EPH-International Journal of Humanities and Social Science
EPH-International Journal of Humanities and Social Science (ISSN: 2208-2174) publishes a wide range of high quality research articles in the field (but not limited to) given below: Anthropology, Archaeology, Business Management, Business studies, Communication studies, Corporate Governance, Corporate organization, Criminology, Cross cultural, studies, Demography, Development Studies, Economics, Education etc.
LANGAR CREDIT PROTOCOL: AN ISO-ALIGNED VERIFICATION FRAMEWORK FOR COMMUNITY-BASED FOOD SECURITY CONTRIBUTIONS TO SDG 2 AND SDG 12 IN LOW-DATA CONTEXTS
Community kitchens throughout India, such as gurdwara langars, temple annadanam, sufi langars, and surplus food redistribution networks, collectively serve an estimated crores of meals annually to vulnerable populations. Although community kitchens make significant contributions to food security and sustainable consumption, they remain institutionally invisible within national and global Sustainable Development Goal monitoring frameworks. The Langar Credit Protocol was developed, analytically validated, and empirically tested using design science research principles. This framework, intended for third-party verification, aligns with ISO standards and is designed for pilot implementation in low-data, community-based environments. The research methodology integrates requirements engineering through systematic extraction and adaptation of 105 clauses from ISO 20121, ISO 14064-3, and ISO/IEC 17029, precedent analysis through synthesis of 19 validated techniques from eight established MRV frameworks, and iterative design cycles. The resulting protocol defines six verifiable sustainability indicators mapped to specific SDG 2 and SDG 12 targets, with a three-tier assurance structure differentiating performance using unweighted scoring. Empirical validation via a survey of 422 educated professionals demonstrated strong stakeholder perception of feasibility with 87 percent agreement on indicator feasibility, 89 percent on tier clarity, and 92 percent on training adequacy.
Copyright (c) 2025 EPH-International Journal of Humanities and Social Science
THE COURTS OF THE FUTURE: PART II HYBRID COURTS & CHALLENGES
This paper examines the evolving landscape of judicial adjudication in the digital era, with a primary focus on hybrid courts as a pivotal transitional model in the digital court ecosystem. Analogous to learning a physical skill, such as riding a bicycle, this research argues that merely planning digital transformation on paper is insufficient — practical implementation is indispensable for achieving a fully digital case life cycle. The study outlines key stages of judicial process digitisation, including e-filing, case registration and allocation, digital briefs for judicial officers and advocates, digital records management, evidence recording, appellate record sharing, and electronic service of process. Special emphasis is placed on hybrid courts, where traditional in-person hearings integrate with virtual proceedings, highlighting both their potential to enhance access to justice and operational efficiency as well as the inherent challenges of implementation. These challenges include technical infrastructure gaps, procedural complexities, cybersecurity concerns, digital divide issues, and normative adjustments required for fair and effective digital justice delivery. By synthesising theoretical insights and practical considerations, the paper offers a framework for understanding how judiciary systems can transition towards fully digital operations while addressing technological, procedural, and policy challenges intrinsic to hybrid court models.
CONSTITUTIONAL PROVISIONS FOR SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT IN INDIA: AN ANALYSIS
Sustainable development is a critical aspect of modern governance, ensuring a balance between economic growth, social equity, and environmental protection. The Indian Constitution incorporates sustainable development values through various provisions, including Fundamental Rights, Directive Principles of State Policy (DPSP), and Fundamental Duties. This paper explores the meaning and type of sustainability values, defines sustainable development in context of constitutional provisions, and examines its integration within constitutional mandates. It highlights the role of the Preamble, Fundamental Rights, and DPSPs in fostering sustainable development, along with significant judicial interpretations and legislative frameworks. By analysing legal and policy measures, thepaper underscores India's commitment to achieving sustainability while maintaining economic and social justice. The discussion further emphasizes the importance of judicial interventions and public participation to ensure environmental conservation and equitable resource distribution. It concludes that while India has made considerable strides in incorporating sustainable development principles, effective implementation remains crucial for long-term sustainability. The conclusion integrates sustainable development through constitutional provisions, legal frameworks, judicial explanations and environmental challenges, emphasizing collective action. Strengthening policy recommendations, technological innovations, and global commitments could enhance its impact.
