Indian Journal of Social Science and Literature (IJSSL)
The Indian Journal of Social Science and Literature (IJSSL) has ISSN 2583-0643 (online), an open-access, peer-reviewed, periodical quarterly international journal, which is published by Lattice Science Publication (LSP) in March, June, September and December. Authors can electronically submit articles throughout the year using the Article Submission System. Authors can format their article either in (i) a single-column format or (ii) as per the journal template. The submitted articles should not have been previously published or are currently under consideration for publication elsewhere. The journal does not accept brief or short notes for publication. The editors retain the right to reject any articles that lack quality or originality without sending them for review. All articles must fall within the journal’s scope and will undergo a double-anonymized peer-review process. Authors must confirm that they have read and understood the content of their submitted article and ensure that it meets acceptable English grammar and usage standards. To help with the proofreading process, authors can use tools like Grammarly or similar applications. As an open-access journal, authors must pay an Article Processing Charge (APC) to publish their articles and retain copyright. Additionally, authors should familiarise themselves with the editorial and publishing policies of the journal.
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Exploring the Influence of Appreciation and Effective Communication on Marital Happiness Among Working Childless Individuals
Marital happiness reflects the individual’s subjective evaluation of one’s well-being or satisfaction within the context of the marriage relationship. Although having kids is often considered a factor in determining the happiness of married couples, the current research aims to explore the influence of appreciation and effective communication on the marital happiness of childless married individuals. This research paper investigated happiness among childless individuals and the role of gratitude and effective communication in cultivating happiness within their marital relationship. The paper also examined the role of relationship duration (years of marriage) on marital happiness. For this purpose, semi-structured interviews were conducted with 12 individuals who were childless. Through thematic analysis, six major themes and 11 sub-themes emerged. It was found that there are individual differences in showing appreciation; however, the subtle ways of demonstrating appreciation, as well as proficient communication from the other partner, shaped the overall happiness within the marital partnership. Despite the emotional and social problems faced by these individuals, the positive and constant support upheld their relationship in thick and thin. Variation was found in the expression of appreciation and communication among partners. By examining the lived experiences and perceptions of childless couples, this research highlights the importance of gratitude and effective communication in fostering long-term satisfaction. It would also provide practical strategies for cultivating thriving relationships in contemporary society, offering valuable insights into achieving happiness in relationships, regardless of whether one has children or not.
Copyright (c) 2025 Ms. Yogita Shrivastava, Prof. (Dr.) Anviti Gupta (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Analysis of Right to Rest & Leisure among Migrant Construction Worker
Throughout his lengthy career, the author has worked with migrant construction workers and has seen firsthand the many issues they encounter, including ongoing Right to Rest and Leisure. Consequently, he was compelled to meticulously investigate their plight after retiring and doing his doctoral studies on the hardships & human rights violations of migrant construction workers. It is believed that a systematic sociological analysis of the situation regarding the Right to Rest and Leisure is necessary to bring it to the consideration of policymakers. The problems faced by migrant construction workers are a concern of social relevance that requires the attention of all concerned for the well-being of workers and the development of society. This article reviews the outcomes of earlier field studies and examines relevant national and international laws and acts through a literature review. He further analysed the Right to Rest and Leisure in earlier studies, drawing on his long personal experience and the outcome of observational research conducted by him in Labour Chowk, Greater Noida, India. Migrated construction workers experience numerous health problems due to improper rest and Leisure, constituting a significant life stressor. These are positively correlated with illnesses, according to several studies. Previous research indicates that human rights abuses, especially those related to the Right to Rest and Leisure, continue despite measures outlined in the Indian Constitution, international treaties, and the country's efforts. At the end of the article, the Author also identified specific suggestions based on the analysis for the wellness advocacy of Migrant Construction Workers.
Copyright (c) 2025 C Janarthan, Dr. Ahrar Ahmad Lone (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Neorealism and its Domestic Burdens in Raymond Carver’s “What We Talk About When We Talk About Love” and Ann Beattie’s “The Lawn Party”
Minimalism, as a literary movement in the 1970s United States, attracted considerable attention due to its use of sparse descriptive prose and the collective foregrounding of language and reflexivity. This seemingly new fiction is addressed in this paper by scoping a short story production from doyens of this genre, namely Raymond Carver and Ann Beattie. This paper will focus on the ingrained commentary on the inner lives of characters as they come to terms with a new socio-economic way of being, and how their daily flaws and frailties contribute to a new narrative structure and a constant awareness of self. Carver’s meditation on city life and the layers of that old emotion of love is as relevant today as its influence on the writing of its time. Beattie’s fractured telling of the realities and little pleasures of a disconnected family speaks to the tonal and multimodal representation of craft, language, and the use of irony. Together, these two tales may be said to have built up a deceptive profundity which turns out to be a swift yet sanguine meditation on the mundanities and intimacies of a newly awakened life and audience. Kim Herzinger’s arguments about the relative selfreflections and highly conscious use of prose in this new fiction provide the critical background needed to situate these texts, enmeshed with the contrastive narrative strictures discussed by Lee Konstantinou vis-à-vis the postmodern problem. James Nagel’s records of the changes in American short fiction post-Civil War and its subsequent history of moving from realism to something by a reified minimalism are also drawn upon to show how Carver and Beattie serve as examples of journaling the minutiae of sensible lives in an often-insensible generational epoch.
