Ongoing Research

  • Analyzing the Status of Inclusive Education under the PM Development Initiative for North East in Selected Districts of Meghalaya

    Funding Agency : ICSSR

    Duration (Dates): 15 September 2023 - present

    Principal Investigator: Prof. Indrajit Dube

    Co-Principal Investigator(s): Dr. Dipa Dube, Rajiv Gandhi School of Intellectual Property Law, Indian Institute of Technology Kharagpur, Kharagpur; Dr. Basil N. Darlong Diengdoh, National Law University Meghalaya, Shillong; Dr. Umeshwari Dkhar, National Law University Meghalaya, Shillong

    Abstract (Introduction and Expected outcomes)
    The project "Analyzing the Status of Inclusive Education under the PM Development Initiative for North East in Selected Districts of Meghalaya" aims to improve education in Meghalaya by understanding how well the schools in the state support inclusive education. This means ensuring that all students, regardless of their differences, financial, class or physical disabilities, have equal access to education. By examining factors like infrastructure, access to technology, among others, the project seeks to identify areas where improvements can be made, so as to improve the quality of education and ensure all children have equitable access to the necessary resources to thrive. The data collected will be used to provide policy recommendations on how the PM DevINE scheme can be leveraged to improve the quality of education in Meghalaya. This includes suggestions for making schools more inclusive and better equipped to meet the needs of all students, ultimately leading to a more equitable education system.

  • Financial Empowerment in Meghalaya: AI-Powered Multilingual E-Marketplace for Tribes (in collaboration with IIIT Guwahati)

    Funding Agency : IBITF

    Duration (Dates): 14 November 2023 to 14 November 2025 (Two Years)

    Principal Investigator: Dr. Basil N. Darlong Diengdoh

    Co-Principal Investigator(s): Dr. Umeshwari Dkhar, Dr. S. Elika Assumi, Dipankar Kundu, Dr. Kaustuv Nag, IIIT Guwahati

    Abstract (Introduction and Expected outcomes)
    The project "Financial Empowerment in Meghalaya: AI-Powered Multilingual E-Marketplace for Tribes" aims to revolutionize the economic landscape for tribes in Meghalaya through the implementation of an innovative AI-powered multilingual e-marketplace. By leveraging cutting-edge technology, the project seeks to provide tribes with a platform to showcase and sell their products, thereby enhancing their financial independence and market reach. The e-marketplace will be designed to overcome language barriers by supporting multiple languages, ensuring inclusivity and accessibility for all tribal communities in Meghalaya. Through this initiative, the project team from National Law University Meghalaya and Indian Institute of Information Technology Guwahati envisions empowering tribes to participate actively in the digital economy, fostering sustainable livelihoods and economic growth. The project represents a significant step towards bridging the digital divide and promoting financial inclusion among tribal populations in Meghalaya.

  • Administration of Justice under the Syiemship of Mylliem: A Legal Study

    Funding Agency : KHADC

    Principal Investigator: Dr. Umeshwari Dkhar

    Co-Principal Investigator(s): Dr. Basil N. Darlong Diengdoh

    Abstract (Introduction and Expected outcomes)
    The Syiemship of Mylliem in Meghalaya stands as a significant institution in the traditional governance and justice systems of the Khasi people. This research proposal aims to explore the evolution and current state of justice administration under the Syiemship, blending historical insights with contemporary perspectives. The study will focus on the pivotal role of the Syiem and traditional councils in upholding justice, resolving disputes, and maintaining harmony within the community. By employing a mixed-method approach including historical analysis and contemporary assessments through interviews and observations, this research seeks to assess the coexistence and adaptation of traditional justice systems with modern legal frameworks. The outcomes are expected to provide valuable insights into balancing traditional customary practices with contemporary justice systems, offering recommendations for enhancing justice administration within the Syiemship of Mylliem.

  • LIDSS: Legal Intelligence and Decision Support System

    Funding Agency : TIH-AI4ICPS (IIT Kharagpur)

    Duration: Two Years (2024-2025)

    Principal Investigator: Prof. Indrajit Dube

    Co-Principal Investigator(s): Dr. Dipa Dube, Professor, Rajiv Gandhi School of Intellectual Property Law, Indian Institute of Technology Kharagpur; Prof. Pabitra Mitra, Professor, Department of Computer Science and Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology Kharagpur; Dr. Kaustuv Nag, Assistant Professor, Department of Computer Science and Engineering, Indian Institute of Information Technology Guwahati; Dipankar Kundu, Assistant Professor, National Law University Meghalaya, Shillong; Yogesh Mishra, Assistant Professor, National Law University Meghalaya, Shillong

    Abstract (Introduction and Expected outcomes)
    LIDSS is an AI-powered legal research and decision support system that integrates Natural Language Processing and AI algorithms to decode complex legal documentation, provide key insights, and offer anticipatory support. It promotes consistency in legal rulings, expedites legal research, and provides practitioners with more time for strategic pursuits. LIDSS is a user-friendly technology that enhances precision and practicality in legal proceedings, serving as an avant-garde vanguard for the future of legal research and decision-making.

  • Mapping of the Living-root-bridges of the Khasi Community: Conserving Meghalaya’s Intangible Heritage through the Legal and Empirical Lens

    Funding Agency : KHADC

    Principal Investigator: Badapbiang Dkhar

    Abstract (Introduction and Expected outcomes)
    This study examines the preservation of ecological heritage by focusing on the living-root bridges within the Khasi community in Meghalaya. It scrutinizes the effectiveness of current heritage conservation laws and their practical implications. Emphasizing a bottom-up approach, this research intends to protect living heritage sites by drawing lessons from indigenous practices and grassroots experiences. The research highlights the threats posed by unsustainable tourism, deforestation, and urban encroachment on these cultural and ecological landmarks. Through comprehensive field studies in the East Khasi Hills and documentation of customary practices, the project advocates for enhanced legal and policy measures. The objective is to establish robust frameworks that ensure the conservation of these unique heritage sites, securing their survival against growing environmental and societal pressures. This initiative underscores the importance of integrating local knowledge and legal mechanisms in the stewardship of ecological and cultural heritage.