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Climate change poses a formidable threat to food security in India, a country with a population of over 1.3 billion people heavily dependent on agriculture for their livelihoods. This paper provides an overview of the challenges and potential solutions for addressing the intersection of climate change and food security in India. The impact of climate change, such as altered precipitation patterns, extreme weather events, rising temperatures, and changing pest and disease dynamics, have profound consequences for Indian agriculture, exacerbating the already existing vulnerabilities within the food system, from smallholder farmers to the overall supply chain. The consequences of a disrupted food supply extend to issues of malnutrition, hunger, and socio-economic instability. This paper explores various facets of this complex issue such as the specific challenges faced by Indian agriculture due to climate change and the resultant threats to food security, ongoing efforts and potential solutions, including the adoption of climateresilient crop varieties, precision agriculture, and sustainable water management practices, to mitigate these challenges, and the necessity of policy intervention to enhance climate resilience within Indian agriculture. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The world has achieved massive economic progress in the past few decades, along with population explosion and rapid urbanization/industrialization, the effects of which are being realized across the world in the form of global climate change with huge environmental impact. Though climate change is a natural phenomenon, the release of several greenhouse gases (GHGs) into the atmosphere through human activities has made a greater contribution to global warming. The present paper is a review of Indian climate features/trends and their consequences across the country. Recent countrywide trends in some selected climatic parameters like rainfall and temperature have been depicted. India is an agrarian country and is exposed to various hydro-ecological vulnerabilities, particularly successively occurring, extreme, climatic hazards like drought, flood and cyclone. Based on some indices, possible vulnerable areas due to the effect of climate change have also been depicted. Although the analyses are based on national level secondary data on selected parameters, some region-specific micro-level studies may better reveal the significance of these vulnerabilities. The present paper an attempt to map the climate variability across the nation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: This paper aims to assess the impact of corporate social irresponsibility (CSiR) media coverage on firm performance in India. It also analyses the effects of the environment, social, governance, and cross-cutting issues on firm performance. Design/methodology/approach: The paper utilizes a sample of Indian firms from the Reprisk® database, amounting to 1,103 CSiR media coverage counts for 693 firm-year annual observations from 2008 to 2015. Further, Reprisk® segregates comprehensive CSiR coverage counts into the environment, social, governance and cross-cutting issues, for which the study runs the fixed effects panel regression. The study takes year-fixed effects, industry-fixed effects and clustered standard errors at the industry level. Findings: The results of this study indicate that CSiR coverage negatively influences the firm performance of Indian firms. All issues, including social, governance and cross-cutting, except environmental issues, negatively impact firm value in India. Practical implications: The involvement of firms in CSiR costs the firms financially and drives down firm performance. Social issues, including community and employee-related matters, governance issues and cross-cutting issues, also reduce the firm performance. Social implications: The insignificant environmental impact on firm performance does not indicate that environmental issues have no detrimental consequences. Instead, it might need more stakeholders' awareness to understand the harmful implications of environmental issues on society. Originality/value: Limited studies have explored CSiR in India so far. The study is novel as it analyses the Reprisk® database and its segregation of media counts into the environment, social, governance and cross-cutting issues in the Indian context. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The paper aims to examine how Indian non-financial service sector companies' financial performance is influenced by their corporate social responsibility (CSR) expenditures. The paper also analyses whether family ownership has a moderating role in the CSR expenditure–financial performance association. Design/methodology/approach: The study includes 288 non-financial service sector companies listed in India with 3,456 firm-year observations. Panel data regression analysis using data for 12 years, starting from 2010 to 2021, is carried out. Findings: The study reveals a positive influence of CSR spending on financial performance measures (Tobin's Q and return on assets). Mandatory CSR policies also influence the company's performance. Additionally, family ownership has a positive moderating effect on CSR expenditure–financial performance (Tobin's Q). Research limitations/implications: The study gives insights to the managers on how CSR expenditures can be used to maximise their benefits by supporting social causes, particularly in the case of firms with ownership structures where family involvement is there. Originality/value: The prior studies analysing family ownership effect on the CSR–financial performance relationship are fewer, and in a country like India, where corporate philanthropy is a part of the family business culture, there is a need to understand how CSR spending influences firm performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: This study aims to examine the cryptocurrency adoption (CA) level among Indian retail investors who use cryptocurrency as an investment and mode of transaction. Design/methodology/approach: Through self-administered survey questionnaires, data is collected from 397 retail investors of Haryana (India). This study adopted a quantitative method using partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM). Findings: This paper offered a robust model with a high explanatory value for CA