This research paper accesses the impacts of micro-credit policy on the Dalit women empowerment and participation in local governance. However, the provision was made under the 73rd constitutional amendment act in favour of democratic decentralization of power and adopted people centred planning, bottom –up approach and community based initiatives in grass root level. The Three tiers Panchayati Raj system provides space to the marginalized groups such as Scheduled Caste, Scheduled Tribes, Other Backward Classes and women in the local governance at Gram Panchyat, Panchyat Samiti and Zilla Parishad level. In spite of this provision, women were not interested to participate in the governance. It is pointed out that patriarchy, caste ethos, male-dominated structured of the society controlled the women’s mobility to participate in the public places. Historically, Panchayat was under the control of men power. Men were dominated and they controlled the power structure of their respective communities. As result of this, women were out of power and they were powerless. Otherwise, the representative of this section was out of the system of many years. Despite this initiative, the local women of Scheduled Caste, Scheduled Tribes and Other Backward Classes were not willingly participated in the local governance systems for many days even if there was legal provisions were made. Even today, it is seen that women are working as rubber stamp only for records, instead of them, their husbands and some places elder son or elder brothers are working on the behalf of the women. Despite this truth and facts, there are some successes stories are also found out. Due to the intervention of Micro-credit policies and role of NGOs, some women are coming in the public places exercising their powers. Against this backdrop, this study will search and found out the ground realities from the rural Maharashtra.

Keywords: Local Governance, Power, Micro-Credit and Participation

Violence against women is an international problem with historical roots where cultural issues have emphasized the differences between women and men, leading to the establishment of norms and social roles that have been adopted for many years as stereotyped human behaviors within each society. The objective of this research is to analyze the historical situation of violence against women in Oaxaca, Mexico, and Odisha, India, based on a historical cultural perspective that highlights the multiculturalism of the nations and its impact on the quality of life for women. Both states are characterized by rich cultural diversity; however, the well-being of women is diminished as they become immersed in the customs of their communities while simultaneously being part of a central region that embraces a diversity of ethnic groups, cultures, and traditions with new forms of organization. This turns women into the most vulnerable sector, as according to the World Health Organization, “one in three women has been a victim of physical or sexual violence by a partner at some point in their life.” The methodology employed recognizes a mixed approach with a qualitative prevalence; the research type is descriptive-explanatory-analytical; and the research instruments include archival documents, government sources, and direct observation. The obtained result comprises a comparative analysis of the cultural diversity of two nations facing a common issue: “violence against women.” Additionally, the analysis includes an examination of the historical violence experienced by women worldwide. Furthermore, there is a section devoted to describing historical violence specifically in Mexico and India, and finally, the study concludes with an in-depth analysis of violence against women in Oaxaca de Juárez and Odisha.

Keywords: Gender violence, Family violence, Cultural diversity

Fairytales are a staple of every child’s upbringing casting their influence on multiple levels, however, women’s portrayal of them raises questions. The article attempts to make a feminist revision of Disney films and their portrayal in Disney films with special reference to Cinderella. It attempts to delineate the gender representation, stereotypes, and myths embedded in the Disney fairy tales. The article aims to investigate the gender stereotypes and changing trends of representation of women in Disney films with special reference to two films Cinderella (2015), and Cinderella (2021) in the light of feminism and its potential influence on the self and behavior of the children. Feminism has brought forward harsh criticisms for Disney princesses, especially the first and second generation of princesses. On the other hand, new generations of princesses are introduced to satisfy the audience and broaden the market which has significantly influenced the children’s agency. The article assesses the portrayal of fairy tales as a site for the construction of gender-appropriate behavior in children.

Keywords: Fairytales and women, Gender representation in folktales, Disney Princess, Feminist film theory

Odisha, a land of rich cultural diversity and ancient heritage, boasts a unique treasury of tribal scripts. These scripts are a fascinating aspect of the state’s history, representing the indigenous languages and cultures of various tribal communities that have flourished during the past few decades. The Kondh tribe of Odisha (India), is a unique indigenous community with a rich cultural heritage dating back to few centuries. In this article, we delve into the invention, development and current status of the Odisha Kondh tribe language script (KUI LIPI). The Kui Script in this paper has been discussed here for knowing various structural forms of the script and their explanation regarding the matters of invention and subsequent development.

