Summerhill: IIAS Review

Editor’s Note

Pankaj Gupta — 2026-01-07

Why Bharat Matters by S.Jaishankar

Arzoo Choubey — 2026-01-07

Nirguna Bhakti in Eastern India: Ideology, Identity and Resistance by Dambarudhar Nath

Ronit Konch — 2026-01-07

Comparability, Cognition, and Cultural Recreation

Meenakshi F. Paul — 2026-01-07

The act of translation transcends linguistic substitution to embrace cultural exchange and cognitive adaptation. This paper explores the translation of Pahari riddles collected through fieldwork in Shimla District, Himachal Pradesh, to examine the balance between equivalence and synthesis in translation. Riddles, as oral traditions, pose unique challenges due to their intrinsic duality, serving as both linguistic constructs and cultural artefacts. While traditional translation theories emphasise adequacy and equivalence, this study advocates for the latter, nuanced approach that foregrounds cultural embeddedness and integrates domestication and foreignization, which enables accessibility without overly compromising the source. Going beyond the equivalence analytical framework, this paper evaluates translation strategies in terms of their ability to maintain or adapt semantic, structural, and cultural elements while preserving the identity of culturally-rooted oral texts. A limitation of the study is the small sample size, which, although rich in complexity, may not comprehensively reflect the region’s diverse riddle traditions. Key findings highlight that riddles inherently resist direct equivalence due to their reliance on cultural allusions and linguistic creativity. Consequently, effective translation requires a synthesis of strategies that maintain intelligibility while respecting the nuances of the source culture. The study emphasises that the structural nature of riddles defies standardised methods, necessitating a flexible, context-sensitive approach. The breaching of the equivalence framework offers critical insights into this adaptive process, underlining the need to balance faithfulness to the source with relevance to the target audience. Ultimately, this work underscores the broader significance of translating oral traditions, advocating for a dynamic model in which riddles transform, not just transfer.

Sacred Landscape

Gitanjali Mahendra — 2026-01-07

The Pahari community residing in the abode of the Gods, Himachal Pradesh, known as ‘Dev Bhoomi’, has its local deities called Devi and Devta. These deities are believed to be manifestations of Brahma, Vishnu, and Mahesh, originating from the very roots of nature. The Devi/Devta hold strong dominance over the Pahari community, governing their social customs, activities, and destinies. It is believed that the Gods control their lives, and what they say cannot be disobeyed at any cost. The religious beliefs that play a central role in the community also impart livelihood to the Pahari people. However, the impact of new knowledge, personal experiences, and liberal attitudes has led to changes in indigenous beliefs among the Pahari people. This paper attempts to study two Himachali short stories, “Legacies” by Ratan S. Himesh and “Manglachari” by Sunder Lohia, translated by Prof. Meenakshi F. Paul in Short Stories of Himachal Pradesh (2007). These stories capture the linkages between resident deities and their underlying impact on the sociocultural fabric of the region. The paper aims to unveil the aspects of the governing power of the Devi/Devta and their relevance in contemporary times. Both stories illustrate the mystical nature of the control of Devtas, which plays a pivotal role in influencing the lives of the residents. The Devta communicates through the medium of a devised oracle, the gur. The stories highlight the ancient belief system of the Himalayan state.

A Flower Called Fyonli

Deepika Pant — 2026-01-07

This paper presents an ecofeminist reading of Fyonli, a folktale from the Central Himalayas, in comparison with verses from the Devi Mahatmyam, a key Shakta scripture. Through the story of Fyonli, a young village woman who withers in a wealthy household and is reborn as a flower in her native soil, the paper explores the deeprooted bond between women, nature, and the sacred in indigenous cosmologies. It argues that Fyonli embodies the same regenerative force celebrated in goddess traditions as Shakti, and her transformation echoes the cyclical resilience of the divine feminine. Drawing on folk tradition, Sanskrit scripture, and ecological thought, the paper situates this narrative within the broader framework of eco-spirituality, climate justice, and biocultural resilience. It highlights how local oral traditions preserve sacred ecological knowledge, which is often marginalised in mainstream discourse. The comparison reveals that folk and scriptural traditions, though distinct in form, converge in affi rming women as life-givers, nature-keepers, and moral anchors of their Folktale ecosystems.