Copyright (c) 2024 EPH-International Journal of Humanities and Social Science
EMPOWERING RURAL WOMEN THROUGH MGNREGA: A CASE STUDY OF LONGLENG DISTRICT, NAGALAND
The Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA) is a key social welfare initiative aimed at enhancing livelihood security by guaranteeing 100 days of wage employment annually to every rural household whose adult members are willing to perform unskilled manual work. The Act includes special provisions to ensure the active participation of women, thereby promoting gender equity and empowerment. This study examines the socio-economic status of women beneficiaries under MGNREGA and assesses the programme’s impact on empowering rural women. Based on field-level data collected from selected villages, the research highlights how MGNREGA contributes to income generation, decision-making capacity, and increased mobility among women. The findings indicate that the programme plays a positive role in improving the lives of rural women, though challenges related to implementation and limited work availability persist. The paper concludes by offering suggestions to enhance the effectiveness of MGNREGA in meeting the specific needs of rural women more efficiently.
HUME’S VIEW ON CAUSALITY: A CRITICAL STUDY
We know that if there is an effect, there must be a cause; an effect never occurs without a cause. The origin of an effect or any event depends on its cause. The progress of human civilization has largely occurred by investigating the causes of effects. The triumphs of science have also come from investigating the causes of effects. Human life has become much easier, and civilization has progressed. Similarly, in philosophy, there are disagreements about the relationship between cause and effect. Among these, two views are prominent: one from rationalists and one from empiricists. Hume's view, in particular, has brought a revolution to philosophy, showing a new direction. This essay provides a analytical discussion on David Hume's view of causality.
Copyright (c) 2020 EPH-International Journal of Humanities and Social Science
THE GLIMPSES OF NAGAPATTINAM IN MARITIME TRADE ON THE COROMANDEL COAST IN THE EARLY COLONIAL PERIOD
The Coromandel Coast, extending along southeastern India, served as a dynamic hub of maritime exchange linking South Asia with the wider Indian Ocean world. Among its ports, Nagapattinam occupied a preeminent position as both a commercial and cultural interface during the early colonial period. This study re-examines Nagapattinam’s evolution between 1500 and 1824, tracing its transition from a Chola-era naval base to a contested colonial entrepôt. Drawing upon Portuguese and Dutch East India Company (VOC) archival materials, Tamil inscriptions, and field studies, the paper reconstructs the socio-economic and cultural transformations that shaped the town’s maritime identity. It highlights the reciprocal influences among local merchant communities, European trading companies, and indigenous political powers, revealing a pattern of negotiation rather than domination. By situating Nagapattinam within the broader framework of Indian Ocean port societies, the study underscores its role as a microcosm of creolised urbanism, where commerce, belief, and cross-cultural contact intertwined. The analysis thus contributes to Indian Ocean historiography by foregrounding indigenous agency and the enduring continuity between pre-colonial and colonial maritime systems.
MIRRORS OF PREJUDICE: HOW BOLLYWOOD'S REPRESENTATION OF LGBTQ+ CHARACTERS SHAPED (AND RESHAPED) INDIAN SOCIETY
This research paper aims to explore the work done in Bollywood, both Commercial and Art films, that have dealt with Homosexuality, and to identify their impact on society. This paper will be covering movies from 1990 till the present. The paper will be reconnecting the dots of evolution in Bollywood with the representation of Homosexual minorities. With each passing decade, there was a change in outlook toward the LGBT community. In some of the commercial movies, the Queer community has been represented in a very pessimistic manner. While during the 2000s homosexual characters were used as comic relief. These commercial movies had the wider scope of gaining the attention of the audience, but they did not portray the ground reality of the problem faced by the LGBT people, thus making the audience oblivion towards the reality of these minorities. The Art films created quality content, true to its cause, with the representation of the queer society, without adding any melodramatic element. Art films are aimed toward the niche market and were not accessible to everyone during the 1990s and the 2000s. In this paper, I will be doing a comparative analysis of the film produced between 1990- 2020 that have showcased homosexuality in some way or another, and the impact of these films on society.