in which four of the five proposed factors of diffusion of innovation theory (trialability, compatibility, complexity and observability) and one of the two proposed factors of consumer behavioral theory (perceived value) significantly influences CA. More specifically, the absence of regulatory support is a barrier to the broad adoption of cryptocurrencies, as its regulations are necessary to mitigate or minimize uncertain outcomes. Research limitations/implications: This research primarily focuses on CA in India. Thus, it can be extended to cover diverse other countries for more precise results. Practical implications: The results provide insights to the government to design the policies, better regulate and make investment strategies that can ultimately enhance CA. In addition, the study's results also inform financial educators, policymakers, employers and academicians about the significance of several variables affecting CA in India. Social implications: From a social standpoint, this study is an advance that directs central banks and governments to develop, regulate and manage digital currencies and implement a digital currency ecosystem. Moreover, the results assist in understanding investors' perceptions and decision-making perspectives toward cryptocurrencies through the country's digitalization. Originality/value: This paper fills the study gap to assist policymakers and cryptocurrency experts in broadening their knowledge base and recognizing prioritized intentions. Additionally, this study provides a theoretical model with the latent variable for a present and pertinent matter. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ever since Beijing has launched its grand transcontinental Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), President Xi's key foreign economic plan has ignited interest of policymakers and academia alike. This paper explores that under the BRI framework, China has invested billions of dollars in infrastructurebuilding in diverse regions across the globe, including South Asia where Beijing has expanded its footprints by implementing projects in various sectors. India, being wary of Chinese ambitions and intentions, has declined to join the venture as it has reservations over Xi's 'project of the century'. In response, India has come up with various initiatives to counter the growing role of Beijing in South Asia and beyond. Key Indian initiatives are examined aimed at rivalling China. For enhancing regional integration and connectivity, India, in partnership with Japan, has launched Asia-Africa Growth Corridor (AAGC). International North-South Transport Corridor (INSTC) is another such venture to dwarf the Chinese BRI. In collaboration with the Group of 20 (G20), New Delhi unveiled another connectivity initiative -- India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC) as an alternative to the BRI. The paper concludes that although India is eager to compete with China, it does not have enough resources to match China's regarding investing and implementing mega infrastructure projects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The paper traces the origin of the Middle East conflict and discusses the gradual evolution of the Israel-Palestine conflict from a historical perspective. The paper discusses the peace negotiations undertaken for the region during different periods and the contribution of the international community in reaching a compromise formula. The paper discusses the emergence and the role of Hamas and how it gained political legitimacy. The paper concludes with the views of Israel and India perspective. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The paper argues that, in light of the changing warfare dynamics and tactics globally, the concept of non-kinetic warfare has increased the significance of advanced technology in a country's defense sector. Using instances from the ongoing Russia-Ukraine crisis, the chapter further elucidates the emergence of non-kinetic warfare capabilities, particularly cyber warfare, as a new battlefield game-changer. Additionally, drawing inspiration from the technological progress in cyber warfare on a global scale, it is my argument that India should prioritize the development of non-kinetic warfare capabilities, considering the cyber dangers it encounters due to the China-Pakistan Nexus. In this context, a comprehensive, multifaceted strategy to counter threats posed by low-cost and low-tech to high-cost and specialized technologies is paramount for India. Against this background, the paper has been divided into four sections. The first reviews the existing literature about non-kinetic warfare. The second section examines the growth of non-kinetic warfare capabilities, with a particular focus on cyber warfare as a new battlefield game-changer. This analysis draws upon examples derived from the ongoing Russia-Ukraine issue, specifically highlighting Russia's utilization of cyber and information warfare capabilities against Ukraine. Given the global strides in cyber warfare, the third section focuses on the cyber threats faced by India because of the China-Pakistan Nexus. The final section represents the main conclusions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: With changing employment conditions, technological advancement, frequent manpower reduction and global competition, the relevance of the protean and boundaryless career concepts is increasing. With this, the country's culture plays a pivotal role in career choice. The purpose of this paper is to develop and validate protean and boundaryless career scales for college passing out students and in the Indian context. The protean career scale was measured by self-directed and values-driven dimensions, while the boundaryless career scale was measured by boundaryless mindset and organizational mobility preference. Design/methodology/approach: The first step involved defining construct and determining face validity. The data collected via questionnaire from India's final year engineering students were subjected to exploratory factor analysis and confirmatory factor analysis in the second and third steps, respectively. Finally, the nomological validity was tested by establishing the relationship between factors influencing career choice and newly developed protean and boundaryless career. Findings: The result suggested using a two-factor model with a protean career (combining self-directed and