Keywords: Language, Tribal Script, Kui Lipi, Kondh Language

Health aspects can be observed in the gender condition during the dry season. Health conditions are perceived differently between men and women in the dry zone (WHO, 2014). The primary objective of this research is to examine the gender-based health impacts of drought. As a result, pathological conditions seem to have distinct effects on men and women. Health deficiencies influence gender status in both the short and long terms. This study was conducted through 20 semi-structured interviews and 6 focus group discussions in the Vavuniya DS Division of the Northern Province, Sri Lanka and the relevant literatures were used as the secondary data collection method. The research findings indicate that women and children are particularly vulnerable to malnutrition due to their limited access to food and water during droughts, leading to reduced physical and cognitive development, anemia, and increased susceptibility to infections such as diarrhea and respiratory infections. During drought periods, access to water sources can become scarce, significantly affecting women’s health, especially pregnant women and new mothers. Water scarcity can lead to decreased hygiene levels, thereby increasing the risk of infections like urinary tract infections and reproductive tract infections. The Ministry of Health, Sri Lanka (2019) discovered that 30% of women are underweight. Several reproductive health issues arise during a drought. Water scarcity can result in the spread of diseases like trachoma and scabies, commonly referred to as “water-washed diseases”. The lack of awareness about drought among women hampers the development and implementation of targeted interventions and policies. Diseases, both short- term and long-term, attributed to drought, including mosquito-related diseases like dengue among females. Additionally, CKD is prevalent among male farmers in the study area. Mental health issues such as stress and climate anxiety also contribute to people’s vulnerability. A comprehensive and culturally sensitive approach is necessary to promote gender equality. This entails fostering gender equality and women’s empowerment while ensuring that women’s perspectives are adequately represented in decision-making processes.

Keywords: Gender, Health, Drought, Diseases, Vulnerability

The connection between shamanism and the individual is significant, as from an early age, many turn to these traditional shamanic practices to alleviate physical or emotional discomforts. This knowledge is transmitted through language, starting from the family nucleus and extending over time through direct dialogues “towards the past” with parents and grandparents, or “towards the future” with children and grandchildren (Toledo, 2009). In Oaxaca, those who practice these healing arts and possess the power to heal are called shamans or healers. Many of them recognize the importance of passing on this knowledge to future generations, understanding that biocultural heritage includes vital material and symbolic elements for the community, consisting of ancestral knowledge, natural resources, and biological diversity. According to Toledo (1993, 2001), these activities focus on productive practices and traditional knowledge, linking the interpretation of nature with the symbolic system, connected to rituals and origin myths. Shamanism and biocultural heritage share the appreciation of the connection between human beings and nature, as well as the transmission of spiritual and cultural aspects through oral tradition. This study examines shamanic practices in San Mateo Río Hondo, Oaxaca, to illustrate the impact of the market on biocultural heritage.

Keywords: Shamanism, Bio-cultural heritage, Traditional medicine

Time and again, profit-seeking behaviour of private enterprises and individuals has led to skewed urban infrastructure. Much could go wrong if the private sector builds on the land in an uncoordinated way, based on self-interest. This market failure necessitates state intervention in the housing market. However, as is evident in the case of Delhi, town planning by a central agency may not be enough to resolve all problems. Rapid urbanisation in Delhi, presents substantial challenges, especially in the arena of affordable housing and shelter for all. Despite the government’s push for affordable housing with tax-breaks and other policy measures, the price for housing remains at sky-touching levels. It is also creating residential segregation and resultant differential outcomes. It is having an adverse impact on the quality of life whereby public service deliveries and social identities get bitterly affected; particularly for the subalterns. This paper deals with the several problems associated with the housing delivery system in India and how the system can be improved.

Keywords: Urbanisation, Affordable Housing, Residential Segregation, Social Stratification, Migrant Population, Low-Cost Housing

Review of literature is an indispensable part of any kind of research. It helps the researcher to know the works done in a particular theme and the persons, institutions and publishers connected with that theme. It also helps in identifying future courses of research. The objective of the current study is the bibliometric analysis of studies on “Indigenous Knowledge” in India and world. Data from lens. organisation platform was used for the bibliometric analysis to prepare the present paper. The bibliometric analysis of studies on indigenous knowledge in India unfolds the following facts. Journal of Human Ecology has published the highest number (3) of publications. The author having the highest publication is Gopal Singh. The highest publications (6) are from University of Delhi and second highest (4) from Council of Scientific and Industrial Research and third highest (3) from Banaras Hindu University. A total number of 53 Journal Article and 17 Book Chapters have been published on Indigenous Knowledge. The bibliometric analysis of studies on indigenous knowledge in world unfolds the following facts. Indilinga: African Journal of Indigenous Knowledge Systems has published the highest number (127) of publications, second highest publications are by Indian Journal of Traditional Knowledge (25) and The Cultural Dimension of Development is the journal having third highest (22) publications. The author having the highest (21) publications is C. Thamban, second highest (17) papers by Patrick Ngulube and the third highest (17) publications is by Paul Sillitoe. A total number of 3022 Journal Article and 1084 Book Chapters 372 dissertations, 100 Article’s in Conference Proceedings have been published. The top three countries having highest number of publications are South Africa (362), United States (303), Canada (213). The top three universities having highest number of publications are University of South Africa (69), University of KwaZulu-Natal (59), University of British Columbia (26). The present paper on bibliometric analysis on Indigenous Knowledge is very useful for all the researchers who wants to make systematic, and smart literature review.

