The Mairaj is a biannual, peer reviewed open access journal focusses on Urdu and other Pakistani local and regional lanaguages. The unpublished research-based articles in the context of Urdu language & literature and other Pakistani languages as well as Persian, Arabic, and Islamic Studies are included in Mairaj. Articles are sent to the experts for evaluation and opinion before publication. The Aim and Goal of Mairaj is to promote quality research in areas of Urdu and other Pakistani local & regional languages. The major area of publication of Mairaj is to publish research work about Urdu classical text, manuscripts, and artifacts as well as modern critical thoughts, issues of language, linguistics, and quality research of poetry...
How Globalization Is Reshaping Local Traditions
Globalization, the accelerating process of interconnectedness across the world’s economies, cultures, and societies, has profound effects on local traditions. As global flows of information, goods, and people intensify, local communities experience both pressures and opportunities. This paper examines how globalization reshapes local traditions through mechanisms such as cultural exchange, technological diffusion, media influence, migration, and international tourism. While some traditions face erosion, simplification, or commercialization under global pressures, others experience revitalization, innovation, and renewed local or international relevance. For instance, traditional art forms and crafts may gain new life through global markets or fair-trade initiatives, while cultural festivals may be modified to appeal to international audiences, sometimes at the cost of their original meanings. The paper highlights both positive and negative impacts, arguing that globalization does not act as a uniform force but rather interacts with local dynamics in complex ways. Case studies, such as the global spread of yoga, the transformation of food practices, and the decline and revival of minority languages, illustrate these dynamics. Ultimately, the paper emphasizes that local agency, cultural policies, and ethical frameworks play critical roles in mediating globalization’s effects. By supporting community-led initiatives, legal protections, and conscious cultural adaptation, societies can navigate the challenges of globalization while preserving the richness and diversity of local traditions. The article calls for a balanced approach that recognizes both the threats and opportunities globalization brings to cultural heritage in an interconnected world.
Youth Unemployment, Social Exclusion, And Identity Construction: A Sociological Perspective
Youth unemployment has emerged as one of the most pressing social and economic challenges of the twenty-first century, affecting not only economic productivity but also the social identities and psychological well-being of young people. While unemployment is often examined from an economic perspective, its broader sociological consequences remain underexplored, particularly regarding social exclusion and identity construction. This study investigates the complex relationship between youth unemployment, social exclusion, and the formation of social identity through a sociological lens. Drawing upon Social Identity Theory, Role Theory, and the concept of Social Exclusion, the study argues that prolonged unemployment disrupts traditional pathways to adulthood by limiting access to meaningful employment, social participation, and economic independence. As a result, unemployed youth frequently experience diminished self-esteem, weakened social networks, reduced civic engagement, and increased vulnerability to marginalization. The article adopts a qualitative, explanatory research design based on an extensive review of contemporary sociological literature, policy reports, and empirical studies published between 2015 and 2025. The findings indicate that unemployment extends beyond financial hardship, significantly shaping young people's perceptions of themselves and their place within society. Factors such as educational inequality, technological transformation, labor market instability, and socioeconomic disparities further intensify social exclusion and identity-related challenges. The study emphasizes that effective policy interventions should move beyond job creation alone and prioritize inclusive education, skills development, social protection, mental health support, and community engagement to promote social integration and identity reconstruction. By highlighting the interconnected nature of employment, social belonging, and identity formation, this research contributes to sociological scholarship and offers practical recommendations for policymakers seeking to foster inclusive and sustainable youth development.
