lokāyata: journal of positive philosophy

1 | P a g e Centre for Positive Philosophy and Interdisciplinary Studies (CPPIS)

Lokāyata: Journal of Positive Philosophy, Volume I, Number 01, April-September, 2011

ISSN : 2249-8389

Lokāyata Journal of Positive Philosophy

Centre for Positive Philosophy and Interdisciplinary Studies (CPPIS)

Milestone Education Society (Regd.),Ward No.06, Pehowa (Kurukshetra)-136128

http://positivephilosophy.webs.com

Problems in Contemporary Indian Society

Volume I, Number 01

April-September, 2011

Chief-Editor: Dr Desh Raj Sirswal

http://positivephilosophy.webs.com/



Lokāyata: Journal of Positive Philosophy (ISSN 2249-8389)

Lokāyata: Journal of Positive Philosophy is a bi-annual interdisciplinary journal of the Center for

Positive Philosophy and Interdisciplinary Studies (CPPIS). The name Lokāyata can be traced to

Kautilya's Arthashastra, which refers to three ānvīkṣikīs (logical philosophies), Yoga, Samkhya and

Lokāyata. Lokāyata here still refers to logical debate (disputatio, "criticism") in general and not to a

materialist doctrine in particular. The objectives of the journal are to encourage new thinking on

concepts and theoretical frameworks in the disciplines of humanities and social sciences to

disseminate such new ideas and research papers (with strong emphasis on modern implications of

philosophy) which have broad relevance in society in general and man‘s life in particular. The

Centre will publish two issues of the journal every year. Each regular issue of the journal will

contain full-length papers, discussions and comments, book reviews, information on new books

and other relevant academic information. Each issue will contain about 100 Pages.

© Centre for Positive Philosophy and Interdisciplinary Studies, Pehowa (Kurukshetra)

Chief- Editor:

Dr. Desh Raj Sirswal, Assistant Professor (Philosophy),

P.G.Govt. College for Girls, Sector-11, Chandigarh (India)

Associate Editors: Dr. Sandhya Gupta Ms Poonama Verma

Language Editors: Ms Vipinjeet Kaur Mr Raj Kumar

Editorial Advisory Board

Prof. K.K. Sharma (Former-Pro-Vice-Chancellor, NEHU, Shillong)

Dr Anamika Girdhar ( Kurukshetra University, Kurukshetra)

Dr.Ranjan Kumar Behera (Dimapur, Nagaland)

Fr. V. John Peter (St. Joseph‘s Philosophical College, Nilgiris,TN)

Dr Aayam Gupta (Lautoka, Fiji)

Dr Geetesh Nirban (Kamala Nehru College, University of Delhi)

Dr. Vaishali Dev (Mahamakut Buddhist University,Thailand)

Dr Merina Islam (Cachar College, Silchar, Assam)

Dr. Narinder Singh (GHSC-10, Chandigarh)

Dr Vijay Pal Bhatnagar (Kurukshetra University, Kurukshetra)

Declaration: The opinions expressed in the articles of this journal are those of the individual

authors, and not necessary of those of CPPIS or the Chief Editor.



In this issue……………..

PROBLEMS IN CONTEMPORARY INDIAN SOCIETY

-C.Devi Meenakshi (04-12)


-Ravinderpreet Kaur (13-19)

WOMAN IN 21ST

CENTURY:ISSUES AND FUTURE PERSPECTIVES

-Manju Chauhan (20-25)


-Niyati Kumari(26-32)

WOMEN IN 21st

CENTURY: ISSUES AND FUTURE PERSPECTIVES

-Neha Vashishta (33-39)

PHILOSOPHY NEWS IN INDIA (40-47)

CONTRIBUTORS OF THIS ISSUE (48)

…………………………………..

Note: The first issue of Lokāyata contains essays of students participated in National Level Essay

Competition for Students on the theme ―Problems in Contemporary Indian Society‖ held on

September 05, 2011 (Teacher‘s Day)



Lokāyata: Journal of Positive Philosophy Volume I, Number 01, April-September, 2011, pp.04-12


-C.Devi Meenakshi

INTRODUCTION

India is indeed incredible for its natural wealth, Unity in Diversity, Monuments, rich

biodiversity and remarkable achievements. India is a picture of diversity seen in her

people, culture, colourful festivals, dresses and costumes, religions, flora and fauna

and varying landscapes. It has made glorious progress in diverse fields since

independence. But still there are several problems in the Indian Society hindering

the progress of our nation. Issues such as terrorism, caste discrimination, influence

of westernization on Indian culture are a few examples of menacing troubles in the

present Indian Society.

WOMEN IN 21ST CENTURY: ISSUES AND FUTURE PERSPECTIVES

The status of women has improved a lot in the post Independent India. Women

have started enjoying equal status with men. Our society and the nation has started

respecting women. Women are occupying high positions and good jobs.

Mrs.Prathiba Patil, who is the President of India, Mrs. Meera Kumar,the Speaker of

Lok Sabha, Mrs.Nirupama Rao, the Foreign Secretary, Mrs.Kiran Bedi, an ex-IPS

Officer and social activist are the living examples bearing testimony to women

empowerment.

With education and awareness women will have the right knowledge about their

freedom and liberties and the courage to fight for their rights. In contrast to the

olden days, women of this 21st century question about things encountering their lives

as it is well known thata a questioning mind is the source of knowledge



Women in 21st century are in progressing in accordance with Mahakavi Bharathi‘s

vision of modern women. They have turned his dream into a reality. They have

turned his dream into a reality. They are playing a significant role in policy making,

decision making, planning , governing the nation, implementing policies.

Though women are tremendously progressing in one side ,on the other side the

ancient outlook has not changed yet. There are still atrocities committed against

women. The major issues threatening women include female infanticide,

harassment, dowry etc. Girl children are viewed as a burden even by some educated

persons and they kill their own child.

Dowry is another threatening problem which is a real headache for women. Though

dowry deaths have declined, it still prevails in the society. Dowry can be eradicated

only if there is a change in the mindset of people. Dowry giving and accepting should

be considered as a sin by people. Strict implementation of laws and severe

punishments are the need of the hour to control this menace.

Women are the victims of harassment since immemorial. They are posed to the

threat of harassment from the moment they step out of the home. So they need

protection as there are expected dangers in schools, colleges, workplace, outside of

home, in buses and trains etc. Women have to tackle these problems by making

themselves strong physically as well as mentally. Women should be bold enough and

they must learn martial arts like karate, silambam etc. to defend themselves.

Even in home women are continuously undermined. One reason for such troubles

is the prevalent male dominance in our society. Most of the men treat women as

their inferiors and they fail to recognise that women are the other half of the society.

They fail to treat them with respect, care and love. A solution to the above problem

can be provided by eradicating male dominant mindset from the hearts of the

people. Women need to be respected and cared for the welfare of the society.

Women are still ignorant and women illiteracy still prevails in the society. Women‘s

status will be improved only if illiteracy is completely demolished. Education is the

only way which paves way for women empowerment. Women will have the

confidence to face challenges only if they are able to stand on their own feet.

Ignorance and financial dependence are the sole reasons for women slavery.



EFFECT OF WESTERNIZATION ON INDIAN CULTURE

India is known for her unique and rich culture. But nowadays the young Indians are

ignoring the elite culture of our Indian soil. The westernization has silently spread

into Indian minds damaging the roots of culture and tradition. They are lured by the

attractive but poisonous western culture. In their point of view westernisation is

considered to be civilised, modern, and stylish. Amazingly, a true fact is that western

people are trying to follow our culture but here the scenario is upside down.

Indians have started wearing western dresses which is not suitable for our country‘s

cultural as well as climatic conditions. Particularly, Jeans, T shirts which is a craze

among Indian teens is not safe and secure for girls.

The strength of Indian culture is the bondage among family members. This bondage

holds the relationships together and is responsible for connecting and keeping up

the relations. The Indian Culture serves as a connecting bridge linking the hearts of

the people.

The major effect of westernization is that it has lead to an increase in illegal

relationships. There is an increase in crime rate particularly against women as there

is no control of thoughts. People are lacking in ethics and morality in their actions.

Westernization does not adopt any rules and regulations which lead to

uncontrollable greed‘s in minds of people. Today, whenever we look at newspapers

or TV, one gets the doubt whether we are living in India which is considered to be a

land of culture. In this holy land, the crimes against women and children are very

high.

Indian culture is based on principles of love, care, tolerance and sacrifice. Owing to

westernization tolerance among people has reduced. As a result, the divorce rates

have increased tremendously thus children become orphans even when the parents

are alive.

Westernization has protruded its branches even into food. Our ancestors have lived

a long life by eating nutritious, healthy Indian foods. But western foods such as pizza,



burgers and all other fast foods are gaining more importance among youngsters. As a

result they are spoiling their own health inviting several illnesses.

STUDENTS‘ PARTICIPATION IN SOCIOPOLITICAL ISSUES:

Today‘s students are the pillars of tomorrow‘s nation. In accordance to the above

words for solving any social or political issue students must be aware and participate

in it.

Students should possess the right knowledge and awareness to choose and vote the

right leader when they grow up. As they grow up to be responsible citizens of

tomorrow, they must be aware of their rights and duties towards the nation.

Students must think that to bribe and to be bribed is a sin against the nation. Social

issues such as dowry, bribery, drug addiction etc. can be tackled only if the students

are aware of its ill effects.

Major issues such as terrorism, caste fights which pose a serious threat to nation‘s

security can be tackled only with the students‘ participation in anti-terroristic

thoughts. Only a change in mindset of young minds can bring tremendous effect in

solving such huge problems.

Students participation in political issues of recent times include Telengana issue,

Hindi protest issue etc. Though students have abundant power they must never fall

into hands of corrupt politicians. They must think well before acting and utilise their

energy in a positive way.