Keywords: Indigenous Knowledge, Bibliometric analysis, Institutions, Publications

To understand the stakeholder engagement approach and Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) challenges by MNC and other stakeholders, stakeholder management and sustainable development. Government of India made it compulsory to spend 2% of their net profit on CSR; the organization also has responsibilities toward the welfare of society. A case study is being carried out as a part of this research, for their CSR initiatives related to capability building focused to provide quality education to the children from underprivileged community in one of the higher secondary school under Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC), Mumbai. The initiative took by MNC and BMC implicated positive outcomes, through the program students learning ability increased and improvement in their performance, also student’s dropout ratio decreases. Thus, opportunities exist in engaging more stakeholders who can help to provide sustainable based solutions to the MNC and other stakeholders, and even help to deal with multitude of problems with a sustainable management.

Keywords: CSR Challenges, Education, Stakeholder Engagement, Sustainable Development.

The capitalist market system has exacerbated inequalities and hindered economic growth and social well-being, especially in less competitive regions like Mexico and Oaxaca. Over the last three years, this issue intensified due to the Covid-19 pandemic, global inflation linked to the Russia-Ukraine conflict, and the impact of the 3rd and 4th Technological Revolution, leading to increased unemployment. In response, society in Oaxaca has pursued alternative actions to address the core economic challenge of subsistence.Two significant actions include worker emigration and the development of the Popular Sector’s economy. The Popular Sector comprises nano, micro, and small family businesses, whether informal or formal, in urban areas and economic organizations in rural communities adhering to uses and customs. Amid these efforts, the “Social and Solidarity Economy” (SSE) movement has gained traction, emphasizing the use of the popular sector’s economy to foster organizations and social enterprises. These entities prioritize goods and services production based on principles like associativity, solidarity, participation, and the pursuit of social welfare over profit, aligning with economic and social objectives (Fonteneau, 2010).Despite the potential of the popular sector, the number of SSE companies remains limited, facing challenges such as resistance from traditional economic rationality, lack of awareness, and insufficient public policy support.
Addressing these challenges is crucial for unlocking the full potential of the social and solidarity economy model.

Keywords: Social and solidarity economy, Entrepreneurship, Mezcal from Oaxaca.

In a world dominated by commodification, the Adivasi people uniquely revere nature as a sacred entity, viewing it as a nurturing ‘mother.’ This paper scrutinizes the ethical implications of developmental initiatives in Adivasi lands, revealing the detrimental impact on their health and well-being. The Indian government’s resource exploitation without genuine concern for Adivasi’s suffering underscores a skewed development paradigm. Development-induced displacement exacerbates social and human development challenges, necessitating alternatives and internalization of rehabilitation costs. Grassroots participation and adherence to constitutional provisions can mitigate displacement’s negative aspects.

The focus then shifts to the plight of India’s tribal communities, constituting 8.6% of the population but comprising 40% of those displaced by ‘development.’ A case study of the Hasdeo forest resistance against the Adani Group’s coal mine illustrates a David vs Goliath scenario, highlighting political complexities and the clash between economic interests and environmental concerns. Allegations of illegal land acquisition, disregard for tribal councils, and ecological damage raise ethical questions, emphasizing the need for land acquisition reform, ethical business practices and global recognition of indigenous rights for sustainable development.

Keywords: Adivasi, Development-induced displacement, Tribal resistance, Environmental conservation

Folk dances in Western Odisha exclude themselves from the dances of the other parts of Odisha for its typicality. Dance as a form of art is not merely for pleasure; rather it is an act of the folkloric expression of the folks in Odisha, particularly in western Odisha. The dance gets involved with the folk song, music with multi dramatic and expressional effects, highly a reflection of their socio-economic structure. Merely considering the folk dance as a means of pleasure, pass time, merrymaking may never be sufficient, rather it has coercive power of binding the people, their relations, cultures, costumes, and traditions together. Maadli is a dance form performed and played by the tribal people of Kalahandi district, Odisha. The dance form is popular among the Gond community as they express their love and devotion towards their prime deity Budhadeo through dance and songs. The present study focuses on the preservation and documentation of the Maadli dance and its socio-cultural importance among the Gond tribe, as it is at the verge of extinction.

Keywords: Maadli, Tribal Dance, Western Odisha, Cultural Heritage, Gond Tribe

Very few or nobody is without any religious affiliation. In every religious household, the expenditure on religion is a part of household expenditure. Using the 68th round NSSO data and applying the censored regression method, this paper analyses the socioeconomic determinants and their effects on religious expenditure in India. The estimated empirical results reveal that in almost every religious household, there exists a positive relationship between income and religious expenditure. Among the major religious groups in India, Christians spend more on religion relative to the Hindus and Muslims. The study also finds that the size of the family and literacy have a negative effect on religious spending, while the presence of elders in the household increases religious expenditure. The picture of religious expenditure of households does not vary much even if controlled for religion, social group and education.

Keywords: Religious expenditure, Income, Socio-economic background, Religion, Censored regression