HRAF Global Scholar: Raj Kumar Singh
Title: Ph.D. Scholar, Department of Anthropology 
University Affiliation: University of Delhi, India
Research Topic: Religion, Economy, Climate Change, and Indigenous Communities

Raj Kumar Singh is a Ph.D. scholar in the Department of Anthropology, University of Delhi. He submitted his M. Phil on the topic “Exploring Buddhist Economics at Dharamshala.” In his doctoral program, Singh is exploring the dialectical relationship between Buddhism and Economy among the Tibetan refugees. His dissertation titled “From Monasteries to Markets: Understanding Religion and Economy at McLeodganj, Dharamshala” explores the complex interplay between Buddhist ethical principles and economic practices among Tibetan refugees in Dharamshala, India. His research delves into how these principles, particularly compassion, interdependence, and the pursuit of a meaningful life, shape the economic decisions and behaviors of the Tibetan community. According to Singh:

“Access to the eHRAF World Cultures and eHRAF Archaeology databases is instrumental in broadening the comparative scope of my research. By utilizing these resources, I aim to draw cross-cultural comparisons that would illuminate the ways in which religious ethics influence economic practices in other refugee communities globally. The ethnographic and archaeological data available in eHRAF allows me to deepen my analysis of how Tibetan Buddhism interacts with market forces, thereby enriching the theoretical framework of my dissertation. My research also includes an exploration of the Tibetan medicinal industry and health policies, focusing on how traditional Tibetan medicine is integrated into the broader economic activities of the community. The eHRAF databases provide crucial comparative material on traditional medical practices and their economic implications in various cultural contexts, which is essential for the development of this chapter of my dissertation.”

Recently, Singh has focused his research on Arctic anthropology and climate change in the Himalayan region, particularly how environmental shifts impact indigenous and local communities. He examines how climate-induced migration affects cultural practices, livelihoods, and socio-economic structures, with a special focus on communities displaced due to changing environmental conditions. Singh is also working on a book chapter on Hindu ethics and capitalism, where he explores how Hindu philosophical traditions influence contemporary economic behavior.

Having access to eHRAF World Cultures and eHRAF Archaeology has been invaluable in shaping Singh’s research. He believes that the HRAF Global Scholars Program has significantly enhanced his research by providing access to invaluable resources that support both the depth and breadth of his analysis. Singh is eager to contribute to the broader field of anthropology through a more informed and culturally nuanced study of religion and economy, as well as climate change and indigenous communities.

The eHRAF databases allow Singh to compare the adaptive strategies of climate-affected communities, providing a broader perspective on how societies in extreme environments navigate economic and cultural changes. It also helps him explore cross-cultural patterns of ethics and capitalism, strengthening the arguments in his book chapter. Singh states:

“One of the biggest advantages of eHRAF is the rich ethnographic depth it offers—I can quickly find detailed case studies and historical insights that might otherwise take months to gather. The ability to conduct cross-cultural comparisons has been particularly useful, allowing me to see how different societies integrate environmental and ethical considerations into their economic lives. Access to eHRAF has not only enhanced my academic research but has also helped me refine my fieldwork and bring a global, comparative perspective to my writing.”

HRAF is honored to feature Raj Kumar Singh as one of our HRAF Global Scholars for 2025. We wish him continued success with his research.

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