Students organise several campaigns and their role in spreading awareness among

masses is beyond words. Students organise several blood donation camps, eye

donation campaigns, campaigns against reckless driving etc. thus creating awareness

about many social issues.

Another good example of students‘ support in social issue is Anna Hazare‘s

movement against corruption and Black Money. The political issue of framing a

strong Lokpal bill is being supported by several students throughout the nation.



RESERVATION POLICY AS A SOCIO POLITICAL ISSUE

Reservation policy has been implemented after independence. Reservation is

actually the reason for India‘s position of not becoming a superpower even after 64

long years of Independence. This situation prevails because a nation can prosper

only when talents of people are recognised.

Moreover reservation policy is giving more importance to caste differences than to

talents. It has created a gap among different people. In fact it is the hidden reason

for hatedness among different castes of people. People with lower preference hate

the people with higher preference.

Reservation policy is a curse hindering the progress of the nation. It makes people

lazy by awarding less working people in the name of caste. Hence a person is

reluctant work to his/her full potential owing to this policy.

According to our Constitution it is believed that all are equal in the eyes of the law.

But reservation policy creates a state of inequality and difference among people of

different castes. It provides opportunities for few people by grabbing the

opportunities of others. This is not a fair policy as all must be given equal

opportunities.

Reservation policy does not reward the most deserving people. It creates a false

impression that a person‘s birth (caste) is more important than his/her talents while

determining their career.

Reservation policy is actually implemented by the politicians for the sake of getting

bulk votes. It is actually creating a barrier for the development of the nation. As the

chances are given to few people easily in the name of reservation they fail to realise

its worth.

WILL INDIA EVER LEAVE CASTE DISCRIMINATION IN UPCOMING

YEARS

India is the only nation where still caste discrimination prevails. It is impossible to

avoid caste discrimination unless there is a change in the mindset of people. Caste

differences must be eradicated from the roots.



The social scenario today is in such a way that wherever a person goes, he is

questioned about his/her caste and community. Be it admission into a school/college

or getting a job. The Government itself asks to give details about caste while filling

any application forms. Then how can the caste discrimination are eradicated?

Caste discrimination poisons the minds of people and creates hatredness, ego, envy

among people. It spoils the mutual understanding and brotherhood feelings thereby

shattering the nation‘s unity and integrity. It creates disharmony among people and

damages the peace of the nation.

Keeping in mind the above consequences we should develop the quality of tolerance

and mutual understanding of others feelings. We should not allow the valuable

freedom gifted by our noble freedom fighters to get spoilt by the dirty caste

discrimination.

Possibly India can leave caste discrimination in the upcoming years if people realise

that we, the Sons of Bharat Matha should not be separated by the walls of caste,

community, religion etc. If we don‘t realise it then our future will be dreadful.

India fell into the hands of British only owing to caste discrimination among people.

And still this weakness prevails in our society. If this keeps on continuing our nation

will again be enslaved by outside forces.

DALIT DISCRIMINATION IN INDIAN CULTURE AND SCRIPTURE

Dalits have been segregated for a long time particularly in ancient days. They were

considered to be untouchables and they were ignored in all possible ways in all walks

of life. They were paid meager income and worked heavily. Yet they were treated

with inequality. In schools, Dalit students were made to sit on gunny bags and sacks

instead of benches.

In olden days, the Dalits experienced the cruel practice of two tumbler system.

They were denied even their basic rights. They were not allowed to enter into the

houses of high class people and they were kept at doorstep. They were not even

permitted to walk into the streets of the people of high caste. They were also kept

out of religious places and social gatherings.



They were not permitted to enter into temples and were asked to worship by

standing outside the temples. They were not permitted to drink water from a river or

pond which is common to all. In those days, even giving water for them to drink was

considered to be disgusting. Some people even thought that seeing them when going

out of home as a bad omen.

Dalits were victims of countless other atrocities. All such discriminations occurred

mainly on the basis of caste differences. As the society was dominated by the high

class people in those days, they neglected Dalits from the society. As they were

illiterate in those days they did not have the courage to revolt against such differences

and they silently accepted those cruelties.

Then great people like Dr.B.R.Ambedkar fought for their rights which dawned the

darkness in their lives. The Government has also taken several steps to improve

their status and now they are making a good progress

PHILOSOPHY OF LIBERATION WITH SPECIAL REFERENCE TO

DALITS

Our India is a democratic nation which strongly believes in the principles of liberty,

equality and fraternity. But still the philosophy of liberation remains just for name

sake in the present scenario.

Liberty means freedom for all to talk, write and act on their own. But still there are

villages in India where people are tied by the chains of slavery and caste

discrimination.

Even in this information technology era, Dalits are denied their rights and liberty.

Honour killing method which prevails in several villages of North India bears a

testimony to the above said fact. Honour killing is done for those who perform

intercaste marriages. They are not free to choose life of their own. This practice kills

not only the people but also crushes their feelings and liberty.

In order to ensure liberty to Dalits, The Government is trying in all the possible ways

to bring upliftment in their lives by providing reservation in jobs, institutions and

assembly poll elections.



CONCEPT OF PEACE AND GLOBALISATION IN INDIAN CULTURE

Basically, India is a peace loving nation. As expected our culture also instigates in

promoting peace and globalization. Indian culture promotes brotherhood

relationships by celebrating several national as well as religious festivals. It creates a

feeling of oneness and harmony among people.

The concept of peace is evident form India‘s unique features of Unity in Diversity. It

is this quality which keeps the people of such a big nation together always by

connecting diverse religions, languages and cultures.

Indian culture instills the feelings of sacrifice, tolerance and mutual understanding

among Indian hearts thereby promoting peace and harmony not within family,

society as well as the entire nation. This same policy is adopted not only within the

country but also with its neighbouring nations and the entire world.

TEACHER STUDENT RELATIONSHIP: AN INDIAN OUTLOOK

In India, Teachers are regarded next to parents and they play a vital role in

moulding the future of children. To commemorate the gratitude towards Teachers,

we even celebrate every September 5th as the Teachers Day. Truly every little Indian

child gets inspired by his/her teacher. Such is the greatness of teachers in Indian

society.

But, unfortunately, the student teacher relationship in India is not so creditable.

Most of the students hesitate to clarity their doubts. The interaction between

Teacher and the student is very less i.e. one side communication. The teachers keep

on giving lectures about topics and are more concentrated in completing syllabus.

This causes the student to be less creative. Some teachers even give severe

punishments to students and force studies into their heads. Hence students dread

teachers and hate studies ultimately.

The student teacher relationship must be improved to produce better results. This

can be done if there is a better understanding between students and teachers. The

teachers should make the students to understand the concepts clearly. The teachers

should kindle the creativity and interest among students. The classes should be

made more interactive. This will definitely prove more fruitful.



THE NEED FOR SPIRITUALISTIC OUTLOOK ON LIFE

A spiritualistic outlook on life is essential because it gives peace and confidence to

our hearts. Moreover it gives a feeling of being close to the Divineness. It gives a

secured feeling as we feel that the Divine Almighty guides our life and always stands

by our side.

Such a spiritualistic outlook will give calmness and joy to our heart. It will save us

from committing sins. It is essential to lead a good and happy life. The help of a

spiritual practice lies in the fact that it teaches us to detach from the familiar

constellation of 'I' and to form a new relationship with our inner emotional

landscape. In relation to thought and feeling, we discover that we carry these

energies within us but they are not us.

It is a way to begin to separate the wheat from the chaff, the false from the true, so

that we can begin to live life in accordance with the deepest and truest principles that

our hearts know and that our minds can consent to. These principles come from

our sacred humanity and reside in the deepest origins of our being blessed and holy

children of God.

But today people fail to identify the true spiritual people and fall into the trap of

wrong people who misguide them in the name of God. This misguiding can at times

create serious consequences in one‘s life. The number of people who cheat people

in the name of God have proliferated.

CONCLUSION

―Dream, dream, dream. Because it is the dream that gets converted to

thoughts and thoughts gets transformed into actions. So let your minds blossom full

of elite thoughts.‖

-Dr.A.P.J.Abdul Kalam

To realise our dream of becoming a superpower within 2020, the above said

problems must be solved. Though it will take some time to solve them, it is

definitely possible to eradicate the above issues. It all depends on our hands. So let

us join our hands together to solve the above issues and make our nation stand with

utmost pride among other nations.





-Ravinderpreet Kaur

―I have walked that long road to freedom. I have tried not to falter; I have made

missteps along the way, but I have discovered that after climbing a great hill, one

only finds that there are many more hills to climb. I have taken here a moment to

rest, to look back on the distance I have come. But I can only rest for a moment, for

with freedom comes responsibilities, and I dare not linger, for my long walk is not

ended. ‖

These historic words of Nelson Mandela's continue to reverberate in our ears

decades after they were uttered, for, every country that was once under the yoke of

imperialism and colonialism has had to face a similar situation. Our motherland,

India, is no exception. Our forefathers had to struggle for nearly a century, face

many hardships in order to walk the arduous path to independence. It was no easy

task and immense sacrifices were demanded and readily given by the patriotic

thousands who wished to breathe the free air, be at par with their subjugators. After

all, whose blood is not red? Who does not have a conscience? Who is not desirous

of touching the sky? But in our race for materialistic comforts and luxuries, we have

allowed ourselves to be swept away by the flood of blind greed. We have retained

parochial traditions when they ought to have been discarded, and at the same time,

destroyed the aesthetic beauty of our multi-cultural nation. Our founding fathers

would be pained, not only to see the tardy pace of progress but also due to the drain

of morals and values which has clouded the vision that once promised

liberation.........



Yesterday is history, tomorrow is mystery. But today is a gift. That is why it is called

the ―present.‖ In order to evaluate our shortcomings, we must not dwell on the past

to a great extent, for it is already dead. What has been done, cannot be undone.

Crying over spilt milk will lead us nowhere. The time to introspect and to act, is

NOW.