EXPERIENCE OF INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS FROM THE EDUCATION SYSTEM OF INDIA: A STUDY IN GUJARAT STATE
Every year, many international students travel to India for the purpose of studying their undergraduate, postgraduate, and Ph.D. courses. These students are self-funded or under any of the scholarship schemes that India provides for them. One of these scholarship schemes is ICCR (Indian Council for Cultural Relation) scholarship, which offers seats to foreign students in the great universities of India. This paper focuses on the experience of international students (under ICCR scholarship) from the Indian education system in Gujarat state. In addition, the researcher has considered the social and cultural adjustment of the students in the education system of India in the region. The study is based on a mixed methodology that uses qualitative and quantitative research methods. A convenient sampling method was applied among a population of 120 students at Gujarat University and the Maharaja Sayajirao University of Baroda. A total of 55 participants, 25 females and 30 men, contributed to the study. However, the study shows 67% of international students are happy with their study, cultural, and social experiences in Gujarat state, it is recommended to upgrade the hostel life for students and consider their language barriers in the class.
EXPERIENCE OF ADULT ADDICTS IN A DE-ADDICTION CENTRE
Substance abuse leads to stagnation and deterioration in adult addicts, severely affecting their psychological and physiological well-being. This study seeks to explore the environment of a de-addiction centre and how it contributes to preventing substance abuse. An in-depth case study method was employed on a selected sample to understand the lived experiences of individuals undergoing treatment in a de-addiction centre. The research included a pilot study conducted in a residential care facility for drug addicts. Primary data were collected through interviews and personal diaries (inventories) maintained by the addicts to assess how the centre supports them in overcoming addiction. Findings revealed that 4 out of 7 participants entered treatment unwillingly. All participants were male, aged between 18 and 58 years, and most began using drugs under peer influence. During the detoxification process, individuals gradually developed a sense of recovery and self-control, reinforced by the daily repetition of the motivational mantra “just for today.”
Coordination of Hindi and Indian Languages in the Framework of the Indian Constitution
In the framework of the Indian Constitution, the coordination of Hindi and other Indian languages is being reinforced by strong technological foundations. Institutions such as E-Governance, Digitalization, Unicode, and C-DAC are providing multilingual software, thereby promoting linguistic integration. Today, apart from Hindi, other Indian languages like Bengali, Tamil, Marathi, Kannada, and Telugu are witnessing vibrant publication of journals and magazines. Alongside the Hindi and Urdu Academies, organizations such as the Tamil Sangam, Kannada Sahitya Parishad, and Marathi Sahitya Parishad represent encouraging signs for the bright future of Hindi and other Indian languages. Many such positive developments are emerging in this direction. Institutions like the Central Hindi Directorate and the National Translation Mission are working to strengthen the bond between Hindi and other Indian languages. Indeed, all Indian languages together seem to fortify the unity of India’s multilingual cultural identity.
DECLINING VALUE SYSTEM REGARDING THE OUTLOOK TOWARDS TRANSGENDER WITH REFERENCE TO INDIA- A CRITICAL STUDY
Transgenders are known by many names, the community includes Hijras, Eunuchs, Kothis, Aravanis, Jogappas, Shiv-Shakthis etc. The purpose of this paper is to investigate the reasons for the fall of the transgender community in Lucknow. To learn about the history and evolution of the transgender community in India during the Mughal period. Hijra’s were given prominent position such as the political advisor and the administrator in the empire. Many academics have visited India during the 17th century have given a vivid account of the position of the transgender in the Mughal court. The decline of this community started to unfold with the rise of the British rule in India. Section 377 of the Indian Penal Code was introduced in 1861 during the British rule of India. Modelled on the Buggery Act of 1533, it makes sexual activities "against the order of nature" illegal. On 6th September 2018, the Supreme Court of India had decriminalized section 377 partially, and since then people from the LGBTQ community have broken up the shackle of the society and opened up about their lives and how the decriminalization of section 377 has improved their life.
THE ROLE OF THE GURU-DISCIPLE RELATIONSHIP (PARAMPARA) WITHIN THE GORAKHNATH MATH IN TRANSMITTING NATH SHAIVISM
This article examines the central position of the Guru-disciple relationship, or Parampara, to the transmission and continuation of Nath Shaivism in the Gorakhnath Math. Through its concentration on this outstanding institution of the Nath order, the research considers how the distinctive spiritual and pedagogical connection between Guru (spiritual master) and Shishya (disciple) is the central vehicle for conveying esoteric insights, yogic techniques, and philosophical principles. We will study the historical evolution and functioning mechanism of this Parampara, exploring the initiation rituals (Diksha), the process of teaching (oral tradition and demonstration), and the ethical paradigms that regulate the interaction. Additionally, the paper shall explore how the Parampara guarantees the continuity of the lineage, maintains the integrity of Nath teachings, and supports individual practitioners' spiritual growth. Through examining such particular instances from the Gorakhnath Math's past and present practices, this study throws light on the long-lasting role of the Guru-disciple relationship as the living force behind Nath Shaivism's transmission.