Multilingualism in Language Learning

Vasumathi Badrinathan — 2026-01-07

India is by far one of the most multilingual countries in the world. It is therefore only logical that policies and official documents on education in India recognise and insist upon the importance of multilingualism in different ways. However, the reality of the classroom is very different. This present study is an enquiry into multilingualism in education, with a focus on language learning in India. Building upon earlier research on the subject in the context of foreign language learning (French), this study attempts to further problematize and contextualize multilingualism in language teaching and learning for adults in India. Languages and foreign languages (here, French) are most often taught and learnt via English or, in some instances, the language itself, with little involvement or pedagogical know-how on integrating the language repertoires of learners. In such a scenario, the learning-teaching paradigm is more often than not tilted towards a bilingual approach (target language & English) or a monolingual approach (target language only). To recognise and integrate multilingual practices, a theoretically grounded understanding of multilingualism is recommended. Based on these reflections, A paradigm of Conscious Multi-Pluri- Lingualism (CMPL) is proposed, which aims at making informed methodological and pedagogical choices that harness the linguistic, cultural resources and knowledge systems embedded within the many different languages present in the class. This will go a long way in rethinking the didactic framework of language learning and teaching, and re-examining multilingualism. It is not just a functional move directed towards developing measurable multilingual competencies, but also as a tool for engaging with language as a humanising, intercultural resource.

APURSA Policy Fosters Immersive Cultural Tourism

Purnima Chauhan — 2026-01-07

The phenomenal economic multiplier of the tourism industry, as the biggest employer and revenue generator, has catapulted it globally to one of the fastest-growing industries. Yet its innate fragility makes it vulnerable to impacts from other sectors. Further postmodern fragmentation of demand in the tourism sector is being fuelled and facilitated by big data analytics that can conjure innovative product differentiation for any niche segment. Many tourists seek to replace the tag of pursuing a hedonistic wanderlust with more meaningful holidaymaking. Exponential growth of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) has eroded destination mystique by facilitating virtual FAM tours to almost any place on the globe at the click of a button. A demanding tourist clientele, spoilt for choice, seeks a new immersion into experiential tourism. Destination managers confront the twin challenges of perishing prematurely by obsolescence on the destination life cycle or holographically reinventing and rebranding the product continuously to meet myriad demands of consumption that could even border on the bizarre. Converging local tangible and intangible cultural resources has the potential to recreate soft tourism by deeper immersion for both host and guest stakeholders. This paper explores how cultural heritage potential in remote locations was tapped and leveraged through a policy launched in early 2018, called Aaj Puraani Raahon Se (implying ‘the nostalgia from old routes’) titled APURSA, to create a hybrid paradigm of immersive tourism throughout the north Indian mountain State of Himachal Pradesh (HP) metamorphosing congested, overcrowded tourist enclaves in the popular heritage capital city of Shimla by dovetailing lesser-known tangible and intangible cultural elements into urban development roadmaps. Infrastructural strengths of the State and cultural allure are enablers in this tourism dispersal away from Shimla into satellite locations, reducing the threat to this destination’s lifecycle due to rampant breach of carrying capacities. Six years after its launch, APURSA's strategy has gained greater traction as COVID-fuelled demand grows for remote locations that are internetlinked, accessible and facilitate long-duration stays to work from home (WFH). Such localism is prompting introspection by hosts into their cultural traditions that were barely documented earlier but are being creatively reinvented as viable alternatives to the serial reproduction of mass tourism. Such immersion of local intangible cultural elements is catalysing additional livelihoods, new homestays, and facilitating a competitive edge to rural women to rejig their care economy. APURSA's strategy is a work in progress as it reengineers tourism perceptions while foraying into fragile destinations replete with forgotten traditions.

Conceptual Approaches to the Analysis of Contemporary Art

Shishin Mikhail Yuryevich — 2026-01-07

The article examines the work of the Altai artist G. F. Borunov and provides a conceptual approach to the analysis of the artist’s work “Chapel”, 2003. The question is raised about the application of conceptual methods of art critical analysis to reveal the ideological and figurative aspects of a work of art. Based on the concept of the art critic G. Zeidlmayer, approaches are considered that most fully allow for analysing the work’s central idea and its semantic depth. Applying this concept, the main themes, motifs of the artist’s work, and his “artistic task” are revealed. The research methodology in this publication combines the historical-biographical, formal-stylistic method and elements of iconological analysis.

