Category: political-science

The impact of new media technology on democracy and development has been profound, reshaping the way information is disseminated, opinions are formed, and governance is conducted. From social media platforms to online news portals, digital technologies have democratized access to information, facilitated citizen engagement, and transformed the dynamics of political participation and social mobilization. This…

The Panchayati Raj System in India, established to decentralize power and promote local self-governance, has undergone significant evolution since its inception. The Ashok Mehta Committee, appointed in 1977, played a pivotal role in assessing the functioning of the Panchayati Raj institutions (PRIs) and making recommendations for their reform. This analysis will explore the working of…

The evolution of socialist thinking in the Indian Constitution reflects the aspirations of the framers to build a just and equitable society through democratic means. While the term “socialism” was added to the Preamble through the 42nd Amendment in 1976, the constitutional provisions embodying socialist principles were present from the inception of the Constitution. This…

The ongoing debate on democracy encompasses a wide range of perspectives, critiques, and challenges that have emerged in response to the complexities and uncertainties of contemporary political landscapes. While democracy is widely regarded as the most legitimate and inclusive form of governance, scholars, policymakers, and activists continue to grapple with fundamental questions about its efficacy,…

The agencies of development encompass a wide range of actors, including governments, international organizations, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), civil society groups, and grassroots movements, all of which play a crucial role in promoting the rights and empowerment of women. Their contributions vary in scope and impact, ranging from policy formulation and advocacy to direct service provision…

The Parliament of India, as the supreme legislative body, plays a pivotal role in the country’s political system. Comprising two houses—the Lok Sabha (House of the People) and the Rajya Sabha (Council of States)—the Indian Parliament is responsible for making laws, scrutinizing the government’s actions, and representing the diverse interests of the Indian populace. This…

Interest groups play a significant role in the functioning of democracy by representing the diverse interests and preferences of citizens, influencing public policy, and fostering political participation and accountability. These groups, also known as advocacy groups, pressure groups, or lobby groups, represent specific interests, such as business interests, labor unions, environmental organizations, and civil rights…

The evolution of peasant movements in India is a complex and multifaceted phenomenon shaped by historical, social, economic, and political factors. From colonial-era struggles against agrarian exploitation to contemporary movements for land rights and agrarian reforms, peasant movements have been central to the struggle for social justice, economic equity, and rural development. This discussion will…

The emergence of new social movements (NSMs) has played a pivotal role in empowering marginalized communities by providing platforms for advocacy, mobilization, and collective action. These movements, characterized by their decentralized structures, issue-based agendas, and networked activism, have challenged entrenched power dynamics, raised awareness of systemic inequalities, and advocated for social justice and inclusion. This…

New social movements refer to collective actions and advocacy efforts that emerge in response to contemporary social, political, and cultural issues. Unlike traditional social movements, which often focused on class-based or labor-related grievances, new social movements address a wide range of issues, including environmentalism, human rights, gender equality, LGBTQ+ rights, and anti-globalization. These movements are…

Gender equity refers to the fair treatment and equal opportunities for people of all genders, irrespective of their biological sex or gender identity. It encompasses the principles of equality, non-discrimination, and social justice, aiming to address historical and systemic inequalities between men and women. Achieving gender equity requires dismantling gender-based stereotypes, biases, and barriers that…

The bureaucracy plays a crucial role in the functioning of democratic governance, serving as the administrative arm of the state responsible for implementing laws, policies, and programs. Its relations with the executive and legislature are essential for ensuring effective policy implementation, accountability, and the rule of law. This discussion will examine the role of bureaucracy…