• Gandhi and His Non-violence in Kanthapura and Waiting for Mahatma: A Ray of Hope in Desolation

  DOI:DOI:18.A003.aarf.J14I01.007890

Nisha

Abstract: The aim of writing this research paper is to highlight the theme of Gandhian ideology which is revealed through a comparative study of two novels, Kanthapura by Raja Rao and Waiting for Mahatma by R.K Narayana. The impact of Gandhian Ideology on the masses would be focused on in these two novels. Waiting for Mahatma deals with the depiction of Mahatma as a character whereas Kanthapura makes a critical study of Gandhian Ideology as physically Gandhi is not present in the novel. No doubt Mahatma Gandhi and his ideologies of equality, discipline, non-violence and love for all are the most desirable ideals in today’s world. These ideologies are India’s gift to the world as he stood up firmly for these ideals. The paper will analyze whether these ideologies work as a savior for the world which is going towards its downfall today due to widespread hatred.

• Inequality in Education in Assam: Access, Infrastructure, and Outcomes

  DOI:DOI:18.A003.aarf.J14I01.010698

Dr. MRIDUSMITA DEVI

Abstract: Educational inequality remains one of the most persistent structural barriers to human development in north-eastern India. This study examines the multidimensional nature of educational disparities in Assam, focusing on three interrelated domains: access, physical infrastructure, and measurable learning outcomes. Drawing primarily on the Unified District Information System for Education Plus (UDISE+) 2021–22 dataset, the National Achievement Survey (NAS) 2021, the Annual Status of Education Report (ASER) 2022, and the Economic Survey of Assam 2022–23, this paper constructs a comparative analytical framework that differentiates enrolment patterns, gender parity indices, and school facility provisioning across urban, rural, and tribal belt districts. Findings reveal stark spatial stratification: the Gross Enrolment Ratio (GER) at the secondary level in tribal-dominated districts such as Dima Hasao and Karbi Anglong is nearly 30 percentage points below that recorded in Kamrup Metropolitan. Infrastructure deficits—particularly in electricity, computer laboratories, and library access—amplify pre-existing socioeconomic disadvantages and translate directly into attenuated learning outcomes. NAS 2021 scores in mathematics at Grade 8 in Assam trail the national mean by approximately 7 points, suggesting systemic pedagogical inadequacy beyond mere enrolment shortfalls. The paper argues that addressing educational inequality in Assam requires policy interventions that are simultaneously spatial, gender-sensitive, and infrastructurally transformative. Recommendations are offered for integrating equity-weighted budgeting mechanisms and community-based monitoring frameworks into state education planning.