Let us begin with the most incendiary issue of gender equality in India; or rather, the

absence of it. Inequality between men and women can have many facets, all of which

not only depend, but also grow on one another. For instance, women are often not

authorized to take decisions in a family, which not only robs them of their right but

also has a harmful effect on their own well-being. If women are empowered, then

this affects not only their state and well-being, but along with it, that of all those

around them-the men and the children. In India, since times immemorial, women

have been subjected to utter neglect and disregard. The picture with respect to care

and support is equally dismal. As a consequence of this biased attitude, mortality

rates of females are much higher than males, quite opposite to what biologists say,

and what is observed in North America and the European countries. Another

disparaging feature here is that girls have much lesser access to educational facilities.

What to say of higher education, even schooling seems to be a distant dream for

many of them. This also tends to reduce their employment prospects to nil, which in

turn increases their dependence on their husbands when they are married off, which

again negates their decision making powers; thereby completing the never-ending

vicious circle. It is also still quite common in our society to accept without

questioning that while men are naturally the bread winners of the family and thus

have to work outside the home, women too can do so if and only if, they can manage

to do such work in addition to their household work-which is great in magnitude-and

the women are seldom cooperated and helped in this matter.

A very appalling and inhuman form of gender inequality manifests itself in the form

of domestic and physical violence against women-and it is on the rise by the day.

This brutal feature can be observed in poor, illiterate and less developed regions as

well as in literate, wealthy and modern ones. Demands for matrimonial settlements,

such as dowry, tend to make the problem much worse.



As has been mentioned before, girls and schools are usually found poles apart.

However, the few who are lucky enough to be educated derive benefits of this

education in a multitude of fields. It would be apt here to point out the connection

between female literacy and fertility, which has been widely observed in many areas

of India. Educated women will be clearly unwilling to go on giving birth to one child

after another because they have other more significant things to attend to, the prime

one of them being their own health. We all express our awe on seeing the Taj

Mahal, but how many of us know the cause of Mumtaz Mahal's death? She died

during child-birth-and it was her fourteenth child! Much water has since flowed

down the Yamuna, but the situation remains pretty much the same in the case of

illiterate women. Education also broadens vision and rationality. Needless to say,

educated women are also able have their say in family decisions. But an environment

in which the mother's own mindset is such that she wishes to have only a son and no

daughters may need much more than just school lessons and a job to change the

mindset.

No less is the need to inform the public about this matter. People need to be made

to realize the difference between what is ethically correct or not. Everyone has to be

informed and made aware that women need appreciation and not just empty

rhetoric and sympathies. Women have the ability to make this world a better place

to live in because they form half the population of this world and continuation of life

is not possible without them. We need to hunt down and punish those who go in for

the malpractice of sex-selective abortion as well as those who encourage it and profit

out of it, including women. Policies and laws alone will not help, a complete

overhaul of the mindset is the need of the hour.

Let us now turn to another aspect-of globalization which is neither a new concept,

nor is it a vicious, untamed animal. It is through globalization that the world has

been deeply connected; goods, services, people, ideas and technology have been

mobilized to a great extent so as to benefit even the remotest region on the surface of

the earth. It is through this channel that knowledge is spread across the world. At the

same time, we must not ignore the problems of the disadvantaged nations, which are

too dependent on another country to voice their concerns or dissent. Globalization

and inter-connected economies have great benefits but they can also be the cause for



many a problem in the absence of well formulated policies. Therefore, we must

address these obstacles but should not isolate ourselves from the world for fear of

being overridden.

Peace is something that has eluded us at times when we needed it the most. As a

result, there has been considerable loss of life and property and has also led to moral

bankruptcy. This problem too, is of our own making. And it has adopted different

forms from time to time, but the repercussions have always been unmistakably the

same. Whether external Chinese or Pakistani aggression, or breakdown of internal

security, Maoist or Naxalite rebellions, communal riots, terror strikes and bombings,

class conflicts, secessionist movements- you name it and we have faced it. And the

problem is exacerbated when it is turned into a political tool by unscrupulous

individuals. Commoners like you and me are by far, and perhaps, 'the only'

sufferers. It is ironic that a country which produced the most vehement preacher of

non-violence (Mahatma Gandhi), should be grappling with intense violence and

bloodshed.

Caste and class divisions have over the years, only intensified and quickened the

fragmentation of the Indian society. Support for caste barriers comes not only from

old, vested interests, but also from new arenas of privilege, which makes it all the

more tough to eradicate this evil from our society. If a family, in addition to being

lower caste, is also burdened with poverty, then the problem poses an even harder

challenge. Even the violence related with Dalits, Scheduled Castes or Scheduled

tribes involves a lot more than their caste. On digging beneath the surface mask of

caste, we find many peculiarities. For instance, ―reserved posts‖ often go to well-off

and comparatively rich members of the downtrodden castes, while the ones in need

of it, are left entirely out of the ambit of such benefits.

Amartya Sen gives some illuminating examples of movements against caste divisions

in ancient times, which have been recorded in epics and other classical documents

and scriptures. In the Mahabharata, Bhrigu tells Bharadvaja that caste divisions

relate to differences in physical attributes of different human beings, reflected in skin

colour. Bharavaja responds not only by pointing to the considerable variations in

skin colour ―within every caste‖ (―if different colours indicate different castes, then



all castes are mixed castes‖), but also by the more profound question: ―We all seem

to be affected by desire, anger, fear, sorrow, worry, hunger and labour; how do we

have different castes then?‖ The Bhavisya Purana also gives another striking

example: ―Since members of all the four castes are children of God, they all belong

to the same caste. All human beings have the same father, and children of the same

father cannot have different castes.‖

The medieval mystical poets came with their policy of equality and love for all. Kabir

and Ravidas are the most outstanding examples. Guru Gobind Singh, the tenth Guru

of the Sikhs, adopted into the fold of the Khalsa Panth, members of every

community and class. The very word ―Khalsa‖ means 'pure', in other words, one

whose heart has been purified of baseless distinctions and discriminations and one

who can stand for the truth without any trepidation. If the remote past could have

had such great visionaries, then the present time appears to consist largely of hordes

of blind and ignorant people full of apathy.

Far from removing all sorts of discrimination, caste or otherwise, we have only

managed to deepen the cleft through blatant misuse of reservation policies. With

teeming millions queuing up for coveted and assuring government jobs when

unemployment is on the rise, reservation proves to be a very potent tool in the

wrong hands. Its benefits have miserably failed to filter down to those who actually

need it, but only made its misappropriation much easier for the ―creamy layer‖,

thereby increasing the gap between the haves and the have-nots. And we are back to

square one. Moreover, discontent breeds further discontent. One group succeeds in

securing reservation, others invariably begin to demand the same out of fear of being

left behind. And politicians often succumb to such populist demands in the hope of

safeguarding their vote bank. Will India ever leave the caste discrimination issue in

the upcoming years? That is a question to which there can be no concrete answer,

yet. As long as there is caste, there are bound to be differences. And caste is such a

deep-rooted entity that it cannot be eradicated by some magical incantation. In fact,

people have now begun to describe their identity purely on basis of caste, in order to

derive maximum advantage out of it. And liberation, in the true sense of the word,

will come only when all man-made divisions-whether caste, colour, creed or gender-



will be wiped out. This might take a long time in coming, but through concerted

efforts, we might be able to quicken its pace.

Coming to the issue of Westernization, we ought to be mature enough to realize that

Western culture does not pollute us as long as we are sensible to the extent of not

blindly aping it for the silly reason that the West dominates the world at present.

Some may feel that Indian culture must be preserved from the ―pollution‖ of

Western ideas and thoughts. But at the same time there is no reason for shutting out

the outside world. Instead, as Amartya Sen puts it, ―we should be opening the doors

of communication because no country can live in absolute isolation from the rest of

the world. We must be willing and broad minded to enjoy, learn from and adopt

ideas, art forms and other positive things from anywhere-within India or abroad.

One must take full note of the importance of one's own culture without denying what

there is to learn from other cultures.‖

Any approach to addressing the problems in contemporary India is incomplete

without taking into account the monster called 'communalism.' Before proceeding,

we must know that religion and communalism are two separate terms. Religion by

itself is not the cause of conflicts and communalism. Religion can either be

perceived as a faith or as an identity. Bipan Chandra, the well known Historian,

describes communalism in its true form: ―Communalism is a religion-based socio-

political identity, the propagators of which believe that the interests of the people

belonging to one religion are primarily different from those belonging to other

religions.‖ When religion is politicized for narrow, baser interests, it assumes the

shape of communalism, which in its extreme level, displays its inhuman and

merciless face through communal riots. The Babri Masjid demolition and its

aftermath, the anti-Muslim Gujarat riots of 2002, the anti-Sikh riots of 1984 are

some examples, the ghosts of which haunt us till date (even though Hindus,

Muslims, Christians, Sikhs, Parsis, Jews, Buddhists, Jains had all been living together

peacefully for centuries). And our governments adopt the middle pacifist path of

appeasing both aggrieved parties so as not to incur the wrath of either; or the

investigations are so muddled up to make every conscientious person hang his head

in shame. Sometimes it takes decade for the judiciary to announce its decision,

thereby denying justice by simply delaying it.



A cursory glance at all these problems may make us feel hopeless because there is a

lot that arouses despondency and despair, but giving up will not make the task any

easier. Unlike the proverbial pigeon, we simply cannot shut our eyes to the looming

threats. We cannot allow ourselves to be drowned in the sea of gloom only because

we are faced with too many problems. The level from which we started and the

rough terrain that we had to tread since independence was no mean feat. We have

come this far and possess the potential to go much further. No doubt we still have

―promises to keep and miles to go‖, but we cannot give up at this crucial hour when

we need to give to India what it needs from us as loyal citizens. Every problem

comes with an inherent solution; we only need to look for it more carefully and

closely. After all, where there is a will, there is a way!!!