Copyright (c) 2025 Dr. Debjani Dutta (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Pluralization in Barman Thar: An Endangered Language
This paper examines the process of pluralisation in Barman Thar, an endangered language of Assam. This study aims to investigate the morphological and syntactic mechanisms involved in marking plurality in Barman Thar. The data collected for this paper are based solely on primary data gathered through fieldwork in Khoirabari and Tangla, located in Udalguri and Baksa districts of Assam. Singulars are unmarked in Barman Thar, and plurals are marked by suffixes like -taŋ and -phara, both of which are lexically and morphologically conditioned. Other syntactic categories, like numerals and reduplications, are also involved in forming plurality. Tibeto-Burman features, such as copula-drop and the lack of subject-verb agreement, can also be observed here. This paper not only attempts to investigate the Pluralisation process in Barman Thar but also supports the effort to revitalise this endangered language by documenting morphosyntactic patterns.
Copyright (c) 2025 Primly Baruah (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
The Contribution of Ahilyabai Holkar in the Domain of Education and Social Welfare
This research paper examines the contribution of Ahilyabai Holkar, the 18th-century queen of Malwa, to the fields of education and social welfare. The study aims to understand how her reforms challenged patriarchal norms embedded in Dharmashastra texts, such as the Mitakshara and Dayabhaga, which traditionally limited women's roles in society. Using a qualitative research methodology, the study employs a comparative analysis and a literature review of historical texts, government records, and scholarly sources. This study uses a qualitative research approach to gain a nuanced understanding of the available literary, historical, and archival sources. This method helps in interpreting the prevalent social norms and cultural features of her kingdom. The comparative method helps distinguish her administrative policies and governance from those of other rulers of that era. It explores how Ahilyabai Holkar’s governance prioritized inclusive education and public welfare (Mulye, 2024). She established numerous Pathshalas (schools) for both boys and girls, extended support to widows, and implemented development projects in “healthcare, water management, and infrastructure”. The research reveals that Ahilyabai’s leadership challenged the prevailing gender ideology of her time. Her actions reflected a vision of ethical governance that combined administrative strength with moral responsibility. She demonstrated that a woman in power could lead effectively while promoting social justice and empowerment (Chandel, 2023). The significance of this lies in its emphasis on Ahilyabai Holkar’s role as a reformer whose contributions are often overlooked in mainstream historical narratives. Her legacy offers valuable insights into women’s leadership and the historical roots of gender-sensitive governance. By revisiting her initiatives, this paper contributes to ongoing discussions on social reform, education, and gender equality in India.
Copyright (c) 2025 Mahima Soni (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Female Agency and Class in Greek Mythology: Insights from Sarah B. Pomeroy’s Women in Classical Antiquity
Greek mythology serves as a reflection of ancient Greek societal structures, particularly in terms of gender and class. This paper examines the varied portrayals of mortal women, goddesses, and demigoddesses, drawing on Sarah B. Pomeroy’s Women in Classical Antiquity, as well as other scholarly sources, to explore how social hierarchies and gender-based privileges influence narratives, agency, and power dynamics. The analysis foregrounds three main arguments. First, divine beings such as Athena, Hera, and Aphrodite possess authority and agency that often transcend mortal limitations yet remain inextricably linked to patriarchal structures. Second, the paradoxes inherent in divine power- where figures like Athena are celebrated for their wisdom and martial prowess despite their familial ties to Zeusdemonstrate the intrinsic contradictions of gender and class privilege. Third, the status of demigoddesses, exemplified by figures such as Helen of Troy and Ariadne, highlights the ambiguous nature of hybridity, revealing both enhanced agency and reinforced marginality. These frameworks are applied to the examination of mortal women characters, such as Penelope and Clytemnestra, whose roles have been shaped by class, social expectations, and a rigidly prescribed gender order. Through an integrated gender studies perspective, the paper sheds light on the dynamic interplay between divine power and the constraints of gender-based hierarchy in the classical world.
Copyright (c) 2025 Prerana Sana (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Caste and Crime in India: The Influence of Social Hierarchy on Justice
This paper explores the role of caste in shaping the Indian criminal justice system, focusing on how social hierarchies continue to influence legal processes and outcomes. Caste-based discrimination is still present within law enforcement and judicial procedures and sentencing, often affecting Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (SCs and STs)- despite constitutional guarantees of equality. Based on historical and contemporary evidence, the study illustrates how caste prejudices persist, which leads to systemic inequalities and unequal treatment of marginalized communities within the justice system. The paper critically examines existing legal frameworks, such as anti-discrimination laws, and identifies gaps in enforcement that perpetuate caste-based injustices. The research draws attention to the social and psychological burden that caste-based discrimination puts on those participating in the criminal justice process, especially those of lower castes. In addressing these issues, the paper proposes practical reforms to dismantle caste-based discrimination within the criminal justice system. These would include caste sensitivity training for police and judges, strengthening legal protection against caste discrimination, and improved access to justice for marginalized communities. Ultimately, it aims to ensure that individuals of all castes receive equal and fair treatment within the Indian criminal justice system.
