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Indian Journal of Natural Products and Resources (IJNPR) is a publication of the CSIR-National Institute of Science Communication and Policy Research (CSIR-NIScPR). This study makes a bibliometric assessment of the papers published in the journal from 2010 to 2020. The data was collected from the website of the journal and was analysed using MS Excel. The bibliometric assessment examines the nature and distribution of documents by their types, the geographical distribution of the papers by countries, Indian states, institutions, and authors and the impact of their productivity as reflected by the citation indicators. In addition, the trend in authorship, citations and national and international collaboration was also examined. A total of 587 documents were published during the study period, of which the majority were original research articles. Analysis revealed that during the study period, contributions from 35 countries including India were published in the journal. Maximum contributions from India were from the state of Maharashtra and Tamil Nadu. The study also found that only a small number of papers didn’t receive any citations but a substantial number of papers (17.7%) received 6-10 citations and about 1.7% of papers received 100 or more citations. Most of the highly cited papers were reviews. The multi-authored articles were predominant, whereas the least contribution was by single authors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Green hydrogen can be the transitional solution required to reduce anthropogenic emissions and enhance energy independency from fossil fuel. To improve green hydrogen adoption, a cluster-based infrastructure, called a hydrogen hub, is devised taking into account the demand-supply interplay coupled with transport ease. In this paper, we have identified sites across states that are conducive for hydrogen hubs. It involves a multicriteria decision-making (MCDM) framework deployed to assign priorities within competing set of criteria. A comprehensive analytical hierarchy process (AHP) is used to rank criteria that are connected to establish a functioning hydrogen hub. These criteria include, but not limited to, proximity to refineries, fertilizer plants, substations, chlor-alkali units, steel manufacturing plants, water availability, access to gas pipelines, railway line access, and finally distance to highways. Our analyses indicate that proximity to refineries and fertilizers scored higher (scores directly proportional to importance) while railway line access scored the least. These prioritised scores are used to spatially locate sites using geographical information system. In a total of thirteen states identified, Gujarat had the largest parcel of most suitable land for setting up hydrogen hub followed by Maharashtra and Andhra Pradesh. For India to set up a functioning hydrogen economy and achieve green hydrogen goals, it is important to identify states that can drive the agenda forward. This paper illustrates a way (amongst many available ways) to identify states based on their strength and capability to fulfil the national goal of 5 million tons of green hydrogen by 2030. • The paper addresses setting up of green hydrogen hubs in India based on a multi-criteria site selection framework. • Nine selection criteria covering aspects of hydrogen ecosystem proposed to identify site(s) suitable for hydrogen hubs. • Integration of AHP and GIS is used to ascertain land parcels where hydrogen economy can sustain across states in India. • Zones in 13 states were identified as potential hydrogen hubs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A bazaar is a market place that contributes to the economy as well as the spatial, cultural, political, educational, and social determinants of the society and its settlement. Bazaars, specifically in British colonial hill towns of India due to their unique characteristics, have showcased significant transformation in social and physical attributes. The potential reasons include the pressures of industrialization, tourism, consumerism, and continuously evolving identities. In this context, the paper examines the case of Malcolm Peth bazaar at Mahabaleshwar in Maharashtra, India. It aims to comprehend the socio-cultural and spatial transformation of the bazaar, from its British colonial beginnings to the present differential scenario, emphasizing the perception and representation of the traditional place. The methodology follows the descriptive and interpretive research approach. The process commences with exploring the available theory and literature, followed by the development of a theoretical framework through the literature discourse to holistically investigate the complexities of the traditional bazaar. On-site data collection includes spatial information represented through maps and illustrations and stakeholders' perceptions recorded in interviews. Subsequently, the data is analyzed by forming domains and categories through tabular frameworks and further narrated to abstract the findings. Focusing on the changing traditions and heritage value, the interpretation of the result elucidates the bazaar's socio-spatial character in diverse time-place environments that the bazaar has reflected in its evolution process. Highlighting the insensitive approach towards the culturally sensitive traditional bazaar, the research concludes by accentuating the need to react cautiously toward preserving the historical notions of the place. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In India, traditional social practices around marriage, such as non-involvement of prospective brides in choice of partner and timing of marriage, child/early marriage, dowry and purdah, compromise women's agency at the time of marriage and may also affect contraceptive practices in marriage. This paper examines the associations between traditional marital practices and contraceptive behaviours, including women's control over contraceptive decision-making, couples' communication about contraception, and ever use of contraceptives, among married women aged 18–29 years (N = 1,200) and their husbands in rural Maharashtra, India. Multivariable logistic regression was used to examine the association between these marginalising social practices and family planning behavioural outcomes, adjusting for demographic and parity confounders. Wives who were the primary decision-makers on who to marry had higher odds of ever having communicated with their husband on pregnancy prevention (AOR 1.76, 95% CI 1.16-2.68), and ever using modern contraceptives (AOR 2.19, 95% CI 1.52-3.16). Wives who were the primary decision-makers on when to marry also had higher odds of ever having used modern contraceptives (AOR 1.86, 95% CI 1.21-2.93). Women's involvement in marital choice may facilitate couples' engagement related to family planning, possibly via the establishment of better communication between partners. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: India accounts for a quarter of the world cervical cancer burden. Cervical cancer is highly preventable. However, low level of participating women in screening is one of the major issues. The aim of this work was to study the factors that influence women to participate in cervical cancer screening by providing menstrual pads for human papillomavirus (HPV) testing. Methods: Menstrual clothes were collected from two different populations from the rural areas of Maharashtra state for HPV testing to screen for cervical cancer. For this study, out of 945 participated women, 557 (58.9%) provided their menstrual pads. Multivariate logistic regression was applied to calculate the odds ratio (OR) and 95% confidence interval (95% CI). Results: The probability of providing the menstrual pads was high among the women who were highly educated compared to those with less education (OR: 1.4; 95% CI: 1.0–1.9), having mobile phone facilities as compared to those with no mobile phones (OR: 1.4; 95% CI: 1.0–2.0), who were using new cloths as menstrual pads compared to those who did not use the same (OR: 8.5; 95% CI: 5.0–14.3), who did not have tobacco habit as compared to those who had tobacco habit (OR: 1.4; 95% CI: 1.1–1.9) and in the village where health worker was stationed as compared to the village where health worker was not stationed (OR: 1.8; 95% CI: 1.4–2.5). Conclusion: Factors including health worker availability, using mobile phones for communication and high education level facilitate women’s participation. To improve the participation, there is need to apply special strategies for older age group, less educated women and women having tobacco habit. