Sustainable tourism development and management: case study Barberyn Island, Beruwala region, Sri Lanka

Tourism is a vital sector in Sri Lanka, contributing approximately 12% to the country's GDP. It attracts local and international visitors annually, playing a critical role in economic growth through foreign exchange earnings, employment generation, and support for various industries such as agriculture, transport, and construction. The economic development of the Beruwala region mainly depends on income generated from tourism. This paper aims to assess the current state of Barberyn Island, identifying the challenges and opportunities for establishing it as a premier tourist destination in the Beruwala region, all while promoting sustainable tourism and infrastructure development. Additionally, alternative ideas will be identified to enhance tourism management and development in Barbican Island, along with strategies to boost the local economy in the Beruwala Region. The study utilized both primary and secondary data sources. The data used included primary sources, such as stakeholder interviews, field surveys, observations, and secondary data. The strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats were analyzed using a SWOT analysis. Analysis indicates the importance of tourism development in Barberyn Island, establishing it as a premier tourist destination in the Beruwala region, and the lack of awareness of tourism management and development among people .so this study highlighted the ideas and strategies for sustainable tourism and infrastructure development management in Barberyn Island

The impact of urbanization on energy consumption: a comparative analysis of selected developing countries

Urbanization has emerged as a critical determinant of energy consumption patterns, particularly in developing economies experiencing rapid economic and demographic transitions. This study investigates the relationship between urbanization and energy demand through a comparative analysis of four rapidly urbanizing South and Southeast Asian nations: Sri Lanka, India, Bangladesh, and Vietnam. Covering the period from 1990 to 2023, the research employs advanced panel data econometric techniques to provide robust empirical evidence on how urban expansion influences energy use in these developing contexts. The analysis utilizes both fixed-effects and random-effects models to account for country-specific heterogeneity while examining the core relationship between urbanization and total energy consumption. To isolate urbanization’s distinct impact, the study controls for several key variables: GDP per capita, industrial and services value added, and renewable energy adoption (indicating sustainability efforts). The empirical results demonstrate that urbanization exerts a statistically significant positive effect on energy consumption across all sample countries, though the effect size varies considerably. Notably, the energy-urbanization elasticity is highest in Vietnam and lowest in Sri Lanka, reflecting differences in urban infrastructure quality and industrial composition. The study finds that industrialization acts as an amplifying factor, while greater renewable energy penetration serves as a moderating influence on urban energy demand. These findings carry important policy implications for sustainable development in the Global South. The results suggest that urban planning strategies should prioritize energy-efficient infrastructure development and accelerated renewable energy adoption to mitigate the environmental impacts of rapid urbanization. Furthermore, the country specific variations highlight the need for tailored policy approaches that consider national economic structures and urbanization trajectories. This study contributes to the broader literature on urban energy systems by providing comparative, empirically grounded insights from four key Asian emerging economies

Assessing residential land scarcity amid urbanization in Kandy Municipal Council

Urbanization has significantly influenced land demand, particularly in rapidly growing cities like Kandy, Sri Lanka. As urban expansion accelerates, residential land scarcity has emerged as a critical challenge, affecting housing affordability, infrastructure development, and sustainable land use. This study aims to examine the challenges of residential land demand amid urban development in the Kandy Municipal Council area and propose effective solutions. The study area, Kandy, a historic and economically significant city in Sri Lanka, has experienced rapid urban growth in recent years. With increasing population density, expanding commercial zones, and growing infrastructure needs, the availability of land for residential purposes is shrinking. The KMC, which governs urban planning and development, faces difficulties in balancing land demand with environmental conservation and heritage preservation. This study employs a mixed-method approach, combining interviews, questionnaires with random sampling methods (68). On the other hand, Land Use and Land Cover Change analysis for understanding the transformation of land use in the selected areas in KMC between 1998 and 2023, Spatial Interpolation Analysis (Inverse Distance Weighted), was used to identify patterns in environmental changes, illustrating areas most affected by land transformation, and Suitability Analysis also used to evaluates suitable regions for sustainable land development based on environmental and socio economic factors, ensuring effective land management strategies. The study highlights that rapid urban expansion has led to an increase in residential land prices, reducing affordability for middle and lower-income groups. Encroachments, unplanned developments, and inadequate regulatory frameworks have exacerbated land scarcity. Furthermore, environmental constraints, including hilly terrain and protected areas, limit the expansion of residential zones. The study also finds that existing urban planning strategies struggle to accommodate the rising demand, leading to informal settlements and inefficient land utilization. To address residential land scarcity, the study recommends implementing comprehensive land-use planning strategies, promoting vertical development, and enforcing stricter regulations on unplanned construction. Additionally, enhancing public transportation and infrastructure in suburban areas could ease urban congestion and expand residential options. Introducing incentives for sustainable housing projects and improving governance mechanisms for land allocation are also crucial for mitigating future land shortages

