Exploring Dimensions of Sino - Russia Contemporary Relations
Dr. Vinod Khobragade, Professor, Department of Political Science, Babasaheb Bhimrao Ambedkar University,
(A Central University), Lucknow.
The Sino-Russia partnership and its impact on the geopolitics have emerged as a matter of great debate amongst the analysts of international relations. China and Russia, collectively/individually, posturing aggressively and posing severe challenge to the US hegemony and its allies around the world. The US-led West perceived this partnership and their posture as a combined threat to rules-based global order. Therefore, looking at the Sino-Russia partnership in the contemporary geopolitics, this paper briefly takes a review of Sino- (Soviet) Russian historical bilateral relations, and mainly analyses the factors that pushed Sino-Russia bonhomie in the prevailing global order.
Danish Javed, Research Scholar, Center for West Asian Studies, Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi.
The refugee situation in Western Sahara, which has lasted for more than 40 years, is one of the most protracted and least publicized humanitarian catastrophes. The issue, which has its roots in a protracted struggle between Morocco and the Polisario Front, has forced thousands of people from Western Sahara, into large camps for refugees in the Tindouf region of Algeria. Thus, the focus of this research article is on global responsibilities and regional actors in controlling (or aggravating) Western Sahara Refugee issue. The protracted geopolitical struggle between Morocco and Algeria, as well as with other North African states, has a significant regional influence on how the situation is handled, frequently at the expense of humanitarian concerns. Globally, the UN has been important in both the immediate response to the crisis and the ongoing political processes leading to a resolution; nonetheless, it has frequently faced limitations and, in certain instances, even undermining influences due to the varied interests of member nations. Western nations like the US and EU have also been complex players, balancing larger adherence to international law and human rights with geopolitical ties to Morocco. This article seeks to evaluate the current state of play of various parties responses to the crisis by taking stock of its humanitarian, diplomatic, and geopolitical components. These comprise an examination of the prospects for a diplomatic resolution and the broader consequences of the refugee crisis on the stability of the North African area. The goal of this work is to further our understanding of the ways that local and global processes interact during refugee crises, particularly those that last a long time.
Shonit Nayan, Senior Consultant, Government of Mizoram, Aizawl.
The relationship between Northeast India and Japan is a manifold and evolving partnership with significant cultural, economic, and strategic magnitudes. This research paper aims to delve into these aspects, shedding light on the chronological context, contemporary developments, and impending prospects of this two-pronged relationship. The paper is structured as follows: an introduction outlining the importance of Northeast India and Japan's relations and the objectives of the study; a historic context particularizing past interactions, cultural interactions, and strategic coalitions; sections on contemporary cultural relations, economic collaborations, and strategic partnerships; and a conclusion summarizing key outcomes and providing commendations.
Traditionally, Northeast India and Japan have shared rich cultural ties, meaningfully influenced by Buddhism. During World War II (1939-45), the region witnessed critical battles (Battles of Imphal & Kohima fought between March-July, 1944) involving Japanese forces, shaping a composite historical chronicle. Post-independence, infrastructure expansion expedited by Japan, such as the Dimapur-Imphal highway, further cemented economic ties.
In contemporary years, cultural connections have flourished, with collaborative projects enhancing reciprocated understanding and ethnic diplomacy. Economically, Japan's investments in infrastructure projects, including the Northeast Road Network Connectivity Improvement Project, highlight an extending economic partnership. Technological transfers and joint ventures illustrate the robust fiscal synergy.
Strategically, defense and security cooperation, maritime security initiatives, and joint military exercises underscore the growing strategic alignment. The India-Japan "Act East Forum" exemplifies coordinated efforts to enhance regional connectivity and development.
In conclusion, this paper underscores the pivotal role of cultural, economic, and strategic collaborations in strengthening Northeast India-Japan relations. The findings highlight the need for continued investment in infrastructure, cultural diplomacy, and strategic dialogues to foster a resilient and dynamic partnership, contributing to regional stability and prosperity.
Dr. Muzaffar Hussain, Assistant professor, Department of Political Science, Maulana Azad National Urdu University, Hyderabad.
