Journal of the Oriental Institute, ISSN:0030-5324 UGC CARE Group 1 https://journaloi.com/index.php/JOI <p><strong><img src="https://journaloi.com/public/site/images/journaloi/journaloi-cover.jpg" alt="" width="185" height="239" /></strong></p> <p><strong>Kindly email your paper on Email id: editorinchief.journaloi@gmail.com</strong></p> en-US editorinchief.journaloi@gmail.com (Editor) editorinchief.journaloi@gmail.com (Editor) Tue, 03 Mar 2026 10:02:42 +0000 OJS 3.3.0.7 http://blogs.law.harvard.edu/tech/rss 60 AN EMPIRICAL INVESTIGATION OF EMOTIONAL INTELLIGENCE FACTORS INFLUENCING MANAGERIAL PERFORMANCE IN LOGISTICS ORGANISATIONS https://journaloi.com/index.php/JOI/article/view/1044 <p>This study examines the relationship between Emotional Intelligence (EI) and Overall Managerial Performance (OPM) among middle-level managers employed in logistics and operations organizations. A comprehensive conceptual model was developed to analyse the influence of key Emotional Intelligence dimensions—self-awareness, self-regulation, motivation, empathy, and relationship management on managerial performance. Primary data were collected from 357 middle-level managers working in shipping and logistics companies located in Thoothukudi, Tamil Nadu, India. The findings reveal that emotional intelligence significantly contributes to managerial performance, with relationship management emerging as the most influential EI dimension. The results underscore the critical role of emotional intelligence in enhancing managerial effectiveness within high-pressure and culturally diverse logistics environments. This study offers valuable theoretical contributions to the emotional intelligence literature and provides practical implications for leadership development, training programs, and organizational policy formulation in the logistics and shipping sector.</p> Dr.T.Rita Rebekah, M.Fatima Lucia Sheeba Copyright (c) 2026 Copyright (c)https://creativecommons.org/liceses/by-nc-nd/4.0 https://journaloi.com/ https://journaloi.com/index.php/JOI/article/view/1044 Tue, 03 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0000 OMNICHANNEL RETAIL DYNAMICS AND CONSUMER EXPERIENCE: AN EMPIRICAL ANALYSIS OF PHYSICAL AND DIGITAL TOUCHPOINTS IN RANIPET DISTRICT https://journaloi.com/index.php/JOI/article/view/1045 <p>The retail sector has experienced significant transformation with the emergence of omnichannel strategies that integrate physical and digital shopping environments. This study examines omnichannel retail dynamics and consumer experience with specific reference to physical and digital touchpoints in Ranipet District. The research adopts an empirical approach based on primary data collected from 150 respondents using a structured questionnaire. The analysis focuses on consumer awareness, experience, and satisfaction within an integrated retail framework. Statistical tools, including descriptive analysis and one-sample t-tests, were employed to evaluate consumer perceptions. The findings indicate that consumers demonstrate a high level of awareness regarding omnichannel retail practices and exhibit favorable experiences when interacting across multiple channels. Digital platforms were found to enhance convenience, while physical stores continue to play a complementary role in shaping consumer satisfaction. The study concludes that effective channel integration significantly influences consumer experience and satisfaction, offering valuable implications for retailers seeking to improve customer engagement and service efficiency in evolving retail environments.</p> Dr. B. BHUVANESWARI Copyright (c) 2026 Copyright (c)https://creativecommons.org/liceses/by-nc-nd/4.0 https://journaloi.com/ https://journaloi.com/index.php/JOI/article/view/1045 Tue, 03 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0000 DETERMINANTS OF ACCESSIBILITY AND UTILISATION OF CHILD HEALTHCARE SERVICES IN SALEM DISTRICT, TAMIL NADU https://journaloi.com/index.php/JOI/article/view/1048 <p>This study examines the determinants of accessibility and utilisation of child healthcare services in Salem District, Tamil Nadu. The research is based on primary data collected from 150 respondents using a structured questionnaire. The study analyses demographic characteristics and evaluates