South India Journal of Social Sciences (SIJSS) is a UGC-CARE listed, bimonthly journal published by the Academy of Social Sciences, an organization registered under the Society’s Act. The journal covers a wide range of areas within the social sciences, including sociology, anthropology, economics, political science, history, and more. Since its establishment in 2003 as a print journal (ISSN: 0972-8945), SIJSS has been committed to promoting high-quality research and scholarly discourse in the field of social sciences. In 2024, the journal was assigned an online ISSN (3048-6165), further strengthening its digital identity. Beginning April 2025, SIJSS transitioned to a bimonthly edition with a strong online presence, making its content more accessible to readers and authors worldwide. The journal uses the Open Journal System (OJS) to manage the complete researcher-to-reader workflow, including submission, peer review, and production.
The Intersection of Realism, Democracy, and War A Comprehensive Analysis of Kenneth Waltz’s Perspective
Section: Articles Categories: Political Science, Public Policy, Law & International Relations Keywords: Democracy , War, realism, Waltz, Conflict Subjects: Democracy , War, Realism This study explores Kenneth Waltz’s structural realist framework and its implications for understanding the relationship between democracy and war within international relations. While classical realism emphasizes unit-level factors, Waltz distinguishes his approach by focusing on systemic structures, power distribution, and relative capabilities. His five foundational propositions—anarchy, material capability distribution, polarity, relational capability, and relative gains—form the basis for analyzing state behavior. Waltz argues that democratic norms and institutions may influence foreign policy but remain constrained by the anarchic nature of the international system, where survival and security dominate decision-making. The analysis highlights the limitations of democratic peace theory, showing that democracies, like other regimes, are subject to systemic pressures that can lead to conflict. Furthermore, Waltz’s insights into nuclear proliferation and deterrence underscore the complexities of balancing democratic ideals with security imperatives. By integrating realism, democracy, and war into a unified framework, this work demonstrates that while democracy may shape alliance choices and accountability mechanisms, it does not eliminate the structural drivers of war. Ultimately, Waltz’s realist perspective provides a nuanced lens for examining how regime type interacts with systemic constraints, offering enduring relevance for contemporary debates on international security and conflict.
Political Science, Public Policy, Law & International Relations
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Brand Equity and Perception of Customers: An Analytical Study in The FMCG Sector
Section: Articles Categories: Economics, Political Economy, Commerce & Management Keywords: Brand Image, Brand Loyalty, , Brand Image, Brand Loyalty, Brand Awareness, Perceived Quality Brand Equity is an intangible asset. It helps the company to get more profit. Brand equity in the mind of consumers can lead to buying the products of the brand. This brand equity can have four factors according to Aaker’s Brand Equity model. This brand equity model is an interrelationship analysis done by the researcher in this study. Meanwhile, the researcher analyses the Gender and age-wise preference of the Brand in Fast Moving Consumer Goods. The researcher has conducted this study with the convenient sampling technique of 60 respondents from Virudhunagar district. The researcher has used SPSS tools Independent Sample T-test, One-Way ANOVA, and Pearson Correlation. There is an interrelationship between the factors of brand equity with low and moderate positive level correlation.
Economics, Political Economy, Commerce & Management
Strategies and Responses to Natural Disasters in Early Medieval Kashmir: A Case Study of Floods and Famines
Section: Articles Categories: Anthropology, Sociology, Social Work, History & Archeology Keywords: Early Medieval Kashmir, Pir Panjal, Dykes, Embankments, Jhelum The Kashmir Valley, nestled in the north-western Himalayas, is a region renowned for its stunning beauty but also its vulnerability to natural disasters such as floods, earthquakes, and landslides. Kashmir valley, often referred to as "Paradise on Earth," has a rich history dating back to ancient times, shaped by its unique geography and complex socio-political fabric. Surrounded by the towering peaks of the Pir Panjal and Great Himalayan ranges, the valley's singular water outlet through Baramulla via the Jhelum River has historically made it particularly susceptible to devastating floods and famines. From the earliest days of human habitation in the valley, these natural calamities have posed significant challenges to the region. During the early medieval period (6th to 13th century CE), Kashmir was marked by several such disasters, posing significant challenges to the region's rulers, which tested their governance and resilience. This paper examines the historical strategies and responses employed by the rulers of early medieval Kashmir to manage and mitigate the impacts of these natural disasters in Kashmir during this critical historical period.
Anthropology, Sociology, Social Work, History & Archeology
Understanding the Impact of Social Media Influencers on Generation Z’s Purchase Intentions and Brand Loyalty
Section: Articles Categories: Other Interdisciplinary Studies Keywords: Influencer Marketing, Generation Z, Purchase Intentions, Brand Loyalty Influencer marketing has rapidly become a leading force in digital advertising, particularly among Generation Z, who spend much of their time engaging on platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube. Unlike traditional advertising, this approach relies on authenticity, trust, and personal connection, qualities that resonate strongly with Gen Z. Research displays that micro- and nano-influencers often hold greater sway than celebrities, as their relatability, in addition to genuine interactions, foster profound engagement. The influence also varies across content formats: short videos capture immediate attention, while longer content builds credibility and loyalty. This study explores how influencer marketing shapes Gen Z’s purchase decisions, brand perceptions, and consumer–brand relationships, using primary data to examine the roles of trust, authenticity, and content style. The research adopts a quantitative methodology, collecting primary data through a structured survey administered via Google Forms, targeting Generation Z respondents to capture their perceptions, engagement patterns, and purchasing behaviour influenced by social media influencers. By focusing on the Indian context, the research highlights how influencers impact both short-term choices and long-term loyalty. The findings aim to provide marketers with practical insights into creating transparent, value-driven, and engaging strategies to better connect with Gen Z.
