POLICY CENTRE AND GENDER LAB

By Kaushiki Ishwar Introduction Dalit feminism is a critical subset of intersectional feminism that transcends the conventional binaries and paradigms of gender discourse. It is a nuanced and dynamic socio-political movement rooted in the intersections of Dalit identity and feminism, posing a formidable challenge to the heteronormative and patriarchal status quo. This article will delve into the intricate fabric of Dalit feminism, deconstructing the jargon that permeates this discourse, to unravel its profound implications and revolutionary potential. Deconstructing Dalit Identity Dalit feminism, at its core, seeks to deconstruct the hegemonic norms surrounding Dalit identity. The term "Dalit" encompasses diverse sub-castes and communities that have historically been subjected to untouchability, marginalization, and systemic oppression. Dalit feminists employ a post-colonial perspective, deconstructing the colonial legacies that perpetuate caste hierarchies. This deconstructi...

By Prapti Das ABSTRACT In the pursuit of sustainable development, it is imperative to address gender disparities that persist in various facets of society. Gender mainstreaming in country work emerges as a crucial strategy to integrate gender perspectives into all policies, programs, and projects. This article explores the significance of mainstreaming gender issues in country work, drawing attention to the multifaceted benefits it brings to the table. WHAT, WHY AND HOW OF GENDER-MAINSTREAMING? Imagine being in the heart of Progressburg, where Maya, an imaginative catalyst at the Department of Community Transformation, sparked a revolution. Seeing policies as strokes on a canvas, she transformed mundane routines into vibrant murals of change. Through interactive workshops, data tales, and street performances, Maya invited all to be part of the narrative. Her story is not just about policies; it is a testament to the transformative power of creativity in country work—an invitation to pa...

By Karizma Ahmed The culinary traditions of Bengal have long been celebrated for their rich and diverse flavours, often centred around fish and meat. Iconic dishes like Machher Jhol (fish curry), Chingri Malai Curry (prawns in coconut curry), Kosha Mangsho (slow-cooked mutton) and Murgir Jhol (chicken curry) are only a few popular options in what comprises the aamish (non-vegetarian) food cannon. In fact, the prominence of these dishes cuisine gives into the popular perception that Bengali cuisine is exclusively non-vegetarian. The adage Machhe bhaate Bangali literally meaning that a Bengali is made of rice and fish, washes over a large chunk of the population that is vegetarian, out of necessity or choice.   A lesser-known aspect of Bengali cuisine is its delectable vegetarian offerings, which owe their popularity and refinement to an unexpected source – Bengali widows. Dishes like Aloo Posto (potatoes cooked with poppy seeds), Mochar Ghonto (curry made with banana blossom...

by Sanika Singh, 2022/1001, B.A. (Hons.) Political Science Declared “the top word or phrase of the year 2023 thus far” by The Global Language Monitor (2023), artificial intelligence (AI) is one of the most common tech buzzwords of our time. However, its popularity in common parlance raises a significant question: how far have we, as a country, reckoned with the societal and ethical implications of this burgeoning technology? What happens when AI transcends the limits of technological advancement and enters the realm of malicious intent and cybercrime? Are we equipped with adequate legal and digital safeguards to protect ourselves from its potential adverse effects? A retired central government official from Kozhikode, Kerala, receives an unknown WhatsApp call. Seeing as the caller is anonymous, he is initially dismissive and refuses to pick up, but is soon surprised to find a slew of messages from the same contact, now disclosing his identity as a former colleague. They exchange text...