ShodhSamajik: Journal of Social Studies, is a half-yearly journal of studies focused on social studies, in which research papers are published in Hindi and English language. This journal combines all topics related to social studies. The Social studies is a field of study that focuses on people, societies, and how they interact with each other and their environments. The main objective of the journal is to help individuals develop a deeper understanding of the complex world they live in, encouraging critical thinking, informed decision-making, and active participation in civic and community life through research publication. Editor-in-chief: Prof. Alok Kumar Gupta (Professor, Department of Political Science and Public Administration, School of Social Sciences, Central University of Jharkhand, Manatu Village, Ranchi, Jharkhand , India) Managing Editor: Dr. Tina Porwal (Ph.D., Maharani Laxmibai Girls P.G. College, Indore, India)
With the licence CC-BY, authors retain the copyright, allowing anyone to download, reuse, re-print, modify, distribute, and/or copy their contribution. The work must be properly attributed to its author. It is not necessary to ask for further permission from the author or journal board. This journal provides immediate open access to its content on the principle that making research freely available to the public supports a greater global exchange of knowledge.
TRADE RELATIONS BETWEEN INDIA AND ASEAN IN THE 21ST CENTURY
ASEAN has established itself as a strong and influential regional organization in contemporary international politics and the global economy. Comprising 11 Southeast Asian nations, it not only serves as a vehicle for regional stability and cooperation but also plays a central role in the Asian economic landscape. The systematic expansion of formal relations between India and ASEAN began especially after the 1990s. This was a period when India implemented structural changes in its economic policies, embracing liberalization, privatization, and globalization. These economic reforms paved the way for India’s deeper integration with the global market and strengthened the economic dimension of its foreign policy. In this changing context, the “Look East Policy” was formulated to strengthen relations with Southeast Asian countries, providing a new direction to India’s foreign policy. The disintegration of the Soviet Union in 1991 and the end of the Cold War resulted in profound changes in the international balance of power. The emerging unipolar structure, replacing the bipolar world order, redefined the priorities of global politics. This change was of particular significance for India, as the deterioration of its long-standing strategic relationship with the Soviet Union underscored the need for a rebalancing of foreign policy. Furthermore, the balance of payments crisis that emerged at that time necessitated economic restructuring. Following economic liberalization, India opened its market to a greater extent for international trade and foreign investment. Against this backdrop, India took concrete steps towards institutionalizing multifaceted cooperation with ASEAN through the Look East Policy, launched in 1992. Southeast Asian countries also viewed post-liberalization India as a major emerging market and potential investment destination. Furthermore, India’s role in the regional power balance was increasingly recognized, especially at a time when other major powers were becoming more active in the Asia-Pacific region. Consequently, relations between India and ASEAN gradually strengthened based on mutual economic interests, strategic needs, and shared aspirations for regional stability. Currently, ASEAN is among India’s major trading partners, and bilateral trade and investment cooperation is steadily expanding. The Act East Policy, an evolution of the Look East Policy, has given this partnership a more proactive, implementation-oriented, and strategic character. This relationship plays a crucial role in shaping the Asian balance of power, regional stability, and inclusive development in the twenty-first century. Thus, the nature of cooperation between India and ASEAN is increasingly dynamic, multi-layered and forward-looking, laying the foundation for serving the long-term interests of both sides in the changing global landscape.
Copyright (c) 2026 Kanchan kumari, Aashish Kr. Bariyar (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
INDIA’S CULTURAL DIPLOMACY IN THE MODI ERA: SOFT POWER AS A STRATEGIC TOOL IN GLOBAL GOVERNANCE
India’s cultural diplomacy has emerged as a pivotal instrument of soft power in the Modi era, reshaping its global identity and influence in international relations. Rooted in civilizational heritage and contemporary innovation, India’s projection of culture—through yoga, Ayurveda, Bollywood, cuisine, and diaspora engagement—has been strategically aligned with foreign policy objectives. The Modi government has amplified these assets by institutionalizing initiatives such as the International Day of Yoga, expanding cultural centers abroad, and leveraging digital platforms to enhance India’s global narrative. This paper examines how cultural diplomacy functions not merely as symbolic outreach but as a strategic tool in global governance, enabling India to strengthen partnerships, counterbalance rival powers, and assert leadership in multilateral forums such as the G20, BRICS, and the United Nations. By analyzing case studies of India’s cultural initiatives and their reception in diverse regions, the study highlights both opportunities and challenges in sustaining soft power as a complement to hard power. Ultimately, the research underscores that India’s cultural diplomacy in the Modi era represents a deliberate recalibration of soft power, positioning the country as a normative actor in shaping global governance discourses.
Copyright (c) 2026 Dr. Ramesh Chandra (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
AN ECO-CRITICAL ANALYSIS OF MODERN ENGLISH LITERATURE: DEPICTIONS OF NATURE AND ENVIRONMENTAL AWARENESS
The ecocriticism is now a significant inter-disciplinary practice and it examines the relationship between the natural world and literature. The current research paper will analyze the way in which nature is depicted in the modern English literature and the way in which environmental consciousness evolved. It discusses the environmental concerns, which the contemporary writers explore in their texts such as the degradation of the environment, global warming, industrialization and human nature relationship. By an examination of the selected literary works, the paper has elicited the turning of nature into romanticized ideas to satirical and sometimes frightening ideas on the potential who express contemporary environmental calamities. The role of literature as a tool to raise environmental awareness and ethical responsibility is also discussed in the paper. Eco-critically speaking, this research paper demonstrates that modern English books are not merely a mirror of environmental concerns but they also adjust in the audience to sustainable thinking and ecological awareness.