values-driven items) and a boundaryless career as a separate construct for college passing out students. Research limitations/implications: The developed scale has nine items that can be used to conduct surveys at the time of campus hiring by academic scholars, HR managers, and practitioners who are working on the identification, development and management of human talent as a part of any human resource management system. Originality/value: To the best of the authors' knowledge, this is the first approach to developing the protean and boundaryless career scale for college passing out students and in the Indian context which can be replicable for South Asian countries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The list of 135 reported spider mite species (family Tetranychidae) belonging to two subfamilies, six tribes and 20 genera, from various parts of India has been enlisted here. This paper is aimed at compiling the data from published records, which could be useful for future reference as well as research purposes. A list of scientific names of the Indian tetranychid mite species with their synonyms and their distribution are provided in this paper. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: This paper aims to trace Tata Group's role in responding to disability in the decades immediately following India's independence until the preliberalization period of the Indian economy, i.e. from the 1950s to the 1990s. Design/methodology/approach: This study's methodology entailed a historiographical approach and archival engagement at Tata Archives (Pune, India) of the company documents. Materials and records of the Tata Company between 1942 and 1992. Findings: Adopting the corporate culture lens, the study findings show that Tata Group demonstrated an active prosocial corporate approach toward disability. In a period governed by the ideology of a state-dominated developmental approach, Tata Group's initiatives were related to medical interventions for a wide spectrum of disabilities, rehabilitation and efforts to ensure persons with disabilities (PWDS)' livelihood. Originality/value: Disability, in the neoliberalized economic landscape of India, is an emergent business issue for companies espousing workplace diversity. The historical understanding of business engagement with disability from postindependence to liberalization in India remains, however, limited. In postindependence India, the passive business response to disability emerged within an ethical and discretionary framework, with charity and philanthropy as the main modes of engagement. In this background, this paper explores Tata's response to disability and PWDs, which was distinct. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The main purpose of this paper is to determine the bias-corrected efficiencies and rankings of the selected hotels and restaurants (H&Rs) in India. Design/methodology/approach: The data for the Indian H&R sector are collected from the Prowess database. The bootstrap data envelopment analysis (DEA) based on a constant return to scale (CRS), variable return to scale-input oriented (VRS-IP) and variable return to scale-output oriented (VRS-OP) are applied on H&Rs to obtain the bias-corrected efficiencies. Findings: It is found that relative efficiencies using basic DEA methods of all the 45 H&Rs of India are overestimated. These efficiencies are corrected using bias correction through bootstrap DEA methods. The bounds for the efficiencies of each H&R are computed using all the adopted methods. All H&Rs are ranked using bias-corrected efficiencies, and the linear trend between ranks suggests that the H&Rs are ranked almost similarly by all the adopted methods. Practical implications: To improve efficiency, Indian H&R companies must rethink their personnel needs by enhancing their workforce management capabilities. The government needs to extend more support to this sector by introducing a liberal legislation framework and supporting infrastructure policies. Originality/value: There is a paucity of studies on H&Rs in India. The current study focused on measuring bias-corrected efficiencies of the selected H&Rs of India. This study is one of the few initiatives to explore bias-corrected efficiencies extensively using the bootstrap DEA method. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The adoption of technology and its advancements have brought various fundamental and structural changes to various sectors of the economy, including the banking sector. In India, the move towards e-banking was initiated by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) by relying upon several recommendations provided by high-level committees formed for promoting the growth of information technology in the field of banking. In the current scenario, digital payment methods have replaced conventional paper-based methods due to their costefficiency and expediency. However, it is accompanied by certain challenges, such as poor security measures followed by institutions, which in turn create reputational, operational, or legal risks as they might lead to the disclosure and misuse of sensitive personal information of customers. In order to combat such risks and meet the challenges, the legal framework needs to be strengthened and made more stringent, while specific laws governing electronic payments need to be complied with. The paper examines the relevance of the growing electronic fund transfer systems in India, issues associated with them, existing statutory provisions, and directions issued by the RBI to combat such challenges, and offers suggestions to strengthen the legal framework in order to protect customers as well as participating institutions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The World Trade Organization’s (WTO) policy of free and fair trade has led to persistent decline in the average world trade tariff rates. It also ensured prior ratification of non-tariff measures implemented by countries. At the same time, countries across the world have introduced trade facilitation measures to ensure smooth flow of goods across borders. Despite these, countries still face substantial trade barriers. Against this backdrop, using data from India, the present paper aims at analyzing the impact of trade barriers on its exports by calculating a bilateral trade restrictiveness index based on tariff, non-tariff and border administrative and regulatory measures. The results show that trade restrictions faced by a country depend on its export basket composition, specific export products and its export destinations and hence are unique to each country. They confirm the existence of substantial trade barriers for a country, as against the general perception that trade restrictions have declined over the years. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

