South Asian Journal of Socio-political Studies

VOL.XXIV NO.1 JULY - DECEMBER 2023

Democratic Decentralisation and Good Governance in the context of Indian Urban Local Bodies.

Dr. Neelima Deshmukh, Former Head & Prof. of Public Administration and Local Government, RTM Nagpur University & Senior Fellow ICSSR. The For Gandhiji, true independence for India meant a comprehensive transformation of Indian society and polity. He wanted political power to be distributed among the villages in India” further he preferred the term ‘Swaraj’ to describe what he called true democracy. 74th Constitutional amendment is a watershed in the policy of decentralisation in India. “Decentralisation is the process of redistributing or dispersing the functions, powers, people or things away from central location or authority.1” Decentralisation is a transfer of authority and responsibility for public functions from central government to intermediate and local government or quasi independent government organizations and/or the private sector. This is a complex multifaceted phenomenon. Different types of decentralisation should be distinguished because they have different characteristics, policy implementation, and conditions for success.

Genesis, Development and Changing Dimension of the Inner Line Regulation.

Prof. Jangkhongam Doungel, Department of Political Science, Mizoram University and Fulbright, Senior Research Fellow, Department of Political Science. University of Cincinnati’ Ohio State, USA. Abstract Tribal territories in Eastern Frontier of Bengal were demarcated in the province of Assam after annexation by the British Empire and the province of Assam was creation of British colonialism. Inner Line Regulation was enforced for governing hill tribes and the focus of the regulation since its inception has been the hill tribes. The Inner Line Regulation was enforced since 10 August 1873 and it has been a regulation to restrict entry of outsiders in tribal territories and to contain tribals from raiding plain area. The regulation kept on changing and it in enforced only in Arunachal Pradesh, Mizoram and Nagaland after independence and Manipur is recently added in the list. Keywords: Inner Line Regulation, British authority, CAA, hill tribes and tribal.

Indian Diaspora as Catalyst of Indian Soft Power and Vulnerabilities of Hindutva Spread.

Dr. Narendra Kumar Arya, Associate Professor, Department of Political Science, Mahatma Gandhi Central University, Bihar and Vijay Kumar, JRF & PhD Candidate, Department of Political Science, Mahatma Gandhi Central University, Bihar. Abstract This paper seeks to study the influence of the Indian diaspora as a potent catalyst in shaping Indian soft power, especially with the onset of the present century. India has a very large and vibrant diaspora among all nations of the world. As per UN (United Nations) Statistics, by 2020 around 18 million Indians live outside their country. Indian diaspora as a cultural force is recognised as a potential element of ‘soft power’ in the arena of foreign policy strategy. The Indian diaspora has evolved as a powerful entity and it has become significant not just as a catalyst for economic development but also plays an important role in the promotion of Indian culture abroad. The Indian diaspora holds key positions in politics, the economy, business, technology and education and serves as a bridge, mediator, facilitator, lobbyist and advocate for India’s security and economic interests as well as soft power projection. So, this paper tries to explore the government-diaspora collaboration for cultural promotions abroad for more effective and self-sustaining soft power. It is being opined by scholars and policymakers that in recent times various ingredients of Indian diasporic makeup have played an influential role in the formulation, prioritisation and stipulation of Indian foreign policy. This paper will analyse and critically examine the role of Indian diasporic elements if they do play a significant role if yes to what extent and how powerfully, do they do so? Key Words: Indian diaspora, Indian Culture, Soft Power, Foreign Policy.

Citizen-Centric Administration: Need for Initiatives

Dr. Mohinder Singh, Former Professor & Chairman, Department of Public Administration, Kurukshetra University, Haryana. public-private participation.” Moreover, sincere efforts are required for simplification of processes, fairness of civil services, making administration responsive, accessible and accountable, delivery of services through use of IT, decentralized and flexible systems and taking help of civil societies. Keywords: Establishment, Efficient, Accountable, Transparency, Participation, Responsiveness, Grievance, Ignorance, Initiatives, Assessable, Simplification. .