The Synergy of Physical Intelligence and Artificial Intelligence in Healthcare and Physical Activities

Kunjikannan R — 2026-01-07

Healthcare, physical activity, and sports are changing as a result of the convergence of artificial intelligence (AI) and physical intelligence (PI), which is also producing revolutionary breakthroughs in medical diagnosis, injury prevention, and human performance. The ability of the body to coordinate motions, maintain balance, and adjust to changing situations is known as physical intelligence. These abilities are essential for both daily functioning and athletic success. AI, on the other hand, strengthens and supplements existing capacities through predictive analytics, real-time monitoring, and datadriven insights. This study investigates the dynamic interaction between PI and AI, looking at how they are used in sports training, performance enhancement, activities of daily living and recovery. The way athletes train and recover from injuries is being completely transformed by AI-powered technologies like wearable sensors, motion capture systems, and deep learning models. Similar to this, AI is enabling real-time health monitoring, robotically aided surgery, and precision medicine in the healthcare industry, greatly enhancing treatment results and diagnostic precision. Regional differences exist in the use of AI in healthcare and sports, with developed nations implementing AI-driven advancements at a swift rate and emerging countries encountering technological and financial obstacles. Significant obstacles to wider adoption are also presented by the high cost of AI-powered systems, ethical issues, and regulatory difficulties. However, AI-driven solutions are becoming more widely available and scalable as a result of ongoing developments in AI technology and heightened attempts to design policies. When it comes to integrating AI to improve human performance, ethical issues continue to be at the forefront. To guarantee fair and moral use of technology, concerns about algorithmic bias, data security, and human-AI cooperation must be resolved. By fostering a balanced synergy between AI driven automation and human expertise, we can harness the full potential of these innovations while preserving the essence of human physicality and adaptability. This paper emphasises the need for a collaborative approach in integrating AI with Physical Intelligence, advocating for a future where technology enhances rather than replaces human potential. As AI continues to evolve, its responsible application in healthcare and sports will play a crucial role in shaping a more efficient, intelligent, and inclusive society.

The Phenomenon of “Ghost Sportspersons” in Sports

Sanjay Sharma — 2026-01-07

Athletic competitions feature false athlete registrations known as “ghost sportspersons” who do not actively participate, primarily through college, university, and municipal sporting platforms, creating substantial ethical dilemmas and legal and governance problems. This study investigates the reasons behind ghost sportspersons, such as financial rewards, institutional demands, and inadequate regulatory oversight systems. It analyses the problems they create for professional athletes and sports teams and the integrity of competitive sports. The study reveals how trust disappeared as competition became misshapen, along with athletes’ mental health due to these actions, which harmed the institutional reputation. To address this problem, this study builds a comprehensive solution combining better verification procedures with regulatory restructuring, training for ethical standards, and technical solutions, including automated identification systems and AI-based tracking technology. Athletic organisations must focus on ghost sportspersons because fixing this issue ensures that competitive environments uphold transparency, fair play, and the foundation of true sportsmanship.

Economic Gain or Social Concern

Sunil Pratap Singh — 2026-01-07

The opium trade, a controversial but profitable aspect of the British Empire, has attracted considerable scholarly interest in the history of colonial India. The differing perspectives of British parliamentarians and Indian reformers prompted the British government to establish the Royal Commission on Opium in 1893. The report supported colonial policies and dismissed concerns about the negative impacts of opium. However, it faced criticism from groups that highlighted the harmful effects of the opium trade on public health. The Punjab hill states, known for their significant opium production under both British and native rulers, are often overlooked in discussions about the opium trade. The socioeconomic patterns and challenges surrounding substance regulation in Himachal Pradesh have their roots in the colonial policies introduced in the Punjab hill states. Understanding these historical factors is essential for comprehending the evolution of modern-day Himachal Pradesh. An analysis of British colonial policies reveals a paradox: while the Commission emphasised the benefits of the opium trade, it downplayed the negative impacts on local communities. This paper explores archival records and the interactions between colonialists and reformists, particularly focusing on Kullu in the Kangra District of British Punjab. It assesses British actions related to opium and their subsequent consequences, using the Commission report as a contextual framework.