At the root of the second wake of export pessimism is the argument that exportled growth (ELG) models suffer from a fallacy of composition. Under constrained global demand, all exporting nations cannot simultaneously pursue ELGs, and the ensuing battle for markets would eventually cause more competitive exporters to drive out or displace less competitive ones. Considering how the Indian economy has witnessed a deceleration in her export of services since the mid-2000s, this paper enquires whether similar export-displacements could have lent to this status quo. Using bilateral service trade data for the years 2005-2015, the paper tests the displacement or crowding out of India’s export of services to advanced OECD nations by exports from other developing and emerging market economies. Our results show the remarkable presence of complementarity between service exports from India and that from other exporting powerhouses like China, Singapore and Vietnam, though the country appears to have been losing markets for her prime services to certain emerging exporters. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: This paper aims to examine the relationship between earnings quality and corporate cash holdings in an emerging economy. Existing literature posits that earnings quality is a result of information asymmetry and firms with lower earnings quality increases cash holdings, to shield the firm from future uncertainties. In this paper, the authors propose a 'private benefits hypothesis', which suggests that lower earnings quality is an indicator of opportunism and expropriation of resources in the firm, through tunneling or excessive executive compensations. As a result, firms with lower earnings quality increase cash holdings in their control, to increase their private benefits and to avoid the scrutiny of the external stakeholders. The authors further examine the monitoring role played by institutional investors on cash holdings, with varying degrees of earnings quality. Design/methodology/approach: This study uses an unbalanced panel data sourced from Prowessdx, from 2000 to 2019. The analysis employs 20,231 firm-year observations from 2,421 firms. Earnings quality is calculated following Dechow and Dichev (2002). Findings: Empirical analysis confirms that the firms with higher earnings quality reduce cash. Further, institutional investors reduce the cash holdings in firms with higher earnings quality. Institutional investors effectively reduce the cash only in firms with at least 10% of equity shareholding. The results are robust to alternative measures of earnings quality and endogeneity concerns. Originality/value: This study diverges from the information asymmetry hypothesis in the existing literature on earnings quality and cash holdings and highlights the underlying private benefits hypothesis, that will impact cash holdings. Next, the 10% institutional shareholding is important in the Indian context as it represents the minimum threshold at which block holders can request extraordinary general meetings (Section 100 of the Companies Act 2013) or the involvement of the National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT) (Section 213 of the Companies Act 2013). This study highlights that unlike in Anglo-Saxon economies, institutional investors or other minority shareholders are empowered by the Companies Act 2013 to play a vital role in corporate governance with a mere 10% equity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: This study aims to examine the association between parental financial socialization and life satisfaction and the mediating roles of desirable financial behavior in the association between parental financial socialization and life satisfaction of college students in India. Furthermore, this research also explores the moderating effects of parents' socioeconomic characteristics (education, income and professions) in the association between parental financial socialization and desirable financial behavior. Design/methodology/approach: A sample of 1,161 college students was collected in India. Parental financial socialization is measured by direct parental teaching in this study. The first stage moderated mediation model is performed to examine the direct and indirect effects through financial behavior of parental financial on life satisfaction as well as the moderating role of parents' socioeconomic characteristics. Findings: The mediation analysis shows that parental direct teaching is positively associated with young adults' financial behavior, which in turn contributes to their life satisfaction. Furthermore, this study also finds negative moderation effects of parental education on the association between parental direct teaching and children's financial behavior. Originality/value: This study extends the knowledge of family financial socialization in the context of India. Moreover, it examines the mediation roles of desirable financial behavior in the association between parental direct teaching and children's life satisfaction. Furthermore, this paper explores the potential influence of parents' education, income and professions on children's financial behavior and life satisfaction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the past few years, there has been a big rise in the number of relationships and agreements between businesses in India and the UK. But the results of these cross-cultural projects are very different. Some are huge successes, while others have a hard time. The purpose of this study paper is to find the cultural factors that affect the behaviour and productivity of business ties between the UK and India in a good or bad way. The first part of the paper sheds light on well-known cultural aspects theories, like Hofstede's model, to look at and compare the core values of Indian and UK cultures. It is made clear how the two countries' cultural values are very different. A qualitative exploratory research methodology was employed. Secondary research was conducted analysing scholarly literature on cross-cultural management, cultural dimensions theories, and case studies of real-life UK-India partnerships. What should be done is suggested based on the results. To have long-lasting partnerships with people from other countries, they need to learn about each other's cultures by getting to know each other, being open and flexible, and always learning. The study's result is that companies can do well in different countries by overcoming the challenges that come with their differences and working to be culturally competent. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Minimalism is one post modern style movement which emerged in the 50s of the twentieth century, but it was rapidly growing in the years 60s, 70s. Minimalism is defined as the concept of minimizing distractions from what's truly valuable or essential . On the same grounds, works of minimalist offers a direct view at and raises questions about the true nature of the subject or object inviting the viewer to consider it for it for the real shape, a thought, a movement reminding us to focus on what's really important .The Architecture of Minimalism is characterized by an economy with materials, focusing on building quality with considerations for 'essences' as light, form, detail of material, texture, space and scale, place and human conditions . The research of this paper is mainly into the basis of designing a Minimalistic mosque in India while analysing the parameters for the design from the the Matching characteristics of islamic architecture (i.e) in specific to a mosque and the Minimalism . Therefore, the paper is about the mosque architecture and minimalism and of their underlying principles, matching characteristics and design goals [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The paper examines the extent of corporate disclosure in the Management Discussion and Analysis (MD&A) reports of companies listed on the Bombay Stock Exchange. A sample of 55 companies is taken, and based on the disclosure checklist containing 52 information items, the extent of disclosure is measured both at the aggregate level and with respect to different reporting areas of the MD&A report. It is found that average level of aggregate disclosure is 64.8%, which is moderately high. The maximum disclosure score is 90% and minimum 25%. The variation in the extent of disclosure among the sample companies is measured by range and standard deviation, which are 65% and 11.2%, respectively. As far as disclosure in specific areas of the MD&A report is concerned, a few companies have made 100% disclosure in respect of industry structure and development, risk and concern, and segment reporting, while some have made no disclosure about outlook information. The overall results suggest that there exists scope for improving the quality of disclosure in MD&A reports of Indian companies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The fraud landscape for FinTech industry has increased over the past few years, certainly during the time of COVID-19, FinTech market reported rapid growth in the fraud cases (World Bank, 2020). Taking the consideration, the paper has qualitatively understood the loopholes of the FinTech industry and designed a conceptual model declaring "Identity Theft" as the major and the common fraud type in this industry. The paper is divided in two phases. The first phase discusses about the evolution of FinTech industry, the second phase discusses "Identity Theft" as the common fraud type in FinTech Industry and suggests solutions to prevent "Identity Theft" frauds. This study aims to serve as a guide for subsequent investigations into the FinTech sector and add to the body of knowledge regarding fraud detection and prevention. This study would also help organisations and regulators raise their professional standards in relation to the global fraud scene. Design/methodology/approach: This paper revisits the literature to understand the evolution of FinTech Industry and the types of FinTech solutions. The authors argue that traditional models must be modernised to keep up with the current trends in the rapidly increasing number and severity of fraud incidents and however introduces the conceptual model of the common fraud type in FinTech Industry. The research also develops evidences based on theoretical underpinnings to enhance the comprehension of the key fraud-causing elements. Findings: The authors have identified the most common fraud type in the FinTech Industry which is "Identity Theft" and supports the study with profusion of literature. "Identity theft" and various types of fraud continue to outbreak customers and industries similar in 2021, leaving several to wonder what could be the scenario in 2022 and coming years ahead (IBS Inteligence, 2022). "Identify theft" has been identified as one the common fraud schemes to defraud individuals as per the Association of Certified Fraud Examiners. There is a need for many of the FinTech organisations to create preventive measures to combat such fraud scheme. The authors suggest some preventive techniques to prevent corporate frauds in the FinTech industry. Research limitations/implications: This study identifies the evolution of FinTech industry, major evidences of Identity Thefts and some preventive suggestions to combat identity theft frauds which requires practical approach in FinTech Industry. Further, this study is based out of qualitative data, the study can be modified with statistical data and can be measured with the quantitative results. Practical implications: This study would also help organisations and regulators raise their professional standards in relation to the global fraud scene. Social implications: This study will serve as a guide for subsequent investigations into the FinTech sector and add to the body of knowledge regarding fraud detection and prevention. Originality/value: This study presents evidence for the most prevalent fraud scheme in the FinTech sector and proposes that it serve as a theoretical standard for all ensuing comparison. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The average annual income of farmers in India is well below the poverty line, primarily due to off-season agriculture and a lack of awareness about optimal farming techniques and crop management. This research paper presents an AI-based web application designed to address these challenges and improve farmers' financial and mental well-being. Our solution, comprised of a farming tools leverage system and a collaborative farming forum, empowers farmers with the knowledge and tools needed to make informed decisions and increase their income. The system leverages MongoDB, asynchronous calling, and Fast API for efficient data management and real-time interactions. AI/ML services assist with crop recommendations, crop disease detection, and price predictions. Load balancing ensures optimal performance, and Pusher JS enables real-time communication. Billing services and a dashboard provide income insights, while geographic data enhances machine learning recommendations. In conclusion, this research contributes to alleviating poverty and enhancing the livelihoods of farmers in India by providing a comprehensive solution to the challenges they face. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This research paper examines the impact of an online webinar on domestic violence awareness and knowledge of the Domestic Violence Act 2005 in India. It employs a two-group post-test experimental design to compare the knowledge levels of participants who attended the webinar with those who did not. The webinar aims to raise awareness about domestic violence, educate participants about the DV Act 2005, and empower individuals to take action. The findings will provide insights into the effectiveness of the webinar in enhancing understanding and knowledge of legal measures to address domestic violence. This research contributes to the existing literature and informs future efforts in designing effective awareness campaigns and educational interventions to combat domestic violence In India. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the current scenario of educational system, there is an increasing demand for higher education in India. Particularly, there is exponential growth and competition visible among Engineering Institutions in coming days. To stand out, it is very important for undergraduate educational institutions to maintain high-quality standards. Accreditations like NAAC and NBA has emerged as potential tool for assuring the quality of educational institutions in India. Stakeholders started believing in these scores to judge the performance of the Institutions. Hence, it is mandatory for Higher Educational Institutions to maintain the high-quality standards will not only help in getting accreditation but also helps in the growth of the Institution. This paper presents the quality practices to be followed by the educational institutions to achieve maximum accreditation scores. A new mantra which has 10 key points are proposed in this paper which will help the higher educational institutions to follow it as a road map for achieving excellence in Engineering Education. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Technology and the availability of information have shifted the focus of researchers of engineering education towards experiential learning, a three-dimensional learning approach for students' engagement and development. The MIT report on The Global State of the Art in engineering education also shows the importance of experiential learning as a pedagogical tool for engineering education. Many researchers have discussed how this pedagogical tool is used to develop various skills like leadership, decision-making, teamwork etc. However, how experiential learning is mapped with learning outcomes and strategy for their assessment is yet not developed and discussed in depth. This research paper discusses the learning of students while working on the project undertaken under Mission Amrit Sarovar- Jal Dharohar Sanrakshan-2022 as part of the Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav initiative by the Government of India to rejuvenate ponds, advocating sustainability, and enhancement of analytical skills. The paper also discusses how effectively various learning aspects and understanding of all participating students would be mapped with required skill sets. The survey instrument has captured the detailed response to do an analysis of learning and later on, that has been mapped with required skill sets. Moreover, activities were designed with a perspective to provide experiential learning for students to engage with relevant officials, enhancing their communication and presentation skills. This also facilitates interdisciplinary collaboration in addressing environmental challenges and conserving valuable natural resources. The findings provide a direction for field-academic scenarios with practical knowledge and foster students' ability to contribute to real-world problems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper illuminates an inventive initiative by Gujarat Technological University (GTU) that encompasses rural development and the cultivation of universal human values within students. Engineering students, specializing in civil and electrical fields, plays a pivotal role, actively immersing themselves in a holistic project. Their involvement entails conducting vital techno-economic and demographic surveys in close coordination with local stakeholders and officials. A vivid illustration of this collaboration is evident through the case study of Jasapar village in Jamnagar, Gujarat. Beyond traditional classroom learning, this initiative offers a transformative real-world experience, fostering indispensable attributes like communication, leadership, teamwork, and empathy through profound community engagement. The project additionally serves as a crucible for technical growth, propelling students to navigate intricate challenges, design sustainable solutions, and bridge technology with societal welfare. As students translate theoretical insights into tangible rural benefits, their ability to innovate, adapt, and resourcefully optimize gains refinement. A significant facet of this initiative lies in its contribution to mitigating rural-urban migration, harmonizing with broader sustainable development objectives. . By synergizing surveys, analysis, and collaboration, students evolve into adept problem solvers and leaders. The initiative's impact extends beyond empowering rural communities with sustainable solutions; it nurtures the early-stage development of universal human values through direct communication with rural India. In this journey, the thought process itself emerges as a driving force, propelling communities towards comprehensive and sustainable