Crises of Sovereignty: Reinterpreting 1857 and 1947 in Indian State Formation
Section: Articles Categories: Anthropology, Sociology, Social Work, History & Archeology Keywords: decolonization, governance, revolt of 1857, state formation, transfer of power Subjects: reinterpreting, 1857, 1947, indian state formation, 4%, turnitin This paper examines the events of 1857 and 1947 as critical moments in the trajectory of Indian state formation, conceptualizing both as distinct yet interconnected crises of sovereignty. Rather than treating 1857 solely as a “mutiny” or 1947 merely as a moment of decolonization, the study argues that both events constituted structural ruptures that reconfigured authority, legitimacy, and political order. It argues that sovereignty was contested and transferred across colonial and postcolonial contexts, and through an examination of legislative records, administrative archives, and major historiographical interventions, the paper analyzes how these processes were constructed and reconstructed over time. The uprising of 1857 exposed vulnerabilities in the East India Company’s governance structure and precipitated the formal assumption of authority by the British Crown, thereby centralizing imperial sovereignty. Conversely, the transfer of power in 1947 marked the end of colonial rule but simultaneously revealed deep contradictions embedded in late colonial constitutional arrangements, particularly regarding territorial division, communal representation, and administrative continuity. By engaging with perspectives from nationalist, subaltern, and constitutional historiography, the article demonstrates that both 1857 and 1947 should be understood as transformative moments that reshaped institutional frameworks and political imaginaries of the state. Ultimately, the study contends that Indian state formation emerged not as a linear progression but as a layered process shaped by crises, negotiations, and redefinitions of sovereignty.
Assessing India-China Hydropolitics and Climate Security in the Brahmaputra River Basin
Section: Articles Categories: Political Science, Public Policy, Law & International Relations Keywords: Hydropolitocs, Brahmaputra River Basin, India China Relation, Climate Security South Asia is home to one of the strategically significant river basin, the Brahmaputra River Basin which is a major bone of contention between the two major powers India and China. The article explores climate security issues arising in the river basin as a result of hydropolitics between the two countries. Determined by geopolitical conflicts and economic rivalry and absence of no clear treaty on sharing water resources, management of water resources has seen cooperation at peace times and disruption at times of conflict. China being the upper riparian country has significant control over the river basin and has denied hydrological data on number of occasions and has constructed several dams in its quest for cleaner energy which has the potential to socio economically impact the downstream countries in Brahmaputra Basin. At this backdrop, drawing on the securitization theory, the study analyses how hydropolitics between the two Asian powers has been defining climate security in the Brahmaputra River Basin and its consequences in the South Asian region. Heightened floods during the monsoons and water scarcity during drought times have affected human lives and livelihood in the river basin. Additionally the entire South Asian region seems to be at climate risk in the coming years owing to these climate risks. Methodologically, the study adopts a qualitative approach drawing upon scholarly articles and policy documents from 2015-2025 where India China bilateral relations, hydropolitics and climate security in the Brahmaputra River Basin have been analysed. By intertwining securitization theory with hydropolitics the study contributes to the literature on climate security and transboundary water governance in South Asia. The findings suggest that climate risks in the river basin and South Asia at large needs to be addressed through transboundary water cooperation by adopting climate change adaptation and mitigation policies through institutionalized mechanism between the two countries
Kerala Higher Education and Emerging Youth Risk Ecologies: A Study of Digital Socialization and Behavioral Learning Pathways
Section: Articles Categories: Anthropology, Sociology, Social Work, History & Archeology, Education, Health, Psychology, Philosophy, Social Exclusion & Gender Studies Keywords: Kerala Higher Education, Digital Socialization, Youth Behavior, Informal Learning, Risk Ecology, Behavioral Education Subjects: Sociology, Youth Studies, Health and Behavioral Studies , History, Education, Higher Education Kerala’s higher education system has long been recognized for its wide access, strong institutional networks, and emphasis on social development. However, recent transformations in youth interaction patterns indicate the emergence of new behavioral and learning environments shaped by digital technologies. This study examines the evolving risk ecologies among students in Kerala’s higher education sector by analyzing the role of digital socialization and informal behavioral learning pathways. Adopting a retrospective analytical design, the study draws on secondary institutional datasets, youth behavioral studies, and officially reported surveillance and cybercrime records between 2022 and 2025. Quantitative trends were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistical techniques, while contextual interpretations were informed by interdisciplinary educational literature. Findings indicate a marked shift in youth social learning from structured institutional spaces to digitally mediated platforms, including social media, dating applications, and encrypted communication tools. These environments function as informal learning spaces where norms related to relationships, intimacy, and risk are negotiated with limited pedagogical guidance. The analysis reveals that early exposure to digital socialization, peer-driven behavioral modelling, and fragmented value transmission contribute to increased psychosocial vulnerability among students. The study highlights a growing disconnect between formal higher education curricula and the lived digital realities of contemporary youth. It argues that emerging risk ecologies are not merely behavioral deviations but reflect systemic gaps in digital literacy, life-skills education, and value-oriented learning frameworks within higher education. The paper concludes by emphasizing the need for integrative educational responses that incorporate digital ethics, relational learning, and critical social engagement to strengthen youth resilience in an increasingly digitized educational landscape.