Copyright (c) 2025 Dr. Navin Kumar (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Queer Lineages, Colonial Shadows: Trans Autobiography and the Revival of Gender Plurality in India
This paper examines the transformative power of transgender autobiographical narratives in contemporary India, positioning them as crucial interventions in the struggle for recognition, dignity, and systemic change, and centres on the life writings of A. Revathi (The Truth About Me), Living Smile Vidya (I Am Vidya), and Laxmi Narayan Tripathi (Me Hijra, Me Laxmi), the subjects of this study, which explores how these texts function not merely as personal accounts but as political acts that challenge entrenched hierarchies of caste, gender, and sexuality. By drawing on Judith Butler’s theory of gender performativity and Michel Foucault’s concept of biopower, the research analyses how these narratives subvert normative frameworks and re-signify the meaning of gender identity in the Indian context. This research was conducted to interrogate the colonial and postcolonial erasure of non-normative identities and to demonstrate how trans autobiographies serve as counter-narratives to dominant discourses. The colonial imposition of Section 377 and Victorian moral codes pathologized queer existence, embedding heteronormativity into India's legal and cultural institutions. Although legal victories, such as the NALSA judgment (2014) and the decriminalisation of Section 377 (2018), mark significant progress, they remain insufficient without a concurrent cultural reckoning. This study therefore emphasizes the need to read autobiographical acts as modes of resistance that transcend juridical frameworks. Ultimately, these narratives articulate what Gayatri Spivak calls subaltern speech, not from the margins seeking entry but from a space of epistemic authority. They reimagine the boundaries of kinship, nationhood, and citizenship, offering a new cartography of belonging rooted in lived experience and cultural hybridity. In doing so, they resist the forces of erasure and enact a future already being written by queer lives at the intersections of caste, gender, class, and faith. These autobiographies are not just stories of survival; they are blueprints for a radically inclusive and decolonized social imagination.
Copyright (c) 2025 Dr. Pallabi Baruah (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Study of Online Gaming on Adolescent through the Lens of G. Stanley Hall's "Storm and Stress"
This study examines the impact of online gaming on adolescent development through G. Stanley Hall's "storm and stress" framework, highlighting emotional turbulence, risk-taking behaviours, and identity confusion among youth. Adolescence, as described by Hall, is marked by heightened emotional sensitivity, impulsivity, and identity struggles, traits that contemporary online gaming environments significantly amplify. Analysis of detailed case studies involving individuals aged 13 to 28 demonstrates that excessive gaming can provoke emotional extremes, notably "gamer rage," triggered by immediate factors like in-game failures and broader contextual stressors, including parental restrictions and daily life frustrations. This emotional turbulence often manifests as irritability, aggression, and strained family relationships, intensified by the immersive and competitive nature of gaming. The rapid reward systems embedded in online games reinforce adolescent impulsivity, leading to increased experimentation and risky behaviours both virtually and in real life, such as academic neglect and susceptibility to peer-driven behaviours, including substance use. The study also identifies the complex dynamics of identity formation as adolescents navigate multiple virtual personas and social hierarchies online, thereby complicating their real-world self-concept. While temporarily boosting self-esteem, virtual achievements can dangerously blur distinctions between digital validation and genuine personal worth. To mitigate these risks, the research emphasises the need for collaborative strategies that involve families, educational institutions, policymakers, and mental health professionals. Effective interventions should cultivate adolescents’ selfregulation, balanced gaming habits, and clear boundary-setting to enhance emotional resilience, responsible decision-making, and stable identity formation. Recognising gaming's potential as a developmental risk and a constructive exploration tool is essential for fostering healthier adolescent development.
Copyright (c) 2025 B Chibby Muthu, Archana Hajong (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
A Criminological Study of the Impact of Domestic Violence on Child Abuse
There is a close relationship between domestic violence and child abuse. Although many children are victims of domestic violence, very few of them are reported to legal institutions. The main reason for this is that the abuser is a family member. However, the harm caused to children by domestic violence cannot be underestimated. This study was conducted on children in Sri Lanka who are victims of domestic violence, and specifically studied the factors that affect the victimisation of domestic violence and the effects it has on children. The economic and social status of the families of children who are victims of domestic violence was also discussed. A sample of 40 children who were victims of domestic violence was used for the study. Accordingly, the main objective of conducting this research is to study the factors that affect the victimisation of children in the family and the abuse situations that children face. Accordingly, the % of direct problems with the child alone is 47%. 53% of children have experienced violence due to disputes between their parents. It was also revealed that 90% of the siblings of the children who have been victims of violence have also been subjected to violence. Parents in the 26-33 and 34-40 age groups are primarily involved in domestic violence. Accordingly, this study revealed that in families with young and underage parents in this country, family disputes are more common, and children are primarily affected. The father's drug use, the family's economic problems, the low education of the parents, poor interpersonal relationships between the parents, living in a single-parent family, and various weaknesses of the children are the main factors that affect domestic violence against children.