The Drug Trade in Northeast India: A Nexus of Challenges

Khwairakpam Goutam Singh, Doctoral Fellow, Department of Political Science, Mizoram University and Dr. Ayangbam Shyamkishor, Professor, Department of Political Science, Mizoram University. Abstract Northeast India is comprised of eight states and is renowned for its cultural diversity and natural grandeur. At the same time, the region is known for all the wrong reasons like insurgencies, ethnic clashes, abuse of drugs and HIV AIDS, etcin other parts of India. It is also plagued by the menace of drug trafficking. The region’s proximity to the infamous Golden Triangle, which consists of stretches of Myanmar, Thailand, and Laos, has rendered it a strategic drug transit route. In the above context, the paper examines the complexities of the drug trade in Northeast India and Mizoram specifically, involving its causes, challenges, implications, and initiatives to tackle this pervasive problem. A multitude of initiatives have been undertaken by several agencies and stakeholders. Mizoram, one of the most peaceful states in the region, confronts many roadblocks on its path to progress and development. Drug issues and related problems have escalated to a critical level in the state, necessitating comprehensive and targeted interventions. Keywords:Drug Abuse; Drug Trade; Golden Triangle;Mizoram;Northeast India.

‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ (Self-reliant India): A Model for Rebuilding Indian Economy.

Dr. Arjun Gope, Associate Professor, Department of Commerce, Ramthakur College, Tripura Dr. Shankar Chatterjee, Formerly Professor & Head (CPME), NIRD & PR (Govt. of India), Hyderabad. Abstract ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat Abhiyaan’ or Self-reliant India campaign is the vision of new India envisaged by the Hon'ble Prime Minister Narendra Modi. It is pertinent mention that on 12 May 2020, Prime Minister of India PM raised a clarion call to the nation giving a kick start to the Atmanirbhar Bharat Abhiyaan (Self-reliant India campaign) and announced the Special economic and comprehensive package of rupees 20 lakh crores - equivalent to 10 percent of India’s Gross Domestic product (GDP) – to fight COVID-19 pandemic in India. India being an indigenous and sovereign country has moved a step forward very recently towards ‘Atmanirbhar’ or ‘Self-reliance’ to free Indians from economic dependency. The extent of self-reliance in terms of economy of a country primarily depends on the strong participation of human resources. Mahatma Gandhi opined that full employment of human resources is the basic need of a country for a healthy economy. His economic philosophy was grounded on three basic principles, namely self-sufficiency, mass participation and Indianization or Swadeshi. However in recent times, almost all the countries across the globe are facing unprecedented economic challenges due to outbreak of the pandemic corona virus (COVID19). Over- dependency on global market makes the situation furthermore worse as the supply chain is disrupted drastically during this pandemic. To address economic issues on May 12, 2020, Prime Minister of India Narendra Modi announced the launch of the ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat Abhiyan’ or ‘self-reliant India campaign’ with the aim of making India economically self-sufficient in recent future. In this research paper a discussion has been made focusing on the ‘Ahmanirbhar Bharat’ (Self-reliant India) model. Also Gandhiji’s view and the present situation have been highlighted here so the that readers can get an in-depth knowledge in this regard. Key words: ‘Atmanirbhar’ or ‘Self-reliant’, Gandhiji, Indian economy, Prime Minster of India, Swadeshi, World Bank

Exploring India’s Maritime Connectivity Through Bay of Bengal: A Critical Assessment.

Dr. Dipankar Dey, Faculty in Political Science, Central University of Andhra Pradesh, Ananthapur. Abstract Maritime connectivity has increasingly grown across the Ocean, especially to make it easier to boost economic transit, strategic interdependency, and logistic support. In this context, the Bay of Bengal remained significant for connecting entire South Asia to Southeast Asian countries. In detail, the Bay of Bengal lies at the core of the Indo-Pacific, and its subsidiary, the Andaman Sea, acts as India’s Geo-strategic gateway pass in the region. India has referred to the Indo-Pacific as a free, open, inclusive and rule-based order to respect all nations’ sovereignty and territorial integrity. The strategic capability and capacity significantly influence to the maritime connectivity. Hence, this paper will argue the different dimensions of India’s maritime connectivity and security implication for regional integration. This paper will also critically analyse that how India’s maritime connectivity and security initiatives primarily benefited the Bay of Bengal to enhance India’s partnership towards both immediate and extended neighbours. Keywords: Maritime Connectivity, Security, Bay of Bengal, Immediate Neighbours, Extended Neighbours