accessibility and utilisation levels through a one-sample t-test. The findings reveal that child healthcare services are reasonably accessible, with significant availability of healthcare centres, essential medicines, and immunisation services. The results further indicate that utilisation of services, including regular health check-ups and timely immunisation, is statistically significant and above the average level. Socioeconomic status, education, awareness, and infrastructure facilities are identified as key determinants influencing healthcare-seeking behaviour. Despite overall satisfactory access, challenges such as transportation and waiting time require improvement. The study concludes that strengthening healthcare infrastructure, enhancing awareness programmes, and improving service efficiency can further promote equitable and effective child healthcare utilisation in Salem District.</p> D. PARAMESWARAN, Dr. M. SENTHILKUMAR Copyright (c) 2026 Copyright (c)https://creativecommons.org/liceses/by-nc-nd/4.0 https://journaloi.com/ https://journaloi.com/index.php/JOI/article/view/1048 Fri, 06 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0000 MYTHOLOGICAL SYMBOLISM AND ARCHITECTURAL REPRESENTATION OF DOGS IN HINDU TRADITION https://journaloi.com/index.php/JOI/article/view/1052 <p>Dogs occupy a distinctive yet often overlooked place within Hindu mythology, ritual practice, and sacred architecture. This paper aims to examine the mythological significance, symbolic roles, and architectural representations of dogs in Hindu tradition and regional cultural practices. The study adopts a qualitative methodology based on textual analysis of Hindu scriptures and folklore, along with visual and architectural documentation of temple sculptures, iconography, and memorial structures across selected sites in India. The findings reveal that dogs are symbolically associated with protection, loyalty, and liminality, often appearing as companions or <em>vahana</em> of deities such as <em>Bhairava, Dattatreya</em>, and <em>Khandoba</em>, and are represented through diverse sculptural and architectural forms in temples and memorials. The study concludes that these representations demonstrate how mythological symbolism is embedded within built heritage, reflecting the cultural relationship between animals, belief systems, and sacred spaces in Hindu tradition.</p> Ar. Nikita Mahajani Copyright (c) 2026 Copyright (c)https://creativecommons.org/liceses/by-nc-nd/4.0 https://journaloi.com/ https://journaloi.com/index.php/JOI/article/view/1052 Fri, 13 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0000 PHYTOCHEMICAL SCREENING AND PHARMACOLOGICAL EVALUATION OF LEAVES AND SEEDS OF RICINUS COMMUNIS L. https://journaloi.com/index.php/JOI/article/view/1055 <p>Medicinal plants are important sources of bioactive compounds used in pharmaceutical and traditional medicine systems. The present study investigates the phytochemical composition and pharmacological activities of leaf and seed extracts of Ricinus communis. Plant extracts were prepared using methanol and ethanol solvents and evaluated through qualitative phytochemical screening. Antioxidant, antibacterial, and anti-inflammatory activities were also examined using standard assays. The results showed that the plant extracts contain significant phytochemicals such as alkaloids, flavonoids, tannins, saponins, glycosides, and phenolic compounds. The extracts exhibited considerable antioxidant and antimicrobial activities against tested pathogens. These findings confirm that <em>Ricinus communis</em> possesses important bioactive compounds with potential pharmacological applications.