WOMAN IN 21ST CENTURY:ISSUES AND FUTURE PERSPECTIVES

-Manju Chauhan

INTRODUCTION

Woman always have suffered a secondary status with reference to men. They are

always a disadvantage in all fields of life. In modern India i.e. in the 21st century,

woman has adorned the high office in India including that of the President, Prime

Minister, Speaker of Lok Sabha, Leader of opposition, etc. The current President

and Speaker of Lok Sabha in India are women, still, woman in India don‘t enjoy

basic human rights and their health, education and empowerment stays back. The

number of sexual abuses and domestic violence cases throw lights on these facts.

ISSUES

In Indian society, it is women who have to cook, clean the house, wash clothes, etc.

Men just took care of few matters that are to be dealt outside the house. Almost 40%

of business school graduates are woman, 26% of doctors and Lawyers are female

while 43% of all students in any medical or law schools are females. The Indian

social structure has not been much modified by the changes in women‘s condition.

Women contribute a higher share of their earning of the family and less likely to

spend it on themselves. In rural India only 48.1% of women are literate. Women

have extensive work with dual responsibility for farm and house hold production.

Women‘s work is getting hard and more time consuming due to eco logical

degradation and changing agricultural technologies and practices. Women have an

active role and extensive involvement in live stock, production forest resources use

and fishery processing. Woman‘s average contribution in Agricultural 55% out of



66% of the total Labour. The rural Indian woman‘s interface with the forests is

varying-gathering, wage employment production in farm forestry and management of

afforested area in the community plantation. Nature and extent of woman‘s

participation in fishery varies across the states. Fish curing, marketing and net-

mending are the main areas of woman‘s involvement in Tamil Nadu, Andhra

Pradesh and Orissa. In rural, areas woman make baskets, brooms and ropes.

Women constitute 51% of the total employment in forest based small scale

enterprises. Now days, the internet is beginning to have a revolutionary effect on the

700 million people who live in villages in India and the charge is being led by

woman. A project set up by on the India‘s leading technology institutes has put

women in charge of forgoing the way across the digital divide as the proprietors of a

fast growing number of internet cafes or kiosk around the sub continent and 80% of

these kiosk are run by women.

Social and Political movement are reflecting woman‘s political life. These

movements have opened the windows of opportunity and some women have been

able to take advantage of the opportunity to access political life. But, Gender

violence does not permit so. It is a major health issue. This disturbs peace and rules

of the society. Woman in India continue to face physical, sexual, emotional and

economic violence. Gender violence includes cases like killing women because of

inadequate dowry, killing after rape, throwing acid to disfigure a woman‘s face and

marrying a woman without her will, etc. These types of crimes can be seen easily in

India. According to the 2005 Annual Report of National Crime Records, 1 crime

was committed against woman in every 3 minutes. The NCRB recorded a total of

155550 cases of violence against woman. Out of which a very less number of

criminals are being punished and most of these criminals were the relatives or any

other knowing persons of the victim. NCRB seldom collects the data on offences

committed by the armed forces. Many girls are married (according to census 2001)

at an early age whereas the legal age of marriage for woman is 18 years. Most of the

poor women commit suicide afraid of giving dowry. In Northern India, there is big

difference in sex ratio because of female feticide. This difference has increasing

every census. The difference in male and female in 1971 was of 2 crore (males were

28 crore and females were 26 crore in number). Similarly in 1981 it was 2 crore

(males=35crore and females 33 crore); in 1991 it was 3 crore (males=44crore and



females=41 crore); in 2001 it was 3 crore (males=53 crore and females=50 crore)

and in 2011 the difference is 4 crore (males=62 crore and Females=58 crores). The

upgiven data showed how the number of women is decreasing in India. This should

check before it‘s too late. This condition of woman can be improved only by awaring

the people and some steps government should help too.

FUTURE PERSPECTIVES

In the year 2000, a policy ―Forward Looking Strategies of woman (FLS)‖ was sought.

It is initiative at national and international level in economic, social, cultural and legal

spheres. It ensures equality, development and peace in respect to the participation

and integration of women in all social spheres in the society. Woman‘s organizations

were constituted under control of the party. The Mahila Congress and All India

Women‘s Federation (CPI). In 1990. National Commission for woman was set up

similarly, the National Policy on Education (1986), The National Health Policy

(1993) and the National Nutrition Policy (1993) were set up. By following the 73rd

Amendment (Part IX relating to Panchayats was inserted in the constitution to

provide for sabha, constitution of Panchayats at village and other levels, direct

election to all seats, fixing the tenures for five year for Panchayats and reservation of

not less than one third of the seats for woman) the act has brought 1 million elected

woman into the political life at the grass roots level and according to another act

there are 70 woman in 783 seat legislatures, there were 6 woman in the cabinet. A

large proposition of woman participated inviting throughout the country and

numerous woman were represented the major parties in the state and national

legislatures. Women‘s Rights Movement gained mass support in the latter half of 20th

century when the problems related to women continued to confront women in all

spheres of life.

Today, at the dawn of 21st century the women across the world are placed at

advanced position. They are paying need t their inner voice. We have many

programmes to develop the women‘s status in India. These are as follows:

1) Swalambam (Self Employment): It provided training to women to develop

a job deserving personality in them in traditional and nontraditional trades.

Many woman benefited under the programme in 2002, 2004-05.



2) Gender Development Index (2001-02): It is based on Gender inequality

which was incorporated in the Annual Economic Survey.

3) Support training for Employment Programme (STEP) (2003, 2004-05): It

provides training, extension, infrastructure, market linkages, etc. Also, the

updated skills and new knowledge will be provided.

4) The National Perspective Plan for Woman (NPP), 1988: It provides a

democratic and co-operative social structure for woman and for rural

development it provides services related to health, legislation, political

participation, education, employment, communication and voluntary

action.

5) Swarnjayanti Gram Swarozgar Yojana (SGSY) 1999: As depicted from the

name it provides the APL (Above Poverty Line) families, income through

a mix of bank credit and Government Subsidy.

6) The National Plan of Action for the Girl Child (1991-2000): Under this

plan, the evils in the society of female feticide and female infanticide were

legally stopped by banning sex determination test.

7) Health Initiative (1992): Maternal and Child Health Programmes (MCH)

have become a part of various 5 year plans. (Eight 1992-1997 and Ninth

Five Year Plan 1997-2002). Under this, the Child Survival and Safe

Motherhood Programme (CSSM), initiated in August, 1992 to improve

the fields of morality, prevention, and treatment of Anaemia, treatment of

maternal complications, etc.

8) The Socio-economic Programme (SEP):- This was for employment and

training of poor and needy woman. The one of twelve targets of the tenth

five year plan (2002-07) was reduction in poverty ratio. But this

programme was failed due to dropping it in the eleventh plan. The

eleventh plan has set 6 categories such as income and poverty, education,

health, women and children, infrastructure and environment and

sustainability. Due to which, the independent SEP declined.

9) Rashtriya Mahila Kosh (RMK), 1993: It concentrates on the women and

their economic empowernemnt. RMK is supported by voluntary

organizationas, women‘s Development Corporations, Women‘s Co-

Operative Societies, and Block Samitis under the Swayam Sidha

Programme.



10) Awarness Generation and Gender Sensitization, 1991: The programme

changes the social attitudes towards women and girl child. The media and

presses have contributed a lot in this programme by presenting the positive

image of woman towards citizen.

There are some other programmes also which promote women‘s status in India

such as Swayamsidha; Swa-Shakti; Mahila Samriddhi Yojana MSY), 1993; The

Rural women‘s Development and Empowerment Project, (RWDEP) 16th October,

1998; The Mahila Saakhy a Scheme, 1989; Women‘s Vocational Training

Programme, 1974; Jawahar Gram Samriddhi Yojana (JGSY) (reserves 30% of

employment opportunities for woman); The Indra Awas Yojana(IAY); National

Maternity Benefit Scheme (2001-02); and National Old Age Pension Scheme.

In recent years, the empowerment of woman has become a central issue in

determining the status of women impact of all these laws and plans, the present

women are more confident and self-dependent. Government has passed many Laws

to empower the women. The Indian Constitution guarantees equal rights to both

sexes not to caste. Colour and creed. The following Laws/articles of the constitution

make women on par with men:

(1) Article 14, guarantees to all equal protection of Laws and equality before

law.

(2) Article 15(3), makes special provisions for woman, woman requires special

treatment due to their nature.

(3) Article 16(2), prohibits discrimination on the basis of religion, race, caste,

or sex for employment.

(4) Article 21, compensates the victims of rape and sexual harassment by

awarding the victims of rape.

(5) Constitution 73rd Amendment Act, 1992, Article 243 D, reserves a seat for

women in every Panchayati and office of chairperson in the Panchayat at

village shall be reserved in such a way that the legislature of the State may

by law provide.

(6) Constitutional 74th Amendment Act, 1992 Article 243T, reserves 30% seats

in Municipal Corporation for women.



Thus, the constitution not only grants euqlity to women but also empowers the State

to adopt measures of positive discrimination in favour of women. But, there is

something more to be done. Women today need to look in themselves and listen

their intuition, to take the right action at the right time; right intention and all their

intentions will bear fruits. Sooner than later, some steps should be taken by the

Government also It has to be taken some steps for good environment for women

workers in slums; for mutation and coordination of some policies and programmes

for the women workers; giving grant in aid programmes for improvements of women

job seekers in slum areas; Nutrition and Education are basic accessories needed to

advance women workers; a closely health kit distribution system has to be

developed; the common people should remain alert of crimes related to women and

complain should be aware of such cases.

Conclusion

From the above explanations, it is clear that women are integral part of human

society. No ritual was ever complete with the presence of a woman by her man‘s

side. When man took on the role of a bread earner, and women took the natural

role of a nutritioner; the man started thinking himself a superior to woman as

without him there would be no food in the house It is the only, when things went a

way beyond the level of to learnance that the woman raised their voiced.

