Latest news with #DepartmentofSociologyandSocialWork
Indian Express
31-07-2025
- General
- Indian Express
Migrant workers in disasters: HPU student's study uncovers gaps in relief policies in Himachal Pradesh
At a time when Himachal Pradesh is grappling with disasters during the ongoing monsoon season, a detailed study by a student at Himachal Pradesh University (HPU) in Shimla has drawn urgent attention to the overlooked plight of migrant workers during calamities. The study reveals a troubling reality: despite being among the most vulnerable sections of society, migrant workers remain on the fringes of disaster response and relief efforts. Titled 'Migrant Workers Must Not Be Ignored During Disasters', the study by Itisha Parmar, a final-year student in MA (Social Work), draws four key findings: migrant workers are among the first to lose their source of income during disasters; they have no social safety net; commonly face mental distress and isolation; and have limited access to government aid. 'Despite various hardships, many migrant workers displayed remarkable resilience, navigating crises through peer solidarity, local support, and personal grit. This strength, however, often goes unrecognised in formal disaster planning,' the study notes. The study explores how systemic responses can be redesigned to include migrant voices and address their realities, and raises a critical question: Are our disaster management frameworks truly inclusive? The study, a part of the course curriculum, was submitted to Anupama Bharti, Assistant Professor, Department of Sociology and Social Work, on Wednesday. 'We encouraged our researchers to work in fields which need more attention in times of crisis, especially issues like disasters and marginalised sections of society. Parmar's research focuses on the most vulnerable section of society,' said Bharti, under whose supervision the study was conducted. Parmar took assistance from Doers NGO, an organisation engaged in disaster relief, mental health support, and community rehabilitation in the state, and surveyed over 100 people. 'They are more than just a labour force' The study includes the profiles of people affected by disasters reported in the last five years in Himachal Pradesh. Since 2018, the state has recorded 148 cloudbursts, 294 flash floods, and over 5,000 landslides, a pattern that reflects the worsening climate volatility in the fragile Himalayan region. On June 26 this year, at least seven migrant workers employed at a hydro project at Dharamshala were killed in a flash flood triggered by a cloudburst in Kangra district. In last year's Samej tragedy, when a series of cloudbursts hit the village, more than two dozen migrant workers were among the 39 victims who were washed away and later found dead. Professor Shashi Kant, officiating chairperson of the Department of Sociology and Social Work, said, 'It is a sad part of the story that we do not have any coordination with the state government in connection with the findings of our research. These findings can be very useful for policymakers if the government utilises them.' Stressing on the role of social work education in bridging the gap between policy and ground realities, Parmar said, 'Migrant workers are more than just a labour force — they carry the dreams of families, build the foundation of our cities, and keep local economies running. Their dignity, rights, and safety are a shared responsibility — one that must be reflected in our disaster response strategies.' What the study found What the study recommends
Sharjah 24
13-03-2025
- Science
- Sharjah 24
Sociological Association discusses "Social Ideas"
Sessions aim to discuss the most prominent contemporary social issues of interest to researchers and specialists in the social sciences. The Majlis brings together a select group of academics and experts in this field to exchange views and ideas on issues affecting modern societies. The Majlis will be held on Teams, allowing participants from various locations to join and participate in this valuable event and contribute to meaningful discussions that focus on the pressing social issues of the moment. The virtual Ramadan sessions will begin on March 16th, following the Isha and Tarawih prayers. The second session will be held on March 18th, and the third session will be held on March 22nd. Challenges of Social Policy One of the most prominent topics to be discussed at the council will be a lecture by Dr. Sayed Abdel Rahman, Associate Professor of Sociology in the Department of Sociology and Social Work at the University of Science and Technology in Fujairah, titled "Challenges of Social Policy in the Modern Era: Visions and Dimensions." Dr. Sayed Abdel Rahman will offer an analytical perspective on the challenges facing social policy today, exploring the various dimensions of these challenges and how to address them. Reading's role in sustainable development Professor Rafia Al Hammadi, member of Sociological Association, will also deliver a lecture titled "Reading: A Source of Innovation and the Foundation of Sustainable Development." She will discuss the impact of reading on promoting innovation and its pivotal role in achieving sustainable development. Social researchers influencing society Dr. Noura Qanifa, Associate Professor in the Department of Sociology at the College of Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences at the University of Sharjah, will address the role of social researchers in influencing society and promoting positive change. She will also highlight the importance of "social voice" in highlighting the issues of individuals and communities and review how to use effective research tools to achieve desired social change. Raising social awareness Dr. Mohammed Hamdan bin Jarsh Al Suwaidi, Chairman of the Cultural Committee and Board Member, emphasised that the virtual Ramadan Majlis, organised by Sociological Association under the theme "Social Ideas," constitutes an important platform for exchanging ideas and experiences on contemporary social issues. Dr. Mohammed Hamdan bin Jarsh Al Suwaidi explained that the Majlis aims to raise social awareness and deepen collective understanding of current challenges, noting the importance of the participation of academics and experts in enriching discussions, which will contribute to finding practical solutions to social challenges in society.