Copyright (c) 2025 Udayakumara Amarasinghe (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Strategic Convergence in the Arabian Gulf: Evaluating India-UAE Partnership Post 2014
India’s foreign policy towards West Asia has evolved significantly, expanding beyond traditional concerns of energy dependence. Since 2014, under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, there has been a marked emphasis on counterterrorism, defence cooperation, trade diversification, regional security, and the fostering of stronger diplomatic ties. This paper highlights Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s diplomatic achievements in the Gulf region, with a particular focus on the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Following independence, the Gulf states have emerged as key trade and energy partners for India. Under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, a transformative “Look West” policy has deepened economic, strategic, and cultural engagements with the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) states, particularly with the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Initiatives such as the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA), digital financial integration, and the Local Currency Settlement (LCS) system underscore the shift toward more comprehensive cooperation. The article further explores India’s strategic partnership with the UAE, characterised by robust trade, investment commitments, energy security, and diaspora engagement. Cultural diplomacy, epitomized by the inauguration of the BAPS Hindu Temple in Abu Dhabi, also highlights the strengthening of bilateral ties. This study also examines how Modi’s leadership has enhanced bilateral relations, promoting mutual growth and solidifying India’s position amid regional challenges and opportunities in the Arabian Gulf.
Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA)
Copyright (c) 2025 Mohammad Shahnawaz, Rayees Yousuf Mir (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
A Complete Examination and Use of AI Techniques for Investigating Virtual Entertainment Organization Publicizing
The vast number of users on social networking sites makes it an integral part of advertisement strategies. The rise of social media platforms like Facebook, Twitter, and WhatsApp as a vehicle for marketing communication has significantly increased the level of popularity they already enjoy among the general public, accounting for a substantial percentage of human activities within and across these social networking platforms on the Web. With some credibility, Face book itself promotes it as a potentially ideal marketing strategy. This brief chronicle recounts how it enables advertising businesses to access and target communication towards anyone's wall, post, and profile for advertising purposes. Remarkable communication, as instructed in the tube explored herein, has led us to find that no page has been created in any product solely because of an advertisement on a user's wall, nor does any resolution depend on Facebook in any other matter of concern. Nevertheless, Facebook stands out significantly in facilitating communication among user groups. Using experimental approaches with neural networks and Support Vector Machines (SVMs) for social networking advertisements would be a valuable contribution of this paper. The research examines and compares these two methods, determining their accuracy, precision, and recall.
Copyright (c) 2025 Dr. G. Ravi Kumar, Dr. G. Thippanna, Dr. K. Nagamani (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Techniques of Speech Manipulation in Tourism Advertising Texts
In the fiercely competitive advertising world, particularly in the tourism industry, persuasive manipulation techniques are being increasingly used to engage consumers and influence their decisions. This paper examines various linguistic strategies employed in advertising texts, highlighting their role in shaping perceptions and creating a favourable impression. Essential techniques encompass euphemization, which involves substituting negative terms with neutral alternatives to foster a positive perception among consumers; the substitution of concepts, which connects familiar positive or negative ideas with products or services to elicit targeted emotional responses; and veiled comparisons, where advertisers skillfully position their offerings in a favorable light against competing objects or experiences. The text also explores the concept of rethinking, where well-known facts are recontextualised to construct a favourable narrative, alongside implanted evaluations that ascribe appealing qualities to products or services without scrutiny. The article delves into the art of speech linking, a subtle technique that fosters agreement by incorporating temporal phrases. It also explores implicatures, where underlying messages imply affordability and enjoyment without being directly stated. Additionally, rhetorical questions further engage potential clients. Employing these strategies, advertisers formulate messages that capture prospective clients' attention and foster a sense of independent decision-making, ultimately enhancing their appeal and the effectiveness of their campaigns. Overall, the analysis reveals how these manipulative strategies shape consumer pe
Copyright (c) 2025 Velichko Marina Aleksandrovna (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Performance of Idolmaking: Intersection of Caste, Tradition and Space Among Mritshilpis of Kumartuli
Kumartuli, an artisanal neighbourhood in North Kolkata, is home to custodians of the intricate idol-making craft, which has been primarily passed down through generations as a form of heritage and knowledge. The craft, practised by the Kumbhars (potter), represents a dynamic interplay of heritage and innovation, mediated by the locality's socio-cultural aesthetics and spatial fabric. Various anthropological studies have attempted to visualise Kumartuli as a locality, situated at the rich intersection of culture, aesthetics, and art, drawing a connection between the ecologies of work and ritual practices prevalent within the community structure. The community lies at the intersection of deep-rooted caste structures and struggles to preserve the sustainability of the craft in the current scenario of iconographic processuals. This paper attempts to analyse the lived experiences of idol makers, drawing on the convergence of caste as a form of social capital and folklore, which embodies oral history and space as a manifestation of social construct. Through qualitative interviews, this paper explores how individual idol makers navigate the complex intersection of cultural and religious symbolisms that shape their process of identity formation in the day-to-day schema of life.