Education, Health, Psychology, Philosophy, Social Exclusion & Gender Studies
From Enrolment to Exit and Beyond: Gender Gaps in Economics Academia in India
Section: Articles Categories: Economics, Political Economy, Commerce & Management Keywords: Gender Economics, Women in Economics, Indian Academia, Inclusive academics This study examines the persistent gender gap in economics academia in India, focusing on the underrepresentation of women at advanced stages of academic progression despite comparable enrollment rates at the undergraduate and master’s levels. Utilizing a mixed-methods approach, the research combines secondary data analysis from AISHE reports with primary qualitative surveys of female economics students, scholars, and faculty members. Trend analysis of enrollment rates and gap analysis of course completion rates are employed to examine gender-wise patterns in the enrollment and completion of economics courses. The findings reveal a pronounced “leaky pipeline,” where women’s participation declines sharply at the PhD completion stage and further diminishes in faculty recruitment and senior academic roles. Key barriers identified include limited mentorship, gender stereotypes, restricted research opportunities, and exclusion from professional networks. The paper concludes by advocating for structural reforms, inclusive policies, and targeted interventions to promote gender diversity and retention in economics academia, thereby enhancing the discipline’s quality and relevance through increased diversity of perspectives. This research thus serves as a crucial step toward understanding and mitigating the barriers that contribute to the “missing women” phenomenon in economics academia.
Reconceptualizing India’s Security - National, Transnational, and Maritime Dimensions in the 21st Century
Section: Articles Categories: Geography, Environmental Studies, Sustainable Development & Area Studies, Political Science, Public Policy, Law & International Relations Keywords: India, National, Transnational, Maritime, Security Subjects: India, National, Transnational, Maritime, Security This Paper examines the evolution of India's security framework in the 21st century, highlighting its transition from a traditional, land-based, military-centric model to a comprehensive approach that encompasses national, transnational, and maritime security. Originally shaped by partition, regional conflicts, and territorial disagreements with Pakistan and China, India's security focus was mainly state-centric. However, globalisation, technological advances, and emerging threats have expanded these perspectives, prompting India to rethink security beyond mere territorial defence. During the early nation-building phase, threats primarily came from Pakistan and China from a national security perspective. Later, India faces interconnected transnational threats such as terrorism, cybercrime, illicit trafficking, climate change, and regional instability. Its strategic responses include increased multilateral cooperation, intelligence sharing, and flexible security partnerships with like-minded nations. Maritime security became a key aspect after the 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks, due to India's long coastline, reliance on sea lines of communication, and growing geopolitical competition in the Indian Ocean region. Therefore, this research paper aims to explore how India's security architecture has evolved and been redefined from a primarily national focus to a broader transnational and maritime perspective. It investigates the factors shaping India's strategic development and concludes by offering a nuanced understanding of how India navigates the complex security landscape of the 21st century.
Geography, Environmental Studies, Sustainable Development & Area Studies
The Voice of the Global South Summit: Exploring Opportunities and Future Challenges in India’s Leadership
Section: Articles Categories: Political Science, Public Policy, Law & International Relations Keywords: Voice of the Global South Summit, India's Foreign Policy, Global South, India's National Interests, South Cooperation The Voice of the Global South Summit (VOGSS) has been a recent entry in the large gamut of regional groupings in India's foreign policy framework. India has attracted several regional interactions with like-minded countries, surpassing the boundaries of South Asia and reaching out to the countries and regions of Southeast Asia, Africa, Central Asia, and even Latin America. India is a prominent member of groupings such as the G77, the BRICS, and the G20, which represent the larger Global South and the developing and least developed countries. These partnerships are built on certain concrete similarities and common objectives to achieve. Voice of the Global South is such an interesting initiative from India that endeavours to represent the common concerns of the Global South countries and also showcase a joint solidarity of the states in highlighting their challenges, which are largely different from those of the Global North countries. The research paper addresses the nuances and explores the spectrum of India's national interests for introducing the regional grouping of VOGSS and analyses the contributions and challenges that are posed for India's foreign policy in achieving the desired goals and its attempts at furthering the South-South Cooperation.
Memes, Youth and Political Communication: An Analysis of Memetic Discourses of Political Parties During 2024 Lok Sabha Elections
Section: Articles Categories: Language Studies, Cultural Studies, Media and Communication & Library Science Keywords: social media, meme, election, youth, political communication Subjects: Political Communication, Social Media The surge in digitization popularized social media-driven elections in the 2024 general elections. This paper explores how national political parties – Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and Indian National Congress (INC) – are utilizing memes to connect with multicultural youth voters. Building upon Agenda-Setting Theory of McCombs and Shaw (1972), Framing of Entman (2010) and Uses and Gratifications of Katz, Blumler and Gurevitch (1973), this paper employs Braun and Clarke’s thematic analysis, this study identifies thematic underpinnings in memetic campaigns to examine what differentiates ordinary memes from political ones. The thematic analysis of BJP and INC memes reveal that the majority of the content was designed for youth voters. The juxtaposition of multimedia graphics, strategic content delivery, platform choice, post timings, multilingual components, and thematic relevance to youth issues were ingrained in both parties’ memes. This paper identifies how the political parties have increasingly channeled memes in their online discourses to influence youngsters across geographies. As digital democracies struggle against accusations of selective empathy and sidelining minorities, this study establishes that careful digital planning can foster inclusion of voices of the marginalized.