Copyright (c) 2026 Dr. Rutuja P. Ghorpade (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
THE ROLE OF THE TEACHER IN DEVELOPING COMMUNICATION SKILLS AND SELF-CONFIDENCE IN STUDENTS
The objective of the present study is to analyze the role of the teacher in the development of communication skills and self-confidence among students. A mixed-methods research approach was adopted for this study, wherein data was collected through interviews, observations, and questionnaire-based surveys. The study examined how a teacher's teaching style, encouragement, guidance, and the classroom environment influence students' communication skills and self-confidence. The results of the statistical and qualitative analyses clearly demonstrated that a teacher's positive demeanor, participatory teaching methods, and constructive feedback play a significant role in fostering students' communication skills and self-confidence. Students who received greater encouragement and guidance from their teachers were found to possess higher levels of self-confidence and were better able to articulate their thoughts effectively. The study further indicates that a collaborative and encouraging classroom environment enhances active student participation, thereby facilitating the holistic development of their personalities. Therefore, it is essential for educational institutions to organize skill-development workshops and to train teachers in the application of effective teaching techniques. This study offers valuable guidance for teachers, academicians, and policymakers.
Copyright (c) 2024 Rajendra Kumar Singh (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
INCLUSIVE EDUCATION IN INDIA: OPPORTUNITIES AND CHALLENGES
Inclusive education has emerged as an important educational approach that seeks to provide equal learning opportunities for all students regardless of their physical, intellectual, social, cultural, or economic differences. In recent decades, inclusive education has gained global recognition as a key strategy for promoting equality and social justice in education. In India, the concept of inclusive education is particularly significant due to the country’s diverse population and the presence of large numbers of children with disabilities, socio-economically disadvantaged groups, and marginalized communities. The Indian education system has adopted various policies and initiatives aimed at promoting inclusive education, including the Right to Education Act (2009), Sarva Shiksha Abhiyan, and the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020. These policies emphasize the need to integrate children with disabilities and other marginalized groups into mainstream educational institutions. Inclusive education not only ensures equal access to education but also promotes social integration, respect for diversity, and the development of democratic values among students. Despite significant policy efforts, the implementation of inclusive education in India continues to face several challenges. These challenges include lack of trained teachers, inadequate infrastructure, limited availability of learning resources, and persistent social stigma associated with disability and marginalization. In addition, disparities between urban and rural educational institutions further complicate the effective implementation of inclusive practices. This paper examines the concept and significance of inclusive education in the Indian context. It explores the opportunities created by policy reforms, technological advancements, and growing social awareness while also analyzing the challenges that hinder the successful implementation of inclusive education. The study further suggests strategies for strengthening inclusive education practices in India and highlights the importance of collaborative efforts among policymakers, educators, communities, and families.
Copyright (c) 2024 Dr. Arun Kumar (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
FOSTERING HAPPINESS: THE ROLE OF SPIRITUAL INTELLIGENCE IN STUDENTS' EMOTIONAL HEALTH
This paper has examined how spiritual intelligence (SI) can be used to enhance happiness and emotional wellbeing in students in Rajasthan, India. The survey was carried out on a sample of 120 students in major cities and measures of spiritual intelligence, happiness, and emotional well-being were completed. The findings indicated that there was a strong positive relationship between spiritual intelligence and happiness (r = 0.462) and emotional health (r = 0.548). The results of the multiple regression indicated that spiritual intelligence was a significant predictor of happiness (0.462, p = 0.003) and emotional health (0.548, p = 0.002). These results indicate that students who have a higher degree of spiritual intelligence indicate a higher level of life satisfaction and emotional strength. The paper indicates that incorporation of spiritual intelligence in the learning process can enhance the well being of students. This study will add to the existing literature on the significance of spiritual intelligence in promoting emotional and psychological wellbeing.
Copyright (c) 2026 Savitri Wakale, Dr. Neha Pandey (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
THE INFLUENCE OF BRAND EQUITY ON CONSUMER PURCHASING BEHAVIOUR IN THE APPAREL MARKET OF CHENNAI
The significance of brand equity is crucial in shaping consumer decisions and purchasing behaviours in the apparel industry. This study investigates the impact of different components of brand equity, including brand awareness, brand association, perceived quality, brand loyalty, and overall brand value, on consumer purchasing behaviour within the apparel industry. With the increasing intensity of competition in the apparel market and the growing importance of consumer experience, understanding the complexities of brand equity has emerged as a vital consideration for marketers. Recent investigations highlight a notable correlation between positive brand equity and consumer purchasing behaviours, especially within emerging markets. This study looks at recent research to explain how brand equity affects how people buy clothes and how companies can improve their brand equity to stay competitive. This research examines the influence of brand equity on purchasing behaviour regarding apparel among consumers in Chennai. We selected a total of 172 respondents who consume apparel in Chennai for this descriptive study. The questionnaire functions as the instrument for gathering data in this study. The study utilises a convenience sampling method to select its respondents. This study employs multiple regression analysis and One-way ANOVA as its statistical tools. Chronbach's alpha is utilised to evaluate the reliability of the study. The analysis of data is conducted using SPSS version 25. The study's reliability has been assessed at 0.839, which corresponds to 83.9%. The findings indicate that the purchasing behaviour related to apparel is significantly affected by factors such as brand awareness, perceived quality, brand association, and brand loyalty. Perceived quality predominantly influences purchasing behaviour regarding apparel, followed by brand association and brand awareness in significance. The analysis reveals a notable impact of age, occupation, annual income, and social media usage on brand equity, suggesting that these demographic and behavioural factors can shape consumers' perceptions and relationships with brands in the apparel market.