A comparative study in the view of Indian social reforms of raja rams Mohan Roy and E.V. Ramasamy

Since the pre-colonial times of rule, the Indian society that was under the grip of traditions, norms and customs could not get rid of them until the 20th century. That is to say; historically, the racial structure, female slavery, reactionary character which were seen in the Indian society where Brahmin society was highly influential had led the then Indian society. It had continued even during the colonial period. Hence, the said fraction of the society considered themselves as elite and the rest of the people had lived in India without rights and humanity. As a result, some agitations and oppositions arose in several parts in India from the educated, rationalists and progressive thinkers against this reactionary attitudes. Even some of the English rulers joined these so-called social reformers and took some initiatives. However, it was a great challenge for them during that period. It is noteworthy to mention here that Raja Ram Mohan Roy from the North India in 19th Century and E.V.Ramasami known as Periyar from South India in the 20th century were two of them who planted the societal reformatory opinions. Even though there were many similarities in many of the social reformatory opinions of them, there was not any direct relationship between them. This study is based on the historical approach of documentary and comparative explanations. Reports and policy declarations were used as primary data and books; newspapers and articles were used as secondary data for this study. The problem statement of this study is that the reformatory opinions and thoughts put forwarded by these reformers have not brought changes during the period of their lives and thereafter. The main objectives of this study are to find out the traditions and superstitions which deeply rooted in the south Indian society in the 19th and 20th century and to study the actions taken by the reformers like Raja Ram Mohan Roy and E.V.Ramasamy who evolved against these in this period and to study the similarities and differences of their opinions. However, there is no second opinion that the reformatory actions that these two reformers undertook had had impact on the people living there in during that time

Epics of Mahakavi (T. Uruththiramoorththi) in critical perspective

Epic tradition was established by several poets who adopted this form of literature for expressing their views, observations and experiences in creative styles. Poets have been writing epics since antiquity until the present day. As a result, epics are divided into two categories based on their chronological period: classical epics and modern epics. Present day epics of Bharathiar, Bharathidaasan, Kannadaasan, Mahakavi and others can be outlined. Origin of the modern epic begins with Bharathiar whose epics ‘Panchali Sapatham’ and ‘Kuyilpattu’ differ from the traditional epics in content and technique. Mahakavi, Neelavanan, M.A. Nuhuman, and others are among the first to write modern epics in Sri Lankan Tamil literature. For the purpose of this study, the Mahakavi epics only here analyzed. The epics of mahakavi have broken free from traditional epics and have created modernity in terms of structure and content (Epic material). The epics of the great poet have broken free from traditional epics and have created modernity in terms of structure and content (epic meaning). When it comes to structure, they have broken free from traditional epics and have revealed Poetic form, Dialogue style, Visual art, Realism, Poetic structure, Strange imagination, Sarcasm, Methods of expression such as Mythological epic tradition, Names with a rustic character, Progressive characters, Character creations such as Mythological epic characters, Symbolism, Alankaara (parable, metaphor, hyperbole, self-referentiality), Commentary, (Character commentary, Place commentary, Event commentary) ,Proverbs, Creative techniques Colloquialism, Foreign langurge words, Adjectives, Double entendre, Language use or linguistic specificity. Social issues are realistically expressed as the theme of the epic. He has covered themes in his epics such as Social inequality and resistance, Women's issues, The lifestyle of rural people, such as occupation, residence, rural sports, education, rituals, customs, and arts, Humanity, Biological features of the Urban and middle classes, Cultural degradation, Anti-imperialist, Nature, The purpose of life, Philosophy of life. The research objectives of this study are to introduce the epics of the great poet, to reveal the characteristics of modern epics found in the epics of the great poet, and to identify the modern epic characteristics expressed in terms of content and form throughout the epics of the great poet.. The six epics written by the great poet, namely Kallazhagi, Sadanku, Oru satharana manithanathu Charitram, Kanmaniyal Kathai, Kandappa Shapadham, and Daganam, have been used as primary data, and the books and articles written by others regarding the epics of the great poet have been used as secondary data. This study uses interpretive, sociological, and cultural approaches. This study has presented that the characteristics of modern epics are well-established in the epics of Mahakavi, and that Mahakavi holds a unique place among the modern epic creators of Eelam