Language Studies, Cultural Studies, Media and Communication & Library Science
Evolution Of Environmental Ethics In Education
Section: Articles Categories: Geography, Environmental Studies, Sustainable Development & Area Studies, Political Science, Public Policy, Law & International Relations, Education, Health, Psychology, Philosophy, Social Exclusion & Gender Studies Keywords: United Nations, Environmental Ethics, Basic Education Scheme, National Green Corps, National Education Policy 2020 (NEP) Environmental ethics in education has become increasingly important as societies face rising ecological challenges, such as climate change, pollution, biodiversity loss and unsustainable consumption. This research paper examines the meaning, significance and implementation of environmental ethics within the educational system. It highlights how values such as responsibility, respect for nature, intergenerational justice and ecological sustainability can be integrated into curriculum ,pedagogy, institutional culture and community engagement. The study analyses global trends, identifies key challenges and proposes a holistic framework for integrating environmental ethics in education. This paper concludes that environmental ethics must be a core component of modern education to build environmentally conscious future citizens.
Capital Structure Dynamics and Speed of Adjustment: Sectoral Heterogeneity in Indian Manufacturing Firms
Section: Articles Categories: Economics, Political Economy, Commerce & Management Keywords: Capital Structure, Manufacturing firms , Sectoral heterogeneity, Speed of adjustment, GMM Subjects: corporate finance, capital structure This paper examines capital-structure dynamics and the speed of adjustment (SoA) towards target leverage across industrial sectors in India. Using a panel dataset of 549 listed firms from ten industries from 2011 to 2021, long-term debt ratio (LTDR) is modelled in a dynamic partial-adjustment framework estimated with sector-wise panel GMM that includes macro-financial conditions (GDP growth, interest rates and stock-market returns) and firm-specific characteristics (tangibility, profitability, growth opportunities, firm size and liquidity) as controls. The results reveal marked heterogeneity in adjustment behaviour: estimated SoA ranges from about 4% per year in other non-metallic mineral products to over 40% in machinery and equipment, with several other industries showing intermediate speeds. Profitability consistently exerts a negative effect on leverage, supporting pecking-order arguments. In contrast, GDP growth and liquidity generally reduce leverage. Furthermore, firm size and asset growth are associated with higher target debt ratios. Macroeconomic variables, particularly interest rates, matter most for capital-intensive sectors, underscoring the role of external financing conditions in leverage rebalancing. Overall, Indian manufacturing firms move slowly towards their target capital structures, suggesting that adjustment costs and institutional barriers are significant. The observed sectoral asymmetries indicate the need for industry-specific financial policies that lower barriers to leverage adjustment in slower-adjusting sectors while maintaining conservative debt levels in sectors where adjustment is relatively rapid.
Navigating State-NGO Partnership in India and A Way Forward For Collaborations in Development
Section: Articles Categories: Economics, Political Economy, Commerce & Management, Anthropology, Sociology, Social Work, History & Archeology, Political Science, Public Policy, Law & International Relations Keywords: State-NGO Partnership , Collaborative networks, Participatory Development, NGO typology , Political Economy Subjects: Political Economy, State-NGO Partnerships, Participatory Development, Civil society organisations, Collaborative Governance In post-independence India, NGOs functioning was considered of utmost importance by the state, wherein these organisations were onboarded as partners in development programs, provided training to government officials, and supported field-level implementations. The change in NGOs' functioning from a welfare-oriented approach to an advocacy stance was met with tensions in partnership between the stakeholders, which lasted for a while. Later, the state started to recognise its work towards development and extended earlier measures of partnership for ensuring public service delivery. The neoliberalism era had seen a boom of NGOs taking the baton of development, resulting from the state’s cutdown on welfare funding and increase in corporate funding to them as part of their social responsibility in doing business. This review article examines the collaborative partnerships formed between the State and NGO from independence and hitherto. Various state policies and measures towards governing/onboarding NGOs are considered to analyse what circumstances led to partnership and instances of tension amongst stakeholders. A need for collaborative partnership between the stakeholders at different public administration units was emphasised for sustainable development.
The Belt and Road Initiative: Geo-Political and Indo-Pacific Security Competition
Section: Research Notes Categories: Political Science, Public Policy, Law & International Relations Keywords: BRI, China, Indo-Pacific , United States, Competation Subjects: International Relations, Political science and International Relations , Indo-Pacific region The Belt and Road Initiative has emerged as a pivotal framework for understanding contemporary geopolitical dynamics, particularly in the Indo-Pacific region. This research paper explores the multifaceted dimensions of the BRI, analysing its implications for regional security. At its core, the BRI seeks to enhance connectivity and economic integration through infrastructure development, yet it simultaneously acts as a conduit for expanding China's influence. As nations navigate the complexities of this initiative, concerns arise regarding sovereignty, debt diplomacy, and the potential for increased strategic competition between China and Western powers, particularly the United States. This competition is underscored by differing visions for regional order and security, prompting responses that range from engagement to containment. This paper elucidates the intricate interplay between economic ambition and geopolitical rivalry, highlighting the BRI's role as both an opportunity for development and a catalyst for tension. This paper explores the BRI's impact on geopolitical dynamics, power shifts, and regional actors' responses in an evolving security landscape.