THE ABANDONMENT OF DEEP ECOLOGY AND THE RISE OF ANTHROPOCENTRISM: VIAPOLITICS IN S. K. POTTEKKATT’S VISHAKANYAKA
S. K. Pottekkatt’s Vishakanyaka portrays the dislocation of individuals and communities through migration, simultaneously foregrounding the ecological displacement that arises from such movements. This paper examines how the novel demonstrates the abandonment of deep ecology—a worldview that emphasizes the intrinsic value of all forms of life—as articulated by Arne Naess, in favor of anthropocentric perspectives that privilege human survival, progress, and settlement over ecological balance. Migration in Vishakanyaka is not merely a social or economic phenomenon but also an environmental rupture, leading to the silencing of nature and the relegation of ecosystems to the margins of human ambition. Drawing from ecocritical frameworks, including Chief Seattle’s reflections on the sacred interconnectedness of all beings, and Carl Sagan’s warnings about human irresponsibility toward planetary ecosystems, this study argues that the novel exposes the paradoxical tension between human progress and ecological destruction. By tracing the transformation of landscapes into utilitarian spaces, the narrative critiques how human-centered thinking undermines the deep ecological principle of biocentric equality. Ultimately, Vishakanyaka offers a profound commentary on the environmental consequences of migration and the human tendency to instrumentalize nature, thereby revealing the pressing need to reimagine ecological ethics in an age of displacement.
Copyright (c) 2019 EPH-International Journal of Humanities and Social Science
Tribals are an important part of any country, yet in most of the under developed and developing countries they are either side lined or marginalized. Their very existence, exuberant, plethoric and extensive indigenous knowledge of natural habitat is dying slowly, but surely, generally at the bottom of the social and economic ladder far from development processes. The Sahariya tribe generally belongs to Madhya Pradesh (M.P) and Rajasthan but migrated to Bundelkhand region (Lalitpur district) of Uttar Pradesh (U.P.) and other states due to displacements from their natural habitat of Kuno Palpur Wild Life Sanctuary (M.P.) and precarious employment opportunities thereafter, without any fruitful outcomes. Firstly, it was reallocation of lions from Gujarat and secondly for construction of dams. In wake, majority of them are therefore forced to leave their native place, striving hard for livelihood and sustainability, and dying due to lack of malnourishment, poverty and minimal immunity level and falling prey to diseases like pulmonary TB etc. In the State of U.P where tribals account for 0.1% only of the total population, earlier Sahariyas had a schedule caste status, while in adjoining states they are schedule tribe since ages. It is very recently in 2002 that these people were allotted a schedule tribe status by U.P. State government. The present paper thus is a sincere effort to document and review the wholesome scenario of these Adivasis in their transition form, their displacement, migration, indigenous knowledge, livelihood and sustainable development.
KANNADA DRAMA AND THE BUDDHIST CONCEPT OF IMPERMANENCE
Kannada drama can be significantly connected to the philosophy of Buddhism. Indirect influences of Buddhist philosophy can be traced in many ways in Kannada literature - drama. This research investigates how the literary representation of the Buddhist idea of impermanence is realized in Kannada drama and how this is woven into plots by playwrights. Impermanence is a crucial, all-pervading, and central Buddhist doctrine; what it suggests, however, is that worldly phenomena, be it human existence, relationships, or experiences of any kind, are transitory. Kannada plays have, therefore, for the most part, portrayed ephemerality in love, the impermanence of gains and losses, both personally and socially, and also the calls for justice and injustice, along with personal evolution. Impermanence in Kannada drama is generally well illustrated through character portrayal, events dramatized, and symbolisms placed in the course of the drama that brings out the brevity of human relationships and experiences. This is a theme playwrights use to convey their comments on the passing social and political scenario of the impermanence of power and wealth, human achievements. By striving to look into the multiplicity of impermanence in Kannada drama, this research attempts to underscore the influence of Buddhist philosophy in the themes and motifs shaping the art form. The research also aims to further that at the end of the day; impermanence is a concept used to encourage the need for audiences to make the most life and to feel detached. This therefore research shall substantiate how some of these popular Kannada plays adopted this concept by Buddhist philosophy and explain the relevance of the concept of impermanence is even to the modern society.
