Introduction Manual scavenging remains one of the most painful and persistent reminders of caste-based inequality in India. Despite constitutional guarantees of equality and multiple legal prohibitions, the practice continues in different forms across rural and urban spaces. It refers to the manual handling, carrying, disposing, or cleaning of human excreta from dry latrines, open drains, … Read more
The caste system has long been one of the most discussed and debated features of Indian society. While often associated with tradition and hierarchy, caste is not merely a relic of the past. In modern India, it continues to influence social relations, politics, economic opportunities, and cultural identities. At the same time, significant changes have … Read more
Introduction India is often celebrated as the world’s largest democracy, marked by universal adult franchise, periodic elections, constitutional guarantees, and a vibrant public sphere. From a sociological perspective, however, democracy is not merely a political system defined by voting and representation; it is also a social process shaped by historical inequalities, power relations, and structural … Read more
Introduction In contemporary Indian society, education is widely perceived as the most reliable path to social mobility, economic security, and personal success. Over the last few decades, this belief has given rise to an expansive coaching culture, particularly oriented toward high-stakes competitive examinations such as engineering, medical, civil services, and other professional entrance tests. Coaching … Read more
Introduction The participation of women in paid work has increased significantly in India over the past few decades. Economic necessity, rising education levels, urbanization, and changing aspirations have encouraged women to enter the workforce across sectors such as education, healthcare, information technology, manufacturing, and informal labor. However, despite their growing presence in the public sphere, … Read more
Introduction The joint family system has historically been one of the most significant social institutions in India. For centuries, it shaped social relations, economic cooperation, cultural transmission, and individual identities. A joint family typically consisted of several generations living under one roof, sharing resources, responsibilities, property, and emotional bonds. It was not merely a residential … Read more
Introduction Domestic violence in India is not merely a personal or family issue; it is a deeply rooted social problem shaped by historical, cultural, economic, and structural inequalities. From a sociological perspective, domestic violence reflects unequal power relations within households, particularly gender-based hierarchies reinforced by patriarchy, tradition, and social norms. Despite constitutional guarantees of equality … Read more
Introduction Gender inequality remains one of the most persistent social issues in India despite constitutional guarantees of equality and decades of reform. From access to education and employment to political participation and personal freedom, men and women continue to experience life differently. These differences are not accidental but deeply rooted in social structures, cultural norms, … Read more
Introduction Marriage in India is not merely a personal or emotional union; it is a deeply social institution shaped by tradition, culture, religion, class, and family structure. For centuries, arranged marriage has been the dominant form of marital alliance, rooted in kinship systems, caste hierarchies, and community norms. However, with modernization, education, urbanization, and exposure … Read more
Introduction Marriage has long been considered a sacred and permanent institution in Indian society. Rooted in religious traditions, family values, and social norms, marriage historically symbolized lifelong commitment, social stability, and collective honor. Divorce, on the other hand, was viewed as a social stigma, especially for women. However, in recent decades, urban India has witnessed … Read more