Understanding the issues of Child Labour in India

Baisnabi Mishra, Ph.D. Scholar, PG Department of Public Administration, Utkal University, Odisha. Abstract Dr. Padmalaya Mahapatra, Formerly Professor, Department of Public Administration, Utkal University, Bhubaneswar, Odisha. Child labour remains a complex issue globally, India being one of the countries significantly affected by this problem. This article provides an overview of child labour in India, examining its causes, consequences, and policy implications. Firstly, this study explores the root causes of child labour in India. Factors such as poverty, limited access to education, social inequality, and ineffective enforcement of child labour laws contribute to the prevalence of child labour in various industries, including agriculture, manufacturing, construction, and domestic work. Additionally, cultural norms, population growth, and lack of awareness about the detrimental impact of child labour perpetuate its persistence. Child labour deprives children of their right to education, exposing them to hazardous working conditions, physical and emotional abuse, and long-term health problems. The present study further examines the existing constitutional provisions, legislative framework and initiatives undertaken by the Indian government to address the issue of child labour. It highlights the importance of comprehensive policy interventions that encompass education, social protection, law enforcement, and awareness campaigns to address the multifaceted nature of the issue. It emphasizes the need for strengthening child labour laws, improving access to quality education, enhancing social welfare programs, and promoting responsible business practices. In conclusion, child labour in India continues to pose a significant challenge that requires a comprehensive and multi-dimensional approach. Efforts should be made on addressing the root causes, protecting the rights and well-being of children, and promoting inclusive and sustainable development. Keywords: child labour, poverty, education, legislation, policy, consequences, challenges, sustainable development.

Demographic and Health Status of Scheduled Tribes in Andhra Pradesh: A Comparative Study of Visakhapatnam and Vizianagaram Districts

Dr. D. Pulla Rao, Honorary Professor, Department of Economics, Andhra University, Visakhapatnam, Andra Pradesh. Abstract The tribal areas constitute a very significant portion of backward areas of the country presenting a complex situation for both planners and administrators. The tribal communities predominately live in hilly and forest regions, which are comparatively inaccessible and isolated. This paper analysed the demographic and health status of scheduled tribes in the study area. The sex ratio in Vizianagaram is less than Visakhapatnam District. In the study area more than 50 per cent of the women got married before they attained fifteen years of age. On an average, both the districts have more than 70 per cent of women have their first conception in the age group of 15-20 years. More than 70 per cent of the sample households are aware of AIDS. In every 100 females in the study area 29 are affected with diseases. Most of the scheduled tribes do not agree for modern medicine, and they are reluctant to accept it. Most of the sample households are approaching the private unqualified doctors when they are sick. So, the government should educate the tribals about the importance of the modern medicine.

Education and Welfare Programmes for the Disabled in India

Dr. Justine Joseph, Associate Professor, St. Joseph’s college, Moolamattom, Idukki District, Kerala Abstract According to 2011 census, the total population of the disabled was 26,814,994 of which 14,986,202 were males and 11,824,355 females. The highest percentage of the disabled was visually handicapped and while their percentage increased from 22.16 per cent in 1991 to 18.81 per cent in 2011. Article 41 emphasizes right to education for persons including those with disabilities. There has been a steady growth in the educational institutions in the country in both regular and special education. Realizing the fact that the management of persons with disabilities is complex and needs various approaches, the central and state governments have been implementing various programmes and schemes to bring persons with disabilities into the mainstream of the society, and involve them in the social activities and provide them an opportunity for complete participation. There are many weaknesses in the implementation of the programmes meant for the disabled. The state governments play a dominate role in India for the diffusion of the policies and programmes and their implementation at the grassroot level for the advantage of the targeted population. It is time that the state governments should own the responsibility for providing comprehensive assistance to the disabled persons with a real commitment.

Impact Evaluation of Media on Tribal Community: An Exploratory Study

Manoranjan Panda, PhD Scholar, Journalism, Department of Public Administration, Utkal University, Bhubaneswar and Dr. Bindushree Mishra, Reader of Political Science, PN Autonomous College, Khurda, Utkal University. Abstract Media is profoundly impacting tribal and rural villages never before in this era of information age due to penetration of media through satellite and digital mode of communication. There is an exponential growth in mobile/smart phone, FM radio and DTH TV and rising of literacy levels in tribal and rural areas. The general awareness is rising in both tribal and rural villages due to media exposure and rising literacy levels. Contrasting differences have been visible in tribal and rural villages in terms of extension services for economic development. The farmers are becoming wise by media exposure and becoming wealthy also. By Media exposure, the tribal and rural people want to be like global citizens and do not want to be left out in the tribal and rural lands. Some of the old traditions are dropped in favor of new and resisting tendencies to new information in tribal areas has come down. Media exposure is eroding the collective feelings in tribal and rural villages and in its place individualism is rising. The study tried to understand the exposure of mass media tools like radio, television, print as well as other social media and their role and usage in tribal community. The role of mass media is undeniable in terms of development and social change. This exploratory study tries to investigate and understand the mass media exposure and accessibility of the tribal community. Data also reflects that community members neither have accessibility to television nor they watch television. This paper finds that traditional media and gram sabha are the most effective and preferable means of communication in the community. Keywords: Mass media; development communication; tribal community, traditional media.