Copyright (c) 2026 J. Poovaraghavan, Dr. G. Kalpana (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
TRENDS AND CAUSAL ANALYSIS OF CRIMES OF MURDER AND ATTEMPTED MURDER IN RAIPUR DISTRICT: A LEGAL STUDY (2019–2024)
With specific reference to the Raipur district, this study on heinous crimes—such as murder and attempted murder—presents a comprehensive legal and criminological analysis of their trends, geographical distribution, and causative factors during the period spanning 2019 to 2024. The objective of this research is not merely to understand the statistical patterns of crime, but also to identify the social, economic, individual, and institutional factors that influence these offenses. The study relies entirely on secondary sources—specifically the National Crime Records Bureau, State Crime Records, District Police Reports, and Court Records—and employs a descriptive and analytical research methodology. Key findings clearly indicate that, despite fluctuations in the number of cases during the study period, the occurrence of murder and attempted murder has persisted consistently. The incidence of attempted murder cases was found to be higher than that of actual murders, suggesting that while violent tendencies are widespread, not all incidents result in fatal outcomes. Crimes were found to be significantly more prevalent in urban areas, whereas relatively fewer incidents were recorded in rural regions. A gender-based analysis revealed an overwhelming involvement of male accused persons (85–90%), while the involvement of women was found to be limited, yet driven by specific circumstantial factors. Consequently, the study concludes that punitive measures alone are insufficient for the effective prevention of homicidal crimes; rather, a coordinated and multi-dimensional policy intervention at the social, economic, and institutional levels is required. This research offers valuable insights for legal policymakers, administrative authorities, and the academic community.
Copyright (c) 2026 Abhay Pratap Singh, Dr. Rajesh Mani Tripathi (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
DIGITAL ECONOMY AND WOMEN EMPOWERMENT: A MEDIATION ANALYSIS OF ECONOMIC OUTCOMES IN EMERGING MARKETS
The fast pace of the digital economy is increasing women empowerment by mediating. Within the framework of emerging markets, the online markets, digital platforms, and financial technologies have allowed women to break the structural obstacles pertaining to mobility, capital accessibility, and market awareness. The study used quantitative research methodology applied with an associative research design. The primary data was gathered using a structured questionnaire which was given to the respondents who were women entrepreneurs and income generating actors involved in digital economic activities. There were 240 valid responses about which the relationships between the indicators of the digital economy, the female empowerment dimension, and the economic outcome were studied through Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM). The results show that the digital economy is a significant and statistically reliable positive influence on women empowerment (β = 0.653, p = 0.001), which explains that the availability of digital tools, the internet market, and financial technologies allows increasing the access of women to resources, economic control, and power of choices. The improvement of gender empowerment of women in its turn plays a significant role in enhancing economic welfare (β= 0.621, p < 0.001). Despite the fact that the direct impact of digital economy on economic welfare (β = 0.287 p = 0.01) exists, it is relatively smaller, which indicates that the empowerment is one of the primary transmission mechanisms. The mediation analysis verifies that the relationships between the digital economy and the economic welfare are partially mediated by women empowerment with a high significant indirect impact (β = 0.405, p < 0.001). The structural model has a good explanatory ability, which explains 43 % of the variation in the empowerment of women and 69 % of economic welfare. On the whole, the findings also reveal that the economic gains of digital engagement are the most efficient when the digital active participation leads to the active empowerment, and the issues of digital access, lack of skills, and socio-cultural limitations do keep the potential of full empowerment down.