</p> Siyaram Yadav, Dr. Renu Singh Copyright (c) 2026 Copyright (c)https://creativecommons.org/liceses/by-nc-nd/4.0 https://journaloi.com/ https://journaloi.com/index.php/JOI/article/view/1055 Tue, 24 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0000 PHYTOPLASMA-ASSOCIATED REVERSE METAMORPHOSIS: A COMPARATIVE DNA METHYLOME ANALYSIS IN SESAMUM INDICUM https://journaloi.com/index.php/JOI/article/view/1057 <p>Phytoplasma infection in <em>Sesamum indicum</em> induces severe morphological abnormalities such as phyllody, characterized by the transformation of floral organs into leaf-like structures. This phenomenon represents retrograde metamorphosis, where reproductive organs revert to vegetative identity. The present study investigates genome-wide DNA methylation changes associated with phytoplasma infection using Whole Genome Bisulfite Sequencing (WGBS) and methylation-sensitive PCR approaches. Comparative methylome profiling between healthy and infected plants revealed global hypomethylation, particularly in the CHH context, along with locus-specific hypermethylation in genes associated with development and Défense. Differentially methylated cytosines (DMCs) were predominantly located in intergenic and promoter regions, suggesting epigenetic regulation of gene expression. The findings highlight the critical role of DNA methylation in phytoplasma-induced phenotypic plasticity and provide insights into molecular mechanisms underlying retrograde metamorphosis.</p> Nisha Tripathi, Dr. Arvind Kumar Singh Copyright (c) 2026 Copyright (c)https://creativecommons.org/liceses/by-nc-nd/4.0 https://journaloi.com/ https://journaloi.com/index.php/JOI/article/view/1057 Tue, 31 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0000 MAHATMA AND THE RAMS: A STUDY OF VISUAL-LITERARY RECREATION OF THE HISTORY OF THEO-POLITICAL HINDU IDENTITY IN POST-PARTITION INDIA. https://journaloi.com/index.php/JOI/article/view/1058 <p>This paper explores the visual and literary recreation of the Theo-Political Hindu identity in post-partition India. It examines how the secondary witnessing of India's partition contributed to a militant Hindu-Muslim political binary, which was later reshaped after the assassination of M. K. Gandhi. Focusing on <em>Hey Ram</em> and <em>The Great Indian Novel</em>, the study discusses how Mythistory and lived history can be expressed in an epic mode. Drawing on the writings of Gandhi’s contemporaries, including J. B. Kripalani, Syama Prasad Mookerjee, and Nathuram Godse, it argues that Saket Ram, the protagonist of <em>Hey Ram</em>, symbolizes the Hindu intelligentsia of the partition period. The paper concludes that Gandhi’s assassination halted the militant Hindutva expansion, reshaping Indian secularism into a more inclusive identity.</p> Dr. Sreenu Gopan, Dr. Sreekutty T J Copyright (c) 2026 Copyright (c)https://creativecommons.org/liceses/by-nc-nd/4.0 https://journaloi.com/ https://journaloi.com/index.php/JOI/article/view/1058 Wed, 01 Apr 2026 00:00:00 +0000 SEASONAL VARIATION OF PHYLLOSPHERIC MICROFLORA OF SUGARCANE CROP IN AMBEDKAR NAGAR DISTRICT, U.P. https://journaloi.com/index.php/JOI/article/view/1061 <p>The phyllosphere, representing the aerial surfaces of plants, harbors diverse microbial communities including bacteria, fungi, and yeasts. These microorganisms play a crucial role in plant growth, health, and productivity. The present study investigates the seasonal variation of phyllospheric microflora associated with sugarcane (<em>Saccharum officinarum</em> L.) in Ambedkar Nagar district, Uttar Pradesh. Leaf samples were collected during three major seasons (summer, rainy, and winter) and analyzed using standard microbiological techniques. The results revealed significant variation in microbial population density and diversity across seasons, with maximum microbial load observed during the rainy season and minimum during winter. The study highlights the influence of climatic factors such as temperature, humidity, and rainfall on phyllospheric microbial dynamics.</p> Neelofar Khan, Dr. Arvind Kumar Singh Copyright (c) 2026 Copyright (c)https://creativecommons.org/liceses/by-nc-nd/4.0 https://journaloi.com/ https://journaloi.com/index.php/JOI/article/view/1061 Mon, 06 Apr 2026 00:00:00 +0000 IMPACT OF GREEN CLAIMS ON COSMETIC BRAND PERCEPTION AMONG GEN Z AND MILLENNIAL WOMEN IN VELLORE CITY https://journaloi.com/index.php/JOI/article/view/1063 <p>This study examines the impact of green claims on cosmetic brand perception among Gen Z and Millennial women in Vellore City. With the increasing emphasis on sustainability, cosmetic brands are actively using green claims such as eco-friendly ingredients, cruelty-free practices, and sustainable packaging to influence consumer attitudes. The study adopts a descriptive research design and is based on primary data collected from 120 respondents using a structured questionnaire. Statistical tools such as percentage analysis and one-sample t-test were employed to analyze the data. The findings reveal that green claims significantly influence consumer behaviour and positively shape brand perception. Factors such as credibility, transparency, social media influence, and environmental awareness play a crucial role in determining the effectiveness of green claims. The study concludes that authentic and transparent green marketing strategies enhance consumer trust and strengthen brand perception among young female consumers in the cosmetic industry.