Political science and International Relations
Examining Non-Academic Demotivational Factors Influencing Student’s Upskilling Intention
Section: Articles Categories: Economics, Political Economy, Commerce & Management, Anthropology, Sociology, Social Work, History & Archeology, Geography, Environmental Studies, Sustainable Development & Area Studies, Education, Health, Psychology, Philosophy, Social Exclusion & Gender Studies Keywords: Upskilling Intention, Non-Academic Demotivational Factors, Skill Development Participation among University Student in Tamil Nadu. The skill development initiatives were expanding in higher education but the upskilling intention among the students are un-even nowadays particularly in the underprivileged area. The non-academic demotivational factors how affecting the university students upskilling intention were investigated in this study. The study employed a proportionate stratified random sampling with the data from yielded from the two-state university pursuing students which were comprises of under graduation and postgraduation. Contextually sixty non-academic variables were measured using a structured questionnaire and analyzed through opted analytical tools. As of the results eight major demotivational dimensions were identified those were economic insecurity, psychological fatigue, etc., were emerging as a most dominating determinants which affects the upskilling intention of the students. The regression model demonstrated the strong power predictive with the metrics of (R² = 0.549, p < 0.001) indicating this factors proportion of variation in upskilling intention of students. Out of these factors Institutional trust deficits comparatively showed a weaker when other considered constraints. A structural livelihood pressures, accessibility limitation in perceived skill to employment risks were plays a major impactful role that availability of programme alone. The multidimensional empirical framework was contributed by this study helps to understand the gaps in participation of skill development and offers evidence-based direction for the focused policy intervention at improving the student’s sustained engagement on the skill enrichment.
Skill Development Participation among University Student in Tamil Nadu.
Dispossession and Livelihood Vulnerabilities: Socio- Economic Impacts of Land Acquisition on the Landless Communities in Neoliberal Haryana, India
Section: Articles Categories: Economics, Political Economy, Commerce & Management, Political Science, Public Policy, Law & International Relations Keywords: Land Acqquisition, Haryana, Landless Communities, Livelihood, Dalits, Rehabilitation, Industrialization, Caste Land acquisition and grabbing remain the central means of dispossession in neoliberal India, affecting every section of society, but disproportionally. This paper attempts to explore the socio-economic impacts of land acquisition on landless Dalits and backward-caste communities in Haryana. The people affected by the Industrial Model Township (IMT), Rohtak, are taken as the case study to understand the larger implications of land acquisition on the life and livelihood of marginalised communities. Issues such as occupational shifts, changes and challenges arise in livelihood, exclusion and marginalisation in the whole process and in the implementation of rehabilitation and resettlement policies etc. are addressed. Drawing insights from extensive field data, this paper critically examines how the development process failed to recognise the pain and concern of these communities despite being equally dispossessed.
Section: Articles Categories: Political Science, Public Policy, Law & International Relations, Other Interdisciplinary Studies Keywords: Bhartiya Nyaya Sanhita, Cybercrime, Indian Penal Code, Indian Legal Framework As part of the Criminal Procedure Code revisions in India, the BNS (Bhartiya Nyaya Sanhita) replaces the IPC (Indian Penal Code). It seeks to simplify and modernize criminal justice processes. Cybercrime refers to a broad spectrum of illicit actions carried out through computers or the internet. Identity theft, data theft, phishing, online fraud, hacking, cyberstalking, and other crimes are included in this area. India's Information Technology Act of 2000 and the Indian Penal Code, which is currently being replaced by BNS, provide the legal foundation for combating cybercrime in India. Because cybercrimes are always evolving, the BNS includes updated rules to handle them as part of the criminal justice system's reform. India has taken measures to address cybercrime and enhance law enforcement agency coordination by forming diverse cybercrime divisions and special investigation teams throughout its states. This paper aims to examine how, although the IPC has certain laws pertaining to cybercrime, the BNS is structured to address the issue more comprehensively and contemporarily, taking into account the growing importance of digital technology in contemporary legal frameworks. It will also go into detail on how BNS, which recognizes the quick advancement of technology and the ensuing need for updated legal measures, gives a more precise definition and punishments for cybercrimes.
Migration as Compulsion, Networks as Lifelines: A Socio economic Study of Odia Workers in The Honda Industrial Estate of Goa
Section: Articles Categories: Anthropology, Sociology, Social Work, History & Archeology, Political Science, Public Policy, Law & International Relations Keywords: livelihood , Migration, Odia Migrants , Social Network Theory, Vulnerability This study investigates the socio-economic dynamics of Odia migrant workers employed in Honda Industrial Estate, Goa, exploring how migration shapes their livelihoods and adaptation experiences through analytical lens of Social Network theory (SNT). The research is guided by two core objectives: identifying key push-pull factors influencing migration and assessing subsequent socio-economic and cultural changes. Using a qualitative methodology based on semi-structured interviews, focus group discussions, and participant observation with 15 Odia workers, the study reveals that migration is primarily driven by structural push factors such as rural unemployment, agrarian stagnation, and climate-induced distress; while being facilitated by social networks. Pull factors include higher wages (₹15,000 - ₹35,000 vs. ₹300/day), industrial growth, and perceived social tolerance in Goa; though recruitment through contractors creates dependency relationships emphasizing structural holes. The findings reveal a fundamental paradox: while migrants experience economic gains and maintain cultural identity, their employment remains informal and structurally vulnerable. Socially, adaptation occurs within closed community networks characterized by strong ties, with limited integration into local Goan society. The study concludes that migration serves as a survival strategy rather than a vehicle for upward mobility, emphasizing the need for inclusive labour policies and migrant welfare mechanisms in semi-industrial regions like Goa.
