Research & Publications
Research & Publications
The Context of Conference
The state of social science research in post-colonial societies is a matter of grave concern. Three dimensions are important. First, the inequalities and concerns of short-term pressing matters require enormous amount of resources to be invested there. This takes the attention away from the deeper issues that affect the knowledge construction. Second, dominance experienced from economically advanced countries force and frame theoretical positions for the researchers in post-colonial countries and thus development of indigenous generation of theories are still nascent. Third, elitist orientation of higher education in a country of huge inequality, and the academic positions primarily viewed as livelihood options than passionate endeavor for knowledge creation and dissemination1. Despite of these three major grave concerns, National Knowledge Commission and Government of India has decided to invest huge amount of resources for starting new educational institutions in the country. It is also hoped that these institutions will focus on interdisciplinary research. There is a pressing need for public debate on what kind of social science research is to be encouraged in these new institutions.
Combining the rigor of social science research and practical problem solution skills of management in the rural context was one of the rare features of Institute of Rural Management Anand, established 30 years ago as response to address the inequalities and underdevelopment in rural India. In the past 30 years, IRMA has emerged as a premier knowledge institution in the country combining research and action. This conference marks the 30th anniversary celebrations by envisaging an august gathering.
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1 It is good to read these concerns in the context of various reviews on the state of social science research in India by ICSSR. A summary of these concerns and responses by various authors are presented in Economic and Political Weekly (2 February, 2008). The report of 'The Committee to Advise on Renovation and Rejuvenation of Higher Education' (2009) also provides important perspectives in this regard.