</p> Ms. PRIYANKA N, Dr. S. KAYALVIZHI Copyright (c) 2026 Copyright (c)https://creativecommons.org/liceses/by-nc-nd/4.0 https://journaloi.com/ https://journaloi.com/index.php/JOI/article/view/1063 Mon, 06 Apr 2026 00:00:00 +0000 ROOT SYSTEM COMPLEMENTARITY ENHANCES MINERAL NUTRIENT ACQUISITION IN CHICKPEA–PEA INTERSPECIFIC INTERACTIONS https://journaloi.com/index.php/JOI/article/view/1064 <p>Plant adaptation to a particular environment and evolution depend largely on their ability to acquire nutrients from the soil. Roots play an essential role in nutrient acquisition, thus influencing plant growth and productivity. With the rise in global population, to meet the food demand, several strategies have been adopted worldwide to increase the yield. One such strategy is intercropping, which reduces the land requirement and also positively influences plant growth. To date, numerous studies of intercropping systems have been well reported, which have been known to increase the productivity of the crop. The most common among them are cereals and legumes. However, studies involving legume-legume intercropping system is scarce. In this study, we investigated the effects of interspecific root interaction between chickpea (<em>Cicer arietinum</em>) and pea (<em>Pisum sativum</em>) on nutrient uptake, rhizosphere nutrient availability, and plant growth performance. Overall, our findings suggest that interspecific root interaction between chickpea and pea promotes rhizosphere modification and nutrient acquisition, ultimately enhancing plant growth. This study highlights the importance of root-mediated processes in legume–legume interactions and provides insights into potential strategies for improving nutrient use efficiency in mixed cropping systems.&nbsp;</p> Ranvijay Singh, Ajoy Kumar Singh Copyright (c) 2026 Copyright (c)https://creativecommons.org/liceses/by-nc-nd/4.0 https://journaloi.com/ https://journaloi.com/index.php/JOI/article/view/1064 Wed, 08 Apr 2026 00:00:00 +0000 SPIRITUAL EMPOWERMENT OF WOMEN IN SRI AUROBINDO’S THOUGHT: A NEW FEMINIST ETHOS https://journaloi.com/index.php/JOI/article/view/1067 <p>Political, economic and social discussions on the concept of women empowerment have made significant discussions but the aspect of spiritual empowerment has not received much discussion. Being one of the greatest Indian philosophers and spiritual visionaries, Sri Aurobindo saw a comprehensive revolution of human consciousness in which the liberation of women is an ethical and cosmic necessity. His philosophy combines spiritual progression of humankind and recognition of woman as a conscious, dynamic and equal agent of the divine revelation. This paper picks Sri Aurobindo on the issue of spiritual empowerment of women within the new feminist ethos that is beyond equality and aims at a harmonious interaction between the genders. The paper examines the philosophical background of his vision, the reinterpretation of the meaning of empowerment and how it applies in relation to the feminist movement today.</p> Snigdha Rathod, Dr. Meenakshi Joshi Copyright (c) 2026 Copyright (c)https://creativecommons.org/liceses/by-nc-nd/4.0 https://journaloi.com/ https://journaloi.com/index.php/JOI/article/view/1067 Tue, 14 Apr 2026 00:00:00 +0000 STUDY ON SOME MEDICINAL PLANTS OF FAMILY LILIACEAE IN JAUNPUR DISTRICT https://journaloi.com/index.php/JOI/article/view/1069 <p>The family Liliaceae represents an important group of monocotyledonous flowering plants widely distributed across the globe. Several members of this family possess remarkable medicinal properties and have been utilized in traditional systems of medicine such as Ayurveda, Unani, and Chinese medicine for centuries. The