The first such wave of ‗feminist‘ movement that caught wide spread imagination in

1960s-1980s. The second wave dealt with the in equalities of laws, as well as

perceived cultural inequalities. Women‘s Rights movement gained mass support in

the second half of 20th century. By the efforts of the Government and women

themselves, today at the dawn of the 21st century, the women across the world are

placed at a position of advantage. Now, women today need not to look any where for

a perfect role model. She herself can become a role model for others or a source of

inspiration.





-Niyati Kumari

Every society continues to change with time. The process of shredding the old and

accepting the new dispensation creates problem of adjustment. To-day, I‘d say, India

is a conglomeration of problems galore, some problems are of an indigenous nature

while some others are imported. Some of our problems defy all solutions, at Least

for the present; some can be solved but are not allowed to be done so. While still

some others can be very simply solved with just a little bit of thinking. Thus, India to-

day is a kaleidoscopic picture of problems a many. Let us first consider some of the

indigenous problems, i.e. problems of our own creation. This quality of problems is

found in all spheres of our existence, political, social, national and international. On

the political side our main problems is that, for the last fifty years India has a

continuity of not only a bad Government but, absolute lack of governance. This

problem is of an indigenous nature as, riles are ours, Constitution is ours, the rules

are ours, and the rulers are ours, yet, there is complete lack of governance. For this

misfortune the reasons are not far to seek. The rulers have lost the caliber and

character through the last few decades and a decadence of the Government has taken

its toll. Besides, the rulers are not only incapable but are also corrupt. All these years,

the Government has only meant biting into the public exchequer. Those who are in

top positions are busy making money and this has meant the money making spree

spread to the lowest level of the working class. So, this problem of our own mailing

has resulted in complete decadence of the Government machinery and absolute halt

of the Government machinery. There is not a single department of the Government

that is not flourishing on double and triple incomes.

On the social front we have created havoc for ourselves. In our craze for going the

Western way, we have destroyed our biggest social asset of the past ages the family.



India has been known throughout the world for its most lovable institution the family,

in which the elders found solace and the children found a fountain of love. In our

attempt to modernize we have ourselves dealt a death blow to our institution of

family. Elders are no more a part of the family; they are just discarded people to be

dispensed with, at the earlier opportunity. While the children of the family, who have

always been the apple of the eyes of the elders are now seen languishing in crèches,

from the tender age of one year or two years. The commendable strides we have

taken in the education and upliftment off women has rendered the little child bereft

of love and care of a mother.

In society, we already had ills like the system of dowry, sati, treatment of women as

slaves, and, with our own hands we have added another evil of the breakup of the

family, in our zest to import problems which were never ours. Education of women

has undoubtedly given our women more liberty, knowledge and jobs but it has cost us

very dear. In this bargain we also created a now, never talked of section in our society,

the section of senior citizens. Senior citizens always existed with the younger

generation of any given time, but, never were they a problem for the society at any

time. On the role and position of senior citizens, a number of debates are being held,

and the problem defies all solutions. This is because the problem is alien to us. This

problem is also an offshoot of imports from the western world.

In our society, the stigma of belonging to the Scheduled Class still remains, though it

is an indigenous problem, we have added to its magnitude by our zeal for providing

equality for all. The equality never came but the Scheduled Class has become a

pampered lot, always on the demanding side and adding to the country‘s problems.

This class has become. Such a problem that by being pampered, they have started

feeling that, they can ask for anything and get away with it, and if their demands are

not met with, they know that they can hold the country to ransom.

On the social horizon, our population belies all solutions. Whenever this problem is

taken up seriously, it causes hiccups to all and sundry. If this continues, I think by the

first decade of the 21st Century we will find it impossible to cope with the multi-crore

population. Population explosion in India has led to despotism, illiteracy, hunger,

famines, pollution, corruption and so many other challenges and issues.



Besides this, the society in India is very sharply divided between the Haves and the

Have Nots. With all the wealth of the country getting so accumulated in a few hands

the rest of the populace find it difficult to even make two ends meet. Such a magnum

gap is not visible between Haves and Have Nots anywhere else in the World. On the

Economic front, India has numerous problems the very obvious being the

distribution of wealth which is too uneven for the feeling of any general progress. We

are in debt, our economy is running in deficit and our trade has come down.

With these enormous though basic problems to be solved, we have several small

ones to be solved. These are not very much less than the magnum problems just

mentioned. Our education is shockingly lacking in quality and quantity. The

education is lopsided and not at all suitable for the country. This education leads us

on to another major problem, one of unemployment in the country. The

unemployed youth besides being frustrated create another Herculean problem i.e. of

drug addiction, then to producing robbers, and terrorists and smugglers. All these are

taken up mostly in place of a job, which they fail to secure. Environmental problems

are also posing serious threats towards development of our country. The

environmental problems are result of an over industrialization and a lack of control

from the government. These problems include massive deforestation, soil erosion, air

pollution, water pollution, and electricity shortages.

More recently India is combating with inflationary rise in food and oil prices and

financial global crises. The poor are dying of hunger and starvation in the absence of

food. While the other sections of the society have to forgo large part of their income

to meet their food requirements. The government measures to tackle inflation have

proved futile. Although India is having bumper food-grain production, yet due to its

weak and defective public distribution channels the food is not reaching to the poor

and BPL masses. Large sacks of food-grains are rotting and are consumed only by

rats and other rodents. Instead of controlling inflation by taking adequate economic

measures, the prime minister says that the employees in the private sector like IT are

highly paid and they should help reduce inflation by going for lower salaries! One of

the most senseless statements I have ever heard, especially coming from a economist.

Instead of trying to bring other sections of the society to a higher level as private

sector employees, the prime minister is suggesting that the higher level society should

go down!.



Together with these problems at home, we are not too comfortably placed in our

relations with our neighbours. Pakistan, an organ from India‘s body only, is forever

ready for about with India, with its guns forever targeting India. The greatest threats

faced by India today are that of terrorism and Maoism (naxalism). China and Srilanka

are also not very much friendly with us. While all other problems faced by the

country can be solved by negotiations and corrective measures, terrorism and

naxalism are something that has to be dealt hard, for there is no room for

negotiations here, since the supporters of these activities are against the very existence

of the current form of social and administrative structure in this country respectively.

You can‘t negotiate with those who are questioning your very existence! Can you?

Despite this the greatest achievement of India is that in spite of its vast diversity and a

population of 1/6 of entire humanity, the country has continued to remain intact and

strong even after six decades since independence. This is basically because of the

democratic structure in the country which has allowed people to express their

opinions, providing scope for the existence and rise of regional political parties. If not

for the existence of regional parties, and their coming to power, many states in India

would have followed violent separatist movements. As I said earlier, India is home to

the largest Muslim community in the world after Indonesia. There are more Muslims

in India than in Pakistan or Bangladesh, and yet look at the difference. India has not

become yet another Iraq or Afghanistan or Pakistan, and the credit for that goes to

the Muslims of India themselves.

The constitution of India guarantees equality for all, but the governments that have

ruled us have always followed divisive politics, which only results in one section of the

society benefiting at the cost of others from it, and thereby removing harmony in the

society. Government has no business to interfere into the religious life of its citizens,

for religion is a personal choice and the policies of the government should in no way

affect the citizen‘s life based on his/her religion. Instead of providing hajj subsidies to

the Muslims, let the government ensure that every Muslim child in this country gets

quality primary education. Instead of dividing the society in the name of reservations

and quotas, let the government ensure that all backward class children get free quality

primary education, and there by ensure that they can compete based on their own

merit, and not based on government courtesy.

http://www.hitxp.com/articles/muslims-india/



The government of India can insist IITs in India to provide reservations, but if a

backward class student wants to study in MIT in US, can the government get a seat

for that student with its quota laws? But if the government has ensured quality

primary education to this student, he/she would get a seat even in MIT based on their

own merit. If the government ensures that Muslims in this country get quality

education, and if they get into good jobs, won‘t they be able to go to Hajj with their

own money?

By providing subsidies to a section of the society, and reservations to another section

of the society, the government only wants to ensure that they are permanently

dependent on the government for everything, and by doing so the political parties are

only creating and maintaining their vote banks. They are not at all interested in the

real development of these sections of the society. And this is the biggest tragedy of

democracy in India. The biggest problem faced by India today alongside terrorism

and naxalism is its incompetent, corrupt political class whose policies are guided by

its vote bank politics. A simple calculation of the sum total of all the money spent till

to date in Independent India to develop this country would raise a question mark

about where has all that money gone?! Ask any common man on the streets of India

as to what is their opinion about the politicians in this country, and that would answer

it all about the contributions of the political class to the society. If every municipal

corporator, every panchayat member, every MLA, every MP, every Minister in the

government did their duties properly, India would be a heaven on earth in the next

five years.

We find some solace in the midst of this storm of problems in our growth of

Scientific and Technology fields. However, here also, our progress is held to ransom

by the corrupt officials involved in the various projects. We import sophisticated

machines only for the people involved in purchases to make some money. These

machines lie idle, and are allowed to become junk, we do not have the know, how

nor the will to get them to work. This problem I would say we have imported for, if

we cannot deal with an item and use it to the optimum we should not at all import it,

and then just make it into junk.

Above all these problems is India‘s biggest problem, one of the complete

bankruptcies of character and morals. This is a problem which is, I feel a mixture of



the indigenous and the imported problems. It is of our own making to some extent,

and the glitter of the West has added fuel to the fire of our ambitions. This country

which was once known for its sages is now known as being one of the toppers in

corruption.