The Rise and Decline of Kashmir's Craft Economy

Navendu Shekhar — 2026-01-07

This article explores the intricate history of Kashmir's craft and textile industry, focusing on its cyclical phases of prosperity and decline. Renowned globally for its exquisite shawls, the industry played a vital economic role for the state, leaving its artisans marginalised. Factors such as natural disasters, shifting governance policies, global market dynamics, and colonial interventions profoundly influenced the trajectory of Kashmir's crafts. While European and American fashion trends significantly impacted the demand for Kashmiri shawls, this narrative often overshadows the critical role of regional political and economic conditions. Throughout the 19th and early 20th centuries, colonialism, rivalry among global powers, and shifting trade networks significantly challenged the well-established commerce and the leading traditional industries. Despite these challenges, efforts in the post-independence era to revive Kashmir’s crafts—through government initiatives, GI tagging, and artisan cooperatives—underscore this sector's cultural and economic importance. In this background, the essay highlights the resilience of Kashmir's artisans and crafts, which have survived adverse conditions and remain integral to the region’s cultural identity. It adopts a historical approach by drawing on a range of primary sources, including colonial gazetteers, travel accounts, administrative records and census data from the 19th and 20th centuries, alongside existing secondary literature.

Impact on Ease of Doing Business with Special Reference to Section 118 (HPTLRA-1972) on Entrepreneurial Intentions

Lalit Jain — 2026-01-07

Section 118 of the Himachal Pradesh Tenancy and Land Reforms Act, 1972 (HPTLRA) embodies a distinctive framework for land regulation, aiming to safeguard the rights of local agricultural communities while simultaneously supporting the State’s developmental aspirations in this ecologically fragile hill terrain. Over the years, this provision has undergone several amendments, judicial scrutiny, and administrative refinements to maintain a balance between its original purpose and the need to encourage investment and economic growth. This paper examines Section 118's legal framework, incorporating recent judicial interpretations, legislative amendments, and procedural updates. Significantly, the Honourable Himachal Pradesh High Court and the Honourable Supreme Court have upheld the validity of Section 118 while providing clarity on its scope and limitations in specific cases. Concurrently, the State Government has introduced reforms, including streamlined approval processes, policy clarifications, and digital processing systems, to facilitate genuine investors in conducting business in Himachal Pradesh without compromising the law’s objectives. This analysis presents an updated overview of the implementation of Section 118 and suggests recommendations to further harmonise regulatory compliance with the ease of doing business. The findings underscore that Section 118 functions not as a rigid impediment but as a flexible, adaptable framework. Its evolution offers valuable insights for other Indian states grappling with the dual objectives of local protectionism and economic liberalisation. The paper concludes that sustained policy innovation, legal clarity, and institutional accountability are essential to realising the full potential of Section 118 as a tool for inclusive development.

Kashmir in Indo-US Relations

Joginder Singh Saklani — 2026-01-07

Kashmir remains one of the most insistent challenges in Indo-US relations, evolving from a Cold War irritant to a complex diplomatic issue in the current strategic partnership. This paper examines the historical path of American policy toward the Kashmir dispute from 1947 to 2021, analysing how changing geopolitical contexts, strategic priorities, and bilateral dynamics have shaped US approaches to this combative issue. Through a sequential analysis of US presidential administrations, this paper establishes that while early American neutrality and Pakistan-centric policies created significant tensions with India, the post-Cold War era witnessed a gradual shift toward recognising Kashmir as a bilateral matter between India and Pakistan. The paper argues that despite this evolution, vital differences continue, mainly regarding human rights concerns and arbitration roles. The methodology uses historical analysis of diplomatic documents, policy statements, and bilateral agreements. Key findings show that Kashmir's role in Indo-US relations has transformed from a primary hindrance to a controllable challenge in the broader planned alliance, though current developments following the 2019 constitutional changes have reignited American Congressional concerns. The paper concludes that effective management of the Kashmir issue requires continued diplomatic engagement, respect for India's
sovereignty, and focus on shared strategic interests while handling the genuine humanitarian concerns.

Sustainable Business Model Archetypes in the Handloom Industry

Dechen Chhomo — 2026-01-07

This paper presents a case study on the application of Eight Sustainable Business Model Archetypes within the handloom industry, with a focus on Bodh Shawl Weavers. The archetypes explored include maximising material and energy efficiency, creating value from waste, substituting with renewables, delivering functionality rather than ownership, adopting a stewardship role, encouraging sufficiency, repurposing the business for society/ environment, and developing scale-up solutions. This case study illustrates how innovation drives sustainability through the transformation of traditional business processes, product diversification, and the development of enhanced market access strategies. The findings reveal that integrating these archetypes into business models not only enhances environmental responsibility but also fosters economic growth, strengthens competitiveness, and preserves cultural heritage. Through strategic
innovation, businesses can address challenges related to market access and competition while contributing to the principles of a circular economy and sustainable development in the handloom sector.