Resistance of the Western influence and involvements by both state and no state actors has been the perennial theme of the politics of Middle East. Among the various thinkers who shaped the popular discourse towards the West, Ayatollah Khomeini played an important role. Implications of the US and Western involvement in Iran in particular and Muslim world is an important component of his writings and articulations. The article shows that Ayatollah Khomeini has presented a structured criticism of Western involvement in Middle East. Khomeini’s theorization of Western involvements has played a vital role in shaping the discourse of Western imperialism in the Muslim world—particularly after the Second World War. The theory offers important clue about the fate of successive US and Western policies in the Middle East.
Anusha Racheti, Research Scholar, Prof Nagendra Ambedkar Sole, Department of Public Policy, Law and Governance, Central University of Rajasthan.
Education is the cornerstone for leading a dignified life along with progress in personal, social and economic spheres of life by empowering individuals and communities for sustainable growth. Sustainable Development Goal 4 stresses on inclusive, equitable, and quality education to promote lifelong learning opportunities for all. In India, higher education plays a pivotal role in advancing this agenda by fostering knowledge, skills, and innovation essential for sustainable development. This paper explores how higher education institutions (HEIs) act as catalysts for achieving SDG 4 through policy implementation, curriculum reforms, digital transformation, and inclusive education strategies. It examines the role of government initiatives, university collaborations, and technological advancements in enhancing access, equity, and quality in higher education. By analysing secondary data from articles, government reports, and academic studies, the paper evaluates how SDG 4 has improved the Higher Education in India and made the Education into holistic learning. Additionally, the study highlights challenges such as disparities in educational access, funding limitations, and the digital divide, offering policy recommendations to bridge these gaps. By strengthening institutional frameworks and fostering multi-stakeholder engagement, India's higher education sector can significantly contribute to the realization of SDG 4, thereby driving overall national and global sustainable development.
Biswajit Biswal, Research Scholar, Department of Public Administration, Utkal University, Vani Vihar, Bhubaneswar
Dr. Pratima Sarangi, Associate Professor & Head, Department of Public Administration, Utkal University, Vani Vihar, Bhubaneswar.
As our world struggles with severe environmental issues, the complex relationship between climate change and sustainable development emerges as a key point of concern. This paper delves into the linked facts that influence the complicated dynamics of these two crucial events. We research the problems and opportunities presented by climate change's multidimensional consequences on social, economic, and environmental dimensions in order to achieve sustainable development goals. The research navigates the complex web of feedback loops, underlining the importance of an integrated strategy to addressing both climate change mitigation as well as adaptation methods within the context of sustainable development. The abstract underscores the importance of recognizing the synergies and trade-offs that exist, offering insights into policy implications and innovative solutions to foster a harmonious coexistence between environmental preservation and socio-economic progress. Drawing on interdisciplinary perspectives, this study seeks to make contributions to the evolving conversation on climate change and sustainable development. offering a nuanced understanding of the interdependencies that define our collective path forward. By acknowledging the complexities inherent in these interconnected realities, we aspire to guide policymakers, researchers, and practitioners toward informed decisions that promote a resilient and sustainable future for generations to come.
Dr. Jitendra Wasnik, Professor and Head,Department of Public Administration & Local Self Government, RTM Nagpur University, Nagpur.
Public administration in India, as a cornerstone of governance, is profoundly influenced by public values that serve as ethical benchmarks for decision-making and action. This research paper explores the critical role of public values in building ethical foundations within public administration in India. It examines the philosophical roots, constitutional mandates, and contemporary practices that underscore the importance of public values such as integrity, accountability, transparency, and inclusivity. Through a blend of theoretical frameworks, case studies, and empirical insights, this study identifies challenges in institutionalizing public values and offers strategic recommendations for strengthening ethical governance. The findings highlight the interplay between cultural heritage and modern democratic principles, emphasizing the need for continuous reinforcement of public values to sustain a resilient and equitable administrative system.
Prof. Yatindra Singh Sisodia, Director, M.P. Institute of Social Science Research, Ujjain, Madhya Pradesh.