POST-COVID HYGIENE PROTOCOLS IN HOTEL KITCHENS: IMPLEMENTATION AND CHALLENGES IN INDIA
Generally speaking, the COVID-19 pandemic has significantly altered how hotel kitchens operate throughout India, which means hygiene protocols need a thorough re-evaluation. Because the hospitality industry faces the paired difficulties of guaranteeing food safety and winning back customer confidence, putting strict hygiene policies into practice has become incredibly important. Research suggests that changes in dining habits, especially the growth of fine dining and cloud kitchens, have exposed weaknesses in conventional food service procedures, which further complicates following these new guidelines (Gopalakrishnan et al., 2022)(Harini et al., 2025). While the quick implementation of technology to support contactless interactions and improve kitchen processes is becoming increasingly necessary, integrating these innovations also presents difficulties. Knowing the current challenges and effective strategies is essential for the industry's long-term recovery. The importance of overcoming these challenges is highlighted by the need for hotels to maintain strict hygiene standards, thus guaranteeing the safety and satisfaction of their guests. serves as a relevant representation of the various sources of food waste in this changing environment, highlighting critical areas where effective protocols should be put in place.
INFLUENCE OF GENDER, SOCIAL GROUP AND LOCALE ON SCIENCE ACHIEVEMENT AT THE UPPER PRIMARY LEVEL
Science achievement at the upper primary level is a key determinant of students’ academic progression and their preparedness for future learning. However, disparities in achievement continue to persist due to social and demographic factors. The present study examines the impact of gender, social group, and locale on achievement in science among upper primary students. The study is based on Class VIII students from selected districts of Chhattisgarh, and the data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics. Findings reveal variations in science achievement across gender, with differences also evident among students belonging to different social groups such as Scheduled Castes (SC), Scheduled Tribes (ST), Other Backward Classes (OBC), and General category. Further, locale emerged as a significant factor, with urban students outperforming their rural counterparts in science. The results suggest that socio-cultural background, access to educational resources, and school environment collectively influence students’ achievement in science. The study highlights the need for targeted interventions and equity-focused strategies in science education to bridge the learning gaps and ensure quality education for all learners.
Copyright (c) 2023 EPH-International Journal of Humanities and Social Science
DEVELOPING AND VALIDATING A SCALE TO MEASURE PERCEIVED EFFECTIVENESS OF INTERVENTIONS FOR SHG MEMBERS
Gender disparities in economic development is a problem established across the world. Women are often excluded from the process and benefits of development, negatively affecting their health, income and existence. NABARD has implemented many programmes to assist rural women to escape the clutches of poverty and exclusion. MEDP and LEDP are important interventions conducted to help rural women members of SHGs to enhance their skills, and ensure their sustainable livelihood through capacity building in their small-scale economic activities. These programmes are extensively carried out. The present study was intended to develop a scale to measure the perceived benefits or effectiveness of these programmes in imparting skills, knowledge, and expertise among rural women to come out of exclusion and poverty. The scale development and validation process included development of item pool from literature, and analysing its factor structure, and assessing its reliability and validity. A 12-item three-dimensional scale was finalised to measure the perceived effectiveness of the scale.
Livelihood and Enterprise Development Programme
POTENTIAL FOR VALUE ADDED COCONUT PRODUCTS IN LAKSHADWEEP
The importance of coconut in Lakshadweep, a predominantly coconut based economy, in providing livelihood options and improving the economic status of its population is of great significance. Inspite of this, the coconut economy in Lakshadweep has reached its peak and is stagnating mainly because of lack of product diversification. Copra, coconut oil and fresh coconut even today comprise its major product base. In order to meet the requirements of a fast growing population, income from these products alone will not suffice. Value added coconut products have huge prospects in the domestic and international markets owing to the health and nutritional attributes of the product, employment generation potential and prospects of better returns. Neera, the non-alcoholic sap of immature inflorescence of coconut has the potential to provide an array of products that can help rejuvenate this sector. This paper attempts to look into various value added products that can be developed from Neera and work out the economics behind the production of Neera.