present study focuses on selected medicinal plants, namely <em>Aloe vera</em>, <em>Allium cepa</em> (onion), and <em>Allium sativum</em> (garlic), which are extensively used in India. The study evaluates their taxonomy, morphology, phytochemical constituents, and pharmacological activities. Data were collected through field observations and literature analysis. The results reveal that these plants contain bioactive compounds such as flavonoids, alkaloids, saponins, and sulfur-containing compounds that contribute to their therapeutic efficacy. The study concludes that Liliaceae plants are valuable sources of natural medicines and hold significant potential for future drug development.</p> Priyanka Kumari, Dr. Raj Kumar Yadav Copyright (c) 2026 Copyright (c)https://creativecommons.org/liceses/by-nc-nd/4.0 https://journaloi.com/ https://journaloi.com/index.php/JOI/article/view/1069 Tue, 14 Apr 2026 00:00:00 +0000 AUTHENTIC DWELLING OF HUMAN EXISTENCE: A COMPARATIVE APPRAISAL OF VĀSTU ŚĀSTRA AND HEIDEGGER’S PHILOSOPHY https://journaloi.com/index.php/JOI/article/view/1070 <p>This research paper attempts to make a comparative and critical analysis of the Vāstu Śāstra, an ancient Indian architectural system, and Martin Heidegger’s phenomenological view of architecture. Both philosophical systems of thought have defined architecture as an existential and spiritual connection between the human and their environment, challenging the modern definition of architecture as mere shelter or a place to live. Because, after World War II, modern architecture shifted towards a more technological, functional building design. Unlike this view, Vāstu Śāstra and Heidegger explained it as a spiritual and existential connection between men and their environment. The origin of Vāstu Śāstra is the Vedas, and it emphasizes designing spaces that harmonize with nature and the energies of the Paňcamahābhūtas by using a specific set of geometrical and metaphysical grids known as the Vāstu-Puruṣa-Mandala. This metaphysical grid is structured in a way that connects human energy with cosmic energy. In comparison, Heidegger’s philosophy is an ontological exposition that can be examined through its etymological roots, in which ‘Building’ is inseparable from ‘Dwelling’, reflecting the relationship between the cosmos and beings. For him, true dwelling refers to sparing and preserving the fourfold- the earth, sky, mortals, and the divinity.</p> <p>And building becomes a gathering site for these elements, which makes the earth a meaningful place for humans by safeguarding their true essence. In this context, resemblances may be seen between Heidegger’s “Building, Dwelling and Thinking” and the principles of Vāstu Śāstra, though there is a chronological gap<em>.</em> The ultimate goal of these two lines of thought is to bring harmony between humans and their surroundings by connecting their inner selves to the external world. This analysis will also find parallels as well as the differences between the philosophy of Vāstu and Heidegger, both of which prioritize aligning ordinary human life with universal laws to achieve an authentic existence in this world.</p> Dr. Nabaprasad Nath, Rashmi Rekha Handique Copyright (c) 2026 Copyright (c)https://creativecommons.org/liceses/by-nc-nd/4.0 https://journaloi.com/ https://journaloi.com/index.php/JOI/article/view/1070 Wed, 15 Apr 2026 00:00:00 +0000 IF THE LION TELLS THE STORY: ANAND NEELAKANTAN’S ASURA: TALE OF THE VANQUISHED AS A SITE OF DIALOGISM AND COUNTER-NARRATIVE https://journaloi.com/index.php/JOI/article/view/1074 <p><em>This paper employs Mikhail Bakhtin’s theory of dialogism to explore the nuanced portrayal of Ravana in Anand Neelakantan’s Asura: Tale of the Vanquished in contrast to the depiction of the character in Valmiki’s Ramayana. By presenting Ravana’s perspective, the novel invites dialogic engagement with the myth, amplifying the voices suppressed in the dominant Deva-centric narrative. By utilizing Asura as a case study, this paper seeks to posit an important question pertaining to the dialogic narrative strategies: In what ways does Anand Neelakantan’s Asura embody Bakhtin’s concept of dialogism by presenting multiple, independent voices that resist unification under a single ideological perspective? In its attempt to respond to these questions, the paper seeks to accomplish two objectives: to foreground the interpretative texts written for the Asuras, and to situate Ravana as a product of his choice and circumstances rather than a quintessential villain. By humanizing Ravana and situating his actions within a matrix of social and personal struggles, Neelakantan reframes the myth, presenting him as a tragic figure shaped by his circumstances rather than pure malice. The novel, thus, interrogates the moral absolutism of mythological archetypes and replaces it with a morally ambiguous, dialogic understanding of Ravana’s life.