It has become increasingly obvious that the state politics of Madhya Pradesh is distinctly bipolar. Because the state is bipolar, the success of one party nearly always has a direct impact on the other main rival. During the last 20 years, Madhya Pradesh has seen a notable shift in the results of the Assembly elections in 2023 in favour of the BJP. As BJP has overridden the contours of anti-incumbency sentiment directed against the state government but it was not true for the sizeable individual sitting MLAs. The higher degree of satisfaction with the state government's performance is one of the reasons for this status quo situation in the political landscape. In order to evaluate the nature of competition and its connection to the election, this article attempts to analyse state politics in light of the results of the Madhya Pradesh Assembly Elections 2023.s
Prof. M. R. Biju, Dean School of Social Sciences , Central University of Kerala
Sajikumar.B, Research Scholar, Department of Public Administration & Policy Studies, Central University of Kerala.
Coastal security in India faces numerous challenges, particularly along Kerala’s extensive coastline, where traditional surveillance systems alone are often insufficient. This study explores the vital yet underutilized role of indigenous knowledge held by local fishermen in enhancing coastal security through the Coastal Vigilance Committees in Kerala. Drawing on interviews and surveys with fishermen committee members and other stakeholders in Thiruvananthapuram district of the State of Kerala, the research highlights how fishermen’s deep familiarity with maritime environments—ranging from current patterns to unusual vessel movements—serves as a valuable resource for surveillance and early warning. The findings reveal that, while fishermen contribute significantly to intelligence gathering, gaps remain in training, formal integration, and inter-agency communication that limit their effectiveness. By analysing these insights, the study underscores the need for policy adjustments that leverage community-based vigilance for a more resilient coastal defence framework. Enhanced collaboration between security agencies and local communities, supported by training and structured communication channels, is recommended to strengthen coastal security in Kerala and beyond.
Arun Kumar Nayak, Lecturer in Political Science at Talcher Autonomous College, Talcher, who is currently pursuing Ph.D in Public Administration, Utkal University Prof. Padmalaya Mahapatra, Head, Administration and Advisor at ABSMARI, Bhubaneswar and retired professor from the PG Department of Public Administration, Utkal University.
In democratic societies, grassroots movements are pivotal in shaping food security strategies by advocating for equitable and sustainable food systems. This paper explores the dynamic interplay between grassroots activism and government policymaking, emphasizing how democratic participation can drive meaningful change in food security policies. By examining historical precedents and mechanisms of influence, we will understand the potential for synergy between grassroots initiatives and governmental actions. Additionally, the analysis delves into the roles of technology and social media in amplifying grassroots voices, demonstrating how digital platforms can facilitate broader participation and awareness. The importance of inclusive policy frameworks that integrate diverse community inputs is highlighted, ensuring that policies reflect the needs and perspectives of all stakeholders, particularly the most affected populations.
The study also addresses the necessity of transparency and accountability in both grassroots movements and governmental responses, advocating for mechanisms that enhance trust and collaboration between civil society and state actors. By identifying pathways for effective collaboration, the paper aims to propose strategies that lead to more inclusive and resilient food security policies. The goal is to foster sustainable food systems that can adapt to changing circumstances and challenges, ensuring food security for all. Ultimately, this research underscores the critical role of grassroots movements in democratic processes and their capacity to influence policy in ways that promote social justice and sustainability. Through a comprehensive examination of historical and contemporary examples, the paper provides valuable insights into how grassroots activism can be harnessed to create robust and equitable food security strategies in democratic societies
Prof. S.V. Rangacharyulu, Former Chief Executive Officer of Poverty Learning Foundation ( a Consulting Organization),
Banjara Hills, Hyderabad.