Copyright (c) 2026 Suraj Raj Bhandari, Dr. Vinitendra Pratap Singh (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
THE IMPACT OF PARENTAL INVOLVEMENT POLICIES ON EDUCATIONAL OUTCOMES ACROSS SOCIAL CLASSES: A CRITICAL ANALYSIS IN THE SOUTH AFRICAN CONTEXT
Background: Parental involvement is widely promoted in global and national education policy as a critical driver of learner achievement, school accountability, and democratic participation. In South Africa, post-apartheid education reforms have strongly endorsed parental engagement as a mechanism for improving schooling outcomes and addressing historical disadvantage. However, these policy frameworks frequently operate on implicit assumptions of homogenous parental capacity, access to resources, and familiarity with dominant school cultures. Such assumptions obscure the structural inequalities that shape parents’ ability to participate meaningfully in school-sanctioned forms of engagement. Aim: The article undertakes a critical examination of parental involvement expectations as articulated in South African education policy. It argues that these expectations are not socially neutral but are structured in ways that align closely with middle-class norms, resources, and forms of cultural capital. As a result, families from working-class and economically marginalised backgrounds are disproportionately disadvantaged in their ability to meet policy-defined standards of engagement. These effects are most pronounced in township and rural schooling contexts, where structural poverty, limited access to resources, and historical patterns of exclusion continue to shape relationships between schools and households. Methods: The study employs a qualitative narrative literature review design which synthesises national education policy texts, peer-reviewed empirical research, and selected government and civil society reports published between 2018 and 2023. Analysis is guided by Bourdieu’s concept of cultural capital and Lareau’s notion of concerted cultivation. These theoretical lenses enable a critical examination of how power relations, social class, and institutional norms influence which forms of parental involvement are legitimised within schooling systems. Results: The review indicates that parental involvement policies in South Africa tend to privilege forms of engagement associated with middle-class norms. These include attendance at school meetings scheduled during standard working hours. They also encompass expectations of English-medium communication between schools and families. In addition, policies frequently assume routine parental supervision of homework and active participation in formal school governance structures. These expectations generate multiple mechanisms of marginalisation. Economic constraints such as inflexible work schedules, transport costs, and lost wages limit working-class parents’ physical presence at schools. Cultural and linguistic mismatches between schools and families undermine parents’ confidence and sense of legitimacy, while deficit-oriented discourses further erode parental self-efficacy. Collectively, these dynamics contribute to the reproduction of educational inequality and the persistence of achievement gaps across socio-economic lines. Conclusion: Parental involvement policies in South Africa cannot be understood as neutral mechanisms of inclusion. Instead, they risk reproducing apartheid-era patterns of exclusion by legitimising specific forms of cultural capital and narrowly defined modes
Copyright (c) 2026 Stephen Guduza, Molaodi Tshelane (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
A STUDY OF NATIONAL EDUCATION POLICY AND PUBLIC EXPENDITURE ISSUE IN INDIA
Education plays a crucial role in addressing systemic inequalities and building an inclusive society in India. Since independence, the Government of India and the States have prioritized education, establishing numerous Education Commissions. Over the years, several education policies have shaped this sector: the first National Policy on Education in 1968, the second in 1986 (revised in 1992), and the new National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, implemented almost after 34 years. NEP 2020 provides a framework for education across all levels and regions. Before NEP 2020 Government of India has taken few initiatives which include the National Curriculum Framework 2005 and the Right of Children to Free and Compulsory Education Act 2009, both of which uphold fundamental constitutional principles. Quality education is vital for India's economic development, social justice, and cultural unity. This paper analyzes the evolution of education policies in India since independence, emphasizing the significance and implications of the NEP 2020. The paper attempts to argue that government spending on education in India is approximately 4 percent of GDP. Unless this is increased to 6 percent, to achive the goal of the National Education Policy is impossible.
Copyright (c) 2026 Vikas Kumar (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
RESEARCH STUDY ON ORGANISATION CULTURE IN IT INDUSTRY
The term Culture signifies values, beliefs, morals, customs, habits and knowledge acquired by people living in a society. Organisation Culture is the acquisition of values, beliefs, attitudes, expectations etc by employees of the Organisation. Organisation Culture means a system of shared beliefs and values that develops within an organization and guides the behaviour of its members. The success of an organisation depends to a large extent upon the capabilities, competence, efficiency and effectiveness of its Employees. The Cultural system adopted in an Organisation is an essential tool for management in order to develop a strong capability, competence and responsibility among the employees of a concern. It is work culture which decides the way employees interact with each other and how an organization functions. Work culture refers to the mentality of the employees which new technologies in every field including human resources. The aim of this paper to see the impact of organisation culture and IT industry performance.
Copyright (c) 2026 Yogesh (Translator); Dr. M. Sakthivel Murugan, Dr. T. Sujatha, Dr. G. Kalpana, Dr. E. Indragandhi (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
ALCOHOL BAN AND POPULIST POLICIES: NEW DIMENSIONS OF WOMEN'S POLITICS IN BIHAR
This research paper focuses on the changing role and electoral behavior of women in contemporary Bihar politics. Traditionally, Bihar's politics has revolved around caste equations, but in the last two decades, 'gender' has emerged as an independent and decisive political category. The main objective of this research is to analyze how the liquor ban (2016) and other populist policies implemented by the Nitish Kumar government (such as the Chief Minister's Bicycle Scheme and the Jeevika Mission) have transformed women voters into an organized 'vote bank'. Using qualitative and quantitative methods, the paper explores how these policies have not only increased women's voter turnout but also strengthened their political consciousness and agency. Data analysis clearly indicates that women voting in greater numbers than men signals the emergence of a new 'silent voter' in Bihar. In conclusion, this paper argues that policies like the liquor ban have established a new 'social contract' between the state and its female citizens, alongside social reform, although the challenges and political limitations of its implementation also require reconsideration.