Armed Conflicts, Military Pollution and its Environmental Hazards- An Overview.

Dr. O. Nirmala, Assistant Professor, Department of Defence and Strategic Studies, Gurunank College, Velachery, Chennai. Abstract Conflicts especially Armed Conflict or War is always a threat to human survival. It not only affecting the relationship among nations but also affects the relationship between the man and the nature. The environmental hazards before, during and after conflicts has to be critically examined in order to protect the environment otherwise pose a serious threat to particular people, group or entire regions. This paper tries to explore the relationship between armed conflict and its environmental impacts. Key Words: Armed Conflict, Environment Security, Pollution, Climate Change, Sustainability.

Contemporary India-Nepal Relations; Wrong Narratives and Failed Conclusions

Shinoj S, Assistant Professor, Department of Political Science, KSMDB College, Sasthamcotta, Kerala Abstract The relationship between India and Nepal has experienced several ‘ups’ and ‘downs’ in the past. The relationship has reached new crossroads since the establishment of constitutional democracy in Nepal in 2008. The analysts are of the view that the foreign policy priorities of the nation have undergone major changes then. They alleged that the new political leadership in Nepal wanted to build close relationship with China. The Maoist-sponsored changes in diplomatic tradition, the rampant anti-India rhetoric during national calamity, Madhesi issue and the resultant economic blockade, and the sudden eruption of Kalapni dispute are cited as symptoms of the new trends in foreign policy by various scholars. The sprouting of several controversies in the bilateral relationship between Nepal and India has paved the way for strengthening Sino-Nepal relationship. The group of scholars put forwarded the view that China has built up inroads into Nepal in this context. However, the perspective doesn’t indicate the real frame of understanding India-Nepal relationship. The testimony of this argument is that despite all the odds in bilateralism, India regained its lost diplomatic space in Nepal at present. The fact is that the political discords between India and Nepal do not have the magnitude of creating the bilateral relationship a total collapse. The main reason is the robust economic relationship which existed between India and Nepal for a long time.The economic linkages have the power to outweigh all the political differences between the neighbours. Keywords: bilateralism, special relationship, economic blockade, Madhesis, Kalapani, Maoists, foreign policy.

National Integration Vs Separatist Movement

Panchama S.N, Research Scholar, DOS in Political Science, University of Mysore, Mysore. (Also, Assistant Professor, Department of Political Science, St. Philomena’s Degree College (Autonomous) Mysore) and Prof. Midatala Rani, Retd. Professor, DOS in Political Science, University of Mysore, Mysore. Abstract India is land of diversities. Diversities in terms of religion, caste, tribe, language etc. In a diversified country like this national integration becomes very essential for the all-round development of the nation. In simple words, national integration is the awareness of common identity where in spite of diversities people recognise the fact that they are one. When we look back to the history of our country Indians used a very strong weapon to throw Britishers out of our nation that is the weapon of ‘unity’. After throwing Britishers out of the country Indians glorified “Unity in diversity”. Even after 75 years of independence though there is unity on one hand on the other, we are still witnessing various social movements. A social movement is a movement which tries to bring about desired changes in the society either completely or partially. Separatist movement is one among the social movements. In the Indian political system separatist movement is not a new phenomenon. Prior to independence it was promoted by the Britishers who deliberately encouraged people to think on their region instead of country as a whole. Now in the separatist movement people demand to be separate from larger entity. Though national integration is important for nations development separatist movement has become a challenge for this. In this the paper the concept of national integration and separatist movement will be discussed along with analyzing the movement in the present scenario. Key words: National integration, Separatist movement, Britishers, Unity in diversity.

