4 research outputs found
Women in forestry in India
Get PDFThe increasingly visible impact of the fuelwood and fodder crisis on the household has called attention to the need to involve women in forestry planning. In this paper, women have been classified into four groups based on farming system and habitat: tribal women; hill women; plains women; and poor urban women. This paper attempts to make a few basic points. First, it is essential to document women's relationship to forests both in the context of the household and the outside economy. For projects to succeed, the linkages must be drawn between women's roles in the different farming systems, the food supply system, domestic tasks and their income-earning activities. A second major thrust of the paper is to demonstrate that an overriding concern with the impact of the fuelwood and fodder crisis on women as actors in the domestic subsistence economy has blinded planners to their equally important role in the non-domestic forestry economy. The paper also points out the importance of forest resources for poor households and as a source of income for resource-poor women. Finally, through an examination of women's roles in different farming systems, this paper shows women's substantial involvement with forests and makes the case for strengthening their involvement in the entire forestry sector.Forestry,Agricultural Knowledge&Information Systems,Health Monitoring&Evaluation,Environmental Economics&Policies,Crops&Crop Management Systems
Editorial
Get PDFProf. Arvind Jasrotia, Department of Law, University of Jammu, and Ms. Preetinder Pal Sodhi, Research Scholar, Department of Law, University of Jammu, in their paper titled, “UAPA in Jammu and Kashmir: A Functional Analysis” observe that a democratic country must balance the preservation of its sovereignty and integrity with the freedom of her inhabitants to freely express themselves. The paper makes a comprehensive analysis of the UAPA’s legal framework with an emphasis on its key provisions, including the authority provided to law enforcement organizations, accompanying threats to constitutional rights and due process inherent in its application. The paper provides a snapshot of the assessment of UAPA cases in Jammu and Kashmir. The authors have suggested changes in the law so as to make it in harmony with the international human rights standards, and bring clarity inter alia in the definition of ‘terrorist activities’, enlarge the scope of judicial review, protection against arbitrary imprisonment, and a provision for compensation in the event of false or abusive framing of innocents.
Prof. Preeti Misra, Dean, School of Legal Studies and former Head, Dept. of Human Rights, Babasaheb Bhimrao Ambedkar University, Lucknow, and Shivpriya, Research Scholar, Dept. of Human Rights, School of Legal Studies, Babasaheb Bhimrao Ambedkar University, Lucknow in their paper titled, “Interrelationship between Climate Change and Women\u27s Health: A Study in Human Rights Perspective”, examined the heightened vulnerability of women to environmental disasters and extreme weather events stemming from economic hardship, sexual and reproductive health issues, gender discrimination, and limited social mobility. The authors have argued that such differential impacts are excluded from governmental data and academic literature. The paper suggests that prioritizing gender justice by increasing cognizance of differential climate change impacts and ensuring representation of women in climate policymaking are vital for equitable and sustainable development.
Prof. Badar Ahmad, Department of Law, Aligarh Muslim University and Nazrana Ahmad, Research Scholar, Department of Law, Aligarh Muslim University in their paper captioned “Women\u27s Reproductive and Health Rights: An Appraisal of Competing Interests” delves into the complex landscape of reproductive rights and women\u27s health in India, analysing how ensuring comprehensive access to reproductive health services and upholding reproductive rights are essential in advancing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG). The authors have undertaken an analysis of data, laws, policies, and landmark judgments to bring to fore their limitations and suggested strategies to address them. The paper argues that reproductive and health rights are critical components of sustainable development, with women occupying central roles in pathways to sustainability and environmentally responsible transformation, there is a need to further augment these rights.
Dayananda Murthy, Associate Professor of Law, Damodaram Sanjivayya National Law University, Visakhapatnam, in his paper titled “Judicial Conduct: A Rethinking in Creating Public Confidence” argues that to promote the public trust in the judicial system, refinement of the judicial conduct is highly necessary. The author opines that regulation of the judicial conduct is vital to accomplish the values and virtues of the judges. The author in his paper examines the important elements required for the enhancement of the public trust in the judicial system.
Iftikhar Hussain Bhat, Assistant Professor, School of Law, University of Kashmir, has authored the paper titled, “A Critical Review of Legal Challenges and Opportunities in Transboundary Environmental Impact Assessment”. The author opines that the Transboundary Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) is a critical tool for evaluating the potential environmental effects of projects that extend across national borders. The paper undertakes a comprehensive evaluation of the challenges and opportunities inherent in Transboundary Environmental Impact Assessment, delves into the intricate intersection of international law, judicial approaches, and analyses the evolving landscape of cross-border environmental governance. The paper examines the key findings and their implications for policy, law, and practice, and offer insights into the dynamic trajectory of transboundary EIA. The paper articulated a roadmap for navigating the challenges and capitalizing on the opportunities in transboundary EIA. The author argues that by synthesizing legal, technological, and practical measures a holistic approach can be adopted that will address the challenges and seize opportunities in the pursuit of sustainable and effective transboundary EIA practices.