Sentiment and Sustainability

Akhilesh Pathak — 2026-01-07

This study examines whether media sentiment around ESG issues influences investor behaviour, asset flows, and stock performance, comparing an emerging market (India) with a developed market (the United States). Analyzing media sentiment and ESG market data from 2015–2024, we find notable cross-market differences. In the developed market, upbeat ESG news and favourable media sentiment are associated with increased ESG fund inflows and short-term outperformance of ESGfocused stocks, suggesting that media narratives can quickly sway investor sentiment and asset prices. By contrast, the emerging market shows only a weak or delayed linkage—investors there are less responsive to ESG media coverage, consistent with evidence that ESG investing is not yet deeply embedded in their preferences. This study contributes to the literature by highlighting that the impact of ESG-related news is highly contextdependent. These findings have practical implications for policymakers, investors, and companies: tailoring ESG communication to local investor sentiment and improving transparency could enhance the effectiveness of sustainability initiatives. The study also underscores the need for further research on the media’s role in sustainable finance as global markets continue to evolve in embracing ESG principles.

Indian Knowledge System in the Context of North East India

Purabi Goswami — 2026-01-07

The association of North East India with the mainstream Indian Knowledge System is known and established through different scriptural documents. However, the demographic setup of this region is such that it can be cited as the most divergent cultural area in India. Hundreds of tribal communities live here with their distinct cultural, religious and social belief systems. They carry their indigenous knowledge systems. Unfortunately, in the pan-Indian scenario, these knowledge systems do not surface. Nonetheless, the literature produced in this region preserves and acts as a repository of these knowledge systems. The paper demonstrates how literature from this area asserts its indigenous identity by moving back to its roots. The paper also stresses the need for these knowledge systems to be established in parallel with the mainstream Indian Knowledge System.

A Sastriya Framework for the Adaptation of the Foundational Principles of Classical Indian Dance and Theatre through AI and Machine Learning

Amritanath Bhattacharya — 2026-01-07

This study proposes a novel ??str?ya framework for adapting classical Indian dance and theatre into artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning (ML), and virtual production systems, addressing the urgent need to preserve and recontextualise traditional arts in the digital age. Grounded in Bharata’s N??ya??stra and Abhinavagupta’s Abhinavabh?rat?, the research synthesises textual hermeneutics, parampar? praxis, and technical experimentation through an interdisciplinary methodology. Textual analysis computationally encodes ??stric principles, rasa-bh?va theory, abhinaya codification, and n??ya dharm?/lokadharm? dynamics into machine-readable formats (TEI XML, graph databases) to train AI models. At the same time, ethnographic inquiry draws on a decade of training under ?r? Piy?l Bha???c?rya, incorporating case studies with practitioners to reconcile tacit performance knowledge with algorithmic logic.
Leveraging the author’s dual expertise as a VFX line producer and digital transformation consultant, applied experiments deploy markerless motion capture (Intel RealSense), neural radiance fields (NeRF), and generative AI (GPT-4/RAG) to prototype tools for ??stric-aligned choreography, virtual ma??apas (Unreal Engine), and AI-driven pedagogy. Ethical engineering prioritises cultural fidelity: crowdsourced datasets of mudr?s and karanas mitigate Western-centric biases, while retroreflective costume threads and guru-?i?ya validation councils ensure technologies enhance, rather than erode, traditional aesthetics. To validate this approach, we propose employing dual metrics, comprising primarily ??stric peer review (e.g., abhinaya sequence compliance) followed by biometric audience testing (EEG, gaze tracking)—to quantify emotional resonance (rasa) in digital versus live performances. The intention behind this proposed framework is to offer a bridge between Indological scholarship, performing arts parampar?, and AI engineering, creating a scalable global cultural heritage preservation model by demonstrating how ??stric rigour can guide ethical, technological integration without compromising artistic sanctity. The study also suggests a replicable blueprint to utilise modern technological advancements as a digital upav???, a supportive, non invasive tool, to make tradition and the accelerating techno-cultural shifts go hand in hand.

