A case study is a comprehensive and in-depth examination of a particular subject, often within its real-life context. It serves as a methodological tool to explore, analyze, and understand complex issues or phenomena, ranging from individual experiences to organizational challenges. Typically employed in various academic disciplines, business settings, and scientific research, a case study involves an extensive investigation that aims to provide a detailed account of the subject under scrutiny. By delving into the intricate details of a specific case, researchers can uncover valuable insights, draw conclusions, and offer practical solutions. This method offers a holistic approach, allowing for a nuanced understanding of the multifaceted factors influencing the subject, making it an invaluable tool for gaining knowledge and informing decision-making processes.
Q10. You are the Sarpanch of a Panchayat. There is a primary school run by the government in your area. Midday meals are provided to children attending the school. The headmaster has now appointed a new cook in the school to prepare the meals. However, when it is found that cook is from Dalit community, almost half of the children belonging to higher castes are not allowed to take meals by their parents. Consequently the attendance in the schools falls sharply. This could result in the possibility of discontinuation of midday meal scheme, thereafter of teaching staff and subsequent closing down the school. (250 Words, 20 Marks)
(a) Discuss some feasible strategies to overcome the conflict and to create the right ambiance.
(b) What should be the responsibilities of different social segments and agencies to create positive social ambiance for accepting such changes?
Tags: Case Studies
Case Summary: I am the Sarpanch of a Panchayat. A primary school run by the government had provision of Midday meals being provided to children attending the school, almost half of which belong to higher caste. School had a cook appointed from the Dalit community becase of which parents refused children to take meals resulting in attendance falling short and school may be closed down due to eventual dysfunction.
Stakeholders: Sarpanch of the Panchayat,Government, Cook, Dalit Community, Children attending the school, Headmaster and the Teaching Staff.
Ethical Issues/Ethical Dilemmas: Integrity of the institution, accountability towards students and society, Mental models, Social constructs, Caste Divide, Untouchability.
The situation mentioned in the case portrays the practice of untouchability, an age-old traditional practice, mainly in rural India. There is an urgent need to curb this practice before it ends up tearing the social fabric of India.
(a) Discuss some feasible strategies to overcome the conflict and to create the right ambiance.
- In the above case study the attitude of parents and that of other stakeholders define the social prejudices present in the society related to Dalit community. But according to the Constitution all the people are equal and should be treated with respect hence the actions need to be taken to maintain a balance and affection in the society.
- Hence according to the above case study, the Sarpanch can place the issue to the higher authorities as this will console parents that their plight may get addressed in the long run.
- To create a right ambience it is necessary to display a right message in the school premises. This can be done by setting examples by higher authorities.
- The teachers should also take their meal with the children so that the parents feel confident about sending their children to school. The teachers should give a message that all people are equal and discrimination should be ended.
(b) What should be the responsibilities of different social segments and agencies to create positive social ambiance for accepting such changes?
Strong belief system that is not in conformity with constitutionally enshrined ideals is the reason for such issues prevalent in the society, even today. In order to create positive social ambience for such changes, various social agencies like families, education institutes and local self government institutes should take some proactive steps and have certain responsibilities such as:
- Interaction with Influential Person: Parents’ attitude needs to be moulded to the changing times. For this a well respected learned person, such as District Collector can be requested to meet people and try to persuade them of their action which is even violative of some laws and constitution.
- Role of the Village Head: As sarpanch of panchayat, I should abide by the Indian Laws and Constitution I will act in the authority of my power to take action to curb caste discrimination in society , which will make our society much more mature and rational.
- Education system and responsibility of Teachers: Our education system must focus more on propagating social elements such as equality in society and values of fraternity and brotherhood. If these values are inculcated in students they can become better citizens.
- Responsibility of Reformers: It would be to teach children the value of reforms and religion.
- Responsibility of Administration: It would be to treat every person equally without regard to caste, to enshrine equality.
- Responsibility of NGOs: It would be to undertake awareness campaigns and to make people aware of the disadvantages of such acts on society and children’s minds.
- Media(Local Newspaper): It could help by highlighting the case on media with negative effects of caste discrimination, so as to make parents realise that whatever they are doing is incorrect.
In order to promote harmony and respect, social functions and cultural programmes should be organised by various social agencies where participation of every community, including Dalits, should be promoted and an atmosphere of respect and confidence can be created in the society.
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