(Re) Claiming Spaces in Indian Cinema: A Queer Reading of the Gender Dissidence in Contemporary Indian Films

Shatabdi Chakraborty, Ph.D. Research Scholar, Department of Communication and Media Studies, Central University of South Bihar, Gaya, Assistant Professor, Amity School of Communication, Amity University, Patna and Dr. Ravi Suryavanshi, Assistant. Professor, Department of Communication and Media Studies, Central University of South Bihar, Gaya. Abstract The Supreme Court of India has scrapped the archaic Section 377, providing much freedom and space to the marginalized LGBTQIA++ community. The LGBTQIA++ community has been struggling for their rights and identity for ages. They have been mocked upon, looked down upon, and even denied of their mere existence. Most Indian films have portrayed this community in a quite disdainful manner. This paper carefully touches on all the aspects of representation of LGBTQIA++ in Indian Cinema. However, in recent times the Indian cinema has changed its course and many such films have tried to portray such characters in quite a positive light as well. This paper would be an attempt to identify such films which are broadly based on gender disparity, queer culture, and rights of the LGBTQ+ community. By using a critical approach to feminist and trans-feminist film theory and with the help of queer film theory, this paper would try to conceptualize and unfold a utopian world. The methodological tools used in this research are mostly part of the multisensorial methodology for queer studies as well as the visual culture at large. Keywords: Queer, LGBTQ+, Queer studies, Cinema, Queer theory.

Subversive Narratives and Reshaped Identities: Challenging Conventions and Empowering Women in Select Works of Irwin Allan Sealy.

Deepali Borthakur, Research Fellow, Department of English, Dibrugarh University, Assistant Director, Quality and Process (IQAC), Assam Down Town University The Migrant at Home: Case of the Gorkha Conundrum Dr. Bidhan Golay, Faculty in Political Science ,Sikkim University, Gangtok. Abstract Irwin Allan Sealy’s works embody the essence of postmodern storytelling through the use of various techniques and elements such as parody, representation, identity exploration, historical reimagining, metafiction, intertextuality, and the integration of poetry. Sealy pushes the boundaries of traditional storytelling, welcoming multiple perspectives and inviting readers to delve into the intricate complexities of human existence and the transformative nature of storytelling. His literary contributions demonstrate the boundless potential of postmodern fiction and the enduring significance of narrative experimentation in shaping our understanding of the world and our own identities.

A Trade off between Work and Leisure: An experiment on Basic income.

ntisha Nigam, student, London School of Economics Dr Shobana Nelasco, Head and Associate Professor, Fatima College, Madurai, India Fellow, UGC, ICSSR, London School of Economics and Political Science Evangeline Rajakumar, Duke’s University, U.S.A

Perception of the Students towards E-Learning and their Satisfaction Level.

P. Subhiksha, Department of Social Work, Guru Nanak College (Autonomous), Chennai. Dr.K.Shanthi, Assistant Professor & Head, Department of Social Work, Guru Nanak College (Autonomous), Chennai. Abstract The face to face teaching learning was interrupted after the outbreak of the pandemic. The schools were not prepared for the unexpected transition. Several schools adopted to remote based learning. The eLearning has replaced the traditional classroom learning. In many schools e learning become a challenge, as the students have difficulty to get access to the electronic devices. The aim of this study was to compare on the perception of the students towards the e-learning at Government and Private Schools and the life satisfaction level. This is a Quantitative study and the data were collected from 100 students from private and government schools. The comparative study between private and government school was done in Thirupporur Taluk. The students had a positive perception of online learning too but most of them preferred face-to-face learning due to various reasons. Results indicate a significant loss of learning due to the unavailability of technology and the cost of data; nevertheless, some students agreed that online learning represents the future of teaching and learning. It has been concluded that it is difficult for the students to cope up with the online learning as it has a poor learning environment and many such difficulties. Keywords: Face to face learning, E-learning, Students satisfaction, Government and Private schools

Implication of Climate Change on Export of Bovine Meat in India.