Copyright (c) 2026 ShodhSamajik: Journal of Social Studies https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
PREMCHAND’S NOVELS: SOCIAL REALISM, THE ANATOMY OF EXPLOITATION, AND THE CRISIS OF HUMAN VALUES
This research presents a multidimensional and critical analysis of the portrayal of social realism in Premchand’s major novels. Premchand (1880–1936) was a seminal, epoch-making novelist in Hindi literature who transformed the novel genre into a mirror of society. This study re-examines his literature in light of the nature of his realism, the concept of 'Idealistic Realism' (*Adarshonmukh Yatharthvad*), his contribution to the Progressive literary tradition, and contemporary Dalit criticism (Gajrawala, 2012). The research entails a detailed analysis of novels such as *Godan*, *Rangbhumi*, *Nirmala*, *Gaban*, *Sevasadan*, *Karmbhumi*, and *Premashram*. It places at its center themes such as the economics of rural India, the tragedy of the peasantry, the dynamics of the caste system, women's discourse, and the moral crisis of the urban middle class. The research concludes that Premchand’s realism begins with empathy and compassion, ultimately culminating in a demand for justice and equality. His novels remain relevant today in the context of caste-based violence, agrarian movements, and women's safety, notwithstanding certain historical limitations inherent in his realism.
Copyright (c) 2025 Nandkishor, Gulab Singh Verma (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
A STUDY OF THE LITERARY THEORIES OF ACHARYA RAMCHANDRA SHUKLA (CONTEXT: THE PINNACLE OF HINDI CRITICISM)
This research paper presents a systematic study of the literary principles of Acharya Ramchandra Shukla (1884–1941)—the pinnacle figure of Hindi criticism. Acharya Shukla was the first scientific historian of Hindi literature and a consummate critic who endowed the historiography of Hindi literature with a systematic, scientific methodology. Central to his literary principles is the concept of *'Lokmangal'* (Public Welfare), according to which the ultimate objective of literature lies in the well-being of the common people of society. In this study, his literary principles have been analyzed through the lens of his major works: *'Hindi Sahitya ka Itihas'*, *'Chintamani'* (Parts 1–2), *'Kavya mein Prakritik Drishya'*, *'Kavya Kya Hai'*, *'Ras Mimansa'*, and *'Bhav-Vichar'*. The study concludes that, by synthesizing the tradition of Indian Poetics with Western thought, Acharya Shukla presented an integrated literary philosophy that remains the cornerstone of Hindi criticism to this day.
Copyright (c) 2026 Nandkishor, Gulab Singh Verma (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
THE ECONOMIC IMPACT OF TRADE BARRIERS AND PROTECTIONIST POLICIES ON DOMESTIC INDUSTRIES, CASE STUDY OF CURRENT US TARIFFS ON CHINA AND INDIA
This study examines the economic impacts of US tariffs on China and India from 2021-2025 through two primary objectives. The first objective analyzes domestic US effects on employment and GDP growth using quarterly regression models. The second objective assesses corresponding impacts on China and India via pre/post-tariff trade data comparisons. Regression analysis of quarterly data tests hypotheses that tariffs yield no net US macroeconomic gains (H1) and impose losses on exporting nations (H2). Employing regression analysis validation across 20 quarters per country, the study reveals protectionism's asymmetric consequences. Domestic results challenge conventional free-trade theory while supporting infant industry arguments for targeted sectors. Foreign impacts confirm retaliatory trade channel dominance, with China demonstrating greater vulnerability than diversified India. Policy implications emphasize calibrated tariffs over universal protectionism, prioritizing employment-vulnerable sectors while mitigating supply chain disruptions. The findings inform strategic trade policy amid ongoing US-China-India tensions as of January 2026.
Copyright (c) 2026 ShodhSamajik: Journal of Social Studies
THE ROLE OF EDUCATION IN PERPETUATING OR REDUCING SOCIAL INEQUALITY: A COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS ACROSS SOCIOECONOMIC GROUPS WITH CASE STUDIES FROM SWEDEN, THE UNITED STATES, AND SOUTH AFRICA
Education is widely considered a central mechanism for social mobility, yet evidence shows that it can also reproduce socioeconomic inequality. This article examines the dual role of education through a comparative analysis of Sweden, the United States, and South Africa, integrating insights from human capital theory, social reproduction theory, and critical political economy. Drawing on large-scale assessment data, policy documents, and household surveys (2018–2023), the study investigates how governance structures, resource allocation, and historical legacies shape the capacity of education systems to mitigate or entrench inequality. Findings indicate that Sweden’s welfare-oriented, centrally coordinated system reduces SES-related disparities, whereas the United States decentralised and market-driven model exacerbates stratification, particularly along racial and economic lines. In South Africa, the persistence of apartheid-era spatial and resource inequalities continues to limit the equalising potential of education. The article concludes that education’s impact on social inequality is contingent on political, economic, and institutional contexts, highlighting the need for deliberate policy interventions to achieve equitable outcomes.
ROLE CONFLICT AMONG EDUCATED WORKING WOMEN: A SOCIOLOGICAL STUDY IN THE CONTEXT OF THE HIGHER EDUCATION SECTOR OF DEHRADUN CITY
In India, women have made their mark in various fields. However, in India, women's working status has remained intertwined with the family. Working women have to play both the roles of a homemaker and a working professional. They face a conflict between the roles they play as a homemaker and mother on one hand, and as a productive worker on the other. Family responsibilities often overshadow their work. They experience the dilemma of understanding these contradictory roles. This research paper is based on primary and secondary data. The researcher has attempted to examine the role conflict experienced by educated working women regarding their work. Women feel pressured regarding their work. An exploratory and descriptive research design has been used to complete the present study. Role conflict among educated working women remains a major social issue today, primarily stemming from the burden of the "double role" of balancing a professional career with traditional domestic expectations. Despite higher levels of education, women often face conflicting demands, where fulfilling one role (e.g., career professional) makes it difficult to fulfill another (e.g., primary caregiver). Modern society is characterized by women's successful attempts to achieve gender equality in the workplace, which have been made possible through various measures: education, affirmative action, and economic empowerment policies. Yet, a large number of working women struggle to manage the dual roles of both household chores and their jobs. Their working lives are a constant attempt to balance domestic responsibilities and job-related demands – whether they live in rural or urban areas.