Prof. Qazi Mohammed Usman, Faculty of Law, Jamia Millia Islamia, New Delhi and Tauseef Ahmad, Ph.D. Scholar, Faculty of Law, Jamia Millia Islamia, New Delhi in their paper with the title, “A Study of Emerging Trends of E-Banking Frauds in India” argue that e-banking has brought forth convenience and efficiency, nevertheless, it has also presented many challenges for regulators. The authors analysed the challenges of e-banking and future potential of electronic banking frauds in India. The paper has raised numerous current issues with respect to e-banking frauds and puts-forth possible suggestions for tackling e-banking frauds.
Prof. Shrinaag Arun Panchbhai, Head of Department, Forensic Law, Institute of Forensic Science, Mumbai, Prof. Rajeshri N. Varhadi, Department of Law, University of Mumbai, and Arzin Abdul Khalique Ansari, Ph.D. Research Scholar, Department of Law, University of Mumbai in their paper titled, “Legal Implications of Creation of New States in India: A Study” brings out the differences between “Union of States” and “Federation of States” and the importance of selecting the term “Union” rather than “Federation” in the Indian Constitution. The authors argue that new states are founded in India with the purpose of enhancing and protecting the various cultures, languages, or scripts that are associated with each of the states, and this approach not only protects the unique characteristics of India, but it also contributes to the maintenance of the country’s customs, traditions, and languages. However, the authors raised concerns that carving new states from existing ones in India is a complex issue, often fraught with opacity and legal landmines. Public involvement in the process is often minimal, breeding whispers of bias and injustice. This lack of transparency can ignite legal battles over border demarcation, water rights, and the equitable sharing of resources. The paper suggests few measures for robust legal frameworks for new state creation in India.
Dr. Pallavi Devi, Assistant Professor, Department of Law, Gauhati University, in her paper titled, “Expanding Horizons of Basic Structures of Constitutionalism: A Study of Evolving Trends”, explores the evolution of the ‘Basic Structure’ concept through judicial interpretation by the apex court of the country. The paper provides a new perspective to the concept of ‘Implied Limitations’ for the legal and judicial coparcenary. The author argues that with limitless amending power of parliament, the rule of law will itself disappear in the foreseeable future. Basic Structure Doctrine postulates a vibrant democracy free from bias that augers well for the unity and integrity of the country.
Dr. Sheikh Inam Ul Mansoor, Assistant Professor Law, School of Legal Studies, REVA University, Bangalore, and Ishfaq Ahmad Khan, Ph.D. Research Scholar, School of Law, University of Kashmir, in their paper bearing title, “An Interface Between Digital Privacy and Human Rights: The Challenges Ahead”, observes that in the contemporary digital era, the intricate equilibrium between digital privacy and fundamental human rights has risen to the forefront of societal concerns. This paper encapsulates the rationale behind preserving privacy and explores the emerging legal principles, such as accountability and individual autonomy in the management of their personal data. The authors have put forth in-depth analysis of emerging privacy issues in the digital world and the existing Indian legal framework with respect to online privacy protection. The paper advocates for the establishment of a global coalition comprising willing regulators, erudite scholars, and representatives of civil society, all dedicated to vigilant oversight and unwavering resistance against any endeavour aimed at gradually eroding the cherished liberties of the global populace.
Prof. Javaid Talib, Department of Law, Aligarh Muslim University and Naseem Tabrez, Research Scholar, Department of Law, Aligarh Muslim University in their paper titled “Telemedicine Practice in India: A Review” observe that telemedicine has brought forth numerous advantages, such as, increasing access to effective, efficient, and high-quality healthcare; elimination of gaps in health care that are caused by social class, location, and ethnicity; reducing long waiting times, rigid scheduling, transportation issues, and frequent follow-up; collaboration between healthcare professionals, which allows them to exchange information, get second opinions, and consult specialists without being physically constrained. However, the authors raise concern about infrastructure limits, appropriate legislation, and data security in telemedicine practice in India. The authors have pleaded that it is essential to incorporate telemedicine into medical curricula, training programs, and standardized criteria to guarantee safe and dependable telemedicine services. According to the authors reviewing health insurance regulations to incorporate telemedicine payment and resolving privacy concerns with secure data transmission methods are crucial for broader adoption of telemedicine in India.
Dr. Indu Bala, Assistant Professor, Chandigarh Law College in her paper titled, “Legal Measures for Poverty Alleviation in India: A Study”, highlights causes of poverty and Indian Governments approach for poverty alleviation. The author expressed that eradication of poverty remains a major challenge of planned economic development. Experiences of different states in terms of economic growth and poverty reduction have been so varied that it is difficult to offer any general policy prescription. The author analyses various laws and government schemes in India for poverty eradication and suggests measures to be taken for effective poverty alleviation in India.