Copyright (c) 2017 EPH-International Journal of Humanities and Social Science
CORRUPTION AS POLITICAL VANDALISM IN BENGAL POLITICS: ROLE OF THE RULER SINCE 2011.
Using corruption as a setting for this study, the author analyses Bengal politics to identify it as political vandalism that erodes democracy and faith. Looking at how governance, accountability and citizen engagement have been met in West Bengal after the elected administration came to power from the later part of 2011, it has increasingly been accused of corrupt practices. The paper also examines micro level factors such as policy-making structures, civil service, political systems, and political party systems in relation to corrupt practices due to historical antecedents, political connections, and organizations structures and culture. It also looks at the actions of civil society and the judiciary in check on elected leaders. This study shows how the-political vandalism associated with corruption undermines ethical indexes and democratic governance in Bengal. Lastly, the paper synthesizes its arguments on the need to promote the transparency, accountability, and effective civil involvement in the fight against corruption, which has deeply rooted itself in the region.
Copyright (c) 2017 International Journal of Humanities and Social Science
GENDER EQUALITY IN HIGHER EDUCATION: PROGRESS AND CHALLENGES
Higher education today demonstrates better gender equality because women enrol at higher rates in universities across the globe. The number of women attending higher education institutions continues to rise at an unprecedented rate thus demonstrating better inclusive practices. Gender disparities exist even though we have made progress at many higher education levels, especially in STEM research fields and both teaching and leadership roles. A research study combines quantitative database analysis from worldwide education records with qualitative findings gathered through interviews with educational staff members and students among other professionals to study these differences. The research shows that university enrolment between women and men has become equivalent but women experience substantial underrepresentation when it comes to higher academic positions and executive leadership roles. Female graduates face lower employment rates than their male counterparts when they move from higher education to the workforce, especially in developing nations. The research demonstrates the requirement for institutional changes to include gender-sensitive work environment policies academic mentorship initiatives and equal hiring principles. The study underlines the significance of delivering specific interventions through STEM scholarship programs together with leadership training initiatives for attracting more females into male-dominated professional fields. Higher education institutions together with policymakers must make changes to eliminate gender barriers which will enable the creation of an academic and professional environment based on real gender equality.
Copyright (c) 2025 International Journal of Humanities and Social Science
ROLE OF KURANGANAYANI IN THE MAOMARIA UPRISING
This study examines the multifaceted role of Kuranganayani, a Manipuri princess and Ahom queen, during the tumultuous Moamaria Uprising in 18th century Assam. Often relegated to the periphery of historical narratives, Kuranganayani emerges as a key figure whose political acumen and strategic actions significantly influenced the course of the rebellion. This analysis explores her transformation from a diplomatic bride to a pivotal player in Ahom statecraft, focusing on her contributions to undermining rebel control and restoring royal authority. Through an examination of historical texts, oral traditions and literary accounts, the research illuminates Kuranganayani's unique position as a woman who defied conventional gender roles and exercised agency in a period of socio-political crisis. Her legacy as a symbol of resistance, diplomacy and moral fortitude in both Assamese and Manipuri cultures is also explored, emphasizing her enduring impact on regional identity and historical memory.
Copyright (c) 2021 International Journal of Humanities and Social Science
THE ROLE OF CULTURAL HERITAGE IN SHAPING NATIONAL IDENTITY: A COMPREHENSIVE ANALYSIS
The origin traces of a country become its living national identity through history's traditional patterns. Our research inquiries examine the partnership between historic monuments and age-old customs to form how a country views itself. Our team performed both historical records analysis and conducted interviews with specialists and community authorities to achieve this research goal. Through our archives research we found that nations employ heritage preservation to build political control yet local people ensure their traditions live by adjusting them to the present. Our research studied how different nations use state and community actions to either maintain or update their cultural assets. The interviews demonstrate that society's relationship between heritage and modernity keeps changing. Our research results gained support from the statistical data which showed that particular heritage elements received more attention throughout the studied period. Our study proves that nations maintain and refine their identity through regular exchanges of traditional success with modern development. Modern society develops its connections to tradition as it handles today's challenges and progress.