Copyright (c) 2025 Sagnik Chakraborty (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Efficient Market Dynamics: Unraveling Informational Efficiency in UK Horse Racing Betting Markets Through Betfair's Time Series Analysis
Using Betfair's time series data, an analysis of the United Kingdom (UK) horse racing market reveals an interesting paradox: a market with short tails, rapidly decaying autocorrelations, and no long-term memory. There seems to be a remarkably high level of informational efficiency in betting exchange returns, in contrast to financial assets that are characterized by heavy tails and volatility clustering. The generalized Gaussian unconditional distribution with a light tail points to a market where knowledge is quickly assimilated and reflected in prices. Thisis further supported by the extremely quick fading of autocorrelations and the absence of gain- loss asymmetry. Therefore, in addition to measuring long-range memory, the Hurst exponent also shows mean reversion, a sign that markets respond quickly to fresh information.
Copyright (c) 2025 Narayan Tondapu (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Empowering Equality: Addressing Women’s Underrepresentation in Indian Politics
Equality and fairness are values that we uphold in the modern period. Even Nevertheless, there has been a disproportionate amount of progress made in the global representation of women in politics. Women still confront significant impediments to entering political venues, whether they are in the quiet corners of rural communities or the busy streets of metropolises. Women's potential as leaders and change makers is hampered by the continued existence of discriminatory legislation, cultural norms, and structural biases. If things continue as they are, gender equality in the top positions of power won't be achieved for 130 years, according to UN Women. Women have been involved in politics since the colonial era, both with and without the right to vote. They have worked for and against the revolution by their words, deeds, and labor; yet, it is concerning that they are underrepresented in today's political environment. Thus, using qualitative research methodologies, this study aims to investigate women's political leadership in both the lower and upper houses of parliament, the percentage of women voters nationwide, and women's political awareness.
Copyright (c) 2025 Dhruvi Karia (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
The Wesean Student Federation and the Unity of Northeast India: Examining the Role of Student Organizations in Fostering Cross-Border Solidarity in Wesea
This paper examines the formation and role of the Wesean Student Federation (WSF) within the broader context of the Northeast Indian region, often referred to as Wesea. The region, which includes parts of Northeast India, Bangladesh, and Myanmar, is characterised by its diverse indigenous populations, unique cultural heritage, and a history of political marginalisation. The study explores how the WSF has emerged as a unifying force for Wesean students, seeking to bridge ethnic divides and foster cross-border solidarity among the indigenous communities of Wesea. By analysing the WSF's efforts to address issues such as the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) and the abolition of the Free Movement Regime (FMR), this paper sheds light on the federation's role in advocating for indigenous rights, cultural preservation, and political sovereignty in a region marked by complex historical and geopolitical dynamics.
Copyright (c) 2025 John Haokip (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
A 65 Year Retrospective on Social Sciences Research in Sri Lanka: An Analysis of ScopusIndexed Publications
This article analyzes 65 years (1952-2024) of research conducted by Sri Lankan scholars in the field of Social Sciences. The study's objective was to assess the research contributions of authors in Social Sciences (SS) affiliated with the 17 public universities overseen by the University Grants Commission (UGC) of Sri Lanka. The bibliometric method was employed to evaluate the research performance of authors linked to Sri Lankan universities. The Elsevier Scopus database was chosen for extracting data, using "Sri Lanka" as the search term for affiliations. Data was gathered from 17 universities categorized under "Social Sciences." A total of 3,953 research articles (6.1%) were retrieved from the database pertaining to SS. Each entry was verified twice, leading to the removal of 29 duplicate records. This study offers a thorough bibliometric examination of 65 years of social science research in Sri Lanka, concentrating on scholarly publications from 17 public universities. Utilizing the Elsevier Scopus database provides insights into the research output, development trends, and growth patterns among Sri Lankan scholars in the Social Sciences. The results indicate a rising trajectory, with a significant increase in publications following the Covid-19 pandemic. This research will aid future scholars in pinpointing less-explored areas and support policymakers in determining research funding priorities. It represents the first comprehensive analysis of the social science research landscape in Sri Lanka.