Rivers and Streams in Transition: From Culturally Embedded Commons into Contested and Commodified Spaces Among the Adi Tribe in Arunachal Pradesh
Section: Articles Categories: Anthropology, Sociology, Social Work, History & Archeology Keywords: Rivers and Streams, Adi Tribe, Blast Fishing, River Leasing, Commodification of Rivers and Streams This paper examines continuity and changes in the socio-cultural significance of rivers and streams among the Adi tribe of Arunachal Pradesh, with particular attention to the impacts of modern fishing technologies and market-driven resource extraction. Drawing on qualitative ethnographic data from five villages in Siang District, the study explores Indigenous Knowledge Systems governing rivers and stream ownership, boundary demarcation, ritual significance, and community-based fishing practices. The findings reveal that while traditional practices such as Kegung, Nguok Oknam, and Sibok Pattnam continue to embody principles of ecological restraint, sustainability, and collective action, these systems are increasingly undermined by modern fishing methods, including blast fishing, electrofishing, and river-leasing arrangements. These processes have contributed to ecological degradation, declining fish stocks, and reconfigured cultural meaning attached to rivers and streams. Situating the analysis within the frameworks of Indigenous Knowledge Systems and practice theory, the paper argues that rivers and streams among the Adi are being transformed from culturally embedded commons into contested and commodified spaces, with profound implications for cultural continuity, food security, and social cohesion.
The Entwined Nexus: Television, Caste, and Media Capital in the Telugu States
Section: Book Review Categories: Political Science, Public Policy, Law & International Relations Keywords: Entwined Nexus, Media Capital, Political Economy This article critically reviews Srinivas Panthukala’s Media Capital: The Political Economy of 24/7 Television News in the Telugu States (2025) examines how television news in Andhra Pradesh and Telangana evolved into a sophisticated political and commercial institution. The book argues that the rise of 24/7 television news in Andhra Pradesh and Telangana cannot be understood merely through media liberalization or market competition. Instead, the regional media landscape is structurally shaped by caste hierarchies, capital accumulation, and party-political strategies. Panthukala demonstrates that dominant agrarian-capitalist castes, particularly Reddys, Kammas, and Velamas channeled surplus capital into television news following economic liberalization in the 1990s . Media ownership thus became embedded within caste-political patronage networks, transforming news channels into instruments of ideological consolidation rather than autonomous watchdog institutions. Through detailed institutional mapping, the study highlights ownership structures, party alignments, and patterns of vertical and horizontal integration that reinforce media capture. The book further contends that sensationalism, polarized debates, and personality-centric programming are not merely products of commercial competition but serve partisan and caste interests. By tracing the shift from Doordarshan’s monopoly to competitive satellite broadcasting, Panthukala connects broader transformations in Indian media to the consolidation of regional bourgeois power. Although limited by its temporal scope, which ends around 2014, the study offers a foundational regional political economy framework. It demonstrates how television news in the Telugu states functions as a hegemonic apparatus reproducing caste dominance, political legitimacy, and capitalist accumulation.
Global Acceptance versus Indian Resistance: A Comparative Analysis of Genetically Modified Crops
Section: Articles Categories: Geography, Environmental Studies, Sustainable Development & Area Studies Keywords: biotechnology, food security, genetically modified crops Subjects: Revolution of Biotechnology, food security, Environment Concerns over global food security have become more serious than ever as the world’s population keeps growing exponentially on the other hand the amount of arable land keeps reducing. Such challenges have led to an increase of research towards innovative agricultural solutions. One such solution is the development of Genetically Modified (GM) crops, such crops are modified in a manner to improve the features such as pest resistant, herbicide tolerance, ability to survive environmental stress, etc. These crops are developed through incorporating genes from other organisms to get the desired result. GM crops have the potential to provide a range of benefits, including higher crop yields, decreased production costs, and greater nutritional value. However, there is still continuous debate about their use around the world, with health and environmental issues frequently at the center of discussion. India has adopted GM technology with more caution than many nations around the world. So far the government has approved only a few varieties of GM cotton, specifically Bacillus Thuringiensis (Bt) cotton for its cultivation. In this research paper an attempt has been made to examine the concept of GM crops, their advantages as well as potential risks involved. It also investigates the global acceptance of GM crops and compares India’s position with that of other nations. It also highlights the legal and regulatory framework governing the use of GM crops in India offering the insights into the country’s cautious approach and its implications for agricultural development.
