SOCRATES

We are pleased to present the combined June and December 2021 issue of SOCRATES, our esteemed journal dedicated to the dissemination of original research in the disciplines of Public Policy, Public Administration, and Philosophy. This issue marks a significant milestone, symbolising our commitment to advancing academic scholarship despite the challenges we have faced in recent years. We apologize for the delay in releasing this issue due to various constraints and reasons, and we appreciate your understanding and patience. This double issue, titled the "North-East India Special" features selected articles from emerging researchers in the Northeastern region. These insightful and thought-provoking research articles bring unique perspectives and contribute to a deeper understanding of pertinent issues within their respective domains.

The first article in this issue, by Birta Hansepi, examines the staffing patterns in public and private schools in the West Karbi Anglong region of Assam. The research focuses on the recruitment processes and the availability of training and development programs in these schools. Using survey questionnaires administered to teachers, Hansepi identifies significant differences between the public and private sectors in terms of staffing practices and opportunities for professional development. This research is crucial for understanding the management functions that underpin effective educational institutions.

The second article, by Ibanjelin Mawrie, assesses the socio-economic impacts of MGNREGA in the Laitlyngkot region. By employing a mixed-methods approach, this study integrates qualitative insights from field observations and interviews with quantitative data analysis. Mawrie's findings indicate that MGNREGA has significantly improved livelihood security, household incomes, and access to essential services. However, the study also identifies challenges, such as discrepancies and delays in wage payments, which hinder the program's overall effectiveness.

The third article, by Josephine H.M., explores the socio-economic and political challenges encountered by the Maram Centre Village Council in Manipur. This research highlights the need for capacity building to enhance governance capabilities and stresses the importance of stakeholder engagement, transparency, and accountability. The study’s quantitative approach reveals critical insights for policymakers aiming to formulate effective strategies for inclusive and sustainable development.

The fourth article, by Lamngaineng Guite, assesses the socio-economic status of Kuki tribal women in Moreh Town. The research identifies key factors influencing their socio-economic conditions, including education, health, economic pursuits, and social behaviour. Using structured questionnaires and statistical analysis, the study reveals that the socio-economic status of Kuki women is generally low, emphasizing the need for better education, health, and economic opportunities to enhance their roles and status within their families and communities.

The fifth and final article, by Madhu Thakur, explores the migration of youth from Kamrup (M), Assam, to metropolitan areas across India, focusing on the socio-economic implications of this trend. Through surveys, interviews, and secondary data analysis, Thakur identifies economic opportunities, educational pursuits, and aspirations for a modern lifestyle as primary motivators for migration. The study also addresses the challenges faced by these youths, such as cultural adjustment and social integration, while highlighting the broader impacts on local development due to the 'brain drain' phenomenon.

As we move forward, our editorial team remains dedicated to upholding the highest standards of academic excellence and integrity. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the authors for their valuable contributions and to our reviewers for their diligent efforts in ensuring the quality of the published research. We also thank our readers for their continued support and patience during these challenging times. The resilience of our academic community is evident in the remarkable research presented in this issue. Through such collaborative efforts, we can overcome obstacles and continue to contribute to the collective knowledge and progress of our journal. We are optimistic about the future and confident that SOCRATES will continue to serve as a vital platform for scholarly dialogue and innovation. We invite researchers and scholars to contribute their work to upcoming issues and join us in our mission to advance knowledge and understanding across diverse fields. In closing, we hope that this issue of SOCRATES will inspire new ideas, provoke thoughtful discussion, and stimulate further research. Together, we will navigate the challenges ahead and strive for a brighter, more informed future.

Warm regards

Prof. Dr. Manoj Dixit 

Dr. Saurabh Chandra