Copyright (c) 2025 Chandani Gamage, Menaka Nishanthi (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
A Veteran-Poet Trauma: US – Iraq War in Brian Turner's Poems Ashbah and Illumination Rounds
The present study investigates the notion of trauma as a result of the US-Iraqi War in Brian Turner's poems "Ashbah" and "Illumination Rounds". As a soldier-poet, Turner's poems portray an exceptional standpoint on the mental and emotional outcome of war owing to the examination of such themes as memory, language, and identity in his poetic verses. This article aims to discover the intricacies of trauma representation and the procedure of bearing witness to traumatic experiences in time of war. The study employs Cathy Caruth's theories of trauma and witnessing, as theorized in her two books Trauma: Explorations in Memory (1995) and Unclaimed Experience: Trauma, Narrative, and History (1996), to be the methodological tools for examining Brian Turner's poetry. In light of Cathy Caruth's theories of trauma and witnessing, and by thoroughly inspecting in Turner's usage of language, imagery, and narrative structure in his two poems, the findings demonstrate Turner's mental sufferings as a survivor of political violence. The two poems show the traumatic experiences he has lived with his friends through the US-Iraqi war enduring the effects of war. To conclude, depending on Caruth's notion of trauma, Turner's poetry depicts the lingering, vague nature of war experiences and the weighty impression they have on the mind. In addition, this article contextualizes Turner's poetic expressions in the wider socio-political setting of the US-Iraqi War, underscoring the durable heritage of war on both individual and shared memory.
Copyright (c) 2025 Haider Jabr Mihsin (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Comparative Studies of German and Kuki Fairytales
This study attempts to analyze two different cultures of fairy tales—German fairy tales and Kuki tribal tales. Comparisons between the fairy tales of other countries and communities are valuable. Fairy tales, by their nature, celebrate diversity. By experiencing stories from different cultures, one can discover valuable insights into another culture’s values, beliefs, history, practices, and customs, which have been used in everyday life as communication, learning, and entertainment tools. They reveal the gap between truth and falsehood in our society. The study aims to extend folklore studies in Germany and India, particularly focusing on the “peripheral” literature from the Kuki community in the Northeastern region of India. It explores the similarities and differences in motifs, characters, mysticism, and various cultural connotations about both cultural groups. Since these two cultural groups are not historically related, a comparative study will be useful in understanding which motives are culturally determined and which are universal.
Copyright (c) 2025 Nengpinem Haokip (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Invisible Minorities - Queer Identities and Experiences in India
Interpretation of history is a fascinating tale with each scholar having their narratives and theorems. No matter how diverse their approaches may be most of them may agree that in each historical epoch, there have been social divisions that stratified people into majority and minority groups, one having power over the other (Marx and Engels, 1848,) [6]. However, the state has seldom ventured outside the realm of binary sexes to identify the oppression or emancipate the gender-deviant (LGBT+) individuals who from the beginning of modern civilization till date have been the invisible minority. Their invisibility has been a result of a saga of lies, lies about gender identity being a mental disorder, lies that gods will punish them in hell, lies that have been fed to the masses by elites in power to hold power; and the result of such lies have aggravated in forms of hate crimes, homicide,suicide and mass murders. Even though there have been certain reforms towards social modernization in the Global North that have provided for a more inclusive society for homosexuals, the condition remains intensely bitter if not uninhabitable in the Third World. Being on the traditional side of development, the Eastern mind is neither accustomed nor open to the Western form of progress and needs an endogenous change concerning the inclusion of non-traditional genders. This paper employs a case study approach to analyze the politics behind the status of the lesbian, gay, and bisexual population in Indian society. It aims at the identification of the causes and effects of oppression upon the esteemed community and deconstructs the myths and prejudices revolving, around that obstruct their right to live freely with pride and dignity.
Copyright (c) 2025 Anurag Paul (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Bangabandhu’s Historical Speech in the United Nations General Assembly: A Comparative Analysis
It has been almost 50 years since Bangladesh achieved its independence from Pakistani domination. The contribution and charismatic leadership of Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman who declared the independence of Bangladesh is beyond explanation. Bangabandhu delivered several historical speeches in his moral life. But one of the greatest and strongest speeches he delivered at the 29th United Nations (UN) General Assembly was a guideline for Bangladesh and the whole world, which completed him as a ‘global leader’. Bangabandhu emphasized ‘Peace and Justice’ as he believed that only this can bring back discipline. The democratically elected Bangladesh Awami League (AL) government and the Prime Minister, H.E. Sheikh Hasina who is already recognized as a global leader are trying to implement all the directions that Bangabandhu mentioned in his speech regarding economic emancipation, peace and justice, social development, peaceful use of technology, good relationship with neighbors, upholding brotherhood and solidarity. These will help to build a peaceful world and Bangabandhu’s ‘Shonar Bangla’ or ‘Golden Bengal’. As a historical event, this paper is based on qualitative approaches including content analysis, literature review, and interviews with academic scholars. The expected findings of the paper are to present the leadership quality of Bangabandhu and Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina through their speech at the UN, how they became global leaders, and the fair implications of Bangabandhu’s policies by Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina.