</em></p> Arijita Pradhan Copyright (c) 2026 Copyright (c)https://creativecommons.org/liceses/by-nc-nd/4.0 https://journaloi.com/ https://journaloi.com/index.php/JOI/article/view/1074 Tue, 21 Apr 2026 00:00:00 +0000 MICROPLASTICS IN SOIL–PLANT INTERACTIONS: A COMPREHENSIVE REVIEW https://journaloi.com/index.php/JOI/article/view/1076 <p>Microplastics (MPs), defined as plastic particles &lt;5 mm, have emerged as a pervasive contaminant in terrestrial ecosystems, particularly agricultural soils. Their accumulation affects soil structure, microbial communities, nutrient cycling, and plant physiology. This review synthesizes current knowledge on the sources, distribution, mechanisms of interaction, plant uptake, and ecological impacts of microplastics in soil–plant systems. It also highlights knowledge gaps and future research directions for sustainable agriculture.</p> Mrityunjay Singh, Dr. Neetu Singh Copyright (c) 2026 Copyright (c)https://creativecommons.org/liceses/by-nc-nd/4.0 https://journaloi.com/ https://journaloi.com/index.php/JOI/article/view/1076 Thu, 23 Apr 2026 00:00:00 +0000 THE IMPACT OF ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE ON EDUCATION https://journaloi.com/index.php/JOI/article/view/1077 <p>Artificial intelligence has greatly influenced several aspects of human life. It has also had a significant impact on the field of education. This paper aims to explore how Artificial Intelligence has impacted education, affecting both teachers and students. Beginning with an overview of the definitions of Artificial Intelligence, the paper traces its historical development. To analyse the importance of Artificial Intelligence in education, the literature is reviewed, providing insights into global and Indian perspectives on integrating Artificial Intelligence in teaching and learning. The paper discusses the merits and demerits of using Artificial Intelligence in education, emphasizing the need to embrace technological innovations with caution and responsibility.</p> Sameena Tabassum, Prof. Syed Mohammed Haseebuddin Quadri Copyright (c) 2026 Copyright (c)https://creativecommons.org/liceses/by-nc-nd/4.0 https://journaloi.com/ https://journaloi.com/index.php/JOI/article/view/1077 Thu, 23 Apr 2026 00:00:00 +0000 BIOMEDICAL WASTE AND ITS IMPACT ON SOIL AND HUMAN HEALTH IN JAUNPUR DISTRICT, U.P. INDIA https://journaloi.com/index.php/JOI/article/view/1079 <p>Biomedical waste (BMW) generated from healthcare facilities constitutes a significant environmental and public health concern, particularly in developing regions where waste management systems are inadequate. The present study investigates the impact of biomedical waste on soil quality and human health in Jaunpur district, Uttar Pradesh. The study evaluates physicochemical properties, heavy metal accumulation, and microbial contamination of soil collected from hospital waste disposal sites and surrounding agricultural areas. The findings reveal substantial increases in heavy metals such as lead (Pb), cadmium (Cd), chromium (Cr), and mercury (Hg), along with elevated microbial loads including pathogenic bacteria. These contaminants pose serious risks through soil degradation, food chain contamination, and direct human exposure. The study emphasizes the urgent need for improved biomedical waste management practices, stricter regulatory enforcement, and community awareness to mitigate environmental and health hazards.</p> Shani Nishad, Vishal Pundir Copyright (c) 2026 Copyright (c)https://creativecommons.org/liceses/by-nc-nd/4.0 https://journaloi.com/ https://journaloi.com/index.php/JOI/article/view/1079 Wed, 29 Apr 2026 00:00:00 +0000