The problems and prospects of tribals in Ooty

The tribal communities of Ooty, nestled in the Nilgiri Hills of Tamil Nadu, represent a rich cultural heritage and a unique socio-ecological relationship with their environment. This paper examines the contemporary problems faced by these indigenous groups—particularly the Todas, Kotas, Irulas, and Kurumbas—while also exploring the prospects for their socio-economic upliftment. Despite constitutional protections and welfare schemes, Ooty’s tribal populations continue to grapple with issues such as land alienation, inadequate access to education and healthcare, unemployment, cultural erosion, and limited political representation. Environmental degradation and the expansion of tourism and commercial agriculture have further disrupted traditional livelihoods, pushing many into precarious labor markets. The study employs a mixed-methods approach, combining field interviews, government reports, and secondary data to assess the impact of development policies and grassroots movements. While the challenges are considerable, emerging opportunities offer cautious optimism. Recent efforts in tribal education, eco-tourism initiatives, and community-led conservation programs have demonstrated the potential for sustainable development that respects tribal identity and autonomy. In particular, the revival of indigenous knowledge systems and crafts has opened new avenues for economic self-reliance and cultural preservation. The paper advocates for an inclusive development model that integrates tribal voices into planning and implementation processes. It emphasizes the need for context specific policy interventions, legal safeguards for tribal land rights, and capacity-building programs to ensure long-term empowerment. Through this analysis, the study highlights both the urgency of addressing systemic inequities and the resilience and agency of tribal communities in Ooty

Co-movement and information transmission between conventional and Islamic equities in Sri Lanka

This study aims to investigate the co-movement and information transmission between conventional and Islamic equity indices in Sri Lanka. This study uses daily data of All Share Price Index and Dow Jones Islamic Market Sri Lanka Index from 2013 to 2023 for conventional and Islamic proxies. Descriptive statistics, cross-correlation, dynamic conditional correlation (DCC)-GARCH and wavelet analysis were used for the investigation. Analyses reveal synchronous correlation yet lead-lag dynamics between the indices. The Islamic index has lower volatility, clustering and persistence than the conventional index. Localized volatility patches and scale-dependent synchronicity suggest diversification opportunities to optimize risk-adjusted returns. The insights from this study are important for investors to optimize diversified portfolios by exploiting time-varying correlations. The identified lead-lag dynamics, bidirectional information flows and scale-dependent synchronization between the indices enable both investors to predict market movements for effective asset allocation and regulators to monitor market efficiency and stability and implement shock mitigation measures. This study uniquely integrates DCC-generalized autoregressive conditional heteroskedasticity (GARCH) and wavelet analysis to examine the dynamic, time-varying relationships between Islamic and conventional equity markets in Sri Lanka’s dual financial system. This approach helps embrace both short-run changes and long-run movements to gain in-depth co-movement and spillovers, as well as potential diversification gains within an emerging financial market

The effects of mobile phone use among women: a sociological perspective based on Batticaloa district