UNIFORM CIVIL CODE IN INDIA: CONSTITUTIONAL MANDATE AND THE CHALLENGE OF CULTURAL PLURALISM
The Uniform Civil Code (UCC), enshrined in Article 44 of the Indian Constitution as a Directive Principle of State Policy, envisions the creation of a common set of personal laws governing all citizens, irrespective of religion. While this objective reflects the constitutional ideals of equality, secularism, and national integration, it also raises fundamental questions about India’s deep-rooted cultural and religious diversity protected under Articles 25 to 28. This paper critically examines the constitutional mandate for a UCC and its complex relationship with the right to freedom of religion. It explores how judicial pronouncements, from Shah Bano to Sarla Mudgal, have reignited the debate on balancing secular legal reform with the pluralistic fabric of Indian society. The paper also analyzes the divergent views of successive Law Commission reports and evaluates the political and social implications of implementing a UCC in a multi-religious, multicultural democracy. By engaging with comparative legal frameworks and indigenous reform movements, the study investigates whether legal uniformity necessarily entails cultural homogenization or whether a harmonized approach can respect diversity while promoting constitutional morality. The paper concludes that any move toward a Uniform Civil Code must be grounded in democratic deliberation, inclusive dialogue, and respect for India’s pluralistic ethos, ensuring that reform does not become a tool for majoritarian imposition but rather a means of social justice for all.
GENDER EQUALITY AND WOMEN’S RIGHTS IN INDIA: A LEGAL EXAMINATION OF CONSTITUTIONAL PROVISIONS
Gender equality and the safeguarding of women's rights are essential for achieving justice, decency, and democracy in any community. The Indian Constitution demonstrates a profound dedication to these principles by including many sections that guarantee equal treatment, safeguard against discrimination, and advocate for affirmative action for women. This paper offers an exhaustive legal examination of constitutional provisions that protect and promote gender equality in India. The study examines pivotal Articles, including Article 14, which ensures equality before the law; Article 15, which forbids discrimination based on sex while enabling the State to implement special measures for women; and Article 16, which guarantees equality of opportunity in public employment. Furthermore, Article 21 is scrutinised for its function in safeguarding the right to life and personal liberty, which the judiciary has construed to encompass dignity, reproductive rights, and protection from violence. The document assesses the Directive Principles of State Policy, including Articles 39(a), 39(d), and 42, which direct the State in formulating gender-equitable policies concerning livelihood, equal remuneration, and working conditions. The study further examines significant judicial rulings that have broadened the scope of these constitutional protections, consequently strengthening women's rights in domains such as safeguarding against sexual harassment, access to abortion, property rights, and the decriminalisation of adultery. Notwithstanding these legislative protections, the document recognises the disparity between constitutional principles and society reality, attributable to patriarchal frameworks, socio-economic disparities, and deficiencies in execution. The study concludes that although the Indian Constitution offers a strong framework for the legal protection and advancement of women’s rights, achieving gender equality necessitates ongoing institutional reforms, judicial oversight, public awareness, and cultural change.
LIBERATION THROUGH DEVOTION: QUEST FOR AGENCY IN K. SATCHIDANANDAN’S POEM MEERA SINGS
Bhakti has always functioned as a metaphor for rebellion, especially for women to escape confinement that was offered by both, patriarchal and feudalism systems. K. The poem Meera Sings by Satchidanandan is a contemporary reading of Meera Bai, a saint poet of sixteenth century who sings her devotion as defiance, subversion of Patriarchal norms and assertion of her individuality, her freedom. The power dynamics that shaped Meera’s Bhakti as a form of liberation is this paper’s focus, having aimed to subvert traditional womanhood in a highly patriarchal society. Comparing Bhakti to existential freedom renders the poem into showing how devotion became a form of rebellion and discovery. It explores issues of spiritualty and agency and gender and presents Meera as a woman figure of Pakistani women of all ages fighting for their rights. Through Meera Bai poetry helps in understanding that women who cross conventional boundaries and struggle for their own freedom make society strong and do not run away from struggles. In her verses, Meera has been bowing women to fight for their own voice and freedom to break all the shackles and come out successful. She appeals to women to stand up from the constraints that surround them and become the women they want to see. The memory of Meera is built to inspire those who are still in search of their voices and the path in faith no matter what comes in the way. Despite the attempts by male writers of the chauvinistic approach to test the limits of Women’s freedom as exemplified by Meera Bai through her poems, which till this day inspires women who would not be cowed down and are seeking true emancipation.