Looking to the medley of problems in India‘s kitty to – day, whether of Indian origin

or of quality, we see that India is not in a very enviable position. Most of the

problems just discussed I feel are at a stage of defying all solutions. This is because

the people who matter have allowed these problems to become magnum. This must

have been to their benefit that is why the problems were allowed to grow. Moreover,

seeing the typical Indian psyche I feel that since we are not united, no problem can

be discussed threadbare and a solution sought. It is not that there are no solutions but

it is that we have so many diverse interests that all solutions become impractical –

Diverse views with no malleability, problems remain insoluble, and thus the future

remains bleak. We can only hope to solve these problems if we forget ourselves and

intelligently work together towards the benefit of the Nation only. Only by doing so,

from the labyrinth we can seek an oasis of relief and happiness. It will also do a lot of

good if, for at least for some time; we stop ogling at the west and try to sincerely

improve ourselves. Then, I am sure we will be able to solve even the most insoluble

problems. For this goal, we have to sacrifice ourselves, improve ourselves and only

think of what is good and relevant for India.

Except for technological progress, I do not think we at all need to look at the west, for

this peculiar admixture of East and West is converting us into a heap of real

nothingness. Let us all tighten our girdles and sit together to solve the basic problems

that India has to face. We should not only debate upon them, and forget about them,

there should be constant follow up action and monitoring of whatever we do.

Our nation, named after one of the greatest kings of ancient India, Bharat, is

currently facing more issues than the number of living souls it boasts. If we want to

eradicate those issues and push our mighty nation up to the level of the most

developed nations in the world, then we have to soak our hands in the mud of the

challenges faced by our country and sort them out one by one, getting down ourselves

in the gutter of the great Indian crisis and cleaning the country from the internal

challenges as well as other external factors such as the US economy. We should be



proud to be an Indian and live, work and die for India. We have to forget our

personnel identity in order to see the winds of change. But this is not that easy as it

looks like. Everyone will not see themselves as the part of India specially the

Youngistaan who just wants to acquire the green card and fly to the US. We have to

have a great education system which talks about the glory of India and teaches

everyone to respect it. India is still the 'Sone ki chidiya'. But it needs tender care so

that it can fly and touch the sky.....




WOMEN IN 21st CENTURY: ISSUES AND FUTURE PERSPECTIVES

-Neha Vashishta

21st century is termed as an era in which man has developed many new inventions

and has prospered in every field. Many new revolutions have taken place starting

from Environmental Revolution, improvement in Science to Digital Revolution. It is

sad to say that women today even in 21st century continue to remain a neglected part

no doubt she has tried to come a par with men in this race but still continue to

remain a neglected one. Let me place my views on this topic which I think need to

be dealt with due consideration.

INTODUCTION

Women are an integral part of human society. But for a woman, there couldn‘t have

been any man. She is the mother of mankind. Despite holding such an important

and unquestionable position, role of women has been defined by men over

millennia. Our Vedas tell us that women held an important place in ancient culture.

No ritual was ever complete without the presence of a woman by her man‘s side. All

our gods are worshipped alongside their heavenly consorts. There is no dichotomy

there. No one questions this. The staunchest of male chauvinist reverentially bows

his head to Goddess Lakshmi, or Durga. It is not considered a sign of weakness to

bow to female deities.

There was a time, as late as the early twentieth century, when women in the west

weren‘t allowed to vote, when leading universities like Cambridge and Harvard

didn‘t give them equal status (women students went to Radcliffe, not Harvard, and

Cambridge didn‘t give out degrees to women students till 1947, though they were

allowed to sit for exams!) and when their main role was to be a homemaker. If at all



women entered the work area, it was as factory workers. Factory girls, in fact, were

proud of their profession, since they considered themselves emancipated from the

drudgery and powerlessness of being a housewife.

ISSUES

Women everywhere are treated as second class citizens. How did this ‗battle of

sexes‘ begin? How did the men win the winning hand? I think that economics had a

role to play in the scheme of things. When man took on the role of a bread earner,

and woman took the natural role of a nurturer, these roles suited their intended role

by the Creator. Man was physically strong, while the woman was inherently strong.

Over a period of time the man started believing that his role was superior to that of

the woman as without him there would be no food at the table. Woman‘s role was

taken as for granted. The physically feeble woman was led to believe this who lied

for centuries.

Great thinkers have expressed their views in this respect as, "In childhood a

female must be subject to her father, in youth to her husband, when her lord

is dead to her sons; a woman must never be independent.‖

One girl humiliation start before her born at the age when she was in embryo

stage lots of the parents kills the fetus after sex test. If parents can‘t do that the

baby girl gets lot of negligence after her birth even also girls are kills in few

rural areas after the birth. There are still families and neighborhood who

frown when a girl child is born.

If few parents are not so much cruel then also girls condition not much better

few of them neglect girls education compare to boy. In the early age girls earn

money for family by doing work.

Few parents always feel (this thing is present in urban area also) that girls child

are headache and her marriage is the ultimate solution what ever the way

giving dowry or not just finding such solution in girls early age(sometimes



below 18) this is also a one type of humiliation to the girl or an woman may be

she has lots of ambition in life but all crumble down in single tremor.

Now in case their married life lots of the women get torture due to unable to

fulfill the dowry or any other reason. Not always is torture is in high note we

all know in India society husband is guardian and always few husband try to

dictate her wife and finally wife lose her freedom. Such life is some times can

be compare with prisoner in jail but the only difference is they got the

punishment of their own guilty but other side another one get same

punishment because she born as girl.

Thus, women face a lot of problems and though much is said about the upliftment

and progress of women, this space is not big enough to talk about problems about

women. Female infanticide, eve-teasing, sexual exploitation, sexual harassment,

rapes are still common in cities, leave alone villages. There are still many areas

where women are not equal rights and are not encouraged to take up education.

Dowry practice is still rampant, even thought it has been termed illegal. Women still

have to make a lot of sacrifices in every area of their lives.

Even the most educated of men feel that a woman should not work after marriage

(even though she may be interested in her career) just to pander to his male-ego.

Women! Whether they are educated/uneducated face lot of problems. starting from

getting hit by husbands(happens when they refuse to budge /listen to what their

husbands say) to mothering laws who want their daughter–in-laws to follow rules and

regulations they have framed, insulting women‘s parents, sisters, brothers and other

relatives in the name of customs and traditions, sister in laws who try to poke their

nose and try to control their parents house, brother in laws and father in laws who

consider them as mere a servant or bank(working women) and off course parents

who get their daughters married off as if they are burden on them.

If I explain all then it will be never ending thread but whatever be we have the law to

protect the woman from such condition but it can‘t do anything if majority of people

in society can‘t change them self so still girl‘s embryo killing is present, still woman

are not getting the share of property, still wife get humiliated by her husband.



In the urban area where so called woman and girls are developed but if you look that

society, then also minor humiliation of girl still present there. Like society is very

much concern about the dresses of women and girls few people always believe that

they should wear traditional Indian dress and try to compel them to wear such dress

it's another women humiliation. Not only that few sexual harassment in work place is

also present in our society and finally our society is conservative even in urban area

also that the reason where few political party‘s member is attacking to the modern

women in the name of preserving ‗Indian culture‘ actually it also a humiliation of

women.

UPLIFTMENT

It is only when things went way beyond the level of tolerance that the women raised

their voices. The first such voice was heard loud and clear in the early 19th century,

when the term ‗women suffragists‘ became a household word in the west. We were a

British colony at that time, but women across Europe and United States rose as an

entity demanding suffrage, or the right to vote. It is to the credit of these courageous

women that today women‘s right to vote is a ‗given‘ in most of the free world, though

there are still some countries, mainly in the Middle East that still deny women their

universal right to vote.

Some countries provide special reservations to women in job opportunities. They

also enjoy a certain provision in political institutions of the country. But despite such

concessions, ladies produce little results. They are not actively involved in the

decision making process, whether at home or office.

Although women have maintained a better career track record in the West, very few

top companies have female executives. This indirectly exposes the real nature of

modern civilization. And in spite of the hue and cry about women‘s rights, the

harassment at workplaces is on the rise.

Therefore upliftment should not be a mere legislative exercise. It is in fact to teach

‗Her‘ the real value of her own self as an individual. She herself has to discover her

own position and honor. From the land of whims and fancies, she has to migrate to

the land of action and spiritual awakening. Her upliftment lies inside her, not in the

hands of governments and media. She should rise above the status of a mere ‗object



of desire‘ to a respected and honored individual. Material upliftment alone is not

sufficient for this. A purified heart also plays a crucial role.

LAWS SUPPORTING WOMEN‘S

Commission of Sati (Prevention) Act, 1987

It was a religious funeral practice among some Indian communities in which a

recently widowed woman either voluntarily or by use of force and coercion would

have immolated herself on her husband‘s funeral pyre. However, it was abolished in

1987 when government of India made an act to abolish it.

Dowry Prohibition Act, 1961

Payment of a dowry, gift—often financial, has a long history in many parts of the

world. In India, the payment of a dowry was prohibited in 1961 under Indian civil

law and subsequently by Sections 304B and 498A of the Indian Penal Code was

enacted to make it easier for the wife to seek redress from potential harassment by

the husband's family. Dowry laws have come under criticism as they have been

misused by women and their families.

In India, there are civil laws, criminal laws and special legislative acts against the

tradition of Dowry. Someone accused of taking dowry is therefore subject to a

multiplicity of legal processes.

National Commission for Women Act, 1990

The objective of this Act is to represent the rights of women in India and to provide

a voice for their issues and concerns. The subjects of their campaigns have included

dowry, politics, religion, equal representation for women in jobs, and the

exploitation of women for labor. They have also discussed police abuses against

women.

The commission regularly publishes a monthly newsletter, Rashtra Mahila in both

Hindi and English.



Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act, 2005

Primarily meant to provide protection to the wife or female live-in partner from

domestic violence at the hands of the husband or male live-in partner or his relatives,

the law also extends its protection to women who are sisters, widows or mothers.

Domestic violence under the act includes actual abuse or the threat of abuse whether

physical, sexual, verbal, emotional or economic.