Copyright (c) 2024 Istiaque Hossain Molla (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Role of Modern Education and Socio-Cultural Movements in India’s Independence
At the outset it may be stated explicitly that this paper has tried to argue that the spread of modern education and consequent socio-cultural reforms, among other factors, indirectly played a key role in the struggle for India's independence. The role of other such factors, however, are not underplayed in the freedom movement. The British were highly zealous of spreading their education and culture outside. Statesmen like Lord Macaulay and Sir Cecil Rhodes were of the view that the English culture was the best and the most liberal in the world and if India, South Africa and later on, the entire world were “Anglicized” culturally through British pattern of education, it would pave the way for the social and political unification of the world. The idea of “Anglicizing” the world and thereby building up the empire and forging political and social unity of peoples at the global level under the leadership of the British, is apparent in the will of Sir Cecil Rhodes. He had desired “the extension of British rule throughout the world, the occupation by British settlers of the entire Continent of Africa, the Valley of the Euphrates … the whole of South Africa … the ultimate recovery of the United States of America as an integral part of the British Empire, the inauguration of a system of Colonial representation in the Imperial Parliament, which may tend to weld together the disjointed members of the Empire, and finally, the foundation of so great a Power as to hereafter render wars impossible and promote the best interests of humanity [1].” Thus the belief in Britain’s role as the Messiah to civilize and unify the world by disseminating the British culture was one of the important reasons for the introduction of modern education in India.
Copyright (c) 2024 Dr. Manish Singh (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Echoes of Ancestry in the Age of AI: Safeguarding Tribal Land Rights Amid a Digital Revolution
As Artificial Intelligence (AI) rapidly transforms governance systems worldwide, its impact on tribal land rights in India brings both hope and concern. This paper delves into the unique challenges and opportunities AI presents for tribal communities, who have historically fought to protect their ancestral lands. AI technologies, like advanced land mapping and automated records management, promise to make land governance more efficient and transparent. Yet, these advancements come with risks, such as data privacy issues, potential cultural erosion, and the fear of repeating past injustices. By exploring India’s legal protections, including the Constitution [1], the Forest Rights Act (FRA) [19], and the Panchayats (Extension to Scheduled Areas) Act (PESA) [20], this paper emphasises the importance of respecting tribal autonomy and cultural heritage. Real-world examples, such as AI’s use in the Digital India Land Records Modernisation Programme, shed light on the balance needed between progress and preservation [7]. Grounded in insights from thinkers like Amartya Sen and Michel Foucault [15], the discussion calls for an approach where AI empowers rather than marginalises, highlighting the need for ethical safeguards, meaningful community involvement, and ongoing oversight. Ultimately, the goal is to ensure that AI becomes a tool for upliftment, enriching tribal communities without compromising their rich cultural identities.
Panchayats (Extension to Scheduled Areas) Act
Copyright (c) 2024 Olivia Ruhil (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
The Examination of Britain’s Annexation of Awadh Illustrates how Colonial Misinterpretation Validated Imperial Policies
This paper examines the British annexation of Awadh (1856) through the framework of colonial misinterpretation, focusing on how the British applied the norm-deviation concept to justify their imperial policies. Drawing on Partha Chatterjee’s “Pedagogy of Violence,” the paper critiques how Nawab Wajid Ali Shah’s rule was mischaracterized as “deviant” due to its divergence from Western bureaucratic norms. This portrayal fueled British claims of misgovernance, leading to the annexation, which disregarded Awadh's indigenous political systems and cultural vitality. The annexation’s economic and social disruptions—heavy taxation, property confiscation, and the erosion of local industries—created widespread discontent among peasants, nobility, and sepoys, culminating in the Indian Rebellion of 1857. Additionally, the paper explores the conservative critique of British liberal policies, which highlighted the failures of ignoring local traditions. This conservative backlash advocated for a more respectful approach to Indian customs, ultimately influencing British governance reforms, including the Queen’s Proclamation of 1858. By examining these dynamics, the paper reveals the consequences of imposing foreign standards on a culturally rich and politically complex society, underscoring how the annexation of Awadh became a case study in the larger imperial struggle between governance, cultural misunderstanding, and resistance.
Copyright (c) 2024 Ritik Kumar (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Conspectus Articulate on Violent Victimization of Indian-Foreigners in Homicide Crime
In this study, the vulnerability of foreigners to crime in India is examined, with a particular emphasis on the article, which offers an account of a research project that looks at the many crimes committed against Indian expats and investigates their root reasons. The t-test is used to identify significant variations in instances over two years, and the ANOVA statistical tool is used to identify significant overall changes in the victimization rate. The National Crime Records Bureau of India's official website (https://ncrb.gov.in/en/crime-india) served as the study's data source. The data show that the most common crimes committed against Indian foreigners are theft, robbery, and assault. Most of these incidents take place in well-known tourist locations and big cities. The survey also underlines the difficulties foreigners encounter when reporting crimes to the Indian police, such as language hurdles and a lack of legal knowledge. This study intends to contribute to the development of effective solutions to reduce victimization risks and improve the overall experience of foreign tourists in India by addressing the causes and effects of crimes against Indian foreigners.