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A growing number of organisations, including medical associations, recommend that research subjects should be given the option of being informed about the general outcome and results of the study. We recently completed a study involving nine serosurveys from 2018 to 2020 in five districts of India among three age groups (children 9 months to < 5 years; 5 to < 15 years of age, and women 15 to < 50 years of age before and after the measles and rubella (MR) vaccination campaigns). In Palghar district of Maharashtra all individuals in 30 selected clusters were enumerated, and 13 individuals per age group were randomly sampled. We established the procedures to return the results to the respondents for each stage of the survey. Of the 1,166 individuals selected for the measles and rubella serosurvey, 971 (83%) agreed to participate and were enrolled. Participants were informed that they will only be contacted if they test seronegative for measles and/or rubella antibodies. Overall, 140 individuals enrolled in the survey tested seronegative for IgG antibodies to measles and/or rubella viruses; were provided the reports and informed to seek medical advice. Upon follow up by phone, 10% (14) of the 140 participants reported to have been vaccinated. In this paper we discuss the procedures, experiences and considerations in returning results to participants in a community-based measles and rubella serosurvey. Although the lessons learned are specific to post measles-rubella vaccine campaign serosurvey in India, they might be helpful to those contemplating sharing results to participants of large scale survey settings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents a composite approach for drought characterization and monitoring using in situ and remote sensing-based drought indicators. The study was carried out on one of the most drought-prone areas of India, i.e., the Marathwada region of Maharashtra. Meteorological, hydrological, and agricultural drought indices, namely standardized precipitation index (SPI), streamflow drought index (SDI), and vegetation condition index (VCI), respectively, were integrated to develop the composite drought index (CDI) using principal component analysis (PCA). SPI and SDI were computed using in situ precipitation and streamflow data, respectively, for 35 years (1980–2014), whereas VCI was computed using MODIS satellite data (500-m resolution) for 15 years (2000–2014) at 1-, 3-, and 5-month time scales. The time scales of drought indices were evaluated using historical drought years and foodgrain production of the region. The drought areas observed by SPI, SDI, and VCI at different time scales were correlated with foodgrain production during the kharif crop growing season for 15 years (2000–2014). The maximum correlation of foodgrain production was observed with 3-month SPI (r = − 0.72), 5-month SDI (r = − 0.40), and 5-month VCI (r = − 0.81) for meteorological, hydrological, and agricultural drought, respectively. Three-month SPI, 5-month SDI, and 5-month VCI were selected from each drought category to develop CDI. These drought indices were combined using weights derived through the PCA technique. The maximum weight was obtained for 3-month SPI (45.4%) followed by 5-month VCI (42.8%) and 5-month SDI (11.8%). The developed CDI products showed a strong relationship (r = − 0.85) with foodgrain production. The drought years observed by CDI were also closest to drought years declared by the State Government. The time series trend of the drought-affected area observed by CDI, 3-month SPI, and 5-month VCI resembled the drought patterns very closely, especially during the drought years. The spatio-temporal analysis of individual drought indices and CDI with foodgrain production deviation showed that CDI was better for capturing drought conditions than individual indicators. The study suggested that an individual or single indicator is not sufficient to capture the actual drought severity and its magnitudes; therefore, using a composite approach could be a good choice for effective drought assessment and monitoring in the region. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This research paper aims to identify the emerging trend and prospects of organic farming throughout the world. This paper also gives stress on the usage of organic fertilizer in India. India is a country with huge climate diversity hence different regions of the country have different agricultural climates. The diverse agro-climatic on the country has a direct impact on the natural nutrients of soil which are the key source of soil nutrition for organic cultivation. India covers 1.18 mm hectares of organic agriculture land which led the county on the 9th position globally in 2014-15. In this total organic area, 26% of the land is cultivable and rest 74% is covered under the forest or wild land. In the same year Himachal Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh and Maharashtra have been identified as having most organic agriculture area regions in the country. The country also has a leading position in organic production with consent increment in the organic producers throughout the globe. In the year 2014-15, the county has 0.55 mm producers which led the country on the first position in the world. The country exports more than 135 products including basmati rice, cotton and oil corps. In this review, paper research had tried to analyze the significance of organic farming, export and marketing of organic products in the country. Consumption and production of organic fertilizers in the county also have been discussed in this article. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Placenta previa is a condition characterised by abnormal placental implantation and usually presented as painless vaginal bleeding in second or third trimester of pregnancy. Various studies have reported adverse outcomes in the cases of placenta previa. Aim: To find incidence, maternal and perinatal outcomes in placenta previa. Materials and Methods: This retrospective study was carried out during April-June 2021 at a Government Tertiary care centre in Maharashtra. Total 260 cases of placenta previa managed at the institute between 1st January 2017 to 31st December 2019 were included in study. Primary data from labour room and operation theatre was collected and detailed case papers were accessed from medical records section. Data was analysed using Microsoft Excel Windows 2013. Results: Incidence of placenta previa was 1.09%. Majority of cases were from age group of 26-30 years, booked, gravida 2-3, belonging to low socio-economic status and without any history of risk factors. In 81.15% cases Lower Segment Cesarean Section (LSCS) was required. Post Partem Haemorrhage (PPH) (32.30%) and need for blood transfusion (86.15%) were major complications. Maternal mortality in cases of placenta previa was 4.23%. In perinatal outcome, prematurity was reported 44.30% cases while 57.46% needed NICU admission. Perinatal mortality was 17.53%. Conclusion: There is need for regular Antenatal Care (ANC) check-up and timely referral to tertiary care obstetrical care centre with availability of Blood bank and NICU for better outcome. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the present study, Isoptericola variabilis strain UD-6 isolated from alkaline hot spring of Unapdev, Maharashtra, India was assessed for its biobleaching activity by hydrolytic enzymes on rice straw pulp. Results of primary and secondary screening manifested that it was a multi-enzyme producer, competent to produce amylase, cellulase, mannanase, pectinase, and xylanase at 9.73, 4.11, 6.26, 8.42, and 6.61 IU ml−1 in fermentation conditions, respectively. Maximum activity of all enzymes was gained at thermal temperature (50–55 °C), alkaline condition (pH 8–9), under 5 mM KCl and 5 mM NaCl salt concentration. In compatibility testing, activities of all enzymes were spectacularly reduced when they utilized with chemicals of pulp bleaching. Results of rice straw pulp bleaching was effectual when pulp was initially bleached with mannanase, pectinase, and xylanase enzymes (Es) for 90 min and then with diluted chemicals (DC) for further 90 min instead of their separate use. Treatment of rice straw pulp with Es + DC, enhanced the release of reducing sugars, hydrophobic compounds, and phenolic compounds, whereas Kappa number was reduced. Overall, the results of the present study indicated that pre-bleaching of pulp with hydrolytic enzymes obtained from I. variabilis strain UD-6 helps to minimize chemicals used in the bleaching process and make it more sustainable for pulp and paper industries as well as for the environment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Evidence suggests that unorganized manufacturing units are extremely credit-starved. The purpose of this paper is to study the effect of such credit unavailability for small firms, and to see if it has altered the erstwhile production organization in a way which has led to the withdrawal of the small firms from both input and output market, leading to increased production outsourcing between the formal and informal firms. Design/methodology/approach: Based on data collected from two textile clusters in Maharashtra, India, the study shows that credit unavailability has led small firms to increasingly work for bigger firms as outsourced units. The paper uses a measure of technology and productivity to undertake logistic regression and sub-sample regressions to confirm production reorganization resulting from credit unavailability. This would provide additional insights for standard measures of intra-country intra-industry trade Findings: The exclusion of the unorganized production units from the formal lending process has, over the years, led to a reorganization of the existing production structure, whereby the small firms are forced to work for bigger formal firms on piece-rate basis. To circumvent their credit issues, the small unorganized sector firms have increasingly started to work for bigger firms as outsourced units. Originality/value: This is an original research work. The paper fulfils the identified need of addressing how the plaguing social issue of financial exclusion of unorganized firms has led to production reorganization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper deals with the transnationalism of racial anthropological frameworks and its role in the understanding of human difference during India's decolonization and nation-building. With attention to the circulation of scientific objects, I focus on the practices and articulations of Irawati Karve (1905–1970), an Indian anthropologist with a transnational scientific trajectory and nationalistic political engagements. I argue that Karve's adaptation of an internationally validated German racial approach to study caste, ethnic and religious groups contributed to the further racialization of these categories as well as to the racialization of nationalistic projects in Maharashtra and India. I conclude with a reflection on the transnationalization of the coloniality of racialization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dietary adequacy and diversity during the lactation period are necessary to ensure good health and nutrition among women and children. Behavioral interventions pertaining to health and nutrition counselling during pregnancy and lactation are critical for awareness about dietary diversity. The issue assumes salience for marginalized communities because of the Covid-19 pandemic and associated economic and societal disruptions. This paper assesses the dietary patterns among 400 lactating mothers in the tribal-dominated district of Palghar in Maharashtra, India in 2020. The study is based on primary data regarding consumption of 10 food groups among women across 10 food groups based on 24-hour recall period. The primary outcome variable was binary information regarding Minimum Dietary Diversity defined as consumption from at least 5 food groups. Econometric analysis based on multilevel models and item-response theory is applied to identify food groups that were most difficult to be received by mothers during the early and late lactation period. We find that the daily diet of lactating mothers in Palghar primarily consists of grains, white roots, tubers, and pulses. In contrast, the intake of dairy, eggs, and non-vegetarian food items is much lower. Only Half of the lactating women (56.5 percent; 95% CI: 37.4; 73.8) have a minimum diversified diet (MDD). The prevalence of lactating women with MDD was higher among households with higher income (73.1 percent; 95% CI: 45.2; 89.9) than those in lower income group (50.7 percent; 95% CI: 42.3; 58.9). Lactating Women (in early phase) who received health and nutrition counseling services are more likely (OR: 2.37; 95% CI: 0.90; 6.26) to consume a diversified diet. Food groups such as fruits, meat, poultry, fish, nuts, and seeds were among the rare food items in daily diet. The dietary pattern lacking in fruits, nuts, and heme (iron) sources indicates more significant risks of micronutrient deficiencies. The findings call for improving dietary diversity among lactating mothers, particularly from the marginalized communities, and are driven by low consumption of dairy products or various fruits and vegetables. Among the different food items, the consumption of micronutrient-rich seeds and nuts is most difficult to be accessed by lactating mothers. Also, diet-centric counseling and informing lactating mothers of its benefits are necessary to increase dietary diversity for improving maternal and child nutrition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Clinical theileriosis of small ruminants is tick-borne disease caused by Theileria lestoquardi, Theileria uilenbergi and Theileria luwenshuni. Theileria annulata, the causative agent of bovine tropical theileriosis in cattle, can also infect sheep but does not cause any significant illness. It is one of the economically important diseases. There are no reports of ovine clinical theileriosis from Maharashtra state and there is paucity of information on its epidemiology. This paper reports first confirmed outbreak of ovine theileriosis based on clinical signs, microscopic examination, PCR and sequencing in the Maharashtra State of India. Methods: Whole blood samples from 22 ailing sheep were collected and subjected to hematological examination. Blood smears stained with Leishman's stain were examined under 100X objective of the microscope. The blood samples from sheep found positive by microscopic method were subjected to PCR detection of 18S rRNA gene of hemoprotozoa and then for nucleotide sequencing and sequence analysis. Conclusion: Samples from 14 out of 22 sheep were found positive for piroplasms of Theileria spp by light microscopy. All positive samples were further confirmed by PCR detection of 18S rRNA gene of hemoprotozoa. PCR amplification yielded expected product of 1750 bp for all samples. BLAST and phylogenetic analysis of one sample revealed high sequence homology with T. luwenshuni reported from India and other countries. Characteristic clinical signs like fever, progressive anaemia, laboured breathing, lymphadenopathy, debility and non-responsiveness to antibiotic therapy were recorded. The animals responded to specific treatment against theileriosis. It is the first ever confirmed report of ovine theileriosis in Maharashtra state of India and hence reported. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The De-notified tribes are tribal communities that were notified under the Criminal Tribes Act (CTA) 1871 in colonial India. Although the Act was repealed after independence, the tribes declared as 'criminals' continue to remain labeled and are still living with stigma. Tribes notified under the CTA became De-notified in Independent India. The De-notified tribes in India continue to remain as one of India's most excluded and marginalized communities, excluding opportunities and deprived of resources. There are 198 De-notified tribes in India. After the repeal of the act post-independence, some of the declared tribal communities were included among the Scheduled tribes' population in different states; some yet continue to remain enlisted as the 'De-notified' tribes in India. The De-notified tribes comprise a significant population in India, and they are classified under a separate category as DNTs or DNCs. These tribal groups, although were "de-notified" they continue to face discrimination in their everyday life. These tribes do not have access to basic resources and livelihood opportunities; they are treated differently by people from other castes. They also face discrimination at the hands of the police. Their stigmatized spoiled identity due to ancestral labeling influences their present critically. They are subject to atrocities in the hands of the police and power groups in the village. The incidences of atrocities in the case of the De-notified tribes are not acknowledged under the Prevention of Atrocities Act by the state, which protects the marginalized communities and tribes. Their complaints remain unnoticed, and they are subject to false suspicion. The tribe remains in poverty and is subject to stigma and exclusion; their situations have not changed. The government has made no notable attempt to create provisions for upliftment of these communities and safeguard their rights. The absence of uniformity in the reservation policy keeps them away from the government benefits. This paper attempts to highlight the issues and problems faced by the de-notified tribes in Maharashtra India, narrating their experiences of spoiled identity and stigma. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract This paper analyses relationships between private supplementary tutoring and mainstream schooling in urban Maharashtra, India. The role of private tutoring progressively expands from the lower to the higher grades, and is especially visible in Classes 11 and 12 when it seems to supplant rather than supplement mainstream schooling. The paper notes the complex interplay of social, economic and educational factors in the shifting relationships, and has relevance not only for other parts of India but also other countries. The dynamics of private tutoring should be considered when conceptualising educational processes and devising policies for schooling, especially in relation to social inequalities and the efficiency of school systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The COVID-19 infections and deaths have largely been uneven within and between countries. With 17% of the world's population, India has so far had 13% of global COVID-19 infections and 8.5% of deaths. Maharashtra accounting for 9% of India's population, is the worst affected state, with 19% of infections and 33% of total deaths in the country until 23rd December 2020. Though a number of studies have examined the vulnerability to and spread of COVID-19 and its effect on mortality, no attempt has been made to understand its impact on mortality in the states of India.Method: Using data from multiple sources and under the assumption that COVID-19 deaths are additional deaths in the population, this paper examined the impact of the disease on premature mortality, loss of life expectancy, years of potential life lost (YPLL), and disability-adjusted life years (DALY) in Maharashtra. Descriptive statistics, a set of abridged life tables, YPLL, and DALY were used in the analysis. Estimates of mortality indices were compared pre- and during COVID-19.Result: COVID-19 attributable deaths account for 5.3% of total deaths in the state and have reduced the life expectancy at birth by 0.8 years, from 73.2 years in the pre-COVID-19 period to 72.4 years by the end of 2020. If COVID-19 attributable deaths increase to 10% of total deaths, life expectancy at birth will likely reduce by 1.4 years. The probability of death in 20-64 years of age (the prime working-age group) has increased from 0.15 to 0.16 due to COVID-19. There has been 1.06 million additional loss of years (YPLL) in the state, and DALY due to COVID-19 has been estimated to be 6 per thousand.Conclusion: COVID-19 has increased premature mortality, YPLL, and DALY and has reduced life expectancy at every age in Maharashtra. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This write-up is a brief reflection of a rural doctor couple, Dr. Himmatrao Saluba Bawaskar (HSB) and Dr. Pramodini Himmatrao Bawaskar (PHB), working in the remote area of Maharashtra state of India during COVID-19 pandemic. During the pandemic, rural doctors are routinely exposed to symptomatic COVID-positive cases in the outpatient as well as indoor setting. The authors, both husband and wife, were in compulsory quarantine for twice at home and experienced social stigmas attached to a positive case. Here is a report the details of COVID-19 pattern and its management learned from the published scientific papers on COVID-19, and severe acute respiratory syndrome due to SARS-CoV-2 from December 2019 and their own experience in rural setting and the current literature shared in the form of personal narration. Apart from the personal experience of patients experience regarding quarantine period, COVID-19 is discussed in detail for the benefit of rural practitioners. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Many community-based intervention models for mental health and wellbeing have undergone robust experimental evaluation; however, there are limited accounts of the implementation of these evidence-based interventions in practice. Atmiyata piloted the implementation of a community-led intervention to identify and understand the challenges of delivering such an intervention. The goal of the pilot evaluation is to identify factors important for larger-scale implementation across an entire district in India. This paper presents the results of a feasibility and acceptability study of the Atmiyata intervention piloted in Nashik district, Maharashtra, India between 2013 and 2015. Methods: A mixed methods approach was used to evaluate the Atmiyata intervention. First, a pre-post survey conducted with 215 cases identified with a GHQ cut-off 6 using a 3-month interval. Cases enrolled into the study in one randomly selected month (May–June 2015). Secondly, a quasi-experimental, pre-post design was used to conduct a population-based survey in the intervention and control areas. A randomly selected sample (panel) of 827 women and 843 men age between 18 to 65 years were interviewed to assess the impact of the Atmiyata intervention on common mental disorders. Finally, using qualitative methods, 16 Champions interviewed to understand an implementation processes, barriers and facilitators. Results: Of the 215 participants identified by the Champions as being distressed or having a common mental disorder (CMD), n = 202 (94.4%) had a GHQ score at either sub-threshold level for CMD or above at baseline. Champions accurately identified people with emotional distress and in need of psychological support. After a 6-session counselling provided by the Champions, the percentage of participants with a case-level GHQ score dropped from 63.8 to 36.8%. The second sub-intervention consisted of showing films on Champions' mobile phones to raise community awareness regarding mental health. Films consisted of short scenario-based depictions of problems commonly experienced in villages (alcohol use and domestic violence). Champions facilitated access to social benefits for people with disability. Retention of Atmiyata Champions was high; 90.7% of the initial selected champions continued to work till the end of the project. Champions stated that they enjoyed their work and found it fulfilling to help others. This made them willing to work voluntarily, without pay. The semi-structured interviews with champions indicated that persons in the community experienced reduced symptoms and improved social, occupational and family functioning for problems such as depression, domestic violence, alcohol use, and severe mental illness. Conclusions: This study shows that community-led interventions using volunteers from rural neighbourhoods can serve as a locally feasible and acceptable approach to facilitating access social welfare benefits, as well as reducing distress and symptoms of depression and anxiety in a low and middle-income country context. The intervention draws upon social capital in a community to engage and empower community members to address mental health problems. A robust evaluation methodology is needed to test the efficacy of such a model when it is implemented at scale. