation of the teaching profession, positioning the educator not merely as a conduit for information but as a primary catalyst for critical consciousness and cognitive development. However, the global educational infrastructure faces an unprecedented crisis characterized by a projected shortage of 44 million primary and secondary teachers required by 2030.3 This deficit is compounded by rising attrition rates, which doubled from 4.62 percent in 2015 to 9.06 percent in 2022, as well as a systemic failure to equip current educators with the pedagogical tools necessary to move beyond rote instruction.3 Consequently, the contribution of teacher education to quality instruction is currently defined by the tension between traditional "banking" models of learning and the emerging requirement for critical, reflective, and inquiry-based pedagogies.
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THIRD WAY AS THE APPLIED INTEGRAL HUMANISM:GOING BEYOND THE BINARIES
This paper aims to interpret and analyse Pandit Deendayal Upadhyay’s Integral Humanism and Dattatray Thengdi’s Third Way as the formulation of a path-breaking breakthrough in India. The paper investigates the efficacy of the culturally relevant frameworks of Integral Humanism and Third Way (IH-TW) in the wake of enterprise culture and neoliberalism whose thought processes did not require a groundwork in the form of any pre-existing ideology (Mukherjee, 2018). ‘Scholastic textualisation’ of the socio-cultural values in India is not a ‘priori’ but a ‘posteriori’ for IH-TW (Chatterjee, 1993). It also aims to briefly analyse the reconstructions of Marxism in Europe by Marxist thinkers who undertook the deconstruction of Marxist theory (Lukács, 1971; Gramsci, 1975). The baggage of the colonial past was the causal condition for deshaj (parallel for culturally responsive) thinking to be undertaken by Deendayal Upadhyay and Dattopant Thengdi (Nandy, 1983). Hence, they took into consideration the ‘trajectories’ of the Marxian model of thinking in Indian consciousness (Banerjee, 2005). The article mainly aims to focus on how Integral Humanism and its applied formulations in Third Way provide insights not only to offer an alternative to ‘Classical Marxism’ of the Old Left, but also to ‘Neo Marxism’ as ‘theorised’ by the New Left (Jameson, 1991; Harvey, 1989).
CRIMINAL JUSTICE AND SOCIAL DEVELOPMENT: A SOCIO-LEGAL ANALYSIS OF CRIME PREVENTION AND URBAN PLANNING IN INDIA
India’s rapid urban transformation has reshaped the social and institutional contexts within which crime is produced, experienced, and governed. This article examines crime prevention through a socio-legal lens by analysing the interconnections between urban development processes, social vulnerability, criminal justice capacity, and urban planning interventions in India. Drawing on official secondary data from national crime statistics, prison records, urban development programmes, and selected socio-economic indicators, the study adopts a descriptive and contextual analytical approach to interpret urban-relevant crime trends and institutional responses. The findings indicate that while overall recorded crime has declined in recent years, specific offence categories closely associated with urban conditions-most notably cyber crimes and crimes against senior citizens-have increased. The analysis further reveals significant institutional strain within the criminal justice system, reflected in persistent prison overcrowding and a high proportion of undertrial detainees. Large-scale urban planning initiatives implemented under national development programmes provide an important contextual backdrop for rethinking crime prevention beyond enforcement-centric models. The study underscores the need for a more integrated understanding of crime prevention as a component of social development and urban governance in India.
A CRITICAL ANALYSIS OF SCIENTIFIC CRIMINAL INVESTIGATION TOWARDS CRIME DETECTION AND PREVENTION
Scientific criminal investigation becomes most relevant when the fundamental question arises: how are criminals to be identified and apprehended? Crime detection remains one of the most complex and demanding responsibilities of the police. Over the past seventy-six years, remarkable advances have occurred across all branches of science. As scientific knowledge has expanded decade by decade, so too have the tools available for the prevention, investigation, and detection of crime. This development has created a paradoxical race between those who apply scientific innovations to enforce the law and those who exploit similar advancements to evade it. Technological progress has significantly transformed the landscape of crime. Cybercrime, digital fraud, organized transnational offences, and technologically facilitated violence illustrate how science has reshaped criminal activity. Simultaneously, crime-control technologies—such as DNA profiling, fingerprint analysis, digital forensics, surveillance systems, and data analytics—have strengthened investigative capacity and improved evidentiary reliability. Scientific tools enhance objectivity, reduce the risk of wrongful convictions, and support stronger prosecutorial outcomes. However, their potential is frequently undermined by systemic challenges, including inadequate forensic infrastructure, delays caused by laboratory backlogs, improper collection and preservation of evidence, and insufficiently trained personnel. Furthermore, the expansion of surveillance technologies and DNA databases raises significant concerns regarding privacy, data protection, and the risk of misuse or overreach. Scientific criminal investigation, therefore, must function within a sound legal and ethical framework that safeguards constitutional rights and maintains public trust. Technological advancement alone cannot guarantee justice. Its effectiveness ultimately depends on institutional accountability, procedural compliance, professional competence, and adherence to the rule of law. This article seeks to critically examine the use of forensic science by the police and assess whether existing forensic methodologies adequately meet the practical investigative needs of contemporary law enforcement agencies.