Dr. Sajandeep Kinra, Punjab Civil Secretariat, Chandigarh in his paper titled, “Role of Indian Judiciary in Protecting Poor People”, discusses at length various cases pertaining to protection of poor by Indian judiciary. The author argues that poverty is indisputably the most potent violation of all human rights and constitutes a threat to the survival of the greatest numbers of human population. The impact of the poor friendly decisions of the Supreme Court have been pivotal in ameliorating poverty over the years. The author suggests that corruption control and mass awareness are the key elements for future eradication of poverty in India
Epworth Sleepiness Scale- a novel tool to assess somnolence syndrome in patients receiving radiotherapy to the brain
Get PDFPurpose: Radiation to brain causes early, early-delayed, and delayed side effects. There is paucity of literature regarding early-delayed effects like somnolence syndrome. Existing studies use general symptom assessment and visual analog scales. Epworth Sleepiness Scale (ESS) is a time tested tool to assess daytime sleepiness in various conditions. In this study, the ESS has been used to determine the occurrence of somnolence in patients receiving cranial radiotherapy for primary and metastatic brain tumors. Thus the ESS has been used in a novel setting in our study. The ESS is a simple to administer questionnaire and may be useful in grading the severity of somnolence. To our knowledge, this is the second study to determine post radiation somnolence using ESS. Methods: This prospective study was conducted in 23 patients with primary and metastatic brain tumor. Patient demographics and tumor type and grade was noted. Those with Karnofsky Performance Scale (KPS) less than 70 and with pre-existing sleep disorders were excluded. Radiotherapy regimen included palliative whole brain radiation for brain metastases and conformal adjuvant radiotherapy for primary brain tumors as per standard guidelines. All subjects included were administered ESS at baseline and weekly thereafter during and for 6 weeks after radiation. Results: All 23 patients (median age 50 years) completed the planned questionnaires until 6 weeks post radiation. Twenty (87%) patients had primary brain tumors whereas three (13%) patients had metastatic lesions in brain. Of the 23 patients, 14 patients (60.86%) had abnormal or increased daytime sleepiness; of which 3 had ESS scores greater than 16. Conclusion: Somnolence was noted in 60.86% of the patients, which is in accordance with existing literature. Epworth sleepiness scale is an effective tool to detect and quantify somnolence, However, it does not consider other symptoms of somnolence syndrome and hence should be combined with visual analog scale to get complete information
A multifaceted intervention to improve diagnosis and early management of hospitalised patients with suspected acute brain infections in Brazil, India, and Malawi: An international multicentre intervention study
Get PDFBackground
Brain infections pose substantial challenges in diagnosis and management and carry high mortality and morbidity, especially in low-income and middle-income countries. We aimed to improve the diagnosis and early management of patients admitted to hospital (adults aged 16 years and older and children aged >28 days) with suspected acute brain infections at 13 hospitals in Brazil, India, and Malawi.
Methods
With hospital stakeholders, policy makers, and patient and public representatives, we co-designed a multifaceted clinical and laboratory intervention, informed by an evaluation of routine practice. The intervention, tailored for each setting, included a diagnostic and management algorithm, a lumbar puncture pack, a testing panel, and staff training. We used multivariable logistic regression and interrupted time series analysis to compare the coprimary outcomes—the percentage of patients achieving a syndromic diagnosis and the percentage achieving a microbiological diagnosis before and after the intervention. The study was registered at ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT04190303) and is complete.
Findings
Between Jan 5, 2021, and Nov 30, 2022, we screened 10 462 patients and enrolled a total of 2233 patients at 13 hospital sites connected to the four study centres in Brazil, India, and Malawi. 1376 (62%) were recruited before the intervention and 857 (38%) were recruited after the intervention. 2154 patients (96%) had assessment of the primary outcome (1330 [62%] patients recruited pre-intervention and 824 [38%] recruited post-intervention). The median age across centres was 23 years (IQR 6–44), with 1276 (59%) being adults aged 16 years or older and 888 (41%) children aged between 29 days and 15 years; 1264 (59%) patients were male and 890 (41%) were female. Data on race and ethnicity were not recorded. 1020 (77%) of 1320 patients received a syndromic diagnosis before the intervention, rising to 701 (86%) of 813 after the intervention (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 1·81 [95% CI 1·40–2·34]; p<0·0001). A microbiological diagnosis was made in 294 (22%) of 1330 patients pre-intervention, increasing to 250 (30%) of 824 patients post-intervention (aOR 1·46 [95% CI 1·18–1·79]; p=0·00040). Interrupted time series analysis confirmed that these increases exceeded a modest underlying trend of improvement over time. The percentage receiving a lumbar puncture, time to appropriate therapy, and functional outcome also improved.
Interpretation
Diagnosis and management of patients with suspected acute brain infections improved following introduction of a simple intervention package across a diverse range of hospitals on three continents. The intervention is now being implemented in other settings as part of the WHO Meningitis Roadmap and encephalitis control initiatives