The wages to the workers under Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme ( MGNREGS) are paid based on the measurement of work output. Work outputs vary depending upon the conditions of the soil and also the season. The output is expected to be lower when the worker works in a hard soil as compared to the soft soil. The output will also be lower when the work is taken up in summer months as compared to the other months in a year. Still lower outputs can be expected when both the conditions prevail- season wise, summer and soil wise hard soil. Regardless of all these intricacies involved in realizing outputs, if the worker is paid a wage based on seven hours’ work, it is certain that he will be put to a disadvantage. (It is learnt that some states nominally compensate for the lower outputs in respect of works taken up in difficult conditions). In other words, the labour put in by the worker is not adequately compensated. This paper looks into these intricacies and comes out with estimated soil-season specific outputs. As per this paper, an output of 2.15 cub mts per worker in 7 hours ( excluding one hour’s lunch break) would be the yardstick to define a wage ( entailing a wage of Rs.260, for instance ) in the normal condition ( soft soil and non-summer). In contrast to this, the same amount of Rs.260 needs to be paid for ( a lesser) an output of 1.73 cub mts when the worker is engaged in hard soil and summer environment
Kailash Chandra Das, Assistant Prof. in Political Science, Maa Manikeshwari University, Kalahandi.
Tribal development has become an emerging area of research in the present era. The successive regimes in India have placed priority on inclusive economic growth and social justice keeping tribal development in the realm of policy framework. In this pursuit several tribal development programmes have been undertaken to achieve development and welfare of tribals in the country. Despite quite a good number of measures undertaken by the government the tribals remained far from the mainstream of civilisation. Odisha is the homeland of 62 tribes and comprise second largest tribal population in the country. Of the total population in the state 22.8 percent are tribal and eight districts of the sate have more than 50 percent tribal population.(SCST-2015-Research, Govt of Odisha).The aim of this paper is to identify the infrastructural gap in analysing the institutional constraints in the process of tribal development trends in Odisha. The endeavour is to put in place the causes of institutional constraints and the nature and extent of tribal development in Kalahandi District of Odisha. The objective is to resolve how their traditional life styles, remoteness of habitations, disperses population etc have affected the trends of tribal development. The sole purpose of this paper is to identify different issues like indebtedness, low literacy level, malnutrition, poverty diseases and exploitation with other parameters to measure the nature and extent of tribal development. The study is done in Saralanji village of Medinipur panchyat in Kalahandi District.
Dr. Biju P.V., Director, Gurudev Rabindranath Tagore Arts and Science College, Mathil, Payyannur, Kannur.
Participatory process is a powerful tool for social transformation, recalibrating power dynamics through civil society engagements. Effective participation ensues when empowerment is directed towards fostering collective cooperation with implementing agencies, amplifying community influence in decision-making, monitoring, and evaluation. However, the effectiveness of universal participation is debated, with critics questioning its ability to achieve desired outcomes. International organizations emphasize that participation must be adapted to socio-economic and cultural contexts, as countries varying in landscapes and benefit from different concomitant participatory models. Oorukoottam, a tribal council in Kerala, exemplifies participatory development, playing a key role in identifying beneficiaries and shaping and implementing social protection schemes. While Oorukoottam has significantly contributed to tribal rights, community engagement and education, it faces challenges in areas such as government aids and schemes adapted to the modern lifestyles. Addressing these gaps could enhance Oorukoottam’s effectiveness within the Paniya and Kurichiya communities of Wayanad district.
Dr. Anuradha Palla, Assistant Professor, Centre for Wage Employment and Livelihood National Institute of Rural Development and Panchayat Raj, Hyderabad.
Work Force Participation or Labour Force Participation is an important factor in the study of development process. The participation rates may vary by region, by sex, and by time. Changes may be caused by demographic factors like fertility, mortality, migration etc., by economic factors like growth of the economy, government employment programmes, expansion of employment opportunities in the private sector etc., and also by the expansion of education, skills development, vocational training opportunities etc.
In India the occupational structure has remained almost static over the period of our study from 1901 to 2017. In the case of Work Force Participation Rate by sex, it had been much higher for males as compared to females. The Work Participation rate of females has been increased in India since 1971. It raised from 14.2 per cent in 1971 to 25.51 per cent in 2017. This is due to increasing literacy and declining birth rate. The total Work Force Participation Rate in 2017 Census at the all India level is merely 39.79 per cent. The male Work Force Participation Rate (53.26%) is almost double the female Work Force Participation Rate (28.5%). Himachal Pradesh has the highest female Work Participation Rate (51.85%) in India. Yet it would be noted that more than 50 per cent of its women are not counted as workers. Lakshadweep stands at the lowest of the state in the country with the female work participation rate of 29.09 per cent.