Protection of Women against Sexual Harassment Bill, 2007

The Bill defines a work place to include all organizations, and any place visited by an

employee during the course of work. It covers every woman at the work place

(whether employed or not) except a domestic worker working at home. It defines

employer as the person responsible for the management, supervision and control of

the work place.

FUTURE PERSPECTIVES

Some countries are moving towards equality before the law and where all, men and

woman, will be free to choose our profession. Though India is a democracy, yet the

rights of women are severely curtailed. There are far more men than women in the

workplace, and the gap between male and female literacy, though narrowing, is still

significant. And yet, constant media attention to the issue of female

disempowerment, particularly in the rural areas, ensures that the political class is

kept on its toes where women are concerned. Protests, campaigns, media reports,

are all methods by which the status of women is constantly highlighted in the public

sphere. India is not even close to what the west has achieved in the last fifty years,

but freedom of expression, the cornerstone of any democracy, is ensuring that more

and more women get their due in society. The growth of the service sector in recent

years and the explosive speed of urbanisation has also enhanced the contribution of

women to the formal economy and brought it into the limelight.

Contrasting to the situation in the Islamic countries. In Saudi Arabia women cannot

drive, are not allowed to work where there are men and can only attend segregated

schools and universities. There is no concept of equality before law. A woman

witness‘s testimony is given half the weight of that of a male witness. In Iran, a



woman can inherit only half as much as a man and a female victim of an accident are

entitled to only half the compensation awarded to a male. All women are required to

cover their heads, though they can show their faces. In Pakistan, female literacy rate

is only half of the male literacy rate, while, in Afghanistan, it is only one third.

Cultural backwardness is closely related to the social status of women. Societies

where women have succeeded in becoming empowered have advanced in every field

of life, art, culture, literature, science, and economically. These are the societies that

do not hesitate to question entrenched shibboleths and succeed in advancing

through new discoveries. On the other hand, societies that continue to treat their

female population as chattel have nothing new to contribute to the world, and have

nothing better to offer to their members than centuries-old regressive practices.

CONCLUSION

Women work two-thirds of the world‘s working hours, according to the United

Nations Millennium Campaign to halve world poverty by the year 2015. The

overwhelming majority of the labor that sustains life – growing food, cooking, raising

children, caring for the elderly, maintaining a house, hauling water – is done by

women, and universally this work is accorded low status and no pay. The ceaseless

cycle of labor rarely shows up in economic analyses of a society‘s production and

value.

Today at the dawn of the 21st century the women across the world are placed at a

position of advantage. They are literally on the move. They are paying heed to their

inner voice. They are no longer interested in hollow jargon and jingoism. They are

finding their individual and collective voice. They are aligned with their conscience,

moving ahead with purposeful strides.




PHILOSOPHY NEWS IN INDIA

1. ICPR Sponsored National Seminar on The Limits of Thought-And Beyond,

November 28-29, 2011 organized by Department of Philosophy, Assam

University, Silchar (Assam). Last date of submission of abstract: 20 October,

2011. Download the attachment here or follow the link given below:

http://www.aus.ac.in/Philosophy_seminar_2011.pdf

2. Essay Competition-Cum-Young Scholar‘s Seminar

Indian Council of Philosophical Research invites Young Scholars between the

age group of 20-25 Years to participate in an Essay Competition–Cum-Young

Scholar Seminar on the theme ―What Makes Gandhi a Mahatma? The

competitors adjudged First, Second and Third on the basis of their essays and

performance in the seminar will be awarded prizes of Rs. 25,000/-, Rs.20,

000/- and Rs.15,000/- respectively. Essays in Hindi or English of about three

thousand words on the theme are to be submitted by 31st October, 2011

along with the proof of date of birth. Essay may be sent to:-

The Director (P&R), Indian Council of Philosophical Research (under the

Ministry of HRD, Govt of India), 3/9, Vipul Khand. Gomti Nagar, Lucknow-

226010 Advertisement in detail may be seen on ICPR website

http://www.icpr.in

3. 10th Conference of the International Congress of Social Philosophy (ICSP)

2-4 December 2011

International Congress of Social Philosophy (ICSP) is a non-profit making

organization of social philosophy and an international centre of excellence

http://www.aus.ac.in/Philosophy_seminar_2011.pdf

http://www.icpr.in/



working systematically for the promotion of social philosophy at the

global level relentlessly. It had made an indelible mark in the promotion

of Social Philosophical pursuits and academic endeavors throughout the

world and at the same time it is earnestly trying to eliminate social evils,

crisis, violence and conflicts as well.

Thrust Area: The Conference would focus on the following thrust area:

DEMOCRACY, CIVIL SOCIETY AND GOOD GOVERNANCE.

Scholars are requested to send with both soft copy and hard copy of their full

length paper along with appropriate notes, references bibliography and

diacritical marks on any one of the above topics in double space typed within

2000 (two thousand) words and also in an electronic version (MS Office or

Open Office)or in the CD on or before October 30,2011 to Prof. Dr.

Ferdoushi Begum. 66 North Road, Flat no.6/c Dhanmondi, e-mail:

[email protected]. Mobile: 088-01713046992; Phone: 088-02-

9662992 or Treasurer Md. Salah Uddin, Cell: 088-01674799704,

08801552337495, email:[email protected].

An expert committee will screen the papers for publication in the special

volume entitled ―Democracy, Civil Society and Good Governance.‖ A special

volume will be released in the Inaugurall Function of the Congress.

Interested persons may collect the volume after paying the subsidized cost

of the book from our conference sales counter. The remaining papers will

also be allowed to be presented in the conference. The papers of those who

do not send in their Registration fee will not be considered for publications

Contact: Prof. Dr. Ferdoushi Begum(Local Secretary) Former Dean, Faculty

of Arts, Jagannath University, Dhaka, Mobile: 088-01713046992, Phone: 088-

029662992, Mail: [email protected] . For more details go to:

http://icspbd.webs.com/

4. SPECIAL CIRCULAR INVITING PROPOSAL FOR ACADEMIC

EVENTS for The Financial Year 2012-13

mailto:[email protected].

http://icspbd.webs.com/



Indian Council of Philosophical Research, New Delhi invites proposals in the

prescribed format (available at www.icpr.in/download/ ) from Departments of

Philosophy and also from scholars affiliated with Universities, Colleges and

Academic Institutions in

India for the financial assistance reg. : 1. Seminar, Conference, workshop, 2.

Refresher Courses, 3. Research Projects and Short Duration Project in

Philosophy and Allied disciplines, 4. Travel Grants.

The proposals complete in all respects and forwarded through proper

channel should reach the undersigned by 31 December, 2011.

http://icpr.in/proposal-academic-events.pdf

5. Seminars at India Institute of Advanced Studies (IIAS) Shimla

(i) International Conference on 'The Home And The World: Rabindranath

Tagore', 14-16 November, 2011.

(ii) Seminar on 'Annihilation of Caste' 21-23 November, 2011

(iii) Seminar on 'Religion, Violence and Language', 9-11 April, 2012, For More

details go to : http://www.iias.org

6. International School on Logic and its Applications (ISLA), in collaboration

with Association of Logic in India (ALI)

This event starts from 9 and end at 20 January, 2012

http://www.manipal.edu/Institutions/UniversityDepartments/MCPHManipal/

Pages/EventsDetails.aspx?EventsID=4

Postal Address: Manipal Centre for Philosophy and Humanities , Old

TAPMI Building , Behind Post Office , Manipal : 576104 , Phone 0820-

2923157

7. Sciences and Narratives of Nature: East and West December 12,2011

This is an international workshop which will bring together some of the most

eminent thinkers in the fields of history, philosophy and sociology of science.

http://icpr.in/proposal-academic-events.pdf

http://www.iias.org/

http://www.manipal.edu/Institutions/UniversityDepartments/MCPHManipal/Pages/EventsDetails.aspx?EventsID=4

http://www.manipal.edu/Institutions/UniversityDepartments/MCPHManipal/Pages/EventsDetails.aspx?EventsID=4



The workshop will explore various formulations of nature and the

consequences of these views on the nature of science. It will also act as a

platform to carefully look at the unique characteristics of Indian science as

well as Indian mathematics. The workshop also aims to establish networks for

collaborative projects on science and technology studies.

How to Apply: Post-graduate and PhD students, as well as young faculty

interested in Science and Technology studies -- covering history, philosophy

and sociology of science and technology -- are invited to apply for

participation in the workshop. Interested candidates may write to

[email protected] or our postal address with their résumé and letter of

interest. The last date for the submission of applications is 30 September

2011.

http://www.manipal.edu/Institutions/UniversityDepartments/MCPHManipal/

Documents/Sciences%20and%20Narratives%20of%20Nature.pdf

Postal Address: Manipal Centre for Philosophy and Humanities , Old

TAPMI Building , Behind Post Office , Manipal : 576104 , Phone 0820-

2923157

8. UGC SPONSORED WORKSHOP ON HUMAN RIGHTS

Title: International Workshop on Human Rights

Date of Workshop: 8th – 10th December, 2011

Venue: Conference Centre, University of Delhi

Date of submitting Abstracts: 1st – 30th September, 2011

Full Length Paper: 30th October, 2011

Final Program Schedule: 15th November, 2011

For further details contact : Dr. Rajesh & Dr. V. K. Dixit 9873302532 (M)

Email: [email protected]

http://www.du.ac.in/fileadmin/DU/Events/2862011_adult_human-rights.pdf

DEPARTMENT OF ADULT CONTINUING EDUCATION &

EXTENSION, I/4, Old Jubilee Hall Barracks, University Of Delhi, Delhi

110007

mailto:[email protected]

http://www.manipal.edu/Institutions/UniversityDepartments/MCPHManipal/Documents/Sciences%20and%20Narratives%20of%20Nature.pdf

http://www.manipal.edu/Institutions/UniversityDepartments/MCPHManipal/Documents/Sciences%20and%20Narratives%20of%20Nature.pdf


http://www.du.ac.in/fileadmin/DU/Events/2862011_adult_human-rights.pdf



9. NEW COURSE

Certificate Course in Vivekananda Studies (Through Distance Learning)

Applying for the Course: Order/buy the USOL prospectus or download it

and fill the requisite form. Deposit the fee and submit your application.

