Exploring the Minds Behind Youth Employment: Problems and Prospects in Arunachal Pradesh. In the world of academia and social research, some scholars go beyond the boundaries of theory and make significant contributions to pressing socio-economic issues. Dr. Bikash Bage and Dr. Padi Hana, two eminent sociologists from Rajiv Gandhi University, Doimukh, Arunachal Pradesh, exemplify this commitment through their extensive research and scholarly work. Their recent book, Youth Employment: Problems and Prospects in Arunachal Pradesh, stands as a testament to their dedication to understanding and addressing the challenges faced by the educated youth of the Apatani community in the Ziro Valley. This feature article delves into their academic journey, research contributions, and the impact of their work on society.
Dr. Bikash Bage: A Scholar and Pioneer in Tribal Research
Dr. Bikash Bage is a distinguished academician and a leading authority in the field of sociology, particularly in the study of tribal communities in India’s northeastern region. He serves as the Head and founding faculty of the Department of Sociology at Rajiv Gandhi University. His academic career is marked by an unwavering dedication to the study of indigenous communities, employment challenges, and socio-economic transitions.
Dr. Bage’s research expertise extends to numerous domains, including social change, modernization, employment patterns, and tribal studies. His impressive body of work includes over 30 research articles published in peer-reviewed, Scopus-indexed, and UGC-Care-listed national and international journals. He has authored one book and co-authored 10 others, demonstrating his ability to collaborate and contribute to interdisciplinary research. Additionally, his role in developing educational content, including textbooks and self-learning materials, highlights his influence in shaping sociology curricula.
Beyond academia, Dr. Bage has played a pivotal role in policy-driven research. As the Nodal Officer of the Tribal Research Institute (TRI), funded by the Ministry of Tribal Affairs, Government of India, he has led several research projects aimed at improving the socio-economic conditions of tribal communities. His involvement in 15 major research and consultancy projects, funded by the Government of India, the Government of Arunachal Pradesh, and organizations like the Indian Space and Research Organization (ISRO), underscores his ability to bridge academic research with practical policy applications.
Recognizing his exceptional academic contributions, Dr. Bage was honored with the State Governor’s Award for his role in the trifurcation of the Department of Health & Family Welfare, Government of Arunachal Pradesh. His work has not only contributed to the academic field but also influenced governance and policy decisions that impact the lives of countless people.
Dr. Padi Hana: A Thought Leader in Sociology and Education
Dr. Padi Hana, an Assistant Professor in the Department of Sociology at Rajiv Gandhi University, has made significant contributions to sociological research and education. His academic pursuits focus on employment, education, and the socio-economic transformations affecting tribal communities. Like his co-author, Dr. Hana has a rich portfolio of research, with more than 10 articles published in esteemed peer-reviewed and UGC-Care-listed journals.
His work extends beyond individual research, as he has edited and co-authored two books that examine various aspects of social development and tribal studies. Additionally, his contributions to educational material development for undergraduate (UG) and postgraduate (PG) students demonstrate his commitment to enhancing sociology education. By creating self-learning materials and textbooks, he has facilitated knowledge dissemination, making sociology more accessible to students in India’s northeastern region.
Dr. Hana has also actively participated in national and international conferences, where he has presented insightful research papers that contribute to the broader discourse on employment and education. His involvement in four major research and consultancy projects, funded by the Government of India and the Government of Arunachal Pradesh, reflects his dedication to applied research. Furthermore, his association with various academic and community organizations showcases his commitment to societal development beyond academia.
The Impact of Their Collaborative Work
The collaboration between Dr. Bikash Bage and Dr. Padi Hana in Youth Employment: Problems and Prospects in Arunachal Pradesh brings together their shared expertise and passion for addressing socio-economic issues. The book critically examines the growing problem of unemployment and underemployment among educated youth in the Ziro Valley, linking it to broader patterns of modernization and economic transformation. By highlighting the mismatch between education and employment opportunities, the book offers valuable insights for policymakers, academicians, and students alike.
Their work is particularly relevant in the context of India’s northeastern states, where economic development and employment generation remain significant challenges. By conducting empirical research and engaging with real-world socio-economic problems, Dr. Bage and Dr. Hana provide data-driven recommendations for policy interventions, skill development programs, and educational reforms.
A Legacy of Academic Excellence and Social Contribution
Dr. Bikash Bage and Dr. Padi Hana exemplify the role of sociologists as both scholars and change-makers. Their research, publications, and policy contributions reflect a deep understanding of the socio-economic realities faced by tribal communities. Through their academic endeavors, they continue to influence the discourse on employment, education, and social change, making a lasting impact on Arunachal Pradesh and beyond.
As they continue their research and teaching, their work will undoubtedly serve as a foundation for future studies and policy reforms aimed at improving employment opportunities and socio-economic conditions in India’s tribal regions. Their book, Youth Employment: Problems and Prospects in Arunachal Pradesh, is not just a scholarly contribution but also a call to action for addressing youth unemployment and ensuring a more inclusive and sustainable future.