THE SILENT BURDEN: EXPLORING MEN'S MENTAL HEALTH IN CAMEROON AMIDST SOCIETAL PRESSURES AND RESPONSIBILITIES, A CONTEMPORARY LYRICAL-INFORMED ANALYSIS USING DANIEL NWOSU JR AKA DAX’S SONGS - 'FROM A MAN’S PERSPECTIVE', 'LONELY DIRT ROAD' AND 'TO BE A MAN'
This paper explores the intersection of masculinity, emotional suppression, and socio-economic responsibility in shaping men’s mental health outcomes in Cameroon. Drawing inspiration from the lyrical works of Daniel Nwosu Jr aka Dax ('From a Man’s Perspective', 'Lonely Dirt Road', and 'To Be a Man'), we conduct a thematic analysis linking artistic expression to psychosocial constructs such as provider-role strain, isolation, and emotional inhibition. This conceptual analysis examines how expectations of strength, provision, and emotional stoicism contribute to stress, anxiety, and potentially unaddressed mental health issues within the Cameroonian socio-cultural context. These lyrical insights are examined in relation to empirical research on emotional suppression and health consequences Chapman et al. (2013), Tyra (2024), economic stress Ridley et al. (2020), and masculine norms in African sociocultural contexts Ezeugwu (2020), Baranov et al. (2024). We integrate Cameroonian health-system data and suicide case series Keugoung (2013), World Health Organization. (2020) to highlight gaps in service delivery and male vulnerability. Findings suggest that normative expectations of stoicism and financial provision amplify stress, inhibit help-seeking, and contribute to elevated risks of depression and suicide. Policy implications include culturally sensitive mental health interventions, a re-evaluation of harmful masculine norms in the Cameroonian context, promoting gender-sensitive outreach, integrating mental-health care into primary care systems, and addressing economic determinants of distress. This interdisciplinary synthesis bridges art, psychology, and sociology to illuminate men s lived mental-health struggles in sub-Saharan Africa.
PARTY SYSTEM IN INDIAN DEMOCRACY: CHALLENGES AND PROSPECTS
The party system exists as a central structural element in the Indian democratic system, profoundly influencing the nation's political direction and governance processes. After independence, a multi-party system developed in India, providing political expression to diverse social, economic, and regional aspirations. The Indian National Congress clearly dominated the initial phase, but over time, the rise of regional parties and alternative political organizations has made the political landscape more multifaceted. The party system has significantly contributed to accountability by encouraging democratic participation. However, it faces numerous structural and practical challenges, including defection, political corruption, caste- and religious-based politics, and the instability of coalition governments. In contemporary Indian politics, the role of political parties is expanding beyond mere power-sharing to encompass social welfare, inclusive development, and social justice. The spread of digital technology and the active political participation of youth have infused new energy into the democratic process. This article presents a critical analysis of the historical evolution of the Indian party system, its major problems, and future prospects.
Copyright (c) 2026 Vikram Das, Ravindra Kumar Thakur (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
ENVIRONMENTAL BALANCE AND BIODIVERSITY CONSERVATION IN THE INDIAN KNOWLEDGE TRADITION: IN THE CONTEXT OF UTTARAKHAND
Indian civilization has, since ancient times, been rooted in a nature-centric worldview that upholds harmony and coexistence between human life and the environment. The principles of environmental balance and biodiversity conservation are deeply embedded in Indian knowledge traditions, particularly in the Vedic, Upanishadic, Puranic, and folk traditions, where nature is regarded as sacred, life-sustaining, and worthy of protection. Uttarakhand, endowed with rich Himalayan biodiversity and fragile ecological systems, offers a significant context for understanding these traditional ecological values. The region’s folk culture, religious beliefs, festivals, rituals, and daily life practices reflect a deep sensitivity toward environmental equilibrium and sustainable living. Customs associated with forests, rivers, mountains, and local deities have historically contributed to the conservation of natural resources and the preservation of biodiversity. This study examines the idea of environmental balance and biodiversity conservation within the framework of Indian knowledge traditions, with special reference to Uttarakhand. It highlights the role of indigenous knowledge systems and community-based cultural practices in maintaining ecological sustainability while also addressing the contemporary environmental challenges faced by the region, such as deforestation, climate change, unplanned development, and the gradual erosion of traditional wisdom. The paper argues that an integrated approach combining traditional ecological knowledge with modern environmental perspectives is essential for the sustainable preservation of Uttarakhand’s delicate ecology. By revisiting Indian knowledge traditions in the contemporary context, the study contributes to broader discussions on ecological sustainability, cultural resilience, and biodiversity conservation.