development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Data visualization is a powerful tool for communicating complex and multidimensional information in an effective and engaging way. However, creating effective data visualizations requires not only technical skills, but also critical thinking skills to select, analyze, and interpret data. In this paper, we propose an inquiry-based active learning pedagogy approach to heighten learners' critical thinking skills for the course Data Visualization Analytics. We describe the design and implementation of a series of learning activities that involve learners in posing questions, collecting and exploring data, creating and presenting visualizations, and reflecting on their learning outcomes by collecting survey questions from 76 students. We also present the results of a mixed-methods evaluation of the approach, which involved all 76 undergraduate students from Kalasalingam Academy of Research and Education (Deemed to be University) in Tamilnadu, India. The evaluation showed that the approach improved learners' critical thinking skills, as measured by a pre-and post-test, and enhanced their engagement and satisfaction with the course, as indicated by a survey and interviews with four input parameters and one output parameter. We discuss the implications of our findings for the data visualization analytics course and suggest directions for students' efficacy by applying regression and correlation analysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Amidst the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic, the landscape of education in India has undergone a profound transformation. Traditional methods of teaching and learning, once the bedrock of our educational system, now find themselves met with skepticism from both students and educational institutions. In response to this paradigm shift, this paper delves into the pressing need for a comprehensive overhaul of pedagogical methodologies within the context of engineering education in India. It emphasizes the pivotal role of education and pedagogy, advocating for a departure from conventional models towards a more learner-centric and adaptable framework, tailored to the nuances of the Indian education landscape. In this context, the paper sheds light on the intrinsic value of understanding diverse learning styles, particularly within the backdrop of a digitally driven era. The profound impact of digital platforms on modern education in India is explored, underscoring their potential to revolutionize and enhance the learning experience for Indian students. The paper further examines unconventional techniques that challenge the norms of education as conventionally understood, recognizing their potential to bridge the gap between students' expectations and institutional methodologies. Within the discourse of this paper, special attention is accorded to three distinctive non-conventional pedagogical approaches: 'Cyberhunt', 'Keyword Concept' and 'Role Switch Teaching'. These methodologies are scrutinized as quintessential examples of innovative strategies that can foster an intuitive and engaging learning environment within Indian classrooms. 'Cyberhunt' immerses students in experiential learning by assigning them virtual quests that mirror real-world challenges, thereby nurturing critical thinking and problem-solving skills tailored to the Indian context. Similarly, the 'Keyword Concept' approach capitalizes on cognitive associations to enhance memory retention and conceptual understanding, catering to the unique learning styles often found in India. Further, the innovative 'Role Switch' teaching methodology, which involves assigning students diverse roles in course delivery, was successfully implemented to further enrich the learning experience in the context of control engineering course. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents an analysis of the caste system as a cultural construct. Esteemed social anthropologists and sociologists have perceived caste as a set of cultural beliefs and practices prevalent in Indian society. Caste is traditionally viewed as a cultural system shaped by specific norms and values that dictate the interrelations among individuals. Essentially, the caste system is a codified set of beliefs and practices observed within society. It is posited that a cultural approach to analyzing the caste system yields a deeper understanding. G. S. Ghurye (1932) characterizes caste by six features: segmental division of society, hierarchical structure, dietary and social interaction restrictions, civil and religious rights and disabilities, occupational restrictions, and marriage limitations. The entrenched social hierarchy of the Indian caste system has evolved notably in recent times. While caste is a unique societal stratification in India, this paper investigates its current socio-cultural transformations, focusing on significant cultural practices and processes such as Sanskritization, Westernization, Secularization, Modernization, and Globalization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A correction is presented to the article "Perception, Practices and Understanding Related to Teenage Pregnancy Among the Adolescent Girls in India: A Scoping Review," which appeared in the 2023 issue of the magazine.

The present paper aimed to assess the sediment distribution pattern, mode of transport, and its interaction with hydrodynamic and topographic conditions at different depths and regions along the east coast of India. About 900 surficial sediment samples were collected and analysed on a monthly basis for the Chennai coastal region at 32 stations from 2013 to 2015. The study region is classified into four types, such as beach, inlet, 5 m, and 10 m depth. Sediment textural and grain size trend analyses were conducted to achieve the objectives. Sediment characteristics for the region were recorded as sandy, equally dominated by unimodal and bimodal at the beach, while unimodal at shallow depths (5 and 15 m). The sediments were medium sand to coarse sand at the beach, mostly fine followed by medium at 5 and 15 m depths. The sediment sorting is dominated by moderately well-sorted sediments; the skewness of beach sediments was negative, while nearshore sediments were found positive; average kurtosis values of sediments were noticed to be mesokurtic. The CM plot depicts that the sediments were mostly derived by tractive current, and