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Urban landscapes are formed and reformed through the interactions of people, place, and time. These processes are most of the time slow-paced (except in the event of disasters, wars, or deliberate interventions) and their effect is apparent over a span of decades, if not centuries. However, urban landscapescantransform in a matter of days, although temporarily, through various rituals and festivals celebrated at the level of a neighbourhood or a city. Such rituals and festivals played an important role in giving meaning to the urban landscape of eighteenth-century Maharashtra. The meaning-making operated at the level of regions, settlements, and neighbourhoods. In settlements, these rituals and festivals gave sanctity to the town, protected it from supernatural forces, and symbolically connected it to the cosmic whole. The paper discusses such meaning-making through the instrument of rituals and festivities as observed in eighteenth-century Maharashtra (in India) under the Peśvā rulers (a Persian word meaning ‘leader’). The first part of the paper examines urban festivals and rituals in pre-colonial India as studied by various scholars. In the second part, the emergent themes are studied in the context of Maharashtra, both as observed through historic contemporary literary sources and through field study in Wai (in Satara district, Maharashtra). The latter part focuses in particular on the festival of the river goddess Kṛṣṇā celebrated at Wai as an example of a living tradition of urban festivals. It is argued that the study of ephemeral urban landscapes reveals continued associations and meanings that a culture group attaches to them. This understanding is important for managing historic urban landscapes, not just for their physical fabric, but also for the values and continuities embedded in them. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We used Microsoft XL optimizer and Particle Swarm Optimization to find optimized integrated combinations of RES. Thermal energy demand data is generated for a midtownand found highest requirement of hot water and cooking heat. Solar water heaters, biogas and biomass gasifier are the most promising RES technologies to satisfy the thermal energy demand of a midtown. To reduce the dependency on fossil fuels, the renewable energy systems must be utilized in an interactive manner and need to be optimized. Currently, the thermal energy demand of any city is mostly satisfied by the conventional resources. It produces considerable strain on fossile fuel reserves and lead to increase green house gas emissions also. The thermal demand of city can be satisfied by integrative use of renewable energy resources. This integrative use needs modelling and optimization. In this paper, optimised combinations of three renewable energy systems, such as solar water heating systems, biomass gasifiers and biogas energy systems are presented to satisfy the thermal demand of a region. A Microsoft excel optimizer software is used to solve the multiobjective optimization problem to find the optimum combinations. Minimization of lifecycle cost and CO 2 emission are considered as main two multiobjectives. Particle Swarm Optimization (PSO) algorithm is utilized to solve the constraint optimization problem. The thermal energy demand satisfaction of Kolhapur city, a midtown city, in western Maharashtra, India, is taken for case study. The daily average thermal energy demand of one day for each month is satisfied in this case study for the whole year. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper examines the wari as a discursive terrain produced by the interface of folk and Hinduised cultures. We focus on socio-religious interactions and divergences as crucial sites for the production of a discourse on the economy of worship, devotion and social equality. Popularly understood as a procession to Pandharpur, wari is understood here as a social force mediating the transmission of ideas and practices through the interface of various publics. We interpret wari as a process generated through the reflexivity of productive castes interacting with Brahminical Hinduism, and the articulation of social ethics reflecting specific realities and aspirations of allied communities with an emphasis on worldly relationships. The wari's grammar of devotion subverts abstract notions of the spiritual by embedding them in the local and everyday. Its emergence from regional counter-hegemonic agitations reflects the existential crises and agency of Maharashtra's productive castes, and the instrumentality of local parlance in demystifying Brahminical representations of society. The term discursive comprises a vocabulary of devotion addressing cultural material alienation, social disparity, agency and the formation of intentional publics in constituting sites for social reform. This paper relies on field data and existing literature to consolidate its argument. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The irrigation scenario in Maharashtra has been under media focus for quite some time. The present paper traces the development of irrigation in Maharashtra state since its inception. The development of irrigation at the state level as well as across the regional divisions has been discussed. The focus of the paper is on the vast disparity in the irrigation potential created and the actual area irrigated. It also highlights the development of irrigation in terms of major, medium and minor irrigation projects across regional divisions. The paper raises some issues of concern for the future policy measures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A qualitative survey was carried out during 2005- 2010 of all indigenous and naturalized plants of Gadchiroli district, Maharashtra, India. There are 237 species belonging to 184 genera and 73 families which are listed in this paper. Out of 73 families listed, 63 belong to dicotyledonae and 10 belong to monocotyledonae. Dominant families were Fabaceae (21 genera), Acanthaceae (12 genera) followed by Asteracece (9 genera). The nomenclature system followed in this paper is up to date. Three plants (1.63%) listed in this paper come under Vulnerable (VU) and two (1.09%) comes under Lower Risk (LR) categories. Eleven genera (5.98%) are reported to be endemic to Maharashtra state of India. Only one plant species (Agave americana var. americana) was not native of the area and is cultivated. Voucher specimens of the representative plants are submitted at Medicinal Plants Conservation Center (MPCC), Pune, Maharashtra, and the voucher number is provided along with names of plants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Maternal depression is a major public health problem in low- and middle-income countries including India. Very few studies have assessed association of various risk factors with antenatal depression in rural Indian women, especially the effect of marital conflict, gender disadvantage and gender preference on antenatal depression. This paper describes the prevalence of probable antenatal depression in rural Maharashtra, a state in the western part of India and specifically assesses the association of marital and gender disadvantage factors and gender preference for a male child with antenatal depression.Methods: Primary Health Centre-based cross-sectional survey of antenatal women in rural Maharashtra was carried out. The outcome of interest was a probable diagnosis of depression in antenatal women which was measured using the Edinburgh postnatal depression scale (EPDS). Data were analyzed using simple and multiple logistic regression.Results: 302 women in their antenatal period were included in this study. The outcome of antenatal depression (EPDS > 12) was found in 51 women (16.9%, 95% CI 12.6-21.1%). Feeling pressurized to deliver a male child was strongly associated with the outcome of antenatal depression (adjusted odds ratio (OR): 3.0; 95% CI 1.4-6.5). Unsatisfactory reaction of in-laws to dowry (adjusted OR 11.2; 95% CI 2.4-52.9) and difficult relationship with in-laws (adjusted OR 5.3; 95% CI 2.4-11.6) were also significantly associated with antenatal depression.Conclusions: Our findings demonstrate that antenatal depression in rural women of Western Maharashtra is associated with gender disadvantage factors, especially related to preference for a male child. The agenda to improve maternal mental health should be ultimately linked to address the broader social development goals and gender empowerment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Mini-Hydro power generation could be planned on small-scale on existing small rivers, canals etc. as it could be beneficial in utilization of all existing water reservoirs and streams so as to generate hydro power which is renewable in nature. By this, they do not encounter the problems of rehabilitation of people and environmental problems associated with the large hydro power plants. This paper presents the case study of two potential sites namely Shahnoor and Purna in Vidarbha region of Maharashtra State in India. Here, the hydrological data of a potential site for nearly sixty years is obtained and is thoroughly studied for possible development of mini hydro power plant. The basic parameters those are to be included in feasibility report which is to be prepared for every proposed hydroelectric project are also mentioned. This paper could be well utilized for planning and irrigating land in and around rural areas. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Recognizing the failure of past interventions to provide water services to all citizens in developing countries, worldwide a reform process of water policies has been initiated. The Indian State of Maharashtra is a front-runner in formulating and implementing such a reform policy. Its policy aims at demand-led, participatory and democratic decision-making for project implementation (as distinct to the previous supply-driven policies). This paper evaluates the success of this reform policy for 12 villages of the Deccan Plateau in Maharashtra. There, these projects were implemented under two funding programs of different donors that implemented the reform policy through different guidelines. The paper confirms that promoting bottom-up decision-making supported by capacity building can lead to better outcomes. However, it also highlights several risks, which may be mitigated by selective top-down control mechanisms. Hence, a combination of bottom-up and top-down decision-making may lead to best results. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Creation and use of social capital is considered to be one of the emerging tools of development programmes. It is valued as one of the vital link to replace physical capital with social intermediation in microfinance. The paper analyses the meaning and role of social capital with specific reference to microfinance programme and tries to measure its impact on social empowerment of women with the help of empirical findings. The paper is based on primary data collected of 217 women Self Help Group (SHG) members by using random sample method from the SHGs organized by Forbes Marshall Co. Ltd, a leading manufacturing company in Pune, Maharashtra, India as an initiative of corporate social responsibility. A Likert scale is used to find the perceptions of SHG members about the changes which microfinance programme has brought out in their lives with respect to 15 parameters related to awareness building, capacity building and active and collective participation in social and political life to bring out desirable changes. The paper concludes that microfinance programme implemented by the organization has created a social capital which has an empowering effect on SHG members. The paper suggests that creation of social capital is not an automatic outcome and the organizations have to create and nurture it deliberately by implementing specific policies such as capacity building programmes, developing decision making abilities, etc. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dealing effectively with malignant mystical attack is an important concern in central India. This paper examines the ways in which the connections and conflicts between the Maoist movement, the police, and marginalised villagers in the state of Maharashtra, India, has led to a crisis in the identification of malfeasants such as witches. In response to the presence of the Maoist insurgency, state actors have become more involved in people’s lives than ever before. Police and others attempt to regulate activities such as witch-detecting and ghost-finding, which they regard as evidence of ‘backwardness’. In many respects of course, the Maoist movement is itself a commentary on ‘backwardness’. The paper therefore offers an insight into the lives of people involved in and affected by the circulation of this concept and the forms of transformation that result. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The paper is an announcement of the recent discovery of a small and yet well-preserved skeletal assemblage belonging to nilgai (Boselaphus tragocamelus) and an equid in Pleistocene alluvial deposits that have also preserved the acidic volcanic ash and Stone Age artefacts at the banks of River Karha near Morgaon in District Pune. Only 15 postcranial elements, a ramus with two lower teeth and an isolated upper tooth comprise the fossil record. The state of preservation reveals interesting clues to its taphonomic history, pointing to the semi-primary context of deposition. Systematic palaeontology and a brief taphonomic history of the assemblage are discussed in the paper. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

This paper examines the decentralization process in the state of Maharashtra. Among the states in India, Maharashtra's efforts at decentralization are regarded as a success story. Using cross-section data for 243 urban local governments, the paper examines the flypaper effect, that is, the expenditure stimulus of grants from the state government to the urban governments. The significance of spatial factors has been highlighted in the study. The models have been estimated using spatial econometric techniques. Most of the estimated models show the presence of the flypaper effect. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the mid-1980s, the state government of Maharashtra, India, introduced a slum redevelopment strategy in its capital city, Mumbai (Bombay). In contrast to traditional housing improvement strategies that focus primarily on legalizing the land tenure of residents, slum redevelopment is a more complex strategy. It involves the demolition of existing slums and the redevelopment of new, higher density, medium-rise apartment blocks, including, entirely cross-subsidized housing for the original slum dwellers. Mumbai''s experience, documented through a single case study in this paper, illustrates that contrary to the conventional focus only on private property rights, upgrading policy must be based on a differentiated view of property rights. Furthermore, policy must also consider the property values, the physical attributes of the real property (underlying asset), and the interplay among property rights, property values and physical attributes. Second, the paper demonstrates that under certain conditions, there is a constituency among slum dwellers for complex initiatives, like redevelopment. This suggests that planners should be skeptical about popular, simplistic myths regarding low-income housing preferences. However, slum redevelopment''s slow pace also implies that planners need to be cautious in their enthusiasm for redevelopment. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

This paper sets out to describe the characteristics of HIV/AIDS in India, especially in the western Indian state of Maharashtra, and how Australian technology is being transferred to India to assist with the control of this epidemic. Specifically, the paper looks at Australian involvement in the Ansell-Raymonds joint venture, which manufactures the Kamasutra condom. To begin with, however, the problem of HIV/AIDS and its control in India is set into a broader cultural framework that looks at why HIV/AIDS in India has been so prolific and spread so quickly. By what means might the spread of HIV/Aids be controlled? The article questions the adequacy of the responses to HIV/AIDS in India, given the failure to identify men having sex with men as a major source of risky behaviour. We assess the contribution that the Kamasutra condom might make in the light of this broader discussion about the culture of sex and sexually transmitted diseases in India. Clearly the response of the private and public sectors in India have been far from adequate; perhaps as many as four million people in India now have HIV infection. Given the absence of any cure, and the lack of cheap medicines to delay the onset of death, the majority of HIV-infected people in India are likely to die. The HIV/AIDS epidemic is emerging as possibly India's greatest public-policy failure since independence. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Indian electricity demand reduced by 11 % vis-à-vis 2019 during the lockdown. • Sectoral demand reduction—73 % industrial, remaining 27 % commercial. • Pan India lights-off event—hydropower provides the bulk of the flexibility (60 %). • The plant load factor of coal dropped to a record low of 35 % during phase-1. • Power sector emissions reduced by 16 % (86 MtCO2) compared to 2019. This paper aims to understand the responsiveness of the power sector during the lockdown due to the COVID-19 pandemic beginning from March 25, 2020 and analyses its impact on the demand, operation and supply of electricity in the Indian power system. The role of the C&I load share in reducing the electricity demand of the different states in India has been examined using multi-sectoral regression analysis. The impact of the pan India lights-off event on the short-term operational flexibility response of the power system has also been analysed using high-temporal resolution data. The results indicate that there has been a reduction of nearly 70 TWh of electricity demand during the lockdown period, an 11 % reduction compared to 2019. The top three states recording the highest reduction were Maharashtra, Gujarat and Tamil Nadu at 11 TWh, 10.6 TWh and 8.4 TWh, respectively. Regression analysis revealed that out of the total drop in load demand — 73 % is owed to the industrial sector, while the remaining 27 % is to the commercial sector. This demand drop also impacted the upstream electricity supply mix where 96 % of the reduction in supply was borne by the coal generating units, recording its lowest national plant load factor at 35 % with a 16 % reduction in overall CO 2 emission compared to the same period in 2019. In conclusion, a case study of Maharashtra has been used to analyse the impact of this reduction in electricity demand on the supply mix, hourly load profile and cost of supply under the different lockdown phases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper offers an insight into the creative ways in which a major social institution in one of the most progressive states in India has attempted to take gender issues on board. The Maharashtra Police Force has taken a major step towards empowering women by opening all mainstream duties to them as from 1994. The paper records the process through which the Force has taken this up as part of a larger agenda to tackle the issues of violence against women, and may serve as an example for similar organizations and students of gender issues. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper looks at the crucial issue of dry-season groundwater-availability in the state of Maharashtra, India. We look at the two key hydro-climatological measurements which are used to implement groundwater policy in the state, viz., water levels in 5000+ observation wells across the state and aggregate rainfall data. We see that there is substantial variation in groundwater levels within and across the years in most wells. We argue that for a large number of these observation well locations, aggregate rainfall data is inadequate to model or to predict groundwater levels. For this, we use a novel random rainfall coefficient model for the purpose of modelling the effect of rainfall in a composite setting where extraction and changing land-use data is unknown. The observed high variance of this coefficient points to significant variations in groundwater levels, which may only be explained by unmeasured anthropogenic factors. Next, we see that the uncertainty in actual groundwater levels along with scarcity are two distinct features of groundwater availability and will elicit different behaviours from the typical user. Finally, we recommend that quantitative groundwater assessment protocols of the state should move to incorporating data from which extraction and land-use may be modelled. We believe this is one of the first studies where large spatio-temporal scale data gathered by state agencies have been analysed for scientific adequacy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents archaeological evidence from the neighbouring villages of Nagardhan and Hamlapuri in the Nagpur District of Maharashtra, approximately 6 km south of the ancient Vākāṭaka religious centre of Rāmṭek. Both sites have previously been identified as the location of Nandivardhana, one of the Eastern Vākāṭaka ‘capitals’ or royal ‘residences’. The data presented here was recorded during an archaeological survey of Rāmṭek that aimed to contextualise the site in its landscape, and to explore the rural settlement history of the area. The archaeological evidence recorded primarily consisted of ceramic remains, alongside finds of brick, tile, and sculptural pieces. Study of the ceramic remains in particular works towards both increasing our understanding of settlement sites contemporary to the Vākāṭaka developments at Rāmṭek and enabling further insight into the representative cultural assemblage of the Early Historic period in this region. This information will contribute to our overall understanding of the third to sixth centuries CE, which was a period of significant socio-political and economic development across India and of supposed Eastern Vākāṭaka expansion into newly developing areas. The evidence presented here lends further weight to the identification of Nagardhan as Nandivardhana, and supports the hypothesis that this area represents a noteworthy centre of Early Historic settlement activity. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

This paper mainly describes the assessment of rockfall risk for the large number of pilgrims along the parikrama path (circumbultory or pathway around the shrine) at the Saptashrungi Gad Temple, Vani, Nashik, Maharashtra, India. The temple is constructed on moderately weathered and fractured basaltic terrain along the steep high hill slope. The loose rockmass from the top of the hill occasionally fall, bounce, roll and slide down along the slope of the temple with some rockmass blocks landing on or passing the parikrama path. This leads to risk while taking parikrama along the hill. A quantitative risk assessment (QRA) was undertaken to determine the risk for the pilgrims performing parikrama along the parikrama paths struck by rockfalls and the risk reduction capabilities of various remedial work. The obtained QRA results indicate that, the societal risk cannot be acceptable. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article describes the significance of gender-sensitive ethnographic research methods in demarcating the importance of 'empathetic relationships' as an important tool for understanding childlessness in juxtaposition to the manner in which it is imagined to be by structural histories of the same, public health activism, and development studies. This article explores the changes in my understanding of cultural concepts that describe child-loss and childlessness in my field area, rural Maharashtra, which I had earlier thought of as being a static but continuously self-replicating category, its culture forming a continuum over time. Instead, I found myself not just identifying deeply with my rural protagonists, but also able to access solutions to my own emotional difficulties about becoming a woman and mother. This paper questions the dichotomy between rural-urban/traditional-modern divides that bring to light a co-existent and plural spectrum of gendered physical and sexual experiences among women, which are powerful, especially when shared within empathetic relationships. This article neither advocates 'sisterhood' nor an unambiguous, collective and uniform psychology of the female gender and biology; it attempts to describe a language that expresses and understands childlessness within its cultural context. This article is divided into seven sections that explore the aforementioned and intertwined issues, namely: biography, method, empathetic relationships, patriarchy, historical perspective, poverty and development, and grey zone. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With the negative climate impact of fossil fuel power generation and the requirement of global policy to shift towards a green mix of energy production, the investment in renewable energy is an opportunity in developing countries. However, poor economy associated with limited income, funds availability, and regulations governing project funding and development are key factors that challenge investors in the energy sector. Given the various power generation resources, including renewables, it is necessary to evaluate the possible power generation investment options from an economic perspective. To realize this objective, solar PV, wind and diesel power generations are economically compared, considering the incremental rate of return and incremental benefit to cost ratio techniques. The alternative investment options of distributed generation technologies are evaluated for Maharashtra, India under different depreciation methods, and the effect of the latter on selecting the best investment candidate is investigated. The paper also conducts sensitivity analysis to examine the impact of capital cost, operation and maintenance cost, and fuel cost variations on the selection decision considering a comparison of the different general projects' cash flow structures discussed in the literature. The economic aspects of selecting a project among possible alternatives for an investment in the power sector are analyzed, and the presented review provides comprehensive comparisons with respect to the literature approaches. The results reveal that, in the benchmark case study, the PV project is rejected and disregarded from further comparisons with other candidate projects since its equity internal rate of return (10.25%) is less than the minimum accepted rate of return, leaving the selection between wind and diesel energy projects. The study reveals that the incremental rates of return under such a comparison are 37.88%, 45.94% and 37.50% when MACRS, declining balance and straight line depreciations techniques are applied, respectively. Thus, the wind energy project is the favored option in this case. For the economic assessment of other case studies, the application of both sensitivity analysis on the capital cost and operation and maintenance cost and literature approaches to structure the projects reveal that wind energy for Maharashtra, India is a more attractive and feasible option compared to other distribution generation projects, while diesel is only considered to be a good option when its fuel cost is reduced by 5%. Finally, the paper highlights policy implications that can influence the decision to move towards investment in distributed generation technologies as a future research direction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sugarcane woolly aphid (SWA), Ceratovacuna lanigera Zehntner, appeared in an epidemic form in southern Maharashtra and Northern Karnataka, India during 2002 and biological control of pest with potential predator, Micromus igorotus Banks was found to be dependable remedy. So the predator was mass multiplied in laboratory on SWA, and then released in sugarcane ecosystem. The adults were reared using plastic container of 25 cm (ht.) X 11.25 cm (dia) size and were released @ 25 pairs per container. SWA was given as adult food and cotton thread [15 cm (length) and 0.155 cm (thick)] was used as ovipositional substrate. The larvae were reared in plastic box with ventilated lid [10.00 cm (ht.) X 25.50 cm (dia)] @ 100 larvae per box. At the time of pupation corrugated brown paper of 15.0 cm (l) X 12.0 cm (w)] was provided for pupation. The pupae of the predator were released in SWA infested sugarcane fields @ 500, 1000 and 1500 pupae/ha. Studies on predatory dosage, level of incidence and gestation period for suppression of SWA to desired level indicated that there exists choice in altering the dosage depending on the severity of aphid incidence, age of the crop and gestation period targeted for suppression of pest. Augmentation of 500 pupae/ha was adequate to suppress the pest in 90 days when it was prevalent at grade 2 - 3 on 6 - 7 month crop during June - November. To reduce the gestation period and thus to prevent growth and loss of cane, release of 1000 pupae/ha on 6 - 7 months crop infested with SWA at 3 - 4 grade ensured the suppression of the pest in 60 days after release (DAR) in June - November. A dosage of 1500 pupae/ha proved effective to lower the SWA incidence from sever state of grade 5 - 6 on crop of 6 - 7 months in 30 DAR during June to November. In all the field release studies, native population of SWA predator assisted the augmented population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The debate over labour market regulations in India is highly polarised. Advocates of labour market deregulation suggest that the labour law framework in the country confers disproportionate powers on workers and trade unions in the formal sector of the economy, resulting in industrial conflicts and poor productivity. Using workplace union survey data from the state of Maharashtra, this paper examines the veracity of these claims. Maharashtra is recognised as a state with a broadly pro-worker labour law framework. We find that even pro-worker labour laws at best offer only weak protection to workers and unions in the formal sector establishments. Unions find themselves increasingly vulnerable to employer hostility. We discuss these findings in the context of the role of state and judiciary in employment relations and of union links with political parties. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Stigma is a recognized barrier to early detection of HIV and causes great suffering for those affected. This paper examines HIV-related stigma in rural and tribal communities of Maharashtra, an area of relatively high HIV prevalence in India. The study used a mix of qualitative and quantitative methods to compare adult women and adolescents in a rural area, women in a rural area, and women in a tribal area. The respondents included 494 married women and 186 adolescents in a rural community and 49 married women in six tribal villages. HIV-related stigma was prevalent in all communities and was the highest among tribal and older respondents. High-risk behaviour was reported in both areas, accompanied with denial of personal risk. Our findings suggest that HIV may be spreading silently in these communities. To our knowledge, this is the first community-based study to make an in-depth assessment of HIV-related stigma in rural and tribal areas of India. By situating our findings within the broader discourse on stigma in the national and state-level data, this study helps explain the nature and persistence of stigma and how to address it more effectively among subcultural groups in India. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dhananjayarao Gadgil Library of Gokhale Institute of Politics and Economics (GIPE) has started building up the digital library collections by scanning its valuable rare books during July 2011. The GIPE's digital library uses open source software DSpace for building its digital repository. Currently, repository holds more than 7500 digital documents. These documents are available to all the scholars across the world. The present paper discusses the methodology adapted for its digital library building. The various processes involved were: Identification of the vendor, identifying the documents to be scanned or digitised, overall work flow, preparation of the metadata in excel, converting the data into Dublin Core XML format and then finally uploading the metadata into DSpace server. Unique feature of this digital library is the bulk upload of the metadata along with digital data files of all the digital documents. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The memorandum of understanding between Enron and the Maharashtra State Electricity Board, signed on 20 June 1992, set in motion the Dabhol Power Project, the largest corporate-led venture in Indian history. But even while the project was gaining official clearance, it attracted considerable local opposition on environmental and livelihood related grounds. Additionally, the fact that Enron was awarded the contract by the Congress Party led state government of Maharashtra, in the absence of procedural transparency and open bidding, entangled the project in deep controversy. This paper, based on fieldwork, examines opposition to the Dabhol Power Project. I particularly focus on the relevance of militant particularism, and the importance of counter-hegemony of the working class and/or the subaltern counter-public in the context of multi-scaled manifestations of neoliberal power. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]