BRIDGING POLICY AND PEOPLE: A QUALITATIVE STUDY ON PUBLIC TRUST IN GOVERNMENT INSTITUTIONS
Public trust in government institutions is a central pillar of democratic governance, effective public policy, and social cohesion. In the Philippine local governance context, where citizens most frequently encounter the state through policy implementation and service delivery, concerns regarding declining trust have been linked to perceptions of corruption, weak transparency, uneven service quality, and limited citizen participation. This qualitative study examines how citizens experience government institutions across salient policy arenas, particularly local administrative services, health and social welfare programs, and law enforcement, and how these experiences shape trust in institutions, officials, and policy outcomes. The study employed a qualitative design informed by phenomenological sensibilities and utilized reflexive thematic analysis to examine lived experiences, attitudes, and interpretations of governance and policy implementation. In-depth semi-structured interviews were conducted with 20 adult community members who had direct and recent engagement with local government institutions. Analysis generated five interrelated themes: (1) transparency and accountability in policy processes, (2) quality and consistency of public service delivery, (3) perceived integrity and corruption in institutional practices, (4) government communication in routine and crisis contexts, and (5) inclusion and citizen participation in decision-making. Findings indicate that public trust is not produced solely by formal policy design but is continuously negotiated through everyday encounters between citizens and government institutions. Trust is strengthened when policies are implemented fairly, communicated clearly, and aligned with citizens’ expectations and lived realities. The study concludes that bridging policy and people requires inclusive governance arrangements, ethical leadership, and sustained two-way communication, and it offers policy-relevant recommendations to enhance trust at the local level.
IMPACT OF SOCIAL MEDIA ADVERTISING ON CONSUMER BUYING DECISIONS
The advent of social media advertising has created significant opportunities for enterprises to engage with consumers by disseminating promotional content directly via digital platforms. In India, there is a growing trend among consumers to depend on social media platforms for information pertaining to products and services, which plays a crucial role in shaping their purchasing decisions. Individuals frequently pursue advertisements that provide valuable information, demonstrate credibility, and capture their interests before finalising their purchasing decisions. Social media advertising has become a crucial tool for marketers looking to shape consumers' behaviours. The interaction between marketers and consumers on social media platforms is ongoing, resulting in a more dynamic and consumer-focused advertising landscape. In the current landscape, it is crucial to analyse consumers' perceptions of social media advertising and its influence on their purchase decisions. This study aims to investigate the correlation between social media advertising and consumers' purchasing behaviours. The research involved a sample of 180 participants who regularly engage with social media platforms and are subject to online advertising exposure in Palakkad. The study used convenience sampling techniques for participant selection, and a structured questionnaire was implemented as the primary instrument for data collection. The methodologies used to achieve the research objectives include descriptive analysis, multiple regression and one-way ANOVA. The findings indicate a reliability coefficient of 86.2%. The data analysis was performed using SPSS version 26. The results demonstrate a positive correlation between elements of social media advertising and consumers' purchasing decisions. The findings indicate that factors such as age, education, annual income, and occupation have a notable impact on consumers' purchasing behaviours.
SOCIAL MEDIA AS A CATALYST FOR PROTEST MOBILISATION AGAINST SEXUAL VIOLENCE: DIGITAL ACTIVISM, CELEBRITY INFLUENCE AND OFFLINE PARTICIPATION IN INDIA
Social media platforms increasingly function as critical sites for mobilisation, meaning-making, and collective action in response to violent crime. This study examines how social media facilitated public mobilisation, awareness generation, and protest participation following the rape and murder of a postgraduate trainee doctor at a public hospital in Kolkata in 2024. Drawing on survey data from 80 active social media users aged 18 and above, the research analyses patterns of online activism, the role of celebrity interventions, and the translation of digital outrage into offline protest participation. Findings indicate that while social media significantly amplifies awareness and symbolic solidarity, it only partially translates into sustained physical participation in protest marches. Concerns regarding misinformation and selective trust in public figures further complicate digital mobilisation. The study contributes to criminological and justice-oriented scholarship by highlighting the limits and possibilities of digital activism in contemporary movements against gender based violence.
THE INDIAN CASTE SYSTEM UNDER THE INFLUENCE OF INDUSTRIALIZATION AND URBANIZATION: A SOCIOLOGICAL ANALYSIS
This research paper analyzes the structural and functional changes occurring in the caste system in contemporary India as a result of the dual processes of industrialization and urbanization. Traditionally, Indian society has been a hierarchical system based on the principles of 'purity and pollution'. However, rapid industrial development has weakened the traditional link between caste and occupation by promoting occupational mobility. This study demonstrates that urbanization has reduced social distance through anonymity and physical proximity, leading to the near elimination of practices like untouchability in public spaces. The findings of the research indicate that while the 'ritualistic' aspect of caste has declined, its 'secular' aspect has been strengthened due to democratic politics and identity consciousness. Ultimately, this paper argues that under the influence of modernity, caste has not completely disappeared, but has adapted itself to a class-based society, which can be termed 'caste adaptation' in sociological terminology.
