Artha Journal of Social Sciences

Evaluating AYUSH Integration in Delhi NCR: A PRISMA Framework Study

2026-03-19T14:36:25+00:00

As the Indian government attempts to mainstream AYUSH (Ayurveda, Yoga & Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha, and Homoeopathy) systems into the healthcare sector, it is plagued by the problem of policy perception paradox, whereby persistent low utilisation of these services persists despite significant infrastructure development and investment. A systematic review of the literature using the PRISMA framework is used as the methodology for this study. The findings reveal that Delhi-NCR is recognised as a centre for a number of apex institutions, extensive co-location with allopathic facilities and digital integration. However, this is in sharp contrast to a consistent pattern of severe demand-side underutilization as AYUSH accounts for a disproportionately low fraction of outpatient visits compared to allopathy, which results in increased government spending per patient in AYUSH facilities. The analysis further reveals that even though AYUSH is preferred in managing chronic conditions, its widespread acceptance is hampered by perceived lack of scientific validation and operational challenges in integrated settings. The study concludes that current trends in Delhi-NCR highlight policy-perception gaps, showing the critical need for solutions that move beyond infrastructural expansion to effectively address the determinants of low public utilization.

Connectivity as Strategy: Assessing India’s Key Infrastructure Initiatives in Myanmar and Thailand

2026-03-30T06:58:22+00:00

As a regional power, India’s ties with the South Asian nations are particularly significant. In order to maximise its relations with the region, excellent connectivity facilities have become tremendously important to enhance economic transactions, cultural interactions, and interpersonal contacts. In this regard, the ongoing India-Myanmar-Thailand (IMT) Trilateral Highway and The Kaladan Multi-Modal Transit Transport Project (KMMTTP) are undoubtedly two primary infrastructure initiatives by India under the aegis of its Act East policy. Nevertheless, the advancement of these two have been hampered by various political and security concerns in Myanmar. Construction is delayed, costs are increased and the project’s long-term viability is uncertain due to the persistent political instability in Myanmar. In light of this, it is important to consider how the recent general elections in Myanmar would impact India’s ongoing infrastructure projects. This article aims to examine India's major infrastructure projects and their prospects in the post-election Myanmar.

Contextual Drawbacks to Implementing Digital Systems in Selected countries in the Southern African Public Sector: An integrative review

2026-05-11T09:45:09+00:00

Digital transformation holds considerable promise for improving public service delivery across the African continent. However, despite various regional and international initiatives aimed at advancing digital governance, the implementation of digital systems in Southern Africa’s public sector has encountered persistent challenges. This study presents an integrative review of the literature on the contextual drawbacks to the adoption of digital systems in the Southern African region. The study is guided by the Technology-Organization-Environment (TOE) framework and supported by complementary theoretical lenses including the Technology Adoption Model, the Design-Reality Gap Model, Institutional Theory, the Sociotechnical Systems Theory, and the Digital Divide Framework. A systematic literature search, screening, and synthesis process was conducted using the Elicit software, leading to the selection of relevant peer-reviewed publications. The findings were thematically analysed and categorised into three overarching domains: technological, institutional, and environmental challenges. Key technological impediments include outdated infrastructure, cybersecurity vulnerabilities, and insufficient ICT capacity. Institutional challenges stem from bureaucratic inertia, limited managerial support, digital hesitancy, and leadership instability, while environmental constraints are shaped by poor interdepartmental coordination, low citizen participation, and digital inequality. The study argues that these challenges are interdependent and mutually reinforcing and therefore require a multidimensional policy response. Recommendations include targeted digital investments in underserved areas, capacity-building for public servants, user-centric system design, and institutional reforms that foster inter-agency collaboration and inclusive digital governance.

Caste Politics: Sociological Analysis of Language, Literature and Cultural Industry

2026-07-08T21:33:43+00:00