The female work force participation is low in all sectors and in all states as against to male work participation rates, even though the Government of India is implementing some policies and programmes for improvement in the work force participation of women in India. Problems of working women in India differ considerably in the formal and informal sector. Women workers face specific problems in each occupation depending upon nature and area of work, level of their education and the prevailing social set up.
Basanti Tudu, Research Scholar in Commerce, Parikshita Khatua, Asst. Professor in Commerce
Liji Panda,Asst. Professor in Commerce, KISS Deemed to be University, Odisha.
This research aims to investigate how the adoption of technology is transforming the economic landscape in rural areas. It will analyse the effects of various technological advancements, such as internet connectivity, mobile technology, and agricultural innovations, on employment patterns, income levels, and overall economic growth in rural communities. It includes both qualitative and quantitative methods to assess these impacts, drawing on data collected. Rural areas often rely heavily on traditional industries such as agriculture, forestry, and mining. As global markets evolve, diversifying the rural economy becomes essential to reduce vulnerability to market fluctuations and economic downturns. Integrating new sectors like renewable energy, tourism, and technology can create jobs, increase income levels, and attract investment, thereby enhancing economic resilience.
Dr. D. Pulla Rao, Honorary Professor, Dept. of Economics, Andhra University, Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh.
Indian women suffered severely under male chauvinism for centuries. The Law of Manu had thrown them into sub human life. The efforts of the reformers like Raja Ram Mohan Roy, Ishwar Chandra Vidyasagar, Savitribai Phule, Pandita Ramabai, Jyotirao Phule could only bring the issue to the forefront to be taken up by the democratic government after independence. The Government of India has been implementing several programmes to improve their lot over the past sixty seven years and considerable changes are being noticed in their status. The Ministry of Women and Child Development is doing a good service to ameliorate their lot. The gender budget introduced in the year 2006 is a novel feature. The Ministry of Rural Development is favouring women in its programmes, particularly the MGNREGA. Yet, the achievements are much lower than expected and the gender gap is still much wider. Only about 24% of Indian females are covered under some programme or the other leaving 76% of women to fend for themselves. The lower coverage owes to the lower budgetary allocation for women (5.83% in the central budget for 2013-14).
Dr. K. UTHAYASURIYAN, Professor of Management Studies, Nehru Institute of Engineering and Technology, Coimbatore
Dr. M. KANAGA, Teaching Assistant, Dept. of Banking Management, Alagappa University, Karaikudi.
The role of leader is crucial in driving performance in a globally diverse and inclusive environment. Diversity exists today in just about every part of the world and every industrial sector. As the world becomes “flat” and organizations continue to globalize, a diverse workforce is commonplace. Global organizations understand that a diverse workforce can be the primary source of competitive advantage. Global and culturally diverse teams experience heightened risks and opportunities, but high team performance occurs if the team leader drives performance through inclusiveness. The concept of Inclusion, defined as “a sense of belonging: feeling respected, valued for who you are; feeling a level of supportive energy and commitment from others so that you can do your best”. There is a view that sees Inclusive Leadership as a tool, not only to enhance diversity but also to increase business and individual performance.
In this context, this study is a modest attempt on ‘Inclusive Leadership’, an emerging concept of Global Human Resource Management, with a prime objective of examining the perception of employees on inclusive leadership practices in global organizations. The study is based on primary data. Data had been collected from the sample respondents drawn from global organizations in IT sector situated in Tamil Nadu State with a help of specially constructed questionnaire consists of Twelve Traits and Forty elements of inclusiveness. Based on the perception of the respondents it is evident that the concept of Inclusiveness is practiced in IT sector and Inclusive Leadership style is extensively practiced in manufacturing companied to ITES / BPO Companies and Service Companies.
Dr. Ahmed Raza, Assistnt Professor in Public Administration, Maulana Azad National Urdu Central University, Hydrabad.
