Mapping the Changing Context and Orientation of Social Science Research in India: Some Observations

Dr. Parvathi K. Iyer

Volume : VI, Issue : V, May - 2016

Mapping the Changing Context and Orientation of Social Science Research in India: Some Observations

Dr. Parvathi K. Iyer

Abstract :

Social science research in India is increasingly assuming an interdisciplinary orientation and becoming relatively more collaborative in its approach. Periodic reviews of trends, perspectives and orientations in social science research have largely sought to identify the recurring and dominant themes within the domain and the outcomes in terms of funding related priorities set by both government and private funding agencies. While there is an emerging and active orientation towards research–policy interface, no doubt due to the demands posed by liberalization and the market and the increasing competition from non–governmental entities for funds, the relation between research and pedagogy remains ambivalent. Also, the new contexts of social science research are yet to acquire novel and comprehensive theoretical and methodological discernment in terms of unpacking changing Indian social realities.