Eligibility and Minimum Qualification: Any Citizen of India having passed

10+2 or equivalent exam can join the course. The course can be pursued

simultaneously along with any other course. Medium of Instruction: Currently

the course content is provided in English only but a candidate can opt for

Hindi or Punjabi as his/her medium. Personal Contact Programme: One 6

day PCP is organised in the month of January in the Centre. How to get

Prospectus: Prospectus can be downloaded from the Panjab university web

site www.puchd.ac.in (Students are required to pay 350/- extra as cost of the

prospectus, who apply through the downloaded form). It can also be obtained

by Registered post from the Chairperson, University School of Open

Learning, P.U. Chandigarh-160014 on remittance of 400/- by a Bank Draft

drawn in favour of the ―Registrar, Panjab University, Chandigarh‖, payable at

State Bank of India, Sector-14, Chandigarh-160014. Prospectus is also

available at the following Post offices on payment of 350/- Chandigarh -

Sector -14, 15,17,20,36,47, Mohali - Sector -55, Panchkula - Sector-8, Abohar

- Old Court Road, Ludhiana - Near Bharat Nagar Chowk, Muktsar - MDG,

Hoshiarpur - Near District Court, Shimla - GPO, The Mall, New Delhi -

Gole Post office, Cannaght Place.

Last Date of submission of complete Ad. form 7th Sept, 2011. (without late

fee) 5th October, 2011(with late fee of Rs. 500/-) For more details call: 0172-

2534786, 2541840, 2534331 Email: [email protected],

Co-ordinator: Sudhir Baweja email: [email protected], Mobile –

09876621441




10. Proposals are invited for celebrating World Philosophy Day

Proposals are invited for celebrating World Philosophy Day – 2011 Last Date

13.10. 2011)For details go to ICPR web http://www.icpr.in

11. Inviting application for the ICPR book grant ( Last date 31. 10.2011)

ANNOUNCEMENT

Re: Inviting application for the ICPR book grant.

Keeping in view the objects of the Indian Council of Philosophical Research

(ICPR) to promote research and teaching in Philosophy and allied disciplines,

the ICPR has decided to provide book grant consisting of its publications to

various educational institutions including professional institutions where

Philosophy is being taught or proposed to be taught and is not having

philosophy books for the reference of the student/researchers.

Applications are, therefore, invited from various educational institutions

falling in the above category for book grant in the prescribed format available

at http://www.icpr.in/forms.html. The grant will be released in. the form of

providing philosophy books as per the discretion of the

Council.

Application in the prescribed format duly completed and forwarded through

the proper channel may be sent to the Programme Officer, ICPR, Indian

Council of Philosophical Research, Darshan Bhawan, 36 Tughlakabad

Institutional Area, M.B. Road, New Delhi 110062 by Post on or before

31.10.2011. The Department/Universities/Institutes etc. who received the

ICPR Book Grant last year would not be considered for this year.

http://www.icpr.in/

12. INDIAN SOCIOLOGICAL SOCIETY

DIAMOND JUBILEE CELEBRATIONS

XXXVII ALL INDIA SOCIOLOGICAL CONFERENCE Dated: 10-13

December, 2011

http://newsphilosophy.wordpress.com/2011/09/19/proposals-are-invited-for-celebrating-world-philosophy-day/

http://www.icpr.in/

http://newsphilosophy.wordpress.com/2011/09/19/inviting-application-for-the-icpr-book-grant-last-date-31-10-2011/

http://www.icpr.in/

http://www.jnu.ac.in/Conference/xxxviii_aisc_bochure.pdf



Centre for the Study of Social Systems, School of Social Sciences, Jawaharlal

Nehru University, New Delhi,


13. Twentieth International Congress of Vedanta (20Vedanta) December 28-31,

2011

Special Centre for Sanskrit Studies and Center for Philosophy , Jawaharlal

Nehru University, New Delhi & Center for Indic Studies, University of

Massachusetts (Dartmouth), USA

http://sanskrit.jnu.ac.in/conf/20vedanta/index.jsp

14. International Interdisciplinary Conference

―Meaning, Culture and Values‖ January 5-7, 2012

Centre of Arabic and African Studies

Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi in collaboration with Davis & Elkins

College, WV, USA

http://www.jnu.ac.in/main.asp?sendval=conference

15. Call for Papers for the Second Issue of Lokāyata

Lokāyata: Journal of Positive Philosophy is a bi-annual interdisciplinary

journal of the Center for Positive Philosophy and Interdisciplinary Studies

(CPPIS). The name Lokāyata can be traced to Kautilya‘s Arthashastra, which

refers to three ānvīkṣikīs (logical philosophies), Yoga, Samkhya and Lokāyata.

Lokāyata here still refers to logical debate (disputatio, ―criticism‖) in general

and not to a materialist doctrine in particular. The objectives of the journal are

to encourage new thinking on concepts and theoretical frameworks in the

disciplines of humanities and social sciences to disseminate such new ideas

and research papers (with strong emphasis on modern implications of

philosophy) which have broad relevance in society in general and man‘s life in

particular. The Centre will publish two issues of the journal every year. Each

regular issue of the journal will contain full-length papers, discussions and

comments, book reviews, information on new books and other relevant

academic information. Each issue will contain about 100 Pages.




http://www.jnu.ac.in/main.asp?sendval=conference



Theme of Present Issue: Concept of Mind (Manas) and Intelligence (Buddhi)

in Indian Philosophy

All contributions to the Journal, other editorial enquiries and books for review

are to be sent to:

Dr. Desh Raj Sirswal, Editor, Lokāyata: Journal of Positive Philosophy,

Centre for Positive Philosophy and Interdisciplinary Studies (CPPIS),

Milestone Education Society (Regd), Valmiki Dharmashala, Pehowa, Distt.

Kurukshetra (HARYANA)-136128 (India), Mobile No.09896848775,

08968544048 E-mail: [email protected], [email protected] Websites:

http://lokayatajournal.webs.com


http://lokayatajournal.webs.com/



CONTRIBUTORS OF THIS ISSUE

C. Devi Meenakshi, B.E.-Computer Science and Engineering (IIIrd Year), Institute

of Road and Transportation Technology, Vasavi College Post, Suriampalayam,

Erode, District-638316, Tamilnadu.

Ravinderpreet Kaur, BA (IIIrd Year), Post Graduate Govt. College for Girls, Sector-

11, Chandigarh.

Manju Chauhan, B.A.(IInd Year) , Post Graduate Govt. College for Girls, Sector-11,

Chandigarh.

Niyati Kumari, B.Com (Honours) Patna Women‘s College, Bailey Road Patna -

800001, Bihar.

Neha Vashishta, B.A.(IInd Year), Post Graduate Government College for

Girls, Sector-11 Chandigarh.



Instructions to the Contributors

The article should be typewritten preferably in Times New Roman with 12 font size (English) and

Kruti Dev with 14 font size (Hindi) in MS-Word 2003 and should be between 3000 to 5000

words. They should be typed on one side of the paper, double spaced with ample margins, and

contain author(s)/contributor's name and his/her institutional affiliation along with the complete

mailing address. An abstract of 150-200 words should be included. The authors should submit the

hard copy alongwith a CD or as an e-mail attachment to be sent to [email protected].

Only papers which have not been published elsewhere will be considered. Proofs will be sent to

the authors if there is sufficient time to do so.

Time Line:

For April to September Issue: 31st

August every year.

For October to March Issue: 31st

January every year.

Reference Style:

Notes and references should appear at the end of the articles as Notes. Arrange references in

alphabetical order by the last name of the first author and then by his initials. The following style of

reference may be strictly followed:

In case of Journal: Authors last name, initials, year of publication, name of the paper, name

of the journal (italic), volume number, issue number and page number.

In case of a Book: Authors last name, initials, year of publication, title of the book(italic),

name of publisher, place of publication and page numbers.

In case of an edited Book: Authors last name, initials, year of publication, name of the

editor(s), title of the book (italic), name of publisher, place of publication and page

numbers.

In case of institution/Govt. Report: full name of the institution/ministry, year of

publication, place of publication and page numbers.

Subscription of the Journal

Subscription of the journal is free. Everyone can download issues for their academic help. Our

intention is to provide a free online study source through this journal and aware people of

importance of reading and writing.



CPPIS, Pehowa (Kurukshetra)

Centre for Positive Philosophy and Interdisciplinary Studies(CPPIS) Pehowa is a

joint academic venture of Milestone Education Society (Regd.) Pehowa and Society for Positive Philosophy and Interdisciplinary Studies (SPPIS), Haryana(online) to do

fundamental research in the field of Humanities and Social Sciences.

SPPIS Newsletter

The Centre also circulates a Newsletter which includes new information related to

events, new articles and programme details. One can register himself on the below

given address and will get regular updates from us.

Link for registration: http://drsirswal.webs.com/apps/auth/signup

All contributions to the Journal, other editorial enquiries and books for review are to

be sent to:

Dr. Desh Raj Sirswal,

Editor, Lokāyata: Journal of Positive Philosophy,

Centre for Positive Philosophy and Interdisciplinary Studies (CPPIS),

Milestone Education Society (Regd), Valmiki Dharamshala, Pehowa,

Distt. Kurukshetra (HARYANA)-136128 (India)

Mobile No.09896848775

E-mail: [email protected], [email protected]

Website: http://lokayatajournal.webs.com

―My object is to achieve an intellectual detachment from all philosophical systems, and not to solve

specific philosophical problems, but to become sensitively aware of what it is when we

philosophise.‖- Dr Desh Raj Sirswal

http://drsirswal.webs.com/apps/auth/signup