Effect of Indian Classical Music on Academic Stress among Postgraduate Students

Manoj Verma — 2026-01-07

This study investigates the effect of Indian classical music on academic stress among postgraduate students. For this experimental study, a total of 80 postgraduate students were selected randomly from Himachal Pradesh University, Shimla (India). The study employed a two group pre-test and post-test design using the Students’ Academic Stress Scale (SASS), originally developed by Kim (1970). Students in the experimental group listened to classical music (Raga maaru bihag, instrumental) for thirty consecutive days (twenty minutes a day) following the pre-test, while the control group continued with their usual routine. It was found that the experimental group attained a score of in the post-test, whereas the control group had a higher post-test score of The resultant value of is highly significant at the level of confidence 0.01. Thef indings revealed that classical music had a significant impact on academic stress among postgraduate students. Therefore, it can be said that listening to Indian classical music reduces the level of academic stress among postgraduate students, which contributes to improving their overall academic success.

The Absent Family

Harsha Rana — 2026-01-07

This paper examines the trope of the absent family through the lens of affect theory to illuminate the emotional and psychological terrain of migrant modernity. Reading Sunetra Gupta’s The Glassblower’s Breath (1993) and So Good in Black (2009), alongside Jhumpa Lahiri’s The Namesake (2003) and The Lowland (2013), the study traces how transnational migration, so frequently framed in terms of opportunity, modernity, and cosmopolitan belonging, carries with it a quieter, more enduring cost. While migration may offer new beginnings, it also creates deep ruptures in intimate ties and leaves behind an emotional residue that is not easily resolved. Drawing on affect theory, particularly Sara Ahmed’s work, the paper reconceives familial absence not just as physical separation, but as a condition of affective disorientation where closeness and intimacy take the shape of memory, silence, or withdrawal. These texts show how diasporic subjects carry the weight of emotional absences that shape their identity through what remains unspoken and unresolved. Rather than offering narratives of return or reconciliation, Gupta and Lahiri present diasporic narratives as marked not only by hybridity and movement, but also by the ache of what is no longer within reach. In doing so, their works call attention to the affective underside of cosmopolitanism, urging one to think: what is the hidden cost of belonging everywhere and nowhere at once?

Portrayal of Buddhism in Bengali Literature

Sayani Roy — 2026-01-07

Gautama Buddha is the epitome of Buddhist Phenomena, and religion has its effect on writings. So, Buddha’s philosophy, guidance have not only shaped human life but also shaped a large segment of the literary canvas. This kind of religious influence has not only been restricted to Bihar state, the place of Buddha, but also has spread to Tibet, Japan and all over the world. Bengal is not off that map. Atis Dipankar is a well-known Bengali Buddhist monk who spread Buddhism in Tibet. Adding to that, Lui Pa, Bhusuk Pa, etc., who are the writers of Charyapada, are influenced by Buddhism. In Bengal, there are many places where Buddhist sculptures are still worshipped, but not as Goutam Buddha, but as Mahadev, a symbol of God of the Hindu Religion. For Instance, in Kandi, Murshidabad, there is a temple named ‘Rudradeber Bari’ where a Buddhist sculpture is still being worshipped as Mahadev. This proves that Bengal was also influenced by Buddhism. This paper aims to analyse the influence of the Buddhist religion on Bengali literature. But for the lack of time and scope, I would like to slightly discuss regarding Atis Dipankara, Sahajia poets, Vaishnavism through which Buddhism has influenced and emerged in Bengali Literature, but it would be specific to Rabindranath Tagore’s writing on Buddhism. This research paper has ended with a theoretical touch to open the door for further study on Buddhist literature.

Labour, Love, and Obligation

Sooraj Kumar Maurya — 2026-01-07

The article demonstrates that unpaid domestic tasks, coupled with emotional work, operate as an essential yet neglected social infrastructure that sustains societal operations. This article investigates the intersection of love and work with a sense of obligation using a French feminist framework to show how these elements form a cycle of endless care obligations for women. Feminist moral philosophy demonstrates how ethical duties towards women frequently hide within familial love, yet simultaneously eliminate their independence. The vital work of emotional labour operates as a patriarchal instrument for controlling women through their enforced submission to traditional roles. The article makes an attempt to examine how economic models mistake care for marketable goods while overlooking their human relationships and emotional significance. The article advocates that there is a dire need for a cultural transformation recognising care as a shared societal duty because current love discourses maintain gendered inequalities. This article advances an ethical mechanism to distribute care more equitably between genders and social strata while advancing feminist educational theory through systemic change models.

