EduSpark_v8i2_April-June 2026
June 30, 2026
EduSpark_v8i2_April-June 2026
June 30, 2026

Sparkling International Journal of Multidisciplinary Research Studies

(A Quarterly Peer Reviewed/Refereed Multidisciplinary Journal)

Volume 9 Issue 2 April - June 2026

ANGADIVELA–THATHAMANGALAM: HOW THE FESTIVAL SUSTAINS INTERSTATE CULTURAL NETWORKS BETWEEN KERALA AND TAMIL NADU

Dhanyamol, S.

HSST History, Brahmananda Swami Sivayogi Higher Secondary School, Kollengode, Kerala, India.

Abstract

The Angadivela festival celebrated at Thathamangalam in Kerala represents one of the most significant cultural events fostering interstate cultural interaction between Kerala and Tamil Nadu. Rooted in centuries-old traditions, the festival functions as a vibrant platform where religious beliefs, folk traditions, artistic performances, trade activities, and social relationships converge. Every year, thousands of devotees, artists, traders, and tourists from both states participate in the festival, strengthening historical ties and promoting cultural continuity across regional boundaries. The festival facilitates the transmission of shared customs, language, folklore, rituals, and indigenous knowledge while contributing significantly to the local economy through tourism, commerce, and employment generation. Beyond its religious significance, Angadivela has emerged as an important instrument for preserving intangible cultural heritage, encouraging interstate cooperation, and fostering communal harmony. This study examines the role of the Angadivela festival in sustaining interstate cultural networks by analysing its socio-cultural, economic, and heritage dimensions. The study also evaluates the factors contributing to the preservation of the festival and suggests policy measures for promoting sustainable cultural tourism and heritage conservation.

Keywords

angadivela festival, interstate cultural networks, cultural heritage, kerala, tamil nadu, folk traditions, cultural tourism.

Abstract
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 GROWTH OF KNOWLEDGE ECONOMY AND THE PROLIFERATION OF GIG EMPLOYMENT: OPPORTUNITIES AND CHALLENGES

*Nitheesh S. Babu, **Vishnu, M., S. & ***Sreejith, B.

*Research Scholar, PG & Research Department of Economics, Fatima Mata National College, (Autonomous) Kollam, Kerala, India.

**Research Scholar, PG & Research Department of Economics, Mar Thoma College Thiruvalla, Kerala, India.

***Research Scholar, PG & Research Department of Economics, Fatima Mata National College, (Autonomous) Kollam, Kerala, India. 

Abstract

Indian Economy is a developing economy. During the pandemic period, extensive use of technology created a new labour market structure called the gig economy. The study examines how the knowledge economy and digitalisation promote the development of the gig economy.  The emergence of a technologically driven gig market place makes it easier for job seekers to connect with gig providing companies. The Niti Aayog report reveals that the gig economy is expected to grow by 2.35 crore by the year 2029-2030. Based on the BCG report, the gig economy contributes 1.25% of India’s GDP. In India, 47 % of gig work requires medium skills. According to the Niti Aayog report, retail trade and transportation are the major gig hiring sectors in India. This conceptual work gives an overview of the ‘gig economy’. The platform-based gig work plays a vital role in India’s labour market. The gig workers enjoy many benefits such as flexibility, autonomy and independence etc. On the other hand, gig workers suffer from various challenges such as lack of job security, lack of social security and income instability. It raises the importance of policy intervention by the government for the sustained and inclusive growth of the economy.

Keywords

gig economy, niti aayog, gig workers, gig work, knowledge economy, unemployment.

Abstract
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STRENGTHENING EARLY CHILDHOOD HEALTH AND WELL-BEING THROUGH ANGANWADI TEACHER PREPAREDNESS UNDER ICDS

*Jenifer Princy, D., & **Sundaravalli, S., R.

*Research Scholar, Department of Education, Manonmaniam Sundaranar University, Tirunelveli, Tamil Nadu, India.

