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Chikki Kabaddi, also referred to as Budhiya Kabaddi, is a prominent traditional folk game widely played among children, youths, and adolescents in the rural villages of northern India. This game embodies ancient Indian wisdom and practices through play, contributing to the psychological and physiological well-being of adolescents and youth. These benefits are achieved through the game’s unique characteristics and requirements. The game necessitates high levels of attentiveness and alertness, requiring participants to focus on breathing activities while maintaining awareness of their teammates. It is a strategic game that demands conscious effort to achieve victory. This combination of strategy and effort aligns with the broader characteristics of traditional Indian folk games. Such folk games emphasize teamwork and involve sharp-minded individuals. Chikki Kabaddi resonates with the essence of the Indian Knowledge System (IKS). Given its deep roots in Indian culture and its multifaceted benefits, this article explores the folkloristic background of Chikki Kabaddi and elucidates its psychological and physiological significance within the framework of the IKS. To provide a comprehensive understanding of the game and its impact, the study is primarily based on firsthand experience and field data.

Keywords: Chikki Kabaddi, Physiological, Psychological, Folk Game, IKS

Based on secondary sources, this article is a comparative analysis of the Hindu and Slovak nationalism and its use by radical right and extremists parties to marginalise Muslim minorities in India and, Roma, Hungarian, and Muslims in Slovakia. The initial segment of this article is focussed to an examination of Slovak nationalism and its proponents within the political landscape of Slovakia. This is followed by a discussion on the Islamophobic sentiment in Slovak politics. The subsequent section provides a comprehensive background on the evolution of Hindu nationalism in India, followed by an in-depth analysis of Islamophobia in India by radical right groups. The subsequent section involves a comparative analysis of the impact of Slovak and Hindu nationalism on Muslim minorities, followed by conclusion.

Keywords: Radical Right, Muslim Minorities, Hindu Nationalism, Slovak Politics.

Education is a key driver of development, yet gender disparity in education remains prevalent among marginalized groups in India. This study examines the recent trends in tribal education, particularly focusing on the gender gap within the Scheduled Tribes of West Bengal. Four districts—Alipurduar, Birbhum, Purulia, and South 24 Parganas—were selected, representing diverse tribal populations. Secondary data from the Census of India (2011) and Statistics of School Education (2010-11) were supplemented by primary data from fieldwork across these districts. The study utilized both qualitative and quantitative methods, including structured surveys, interviews with teachers and parents, and case studies of students. Findings indicate significant district- and community-specific variations in educational outcomes, with a positive trend in girls’ education and a narrowing gender gap, primarily due to developmental programs aimed at promoting tribal girls’ education. This paper contributes to the broader discourse on social equity and development.

Keywords: Education, Tribal Girls, Gender Gap, Development Schemes, Change.

Chronic diseases have impact on the world population. South-Asia, Finland, Taiwan, and South Korea are examples of relatively rich countries with low prevalence of the major chronic diseases. Canada and the United Kingdom have higher death rates from chronic diseases than from communicable diseases; however, the chronic disease toll in those countries is still much lower than, those prevailing in many poor countries (Nugent, 2008). It means the prevalent rates of such diseases in country like India are higher. This study has focused on three major chronic diseases Tuberculosis, Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) and Hypertension of men in Sundargarh district of Odisha, India on three tribal communities like Munda, Mundari & Kisan. Using simple random sampling technique 300 (One hundred each from the specified tribal community) men were selected from three communities. The study found that; 43.58% of men have hypertension which is the leading disease followed by the chronic kidney disease (CKD) (32.05%) and Tuberculosis (24.35%) respectively. Health seeking behaviour of men depends on socio-psychological, socio-economic and culture of specified community in a specific geographical area. Although they use modern medicine (52.56%) due to intervention of government health professional however, many of them prefer to practice ethno-medicine (39.74%) and shamanism and (17.69%) respectively.

Keywords: Chronic, Disease, Health seeking, Behaviour, Men

Adolescent girls with intellectual disabilities (AID) experience high physical and emotional vulnerability during menstruation. Impaired cognitive functions, along with a lack of ability to respond to accepted social behaviour and norms, make menstrual health and hygiene management (MHHM) onerous for them as well as for their caregivers. Based on a purposive sample design, the present study covers 31 adolescent girls with varying IDs in the UT of Chandigarh and intends to enhance understanding through qualitative investigation. The study seeks to examine the conditions and concerns of MHHM among adolescents with ID and their caregivers during COVID- 9. It documents the challenges of MHHM while evaluating the impact of the pandemic on AID and their caregivers. Drawing on the experiences of the sample, the study suggests need-based early intervention through training and education to make menstruation a healthy experience for the AID.