Swati Pathak, Research Scholar in Management, School of Doctoral Research and Innovation, GLS University, Ahmedabad. Dr. Hitesh Solanki, Professor, Department of Botany, Bioinformatics & Climate Change Impacts Management, Head, Department of Environmental Science, University School of Sciences, Gujarat University, Navrangpura, Ahmedabad. Dr. Shefali Dani, Director, Business Administration, GLS University, Ahmedabad. Abstract Abstract: One of the most important challenges facing by the entire world is Climate change and Global warming. It affects each aspect of a society. Being a climate sensitive sectors, agriculture and agricultural trade sectors are the crucial two who absorbs the maximum brunt of global warming. This paper is an attempt to examine impact of climate variability in terms of change in temperature, average rainfall and no of occurrence of extreme events on buffalo meat productions and its export from India. Various research methods namely, Trend analysis, Multiple regression analysis with interaction terms, Compound annual growth rate analysis were performed to explore the linkage between export of bovine meat product and rising global surface temperature. Past thirty-two years data were used to run all the analysis. Result showed a statistically significant relationship between extreme events and bovine meat export accompanied with rising mean temperature, more occurrence of extreme events and inconsistent amount of rainfall in India. Key Words: Climate Change, Buffalo Meat, Export, Water Intensive

Forest Degradation Monitoring Using REDD+ Concept in the Asiatic Lion Dominated Areas of Gujarat

Ruchita Mainani, Research Scholar, Department of Environmental Science, Gujarat University, Ahmedabad. Manik H Kaulubarme Ret.Scientest (SG)Space Application Centre (SAC), Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO), Ahmedabad Dr.Hitesh Solanki, Professor and Head, Department of Environmental Science, Professor, Department of Botany, Gujarat University. Abstract Redd+ (Reducing emissions from deforestation and degradation) has played an immense important role in the recent years for the conservation of forest. Its main aim is to provide the sustainable management of the natural resources and manage its uses. It is a framework that is created in the UNFCC conference of the COP parties for the enhancement of the forest and also to reduce the emission from the greenhouse gases and also to enhance the carbon stocks. Reducing emission from degradation and deforestation aims for the future prospective use of the natural resources and mainly the forest management policies. It provides us strategies for the new implementation policies and technologies. In this paper forest degradation and deforestation status was analysed using the set of various tools of open foris software in the lion dominated areas of Saurashtra region (Junagadh, Amreli, Gir-Somnath) of Gujarat state. The results of this study indicated that there is vast change in the vegetation, climatic conditions, water availability during the last 3-4 yearsin the study area. It was clearly observed the growing intervention of the population and exploitation of forest resources, the habitat is being disturbed in the forest area. The results of rate of emissions in the study area shows the increasing trend and the data analysis using the REDD+ various tools of open foris software are very useful for making strategies and new policies to reduce the rate of deforestation, population exploitation in the lion dominated areas of Saurashtra. Keywords:- REDD+, Open foris tools, SEPAL, Climate change, Forest Degradation, LULC, Biomass.

An Analytical Study of the Theoretical Framework of Poverty and Unemployment in Kerala

Dr. C.V. Shaji, Assistant Professor of Commerce, S.A.R.B.T.M. Govt. College, Koyilandy, India. Muhammed Salim K.C., Assistant Professor of Commerce, Govt. College, Madappally, Kozhikode. Abstract Concerns about a person's overall quality of life or the level of inequality in society as a whole are unimportant to someone who lives in absolute poverty. As a result, the concept disregards the importance of social and cultural expectations for people. These and related arguments led to the development of the concept of relative poverty. The term "relative poverty" refers to one's financial situation in relation to that of other people in the community. The term "poor" refers to someone whose quality of life is lower than that of their society. A key criticism of both ideas is that they are primarily concerned with money and consumption. The current study's methodology is descriptive in nature. Sample information is derived from secondary literature. Data are evaluated using topical and suitable procedures. Means, percentages, and other statistical and mathematical techniques are utilised for data analysis. Extreme poverty is defined as having a purchasing power parity income of less than $1.25 per day for each individual. The monthly poverty threshold for all of India was set at Rs.49.63 for rural regions and Rs.56.64 for urban areas. In the entire country, the average is 27.5%. 28.3% of them reside in rural areas, compared to 25.7% in metropolitan areas. Urban scheduled caste members make up 39.9% of the population, while those who reside in rural areas make up 26.7% of the scheduled caste's total population. BPL individuals make up 14.1% of Kerala's total population, with 20.2% of urban and 13.2% of rural citizens falling into this category. 32.5% of the scheduled caste population in urban areas and 21.6% of the scheduled caste population in rural areas are included in the BPL category. In metropolitan regions, 24.3 percent of OBCs are thought to be living in poverty. Key Words: Poverty, Unemployment, MSMEs, Employment Eeneration.