SikkThe implementation of labour codes in India aims to enhance worker protections and standardize labour practices. However, migrant workers, particularly in the construction sector, often face significant challenges in realizing these benefits. This study investigates the issues surrounding the implementation of labour codes among migrant construction workers in Hyderabad. Utilizing a mixed-methods approach, the researcher has surveyed 300 migrant workers and conducted in-depth interviews with key stakeholders including site supervisors. Key areas of investigation include wage payments, working conditions, social security benefits, and enforcement mechanisms.The research findings reveal low awareness levels of labour codes among workers and having only basic knowledge of their rights. Wage compliance remains inconsistent as a moderate numbers of respondents reporting underpayment or irregular wage payments. Access to social security benefits is limited, as 36% of workers lack the necessary documentation. Furthermore, workplace safety measures are inadequate, with 56% of workers perceiving safety protocols as insufficient. The study highlights the critical role of awareness programme for stronger enforcement of labour regulations.
Dr. Jerry Alwin, Associate Professor, Department of Economics, Sree Narayana College, Varkala University of Kerala.
The COVID-19 pandemic and its disruption have created a recession in State’s economy, and steep fall in employment in secondary and tertiary sectors. The pandemic has resulted in increased unemployment rate in rural and urban areas, led to exodus of non resident Keralite workers from GCC countries, shut down the prospects of remigration, the prospects for fresh migration and caused income loss in road transport sector. One sector which performed well is the IT sector. Another impact of the pandemic was that it caused large loss of production and employment of MSMEs. The pandemic has a led to a fall in tourist arrivals and a shift in tourism sector from international to domestic tourism. The pandemic has also aggravated the fiscal crisis of the State.
Raj Kishor Pradhan, Senior Statistical Officer, NSO (FOD), Ministry of StatistiQcs & Program Implementation, Govt. of India, Sambalpur, Odisha, India Rajesh Kumar Mahapatra, TG Teacher, Department of School & Mass Education, Govt. of Odisha, Bargarh, Odisha, India.
Bargarh district, a hub for paddy farming in Odisha, faces growing economic and environmental challenges because of its overreliance on rice cultivation. The heavy dependency on government subsidies and Minimum Support Prices (MSP), coupled with the adverse effects of water depletion, soil degradation, and biodiversity loss, underscores the urgent need for crop diversification. Moreover, this transition could align with national goals of doubling farmers’ incomes and reducing the ecological footprint of agriculture. This study examines viable alternatives like horticulture, pisciculture, and animal husbandry, emphasizing their potential to enhance farmer incomes and promote ecological sustainability. Through an analysis of economic benefits, environmental advantages, and challenges, actionable recommendations are proposed to facilitate a transition toward sustainable agriculture in the district.
Appala Naidu Pedada, Research Scholar, Department of Economics, Dr. B. R. Ambedkar University, Etcherla, Srikakulam,
Andhra Pradesh, India.
Education plays an important role in the process of development of human resources. The most important characteristic of population is literacy, which is a pre- requisite for the overall development of the country both socially and economically. In Andhra Pradesh the literacy rate has increased from 21.2 per cent in 1961 to 67.66 per cent in 2011. Number of schools, enrolment of students, teachers also increased in primary, upper primary, secondary and higher education stage over a period of time. Government of Andhra Pradesh implementing programmes like backward class welfare, minorities welfare, SC and ST sub plan and also providing hostel facilities to the poor students for improvement of enrolment and to reduce the dropout rate in all levels of education in the state.
Elsha Catherina L,Research Scholar, Department of English, School of Social Sciences and Languages, Vellore Institute of Technology, Vellore.
Despite the abolition of slavery in 1865 and the termination of the caste system in 1950, hierarchies predicated on labour and superiority continue to endure. Women from African American and Dalit communities experience cumulative oppression stemming from their race/caste and gender. This conflict is vividly illustrated in the works of Toni Morrison and Meena Kandasamy. This article examines their select novels to analyse and contrast the distinct manifestations of patriarchy that oppress women in these two disparate, yet remarkably analogous, societies. The article draws parallels between the United States and India, illustrating how both nations possess oppressive systems that restrict the freedom and potential of women from marginalized backgrounds. Intersectionality theory underpins this analysis, elucidating the dual burdens of caste and gender for Dalit women, as well as race and gender for African American women. The article underscores the importance of an intersectional framework to fully comprehend the intricacies of the oppression faced by Dalit women in India and presents innovative strategies for their empowerment.