Gendered Divisions of Leisure: A Comparative Analysis of Time-Use Among Middle-Aged Men and Women in Kolkata
Section: Articles Categories: Education, Health, Psychology, Philosophy, Social Exclusion & Gender Studies Keywords: Labour, Gender, Leisure Time, Middle-Class Families, Time Allocation Subjects: Human and Social Science The present study tries to investigate the gendered disparities in leisure time allocation among middle-aged men and women (N=280) from middle-class Bengali families in Kolkata. Data collected via a self-administered questionnaire were analysed using both descriptive and inferential statistics, including independent samples t-tests, a two-way ANOVA, and Pearson correlation analysis. The results reveal statistically significant gender-based differences in time use. Independent t-tests confirmed that men dedicate significantly more time to paid work (p=0.002) and total leisure (p=0.005), while women bear a disproportionately larger share of housework (p<0.001) and childcare (p<0.001). A two-way ANOVA further identified a significant interaction effect between gender and parental status (p=0.017), indicating that motherhood imposes a unique and substantial penalty on leisure time that is not experienced by fathers. Furthermore, correlation analysis established a significant negative relationship between hours of housework and total leisure time (r = -0.58, p<0.01), and a significant positive correlation between a desire for more leisure and time spent on domestic labour (r = 0.35, p<0.01). The COVID-19 pandemic exacerbated these pre-existing disparities. The findings conclusively demonstrate that leisure inequality is not a matter of preference but is structurally determined by gendered roles within the household. Thus the study provides quantitative, inferential evidence that aligns with global patterns and underscores the urgent need for a more equitable division of domestic labour to enhance well-being and life satisfaction.
The Green Turn and Sustainable Shift: Examining Consumer Awareness and Motivation Towards Organic Food in Tiruchirappalli
Section: Articles Categories: Economics, Political Economy, Commerce & Management Keywords: Sustainable Agriculture, Organic Farming, Organic Food, Awareness, Purchasing Habits Organic food refers to naturally grown and processed products that completely avoid the use of chemical fertilizers, pesticides, or artificial substances. These items are also free from genetically modified ingredients, aiming to encourage a sustainable agricultural system. Public awareness of Rising concern for health and the environment has resulted in a continual growth in the demand for organic food. Organic farming has long been a part of India’s agricultural heritage. Long before the arrival of chemical-based farming, Indian cultivators practiced natural methods using resources from plants and animals, which preserved soil fertility and ecological balance. Farming practices based on organic principles were once the foundation of India’s economy and played a vital role in its overall growth and prosperity. Although organically grown products are available today, their supply remains limited. However, rising consciousness about health and sustainability has led to a notable shift in consumer preference towards organic goods. Increasing awareness of the harmful effects of chemically processed food has led consumers to prefer more natural and organic alternatives. In recent years, the Indian organic market has grown rapidly, particularly among educated and health-conscious consumers. Retailers catering to niche segments are promoting organic items to meet this demand. The present study therefore focuses on examining consumer awareness and perceptions towards organic products in Tiruchirappalli, identifying key factors influencing their buying behaviour
The Significance of Material Culture in Narikkuravar Marital Practices
Section: Articles Categories: Anthropology, Sociology, Social Work, History & Archeology Keywords: Narikkuravar, Material culture, Marriage rituals, Symbolic anthropology This paper examines the role of material culture in the marital practices of the Narikkuravar, a semi-nomadic Scheduled Tribe in Tamil Nadu. Drawing on four months of ethnographic fieldwork in Thimmampalayam Pudur, Coimbatore, including 14 interviews, 2 focus groups, and participant observation at four weddings, this study explores how objects such as the Thaali, bead necklaces, fox-tooth pendants, and the sacred Saami mootai function as material signifiers of marital status, lineage and clan continuity. Findings reveal a reversed dowry system, gendered sacred inheritance and culturally embedded body modification rituals such as teeth blackening. Changes like the adoption of gold beads and delayed marriage age indicate hybrid adaptation rather than cultural erosion. Material culture emerges not only as symbolic but as an active tool of social negotiation, boundary maintenance, and cultural resilience. This study contributes to understanding how marginalized communities deploy tangible cultural forms to navigate identity, exclusion, and continuity.
Enhancing Physiological Stress Regulation Through Vagal Yoga in Substance Abuse Rehabilitation: A Study of Serum Cortisol, C-Reactive Protein, and Fasting Blood Glucose
Section: Articles Categories: Education, Health, Psychology, Philosophy, Social Exclusion & Gender Studies Keywords: Yoga, Pranayama, Meditation, Substance Abuse, Stress, Autonomic Balance, Vagus Nerve, Rehabilitation Background: Substance use disorders are associated with dysregulation of stress-related and metabolic biomarkers, including serum cortisol, C-reactive protein (CRP), and fasting blood glucose (FBG). Yoga, Pranayama, and Meditation (YPM) may influence these physiological parameters; however, evidence in rehabilitation settings remains limited. Aim: To evaluate the effect of a 12-week YPM intervention on serum cortisol, CRP, and FBG among individuals undergoing inpatient rehabilitation for substance use disorders. Methods: A quasi-experimental study was conducted with 60 male participants aged 18–50 years in a licensed rehabilitation centre. Participants were allocated to an experimental group (n = 30) receiving daily YPM sessions alongside routine rehabilitation care, or a control group (n = 30) receiving routine care only. Venous blood samples were collected at baseline and post-intervention. Serum cortisol (µg/dL), CRP (mg/L), and FBG (mg/dL) were measured and analysed using paired and independent sample t-tests. Statistical significance was set at p < 0.05. Results: After 12 weeks, the experimental group showed significant reductions in serum cortisol (p < 0.01), CRP (p < 0.01), and FBG (p < 0.05), whereas no significant changes were observed in the control group. Between-group comparisons indicated significantly greater improvement in all three biomarkers in the experimental group. Conclusion: A structured 12-week YPM program as an adjunct to routine rehabilitation care was associated with significant improvements in stress-related and metabolic biomarkers among individuals undergoing substance use rehabilitation. These findings are limited to the parameters assessed in this study.