Academic Integrity in the Era of Generative AI: Challenges, Ethical Dilemmas, and Policy Responses in Higher Education
Generative Artificial Intelligence (AI) has emerged as one of the most transformative technologies in higher education, fundamentally reshaping how students learn, conduct research, and complete academic tasks. AI-powered tools such as ChatGPT, Gemini, Claude, and Copilot offer unprecedented opportunities for personalized learning, academic support, and enhanced productivity. However, their rapid adoption has also raised significant concerns regarding academic integrity, including plagiarism, unauthorized AI-assisted writing, fabrication of references, diminished critical thinking, and unequal access to AI technologies. These developments challenge long-established principles of honesty, fairness, trust, responsibility, and respect that underpin academic institutions worldwide. This study critically examines the challenges, ethical dilemmas, and policy responses associated with the use of generative AI in higher education. Drawing upon recent scholarly literature, institutional guidelines, and emerging policy frameworks, the study explores how universities are redefining academic integrity in response to AI-assisted learning. It analyzes the ethical tensions between promoting technological innovation and preserving authentic student learning while highlighting the responsibilities of students, educators, and higher education institutions. The article further reviews international best practices in AI governance and identifies gaps in institutional preparedness, particularly within developing countries. Based on these findings, the study proposes policy recommendations that emphasize AI literacy, transparent disclosure practices, assessment redesign, faculty training, and comprehensive institutional governance. Rather than advocating a prohibition of generative AI, the article argues for a balanced approach that encourages its ethical and responsible use while safeguarding academic standards. Such an approach can help universities prepare graduates who are not only technologically competent but also ethically responsible in an increasingly AI-driven academic environment.
The Relationship Between Digital Self-Presentation And Psychological Well-Being Among Emerging Adults
The rapid expansion of digital technologies and social media platforms has transformed the ways in which emerging adults construct, communicate, and negotiate their identities. Digital self-presentation has become an integral aspect of everyday life, allowing individuals to curate personal images, share experiences, and interact with diverse online audiences. While these platforms provide opportunities for self-expression, social connection, and identity exploration, they also expose users to social comparison, validation-seeking behaviors, and psychological pressures that may influence mental well-being. This study examines the relationship between digital self-presentation and psychological well-being among emerging adults from a psychological perspective. Using an explanatory qualitative research design based on an extensive review of contemporary literature, the study explores how online identity management affects self-esteem, emotional health, life satisfaction, and psychological resilience. Drawing upon Self-Presentation Theory, Social Comparison Theory, and Self-Determination Theory, the research argues that the psychological consequences of digital self-presentation depend largely on individuals' motivations, authenticity, and patterns of social media engagement. The findings suggest that authentic and balanced self-presentation is associated with higher psychological well-being, stronger self-esteem, and greater life satisfaction. Conversely, excessive image management, dependence on online validation, and frequent upward social comparison contribute to anxiety, stress, emotional exhaustion, and reduced psychological well-being. The study further highlights the importance of digital literacy, emotional regulation, and healthy online behaviors in promoting positive mental health among emerging adults. By integrating contemporary psychological theories with recent empirical evidence, this research contributes to a deeper understanding of the complex relationship between digital identity and psychological well-being while providing practical recommendations for educators, mental health professionals, families, and policymakers seeking to promote healthier digital environments.
Cyber Diplomacy and National Security: Emerging Challenges for Middle-Income Democracies
The rapid expansion of digital technologies has transformed the global security landscape, making cyberspace a critical domain of diplomacy and national security. Middle-income democracies face unique challenges in balancing technological advancement, democratic governance, and cybersecurity while responding to increasingly sophisticated cyber threats. This study examines the role of cyber diplomacy in strengthening national security and enhancing international cooperation among middle-income democratic states. Drawing on contemporary literature, policy documents, and international cybersecurity frameworks, the study explores how cyberattacks, disinformation campaigns, cyber espionage, and critical infrastructure vulnerabilities affect national resilience and foreign policy. It further analyzes the diplomatic mechanisms available to states for addressing transnational cyber threats through regional cooperation, confidence-building measures, international norms, and multilateral institutions. The study argues that effective cyber diplomacy has become an essential component of modern national security strategies, particularly for countries with limited technological and financial resources. The findings suggest that strengthening cyber governance, investing in cybersecurity capacity, improving legal and institutional frameworks, and expanding international collaboration are necessary to enhance resilience against evolving cyber risks. The study contributes to the growing literature on cyber diplomacy by offering a political science perspective on the security challenges confronting middle-income democracies and providing policy recommendations for developing secure, cooperative, and accountable digital governance systems.