Understanding Science and Religion in Modern Vaishnavism

Tinni Goswami — 2026-01-07

The purpose of this study is to reexamine the history of Vedic astral science from the viewpoint of Gaudiya Vaishnavism during the colonial period in Bengal. Here we need to highlight the life and works of Bhaktisiddhanta Sarasvati Thakur, the founder of the Gaudiya Math and Mission, who established the ‘Saraswat Chatuspathi’ in colonial Calcutta in 1897 to promote Vedic astral science. Additionally, he published two astronomical journals in Bengali, Jyotirvid and Brihaspati, to further the dissemination of scientific knowledge in the regional language.

Teaching Sustainable Development Goals in the English Classroom

Akila S. Indurti — 2026-01-07

Traditionally, education has been confined to classrooms and textbooks, giving students few opportunities to explore, analyse, understand, and solve real-world problems in authentic contexts. Classroom assignments did not focus on real-life tasks, and consequently, learners failed to integrate life issues with classroom learning. Emphasis on twenty-first-century skills created a paradigm shift in the teaching-learning process. The United Nations has established seventeen Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) that require global implementation by 2030. The planet has been ravaged by man over the centuries and requires urgent healing if we want to bequeath a healthy world for posterity. ‘UNESCO’s Education for Sustainable Development: A Roadmap’ is an urgent call for action to prepare learners to win this ‘battle of our lives’, as the UN Secretary General calls it. Education for Sustainable Development cannot be implemented in totality, at least immediately, in all the schools; it would be worthwhile to explore if sustainability themes, goals, and values can be integrated with existing subjects. The English language provides ideal pathways to do this, as it lends itself well to such integration. Can English language learning contribute to ‘Education for Sustainable Development’? How is the English language classroom best suited to promote sustainable development? This research paper attemptsto answer these questions and also concludes by givingpractical examples that integrate the LSRW skills with the SDGs.

The Castle

Ankur Betageri — 2026-01-07

In this aticle I argue that Kafak's The Castle (1926) is a work that defends the individual’s right to be himself in the totalitarian institution of the modern bureaucratic state. By creating the strange symbolic reality of the Castle and the village the novel tries to show how mechanisms of power operate over the individual by hiding and concealing themselves. I interpret the cryptic ending of the novel as K.’s refusal to submit to power and a demand for just recognition which makes his life the universal symbol of a life struggling for dignity.

Digital Inclusion among the Tribes of Doda

Shah Din — 2026-01-07

The paper explores digital access and skill improvement among tribal communities in the Doda district of Jammu and Kashmir. It analyses the obstacles to digital participation, levels of digital literacy, and the motivations for engaging with digital technologies. The research involved 100 participants who provided quantitative data on their internet usage, device ownership, and skill levels, along with qualitative interview insights. The findings indicate that while many individuals own smartphones and frequently use the internet, their activities are largely limited to essential tasks. Only a small percentage possess advanced skills such as coding. The main barriers preventing greater use of digital tools includes high costs, difficulties with reading and writting, and issues related to language or culture. Despite these challenges, most participants recognise the potential need for targeted initiatives to bridge the digital divide. Recommended strategies include making internet access more affordable, implementing programs to teach digital skills, and creating content in local languages.

Social Security Measures for Senior Citizens in India

Shyam Singh — 2026-01-07

Today’s younger generation increasingly perceives the elderly as a burden and often rejects the responsibility of caring for them. As a consequence, older persons face growing socio-economic insecurity and multiple healthrelated challenges. Most of the old people depend on their savings, pension, provident fund, gratuity, etc., for their personal expenses. However, existing institutional mechanisms remain inadequate for their protection and well-being. Therefore, it is necessary that suitable provisions be made for providing social security to the elderly. The increasing ageing population globally and the need for social security are emerging as social challenges for all policymakers. Given the rapid pace of
demographic transition, it appears that in the coming decades a large segment of the world’s population will consist of older adults, thereby necessitating more comprehensive and sustainable social security systems.