A MULTIDIMENSIONAL ANALYSIS OF OCCUPATIONAL MOBILITY AMONG FISHERWOMEN IN COASTAL KERALA USING PUSH-PULL THEORY APPROACH
This study investigates the occupational transitions of fisherwomen in Kerala, India, through a comprehensive multidimensional push-pull framework, integrating personal, social, institutional, and economic factors. The survey data collected from the coastal districts of Trivandrum, Kollam, and Alappuzha, the research examines how a combination of health hazards, unsafe workplace conditions, domestic responsibilities, social stigma, lack of recognition, policy interventions, and access to entrepreneurial avenues influence fisherwomen’s decisions to shift occupations. By employing descriptive statistics and independent t-tests, the study compares intra-sector mobility (within the fisheries sector) and inter-sector mobility (into non-fisheries occupations), showing distinct push and pull factors in each group. The theoretical grounding incorporates Human Capital Theory, Push-Pull Theory, Structural Mobility Theory, and Social Network Theory, enabling a nuanced understanding of how educational attainment, structural economic changes, and social relationships mediate occupational change. Findings underline the pivotal role of institutional facilitation, economic incentives, social capital, and personal agency in shaping pathways of occupational mobility. The results reveal that occupational transitions are not solely driven by economic need but also by aspirations for dignity, and sustainable livelihoods, positioning fisherwomen as active agents in reshaping their socioeconomic realities.
Copyright (c) 2024 International Journal of Humanities and Social Science
POLITICS OF NAGA FEDERALISM NORTHEAST-FRONTIER BROKEN CORNER MIRROR OF BLOODSHED, TEARS, AND TIES
Federalism has been a sort of my favorite term as it is uniting word between/among Centre and units, though in different ways of operational dynamism. In American sense of Northern hemisphere where one of the oldest experimentations of it that is pertinent to be a point of discussion in any deliberation so long civilizations exist. In the Southern hemisphere, largest democratic countries like India the term plays, though in a bit different way as explained below especially in the states such as Nagaland etc.
PLAGIARISM DETECTION: ISSUES AND CHALLENGES IN THE DIGITAL AGE
Plagiarism remains a significant concern in academic, professional, and creative domains, undermining integrity and originality. With the proliferation of digital content and advanced technologies, detecting plagiarism has become both critical and complex. This paper explores the multifaceted issues and challenges in plagiarism detection, including the evolving nature of plagiarism, limitations of current detection tools, and ethical considerations. It examines technological advancements like AI-based detection systems and their effectiveness in identifying various forms of plagiarism, such as direct copying, paraphrasing, and self-plagiarism. Challenges like cross-lingual plagiarism, false positives, and the ethical implications of AI-driven detection are discussed. The paper also highlights the role of academic policies and the need for education on ethical writing practices. By analyzing current trends and future directions, this study aims to provide insights for researchers, educators, and policymakers to enhance plagiarism detection mechanisms and promote academic integrity.
PUBLIC PERCEPTION OF GOVERNMENT POLICIES DURING THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC
A multitude of public health and economic policies were introduced in India during the COVID-19 pandemic such as lockdown, mask mandate, vaccine campaign and financial relief. However, these measures evolved in public perception over time; they were communicated through economic hardships, misinformation, and the inconsistent enforcement of them. At first, people initially thought that lockdowns and mask mandates were the right move, but extended restrictions have proven to be unpopular as they’ve caused people to become financially unstable and compliant fatigue. Public reluctance to get vaccinated as a main obstacle existed because people doubted vaccine safety alongside distrust of information, but awareness drives led to greater acceptance rates. The public received economic relief programs favourably because of free ration distribution but criticized cash transfers and MSME loan schemes because of delayed implementation and bureaucratic issues. The research demonstrates public trust in governmental actions shows constant change which requires open dialogue and fair health services distribution and quick and effective economic relief delivery. Future government policies need to address information falsity while simplifying assistance distribution and build economic strength which defends public health readiness.