Special Teachers’ Competencies and Teachers’ Pedagogical Practices in Inclusive Education in Manipur: A Comparative Analysis
Section: Articles Keywords: Inclusive Education, Special Teachers, Competencies, Pedagogical Practices, Competance-Practice Disparity, Manipur This study examined the relationship between special teachers’ professional competencies and pedagogical practices within inclusive education settings in Manipur. Using a descriptive census survey, data were collected from all 250 special teachers across 23 special institutions. Two demographic variables—gender and educational qualification—were analysed alongside overall competence and practice levels. Descriptive statistics showed mean scores of 344.52 (SD = 24.15) for competence and 44.13 (SD = 6.73) for practice. Mann-Whitney U tests indicated no significant gender- or qualification-based differences (p > 0.140 and p > 0.353), supporting null hypotheses H₀₁ and H₀₂. However, the third null hypothesis (H₀₃) was rejected (Z = –13.708, p < 0.000), revealing a significant competence–practice gap. Although teachers possess high professional competence, these skills are not effectively applied in the classroom. The study highlights the need for systemic reform, improved infrastructure, and targeted professional development to strengthen the practical implementation of inclusive education strategies.
Competing Narratives in Indian Politics: A Study of the Congress Party’s Strategies in the 2024 General Elections
Section: Articles Categories: Political Science, Public Policy, Law & International Relations Keywords: Hindutva, Bharatiya Janata Party, Indian National Congress, Secularism, 2024 General Election Subjects: INDIAN POLITICS This paper examines the ideological and electoral confrontation between the Indian National Congress (INC) and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in the 2024 General Elections, focusing on Congress's challenge to the BJP's Hindutva-driven political strategy. The Congress Party, traditionally a proponent of secularism and inclusivity, mounted a significant challenge to the BJP, preventing it from securing a majority. The paper analyzes Congress’s key campaign strategies, including the Bharat Jodo Yatra, advocacy for a caste census, and the emphasis on constitutional values, which collectively generated public discourse on national unity, economic stability, and social welfare. Drawing on primary sources, such as campaign speeches, the party manifesto, electoral outcomes, and expert interviews, this study assesses the effectiveness of Congress's response to Hindutva narratives. The findings offer insights into the party's future strategies for promoting secularism and countering identity-based politics, contributing to the understanding of the evolving dynamics of India's democratic and cultural politics.
Age, Gender, and Education: How Demographics Shape Attitudes toward Artificial Intelligence in Sikkim’s Academic Community
Section: Articles Categories: Economics, Political Economy, Commerce & Management Keywords: Artificial Intelligent, Demographic Factor, AI Perceiption, Education, India, Technology Acceptance Subjects: Artificial Intelligence, Demographic Factor, AI Perceiption, Education, Technology Acceptance, India This study examines how academics and learners in Sikkim, India's higher education institutions view the impact of artificial intelligence (AI) in connection to demographic variables. In order to promote inclusive adoption of AI as technology becomes more and more incorporated into education, it is essential to comprehend how socioeconomic position, age, gender, educational background, and vocation affect views toward AI Structured questionnaires were used to gather data from 100 teachers and 100 University and college students using convenience sampling as part of a mixed-methods strategy. The chi-square tests are used to assess the association between demographic profiles and AI perceptions. The Key findings imply clear demographic imbalance: older versus younger and less versus more educated people report different perceived AI, Gender distinctness was also evident. The research emphasizes the importance of both targeted AI literacy education programs and policy measures to deal with population-specific issues, providing young people with equally fair accesses to AI integrated education. This understanding adds to the worldwide discussion on AI acceptance and provides country-specific advice to educators and policy-makers in India.
Modelling Volatility in the Indian Bullion Market: An EGARCH Approach
Section: Articles Categories: Economics, Political Economy, Commerce & Management Keywords: Indian Bullion Market, Volatility Modelling, GARCH (1,1), EGARCH (1,1), Asymmetric Volatility The volatility characteristics of the Indian bullion market are examined in this study utilizing monthly statistics from April 2000 to March 2024, with a focus on gold, silver, platinum, and palladium. For investors, legislators, and researchers working on risk management, market regulation, and portfolio optimization, volatility a crucial indicator of market risk is essential. Bullion return clustering, persistence, and asymmetry are captured by the study using the GARCH (1,1) and EGARCH (1,1) models. In addition to highlighting variations in mean, dispersion, skewness, and kurtosis among metals, descriptive statistics validate the data's stationarity using the Augmented Dickey-Fuller test. All markets show considerable volatility clustering, according to GARCH data, with silver showing the strongest persistence (α + β = 0.91), suggesting that shocks diminish over time. EGARCH studies reveal significant asymmetric effects in gold and silver, where positive shocks result in greater volatility than negative shocks, whereas platinum and palladium exhibit symmetric volatility patterns. The large persistence coefficients (β) of all metals show that past shocks have a significant influence on future volatility. These findings highlight the need of accounting for asymmetric volatility when modelling bullion prices and show that gold and silver require more thought when it comes to risk management and the creation of investment strategies. By providing the first EGARCH-based analysis of the Indian bullion market, the study contributes to the literature by illuminating market behaviour, risk mitigation, and investment strategy. In order to manage financial risk and comprehend price dynamics in the Indian bullion market, traders, investors, and policymakers can benefit from the findings.