Impact of Social Media Usage on Psychological Well-Being

Abhimanyu Ramkisan Dhormare — 2026-01-07

This study examines the impact of social media usage on the psychological well-being of undergraduate students in India. A sample of 88 first-years BSc students (46 males, 42 females) aged 18-22 years from Pathardi, Ahmednagar district, participated in this descriptive-analytical and correlational study. Data were collected using a personal data sheet, social media usage questionnaire, and the Anxiety, Depression, and Stress Scale (ADSS). Results revealed significant gender differences, with female students experiencing higher levels of depression, stress, and overall psychological distress compared to males. Students with multiple social media accounts (more than 2) demonstrated elevated depression and stress levels. Fear of Missing Out (FOMO) emerged as a significant risk factor for depression and mental health distress. However, specific features of social media usage, such as time spent online and the impact of posts, showed no significant correlation with mental health outcomes. The findings underscore the complex relationship between social media engagement and psychological wellbeing, highlighting the need for targeted interventions, particularly for female students and those experiencing FOMO.

Sanatani Woman Saint Tradition

Vimal Kumar Lahari — 2026-01-07

The present paper analyses the changing role, social acceptance, and ascension to institutional authority of women in religious institutions within Indian society, which is fundamentally a religious society, from a sociological perspective. Women have traditionally been confined to ritual-bound, gender-stratified roles in religious structures, but the increasing presence of women saints in contemporary India has contested entrenched normative hierarchies. This article provides a historical overview of the religious status of women from the Vedic era to the post-Vedic, medieval, and modern periods. Additionally, the experiences of several women saints currently active in the major Akharas and monasteries of North India are presented as case studies. The paper highlights the presence of Dalit and transgender women saints and the emerging trajectories of doctrinal inclusivity they represent. Theoretically, P. Bourdieu’s cultural capital theory and Anthony Giddens’ structuration theory are employed. The study aims to comprehend the entire process of women’s leadership through M.N. Srinivas’s concept of institutional change and Durkheim and Max Weber’s explanations of religion. The conclusion of this study reveals that religious authority is no longer a static patriarchal structure; instead, transformative dynamics of social reconstitution have emerged based on gender, caste, and identity. This paper recommends that inclusive policies should be formulated in religious institutions so that female saints can be legitimised not only as nuns but also as decisive leaders.

Examining How Climate Shocks Affect Agriculture in Indian States

Samidh Pal — 2026-01-07

This study investigates the impact of climate shocks on Indian agriculture and evaluates the presence of a climate-smart agricultural policy. Using four econometric models—Conditional Logit, Nested Logit, Nested CES Climate-Smart Model, and Spatial Error Model—the analysis reveals that extreme temperatures and erratic rainfall significantly affect agricultural productivity. Findings highlight regional disparities in adaptation and policy inefficiencies in mitigating climate risks. The study underscores the need for a structured, region-specific climate-smart strategy, integrating sustainable practices, precision farming, and financial support to enhance resilience and long-term agricultural sustainability.

Environmental Struggles

Kanwalpreet Kaur — 2026-01-07

The construction of dams has significant environmental impacts, disrupting natural ecosystems and affecting biodiversity. Large-scale dam projects often lead to the submergence of vast areas of forest land, wetlands, and agricultural fields, resulting in the loss of valuable habitats for flora and fauna. The creation of reservoirs can alter water quality, affect fish migration, and reduce water availability for downstream communities. Water accumulates on the upstream side of the dam, potentially causing the inundation (flooding) of land, including forested areas. The Narmada Bachao Andolan (NBA) and Tehri Dam conflicts exemplify the complex challenges of development-induced displacement in India. This struggle influenced human rights discourse internationally and resulted in the creation of the World Bank Inspection Panel. Similarly, the Tehri Dam project exposed the disproportionate impact of displacement on tribal groups, indigenous groups, and women, stressing the need for inclusive resettlement policies. These movements have evolved from local resistance to multi-scalar campaigns, challenging the prevailing development paradigm and advocating for alternative approaches that prioritise human rights and environmental sustainability. This article examines the environmental and social impacts of the Narmada Bachao Andolan and Tehri Dam protests, focusing on the displacement of local communities and the resistance movements that emerged in response to these projects. By analysing the environmental consequences of dam construction, such as habitat loss and ecological disruption, as well as the social implications for affected populations, including marginalised groups like tribals, the article sheds light on the broader challenges of development-induced displacement in India.