FROM RITUAL TO REVENUE: TOURISM AND THE POLITICAL ECONOMY OF CULTURAL COMMODIFICATION IN KERALA
Breathtaking landscapes and unique traditions best describe the destination of Kerala, from the vibrant ritual of Theyyam to the classical dance drama of Kathakali and the grand festivals of Onam and Vishu. However, in its eagerness to entice tourists, most of these cultural practices are transformed from meaningful community rituals into marketable products for global consumption. The core of this commodification is the turn from traditions into performance, here sacred rituals like Theyyam, though deeply bound with Kerala's caste systems and spiritual practices, are now staged for tourist entertainment. The spiritual and communal values that characterise such rituals are diluted so that they fit within the expectations of tourism: profound cultural expressions become spectacles. This, in turn, makes these practices less authentic and strips away their cultural depth, although it makes them more accessible. This study explores how Kerala's rich cultural heritage is being commodified by tourism under the pressures of capitalism and how the transformations that follow have changed the culture and the people of Kerala. The paper also touches on the model of "responsible tourism" Kerala has lately adopted, with a veneer of fattening local communities and sustainability. It often conceals the deeper issue of exploitation. Local artists and cultural practitioners are pushed to tailor their traditions for tourists, leaving little room for agency or ownership over how their heritage is represented. The commercialisation of Kerala culture will benefit the more significant stakeholders in tourism, while the local community finds itself caught between balancing cultural preservation and economic survival. This paper highlights how capitalism operates within Kerala's tourism sector by examining these dynamics. While tourism brings economic benefits, it also introduces challenges, as the culture that draws visitors is commodified and sold.
METRO MANILA AT FIFTY: POVERTY, DENSITY, AND GOVERNANCE
Metro Manila at fifty highlights the contradictions between economic progress and persistent inequality. Despite having the lowest poverty incidence in the Philippines at only 1.1% of families in 2023, the urban poor continue to face overcrowding, precarious housing, and stigmatization in times of crisis. This study examined the intersection of poverty, density, and governance through official statistics and qualitative accounts from disaster risk and political studies. Findings reveal that official poverty data often conceal lived vulnerabilities, particularly among informal settlers whose experiences are shaped by overcrowding and inadequate services. Political dynasties remain dominant in the governance structure, creating barriers to inclusive development and citizen participation. Evidence from the COVID-19 pandemic further illustrates how high-density, impoverished areas suffered disproportionately due to weak social protection and moral labeling of communities as “pasaway.” These results underscore that poverty in Metro Manila is not solely an issue of economic deprivation but also of governance and spatial vulnerability. The study concludes that reforms in governance, improved measures of deprivation, and stronger citizen engagement are essential to achieve an inclusive and resilient future for the metropolis.
INTERTEXTUALITY AND THE COLLECTIVE FORMATION OF WORLD LITERATURE
Literature should be understood not as the exclusive creation of any single nation, but as a collective outcome of shared human experience across cultures and historical periods. Literary traditions develop through continuity and exchange, forming a network of relationships in which texts inherit, reshape, and respond to one another. In an age marked by globalization and rapid technological advancement, interactions among nations have become increasingly visible, making literary interconnectedness not only apparent but unavoidable. This dynamic process of textual interaction is commonly described as intertextuality. Intertextuality operates within literary works through multiple forms of social and cultural contact. Forces such as religion, trade, warfare, migration, economic change, and, more recently, digital media and communication technologies play decisive roles in enabling the circulation of ideas, narratives, and forms. Since literature reflects the societies from which it emerges, these interactions inevitably surface within literary texts. As a result, literary scholarship often focuses on identifying similarities and transformations across cultures, examining how shared experiences are expressed through recurring themes, formal structures, and stylistic choices.
Copyright (c) 2025 ShodhSamajik: Journal of Social Studies
VISUAL STORYTELLING IN CONTEMPORARY LITERATURE: AN OVERVIEW
Graphic novels and comics have emerged as a significant form of contemporary literature, blending visual artistry with narrative storytelling. Once considered a niche or popular culture medium, they are now recognized for their literary, artistic, and cultural value. This paper explores the evolution of comics and graphic novels, their structural and aesthetic characteristics, thematic diversity, and their role in education, identity formation, and social commentary. By examining both Western and global perspectives, including the rise of manga and Indian graphic storytelling, this study highlights the transformative potential of visual narratives and their growing relevance in literary studies.
Copyright (c) 2024 ShodhSamajik: Journal of Social Studies
THE HISTORY OF THE RAM TEMPLE AND 21ST-CENTURY POLITICS: A SOCIO-POLITICAL ANALYSIS OF THE TEMPLE MOVEMENT
This paper presents an in-depth analysis of the historical development of the Ram Temple movement and its far-reaching socio-political impact on 21st-century Indian politics. The primary objective of this study is to examine how a regional and religious issue transformed into a successful religious nationalist movement that fundamentally challenged the traditional definition of Indian secularism and reshaped the country's electoral landscape. Methodologically, this research uses a Historical Institutional Approach, which involves a qualitative analysis of primary sources (judicial judgments, political manifestos) and secondary academic literature (works on identity politics and Hindutva). The findings demonstrate that the temple movement was not merely a legal or religious dispute, but rather a powerful vehicle for the rise of cultural nationalism, catalyzing the polarization of political parties in the 1990s. In the 21st century, particularly after the 2019 Supreme Court verdict, the movement has cemented a lasting electoral foundation for the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), further establishing religion-based identity politics within the Indian political mainstream. This paper argues that the resolution of the Ram Temple issue not only marks the end of a historical chapter but also signals the emergence of a neo-secular state, where majority religious identities have gained unprecedented legitimacy in political discourse.