**Assistant Professor, Department of Education, Manonmaniam Sundaranar University, Tirunelveli, Tamil Nadu, India.

Abstract

For children’s health, development, and long-term well-being, early childhood care and education (ECCE) is essential. The foundation of early childhood health and nutrition interventions in India is the Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS). In community-level early childhood settings, Anganwadi Workers (AWWs), often known as teachers, are the front-line providers of ICDS services, including nutrition, growth monitoring, immunisation mobilisation, preschool education, and carer engagement. Effective service delivery is therefore hampered by gaps in teacher capacity, knowledge, training, and readiness. This paper synthesises empirical data, identifies obstacles, and suggests tactical interventions to improve system outcomes to investigate the role of Anganwadi teacher preparation as a pathway to enhance early childhood health and well-being.

Keywords

early childhood, healthcare, well-being, anganwadi, ICDS, and anganwadi teacher.

Abstract
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ADOPTION OF DIGITAL PAYMENT SYSTEMS AMONG RURAL AND URBAN CONSUMERS IN KERALA

*Anil Raj, V., **Rajasekaran, A., & ***Misha, V.

*Assistant Professor, Department of Commerce, Sree Narayana College, Punalur, Kollam, Kerala, India.

**Associate Professor, Department of Commerce, Sree Narayana College, Kollam District, Kerala, India.

***Assistant Professor, Department of Commerce, Sree Narayana College, Kollam, Kerala, India.

Abstract

The rapid advancement of financial technology has transformed the payment landscape in India. Digital payment systems have become increasingly popular due to their convenience, speed, and efficiency. Government initiatives promoting digital financial inclusion and the widespread use of smartphones have accelerated the adoption of digital payment platforms. The present study examines the adoption of digital payment systems among rural and urban consumers in Kerala. The study also analyses consumer perceptions and behavioural patterns regarding digital payment methods. Primary data were collected from 300 respondents using a structured questionnaire. The results indicate that urban consumers demonstrate higher adoption levels of digital payment systems compared to rural consumers due to better digital infrastructure and awareness. However, rural consumers are gradually adopting digital payments due to increasing smartphone penetration and government awareness programmes. The study highlights the importance of digital literacy, improved security mechanisms, and stronger digital infrastructure in promoting wider adoption of digital payment systems.

Keywords

digital payment systems, consumer behaviour, rural consumers, urban consumers, kerala, and financial technology.

Abstract
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COST STRUCTURE AND PROFITABILITY OF PEPPER AND CARDAMOM CULTIVATION IN KERALA: A COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS

*Jiya Tom, & **Geevarghese M. Thomas

*Research Scholar, Department of Economics, Catholicate College, Pathanamthitta, Kerala, India.

**Assistant Professor, Department of Economics, K.G. College, Pampady, Kottayam, Kerala, India.

Abstract

Pepper and cardamom are two of the most important plantation spice crops cultivated in Kerala, contributing significantly to farm income, rural employment, and export earnings. However, cultivation of these crops is increasingly characterised by rising production costs and heightened economic risk. This study examines and compares the cost structure and profitability of pepper and cardamom cultivation in Kerala using secondary cost of cultivation data for the period 2019–20 to 2021–22. Standard cost concepts, namely Cost A, Cost B, and Cost C, are employed to analyse item-wise expenses, labour intensity, and inter-year changes in cultivation costs across different holding size classes. Profitability is assessed using the value of output per hectare and benefit–cost ratios. The results reveal that hired human labour constitutes the dominant component of cultivation costs in both crops, highlighting their labour-intensive nature. While pepper cultivation exhibits higher cash profitability under Cost A, cardamom cultivation generates a higher gross value of output but is associated with substantially higher cultivation costs. The comparative analysis underscores important differences in cost composition, labour participation, and economic returns between the two crops. The study emphasises the need for targeted policy interventions aimed at reducing cost pressures, improving productivity, and strengthening income stability for spice cultivators in Kerala.

Keywords

cost of cultivation, profitability, pepper, cardamom, benefit–cost ratio, kerala.

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