Keywords: Adolescents, Caregivers, COVID-19, Intellectual Disability, Menstrual Management

The form of social organization, division and stratification in every country is the result of its own geographical conditions, needs of life, cultural traditions and the process of historical development. A unique feature of India’s social system is its caste system. Which holds a unique place in the social system. In the context of India, the focus of anthropologists and sociologists on the study of the untouchables, now known as Dalits, represents a major trend in Indian sociology. Dalit history in India is very old. Dalits were deprived of all types of rights. Reservation system was started for the salvation of Dalits. The history of reservation in India is very old, reservation for upper castes in jobs and education had started in India even before independence. Reservation in India started with the formation of Hunter Commission in 1882. Reservation has played a special role in the socio- economic development of Dalits. Reservation was started in Kolhapur state by Sahu Ji Maharaj in 1901. This notification was the first government order to provide reservation in India for the welfare of backward classes, hence today Chhatrapati Sahu Ji Maharaj is also called the father of reservation by the Bahujan Samaj.

Keywords: Dalit background, Reservation, Constitutional Provisions

The abrogation of Article 370 in August 2019 marked an important event in the history of Jammu and Kashmir, eliminating the region’s distinct constitutional position. This article delves into the profound socio-political transformations that have since unfolded in the region. It examines the immediate and long-term implications of this decision on the political landscape, governance, security, and socio-cultural dynamics of the state. The study also explores the responses of various political stakeholders, local communities, and the broader Indian populace, highlighting the challenges and opportunities created by this transition. Additionally, the article addresses the human rights concerns, demographic shifts, and economic changes that have emerged post-abrogation. This research aims to clarify the region’s changing socio-political landscape following the abrogation of Article 370 by evaluating its multifaceted implications.

Keywords: Article 370, Abrogation, Security Implications, Human Rights, Autonomy, Kashmir Conflict

Indian society is a large community with a unique social system. The Bara community is the largest sub-community of Indian society. To understand Indian society, it is essential to understand rural society. After independence, significant changes have been seen in the Indian rural community. In modern times, there have been revolutionary changes in the ideas , beliefs, beliefs and cultural, political and economic life of rural society. The concept of social change was used in the field within the field of sociology. Digital media and projects have played a significant role among the various factors responsible for social change in rural communities. Social scientists have tried to start using them in social, economic and political fields. Transformation is made up of two words: Form + Transformation = transformation. When something completely changes its shape, form, etc., we call it transformation. Digital Transformation Despite the global focus on researching and understanding DT, authors are trying to define the subject precisely, there is no established definition of DT, and any boundaries that could help define it remain unclear. Existing definitions describe a wide range of business contexts and digital technologies, among other things. The main objectives of the present study are: to gain knowledge about digital media found in rural communities. To examine the changes in rural social system through digital media. To study the economic transformation in rural communities through digital transformation. To learn about the transformation and empowerment of rural society through digital transformation. The present study has been conducted focusing on the rural community of Bhavnagar district. Non- andom purposive sampling method has been used for the present study. Interview schedule has been used for data collection.

Keywords: Rural Society, Digital Media, Digital Transformation, Socio-Economic Impact

The Koya tribes in Malkangiri because of land alienation lost their land and CPR due to involuntary displacement and became virtually bonded agricultural labourers of the Bengali refugees. The development paradigm pursued since independence has resulted in land alienation of tribes, aggravated their socioeconomic condition, and resulted in discontent among them. This is because the development paradigm, as conceived by the policymakers, has always been imposed on these communities, and therefore, it has remained insensitive to their needs and concerns, causing irreparable damage to these sections. Malkangiri District, the southernmost region of Odisha, remains one of the state’s most underdeveloped areas due to historical neglect, challenging geography, and socio-political complexities. Home to indigenous communities like the Koya and resettled Bengali refugees, the district grapples with poor infrastructure, Maoist insurgency, and economic stagnation. Tribal traditions, land ownership disparities and financial constraints further shape local livelihoods. Despite resistance to modernization, historical struggles, including colonial uprisings, highlight the resilience of its people.

Keywords: Malkangiri District, Tribal Communities, Underdevelopment, Infrastructure

The impact of social pressure on youth mental health is significant and multifaceted, here’s a breakdown it affects young people. Social pressure significantly influences the mental health of youth, shaping their emotional, psychological, and behavioral development, as young individual navigate the challenge of adolescence, they often face intense expectations from peers, family, social media, and academic institutions this pressure can lead to increased levels of stress, anxiety, depression and low self-esteem . Additionally, their desire to confirm can drive youth toward risky behaviour and discourage them from seeking help due to stigma. Understanding the impact of social pressure is crucial for developing supportive environment that foster resilience, promote mental well-being and encourage healthy coping strategies among youth.

Keywords: Social Pressure, Youth Mental Health, Social Media, Depression, Anxiety, Stress, Family and Peer Expectations.