This study investigates the sociological effects of mobile phone use among women in the Batticaloa District of Sri Lanka. Emphasizing the intersections of gender, technology, and social transformation. The central objective is to examine how mobile phone usage influences women’s daily lives, with a particular focus on empowerment, communication, education, and economic participation. The research addresses key questions: How do women in Batticaloa engage with mobile technology? What socio-cultural and economic factors shape their usage? What barriers limit their access to and use of mobile phones? The study identifies core problems such as the gender digital divide, limited digital literacy, and patriarchal norms that inhibit women’s full digital inclusion. A mixed-methods research design was employed, combining quantitative data from 200 structured surveys with qualitative insights from in-depth interviews and focus group discussions. Quantitative data were analyzed using SPSS for statistical correlations, while thematic analysis was used for qualitative interpretation. Findings reveal that mobile phones have significantly enhanced women’s access to information, social connectivity, and self-agency, particularly among younger and urban users. However, older women and those in rural settings remain disadvantaged due to affordability, literacy barriers, and cultural constraints. The study recommends targeted digital literacy programs, affordable access initiatives, and gender-sensitive ICT policies to promote inclusive technological empowerment

Information and communication technology literacy of pre-service special education teachers in ODL Programmes: a critical examination

This study examines the ICT literacy of pre-service Special Education prospective teachers enrolled in the Open and Distance Learning (ODL) mode at Tamil Nadu Open University, India. A total of 247 out of 370 B.Ed. Special Education trainees participated in the research. Data were gathered through an online survey and analyzed using descriptive statistical tools such as percentage analysis, mean, median, standard deviation, and t-test. The results indicate that approximately half of the participants exhibit an average level of ICT literacy. Interestingly, the remaining half is equally split between high and low levels of ICT competency. This distribution highlights a critical gap: nearly one-fourth of the trainees may struggle with basic digital tools and e-resources, which are essential for effective teaching and learning in inclusive classrooms. Given the increasing integration of technology in education, especially in special education contexts, these findings raise important concerns about the readiness of future teachers to leverage ICT in their professional practice. Teachers with limited ICT skills may find it challenging to plan and deliver lessons, access digital content, and provide accommodations for diverse learners. To bridge this gap, it is imperative to implement regular, structured ICT training sessions as part of the ODL curriculum. Such initiatives would help build essential digital competencies, ensuring that teacher trainees are better equipped to integrate technology into their teaching and cater to the varied needs of learners with disabilities. Continuous professional development in ICT can enhance classroom engagement, improve learning outcomes, and support inclusive education practices

The role of AI in reforming traditional education: a case study of o/l students at Meeravodai Al-Hidhaya School

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is increasingly recognized as a transformative force in education, offering innovative tools to address the limitations of traditional teaching methods. This study investigates the role of AI in reforming conventional educational practices, with a specific focus on Ordinary Level (O/L) students in Meeravodai Al - Hidhaya Maha Vidyalaya. Using a case study approach, the research explores how AI technologies influence learning experiences, engagement levels, and academic outcomes among a selected group of O/L students within a local school context. This case study examines the implementation of AI-based interventions within OL education, identifying their impact on student engagement, performance, and skill development. Data was collected through a combination of quantitative methods (structured questionnaires) and qualitative methods (interviews and classroom observations), allowing for a comprehensive understanding of both measurable impacts and student perceptions. The study examines the use of AI-based tools such as intelligent tutoring systems, automated assessments, and personalized learning platforms. Findings reveal that AI integration can significantly enhance individualized learning, provide real-time feedback, and help students grasp difficult concepts more effectively. However, challenges such as limited access to digital infrastructure, lack of teacher training in AI platforms, inadequate facilities and concerns about data privacy also emerged as barriers to effective implementation. Additionally, the study highlights that while AI tools are promising, they must be used in a way that supports not replaces the human element of teaching. Teachers play a crucial role in guiding AI use, adapting content, and providing emotional support, especially for students preparing for high stakes examinations like the O/Ls. The research concludes with practical recommendations for schools and policymakers, including the importance of investing in teacher training, ensuring equitable access to AI tools, and establishing clear guidelines for ethical AI use in classrooms