Copyright (c) 2024 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Rural Employment Problems in Ethiopia During the 1990s: A Critical Assessment
This paper is derived from the author’s study on rural employment problems in Ethiopia. The research was conducted in 1998 in two rural districts of Ethiopia: Alemaya Woreda, eastern Hararghe and Shirka Woreda, Aresi zones. The study employed qualitative methods of data collection and qualitative techniques of analysis. This paper argues that unemployment and underemployment in Ethiopia, as elsewhere in Africa and least developed countries, are the major factors for the country’s underdevelopment. Yet unemployment or underemployment rarely, if any, receives attention from policy/decision makers. The paper examines the root causes of unemployment and the resulting poverty and underdevelopment of the country. A combination of historical, cultural, and political forces kept Ethiopia, speaking economically, a backward country, even though it chose to embrace Western values and ideals since the turn of the 20th century. The introduction of modern money, the establishment of banks, schools, hospitals, communication and service facilities brought the traditional society into direct and indirect contact, albeit with a considerable degree of selectivity and re-interpretation, to Europe and America at the height of their industrial development. One hundred years or so later, however, the Ethiopian society is still overwhelmingly rural, and to use the more value-loaded term, traditional. Therefore, it is underlined that the project of modernity could but marginalize the Ethiopian populace, and directly or indirectly contributed to the problem of rural employment in the country. The paper then outlines the underlying macro and micro-level causes and consequences of rural employment constraints since employment is massively rural in Ethiopia. The problem of unemployment impinges upon the welfare of the nation. The final section summarizes the paper and forwards some key recommendations that are believed to alleviate rural poverty and generate rural employment. Although the paper focuses on the realities of the 1990s, the lessons reflected, and the recommendations suggested are believed to be relevant to the present and the future.
Copyright (c) 2024 Kebede Kassa Tsegaye (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Women Participation in Political Affairs During Covid 19: A Study of North East States of India
Women have been suffering a lot during the Covid-19 pandemic. Women have faced psychological, social, economic, and political problems during the time of the pandemic. Traditional norms, the natural environment, the economic condition of women, the social system in society, and the education system for women are some of the factors that have been affecting the political participation of women. In 2021, assembly elections were conducted in Assam, West Bengal, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, and Pondicherry. The elections in these states have shown that women's participation in political affairs is more important. The women party workers have participated in all types of party-related activities and election-related tasks, like male party workers, but women's participation in political affairs has decreased due to the burden of other households and caring attitudes towards family members during Covid 19 in the northern states of India. the objectives of this paper are, to analyze the status of women's participation in political affairs during Covid-19 in the North East States of India and to find the reasons for the nonparticipation of women in political affairs during Covid-19. Data was collected through a primary tool structured questionnaire from the sample of 124 women through Google form and telephone interviews, from the four states of the Northeast, states Assam (39), Meghalaya (31), Manipur (29), Arunachal Pradesh (25) of India. 96 (77.42%) of the women respondents have been participating in political discussions, rallies, meetings, and campaigns during elections. 88 (70.97%) of the women respondents have been participating in political affairs by casting their votes during elections. None of the women respondents have formed a political party and contested elections in their state. 96 (77.42%) of the women respondents have an interest in political affairs.
Copyright (c) 2024 Dr. Meenu Sharma (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
New Reforms in Indian Higher Education: Rethinking the Education Model
The National Education Policy (NEP)-2020 will bring flexibility to the curriculum through a multidisciplinary and interdisciplinary approach, a new assessment process, resource empowerment, multiple exit options, and encouraging internationalization. Adopting an open curriculum with transdisciplinary course patterns, including flexibility in electives, has led to progress in skill development, holistic development, community engagement, technological integration, environmental education, and value-based education. Ranking and accreditation will have a significant impact on the quality of education and research. It is necessary to frame an education policy that will give better results in creativity, development of critical thinking, decision-making skills, and problem-solving abilities. The new reforms aim to enhance the quality and effectiveness of future-ready higher education institutions in India. In this paper, an attempt has been made to present various reforms in the Indian higher education system, its regulatory structure, and teaching pedagogy.
Copyright (c) 2024 Dr. Shailaj Kumar Shrivastava, Chandan Shrivastava (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Fostering Women's Empowerment through Men’s Involvement in Family Planning Initiatives and Effective Strategies: A Systematic Review
Family planning is one of the most important aspects of family health and welfare. Men's engagement in family planning is a critical component in promoting women's empowerment. In this study, we conducted a systematic review following the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) guidelines to explore the multifaceted dynamics shaping the relationship between men's involvement in familial planning initiatives and women's empowerment. A systematic search was conducted in the Scopus database, employing carefully selected keywords such as "women* empowerment", "female empowerment," "empowerment of women", "male", "men*", "family planning", "contraceptive practices", "birth control", "reproductive health," "pregnancy prevention", and "planned parenthood" on January 30, 2024. The study provides a comprehensive insight into men's involvement in family planning globally and in India, revealing a need for significant social change to address bias favouring men in resource allocation. The findings emphasize the efficacy of modular survey approaches, particularly in capturing indicators related to antenatal care and contraceptive method usage. Globally, successful interventions like mass media campaigns and participation in maternal and child health programs were identified, emphasizing the importance of tailored approaches to cultural contexts and the need for cross-cultural learning. Overall, the results highlight the multifaceted nature of men's involvement in family planning and its crucial role in advancing women's empowerment.
Copyright (c) 2024 Susmita Mukherjee, Dr. Archna Kumar (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0