This paper provides an in-depth analysis of corruption in Nigeria, specifically focusing on how significant portions of funds allocated for public projects are systematically diverted into private accounts, leaving insufficient resources to execute the projects effectively. Using David Easton’s Political Systems theory as a framework, the paper explores the mechanisms through which corruption disrupts the allocation of resources and undermines development. Through documentary analysis and an examination of newspaper articles reporting real-life cases, the study highlights the pervasive nature of corruption in public finance management. It further identifies key gaps in institutional accountability and transparency that enable these practices to persist. To address these challenges, the paper offers practical recommendations, including the need to strengthen institutions, enforce accountability in budget processes, and implement more transparent and robust mechanisms for monitoring public expenditures. By addressing these issues, the study emphasizes the potential for fostering sustainable development and restoring public trust.

Keywords: Budget, Corruption, White Elephant Project, Nigeria, Legislature

Since 1980s a lot of debate and deliberations are going on the problem of social exclusion among different social categories across the globe. The Researchers, Activists and Administrators were paid much attention to suggest certain inclusive policy measures to evade from the clux of exclusion by the so called vulnerable marginalized, deprived and impoverished communities, social categories and people across the globe. Almost all the nations including India is paying certain concerted effort to focus towards inclusive growth and development of these groups. In India tribes are considered as one of the excluded communities and social groups which stands at the bottom most position of human development Index. Hence, as an academic researcher in Anthropology discipline I thought that to review the available earlier literature on the problems of social exclusion, inclusion and integration in some extent, much concern to the tribal communities. This review article shall be useful for the future researchers to know the status of research on these problems as well as to know the gaps and lapses in the available literature and to add some of the recent literature available on it and also to update the knowledge in the areas of social exclusion and inclusion / integration literature pertaining to inclusive growth and development studies focused on different ethnic groups across the globe.

Keywords: Excluded Communities, Researchers, Inclusion, Literature, Social Categories

Global media plays a key role in influencing people’s perception, shaping public opinion and driving consumer behaviour, transcending cultural norms from an international perspective. In the era of environmental sustainability, it is widely recognised that that most of the multinational corporations leverage global media and consumer culture to project an eco-friendly image for their brands, even though their practices may not even align with any aspect of sustainability. Global media has the power to create demand for specific product or lifestyles, through advertising and marketing strategies. This stimulus encourages consumers to purchase these products, thereby contributing to the rise of trends associated with multinational corporations (MNC’s). As information about these products spreads across borders through these media, brands effectively communicate with consumers, shaping their preferences and driving changes in consumer behaviors. Ultimately, this process leads to the establishment of global trends in consumer behaviour, solidifying the brands presence on an international scale. There is a pressing requirement for greater transparency and accountability in corporate environmental claims, especially as global media continues to play a significant role in shaping consumer behaviour. Greenwashing is the practice of providing false or unverified information regarding environmental advantages of a product or service without sufficient proof and has become increasingly prevalent in a global, media- driven consumer culture. Hence this paper analyses the phenomenon of corporate green washing and its impact on consumer perceptions, particularly focusing on younger generation.

Keywords: Global media, Sustainability, Consumer behaviour, Marketing strategy, Green washing

In this article, using autoethnography as a method, I present a personal account of my lived experiences as an educator, teaching anthropology in the Open and Distance Learning (ODL) mode. This autoethnography recounts the experience of the ‘self’ as to how the pedagogy of ODL was used in framing the course content of Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Anthropology Programme (BSCANH) in Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU). The essence of this auto-ethnographic writing lies in recounting the challenges of incorporating Fieldwork, which is central to anthropology, and how this was made possible (actualised) in ODL mode. The article is a humble attempt to capture the nuances of ODL in the teaching-learning process.

Keywords: Autoethnography, Open and Distance Learning (ODL), Indira Gandhi National Open University, teaching anthropology in ODL, anthropological fieldwork in ODL

The 19th century was a turning point in the educational history of Travancore, driven by colonial incursions and initiatives of Christian missionary societies like the London Missionary Society (LMS) and the Church Mission Society (CMS). The role of these societies was instrumental in bringing in Western education, particularly among downtrodden sections like women and lower castes, undermining traditional caste hierarchies. The educational reforms were impelled by missionary fervor as well as colonial interests, with the British government and the princely state patronizing the institutionalization of Western knowledge systems, including medicine. Whereas modern conceptions of equality and progress were ushered in by these reforms, they also perpetuated colonial power structures that marginalized indigenous languages and knowledge. The introduction of English education, particularly after Macaulay’s Minute of 1835, further synchronized Travancore with colonial administrative objectives, producing a Western-educated elite class and consolidating British cultural hegemony. 

This educational shift encouraged hybrid identities as colonial and traditional cultural values crossed. Building on Homi Bhabha’s theory of the “third space,” the Travancore colonial education system was a space of negotiation where indigenous and Western values existed, opposed, and transformed one another. These identity transformations were not passive assimilations but active negotiations that produced new social realities. Still, the literature fails to reflect these multiple identity formations and the profound cultural implications of colonial education. The Travancore case provides rich terrain for further research, especially on how colonial-era policies of citizenship and education continue to inform present-day educational practices and social identities in postcolonial India.

Keywords: Hybrid identities, Post Colonialism, Identity, Travancore, Missionary societies.