RITES AND RITUALS OF THE TUTSA TRIBE OF ARUNACHAL PRADESH: A CRITICAL REVIEW OF THE LITERATURE
The Tutsa tribe of Arunachal Pradesh maintains a complex system of rites and rituals that shape its religious worldview, social organization, and ecological relationships. These ritual practices, rooted in indigenous cosmology and agrarian life, regulate interactions between humans, ancestral spirits, and natural forces. Despite their cultural importance, Tutsa rites and rituals have received limited focused scholarly attention, often appearing only marginally in broader ethnographic works on the tribes of Northeast India. This paper presents an extensive critical review of available literature on Tutsa ritual practices, examining agricultural rituals, life-cycle ceremonies, the role of ritual specialists, and recent transformation under Rangfraism and Christianity. By synthesizing ethnographic accounts, historical writings, and contemporary studies, the paper highlights thematic continuities, interpretative gaps, and methodological limitations within existing scholarship. The review demonstrates that Tutsa ritual systems remain under-theorized in existing scholarship and calls for focused, theory-informed and ethnographically grounded future research.
A CRITICAL REVIEW OF YOUTH, DIGITAL NETWORKS, AND CULTURAL NEGOTIATION
Social media has become deeply embedded in the everyday lives of young people, reshaping urban experience, social interaction, and cultural engagement, particularly among college students navigating educational transition and urban relocation. Digitally mediated communication now functions not merely as a tool but as a structuring environment through which identity, belonging, and intercultural adaptation are organised. This article critically reviews interdisciplinary literature on urban sociology, network society theory, symbolic interactionism, cultural power, and intercultural adaptation to examine social media’s role in contemporary urban life. Drawing on Louis Wirth’s conception of urbanism as a way of life, Manuel Castells’ theory of the network society, and Danah Boyd’s concept of networked publics, the review situates social media as constitutive of digital urbanism rather than external to it. Particular attention is given to the Indian–Mizo context, characterised by recent urbanisation, strong communitarian traditions, and increasing exposure to global digital cultures, highlighting how local histories and moral regulation shape social media practices and complicate universalist assumptions derived from Western and metropolitan contexts. The article identifies key conceptual and methodological gaps in existing scholarship and advances the need for a contextual digital urban sociology that is context-sensitive, theoretically grounded, and attentive to regional diversity.
URBANIZATION AND PRIVATE HOSPITALS: A STUDY ON THEIR INTERDEPENDENCE AND SPATIAL IMPLICATIONS WITHIN AIZAWL MUNICIPAL CORPORATION (AMC) AREA
Urbanization in rapidly growing cities has reshaped not only demographic patterns but also the spatial organization of essential urban services, particularly health care infrastructure. In India, the expansion of private hospitals has emerged as a defining feature of urban growth, often responding to the limitations of public health systems while simultaneously transforming urban space. This study examines the interdependence between urbanization and the growth of private hospitals, with specific attention to their spatial implications within the Aizawl Municipal Corporation (AMC) area. Adopting an integrated quantitative–qualitative research design, the study combines demographic analysis, correlational assessment, institutional data, and qualitative insights from private hospital proprietors collected through interview schedules administered via KoboToolBox. Findings indicate that a substantial proportion of Aizawl’s population growth between 2011 and 2026 is attributable to migration-driven urbanization, and that urban population growth exhibits a strong positive association with the expansion of private hospitals. Beyond this demographic relationship, the study reveals significant spatial outcomes, including spatial concentration of hospitals in central urban areas, vertical intensification of land use, and the emergence of health care-led micro-economies comprising pharmacies, food establishments, and informal vendors. Drawing on Henri Lefebvre’s theory of the production of space, Robert K. Merton’s concept of latent functions, and Setha Low’s interpretation of space as socially and culturally produced, the study argues that private hospitals function not merely as health care providers but as influential urban institutions actively shaping spatial practices, land use, and everyday urban life. The paper concludes by emphasizing the need for integrated urban and health planning frameworks, particularly in spatially constrained hill cities such as Aizawl.