About AFPR

Adhyayan Foundation for Policy and Research (AFPR) is a policy think tank based in India that conducts research projects independently and on behalf of governmental departments, ministries, and private entities. Our focus encompasses a wide range of significant policy domains for the country, including economic issues, administrative efficiency, legal gaps, and international affairs. Our ultimate goal is to bridge the gap in policy-making, promoting comprehensive growth and development for our nation.

About HRDI

Human Rights Defense International (HRDI) was established in 2005 with a steadfast commitment to uphold the principle that all individuals are created equal and are inherently endowed with unalienable rights, including Life, Liberty, and the pursuit of Happiness. We recognise that despite numerous efforts by governments and non-governmental organisations, severe violations of human rights persist, leading to the marginalisation of individuals and various religious and ethnic groups. These vulnerable populations often find themselves without the support of media, human rights organisations, government agencies, and the general public.

Theme

The manual scavenging issue remains a grim reality in many parts of India despite being outlawed. The persistence of this practice not only highlights the deep-rooted social and economic inequalities and raises critical questions about the effectiveness of the legal and institutional frameworks in place. To address this pressing issue, AFPR invites research papers to delve into the various facets of this problem, from its historical roots to the current challenges and the way forward.

Sub-themes for research papers

• A study of the socio-economic background of manual scavengers, including caste dynamics, education levels, and economic status.
• Analysis of the role of caste in perpetuating manual scavenging, focusing on marginalised communities.
• Evaluation of the effectiveness of rehabilitation programs for manual scavengers, including skill development, education, and alternative employment opportunities.
• Research the health hazards manual scavengers face, including physical, mental, and social health issues.
• Exploration of how technological innovations can help eliminate the need for manual scavenging, including mechanisation and automation.
• Exploration of how intersecting identities (gender, caste, religion) influence the experiences of manual scavengers.
• Analysis of crucial judicial rulings on manual scavenging and their impact on policy and practice.

*Note – The sub-themes are merely indicative in nature and not exhaustive.

Who can participate?

• Lawyers, Legal Professionals, Consultants, Academicians, and Law Students.
• Officers of the Ministry of Environment, Law, Social Welfare, Officers of the various Departments of Human Rights Commission, etc.
• Industry Professionals, Environmental engineers, and EHS managers.
• Representatives from Companies or other Institutions.
• Representatives of Governing and Regulatory Bodies.
• Government Officers, Officers of Public Sector Undertakings.

Important Dates

• Last Date for Registration and Submission of Abstract: 31st August 2024
• Submission of Full-Length Papers: 15th September 2024
• Date of paper presentation: 21^st September 2024

Submission Guidelines

• Abstracts of not more than 500 words on the sub-themes mentioned above are invited and submitted as Word documents, with a cover letter containing the name and designation of the author(s).
• There may be a maximum of only two authors for each abstract/paper, and all participants are permitted to join as co-authors for a maximum of one abstract/paper only.
• The full-length research papers should be 5000-8000 words (inclusive of footnotes).
•  Authors must adhere to a uniform mode of citation (21st edition of The Bluebook: A Uniform System of Citation is recommended).

Prizes

• The top 5 papers will be invited to be presented at a conference in New Delhi.
• The top 3 papers will be awarded a cash prize.
• First Prize – Rs. 5000
• Second Prize – Rs. 3500
• Third Prize – Rs. 2500

Submission

• Register and submit your abstract at: – https://forms.gle/bpbgRCJwKzycuNzF6
• The Final Submissions of Research Paper are to be mailed at [email protected] in Microsoft Word (.doc or .docx) format.
• The name of the attached submission in the email, i.e., the name of the document must be the name(s) of the author(s). Please note that only one submission per author or a team of co-authors is permissible. In case of more than one submission, only the one received first would be considered for review.
• The subject title for the mail must be ‘Research Paper on Status of Manual Scavenging’.

Contact Information

For inquiries or further information, feel free to reach us at [email protected]

Contact no. – +91-8630762917 (Naman Yadav)

Website: http://www.afpr.in/

Address: Sec.5, Vrindavan Yojna-1, Lucknow- (U.P.) 226029.