the modes of transport are "bottom suspension and rolling" and "graded suspension no rolling" at beach locations and shallow water depths, respectively. The GSTA analysis reveals the annual average sediment transport pattern is northerly. The numerical hydrodynamic study confirms the GSTA and CM plot analysis. The study reveals a stable sedimentary environment south of the Chennai port and instability in the northern part. The study includes large spatiotemporal nearshore sediment data with hydrodynamic conditions, immensely helpful to coastal stakeholders and researchers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Disengaged teachers in leadership roles cannot be role models for students and teachers. Expecting them to take school too far can be too much of an expectation. This paper explores how three critical attributes of person-environment fit influence the work engagement of K12 school administrators through their organizational identification and job satisfaction. Data collected from 303 private school administrators is analysed through structural equation modelling. This work provides insight to school promoters on how they can enhance their schools' institutional memory, the performance of students and the teachers. Besides being practically insightful, this work also attempts to broaden the theory of person-environment fit concerning organizational upshots. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Indoor air quality (IAQ) in the built environment is significantly influenced by particulate matter, volatile organic compounds, and air temperature. Recently, the Internet of Things (IoT) has been integrated to improve IAQ and safeguard human health, comfort, and productivity. This review seeks to highlight the potential of IoT integration for monitoring IAQ. Additionally, the paper details progress by researchers in developing IoT/mobile applications for IAQ monitoring, and their transformative impact in smart building, healthcare, predictive maintenance, and real-time data analysis systems. It also outlines the persistent challenges (e.g., data privacy, security, and user acceptability), hampering effective IoT implementation for IAQ monitoring. Lastly, the global developments and research landscape on IoT for IAQ monitoring were examined through bibliometric analysis (BA) of 106 publications indexed in Web of Science from 2015 to 2022. BA revealed the most significant contributing countries are India and Portugal, while the top productive institutions and researchers are Instituto Politecnico da Guarda (10.37% of TP) and Marques Goncalo (15.09% of TP), respectively. Keyword analysis revealed four major research themes: IoT, pollution, monitoring, and health. Overall, this paper provides significant insights for identifying prospective collaborators, benchmark publications, strategic funding, and institutions for future IoT-IAQ researchers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Western liberal media theories often neglect to recognize “news translation” as one of the journalistic practices. This paper problematizes this dominant understanding of journalistic practice and expands the Bourdieusian media sociology project beyond western media systems by applying it to Indian agency journalism. A case study of the United News of India Urdu (UNIU) serves as the basis for this examination, drawing on an ethnography of news production practices, and supplemented with in-depth interviews conducted with Muslim journalists from 2018 to 2020 across four major Indian cities. Through this investigation, the paper asserts that “news translation” is indeed a vital but contested component of media work within the sphere of Indian-language journalism. The paper uses “media work” as a key concept to demonstrate that UNIU’s journalists are anchored in the field of journalism, as is evidenced by their institutional-cum-organizational location and their application of the elements of journalistic practice to their work. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

India has earmarked 56 shale gas fracking projects as part of its coal-to-gas transition plan. However, fracking poses peculiar risks to the environment and public health. This paper examines whether India’s fracking-based energy transition pathway ensures procedural justice for its citizens by evaluating its regulatory framework on three key aspects of procedural justice: information, inclusion and influence. In doing so, this paper posits that procedural rights are considered part of constitutionally guaranteed fundamental rights in India. To address the procedural justice issues, this paper argues that the Indian government should conduct scientific inquiries into the environmental impact of the proposed fracking projects. Additionally, the paper suggests establishing communication channels to inform local communities about fracking-related risks through decentralised regulatory mechanisms, creating regulatory structures to involve various stakeholders in decision-making, and analysing how fracking will affect the socio-economic conditions of local communities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Analyzing the battle over Sree Padmanabhaswamy temple’s enormous treasure, the paper documents the litigious journey of the concept of sacred possession and heritage. It shows how the evolving and complex logic of secular governance in India provides the legal categories that animate this contestation over the deity’s wealth. While the enormous treasure trove housed in the six chambers of the temple’s basement ‘belongs’ to the idol (murthi) Lord Sree Padmanabhaswamy, the royal family of Travancore has held the right for over the last two hundred and seventy years to control the wealth as the Lord’s servants (dasa). Though the dispute over what is arguably the world’s largest temple gold and valuables collection began in 2007, it gained widespread media attention in 2009 when a public interest litigation (PIL) was filed. Since then, the royal family, temple management, and other stakeholders have been embroiled in the struggle for possession and control of the temple’s wealth. The paper explores how legal frames of Anglo-Hindu law in their postcolonial avatars, material patrimony (gold and land), and notions of immaterial heritage (shebaitship) animated and framed this contestation. To this end, the paper maps the legal trajectory of the dispute and the public debates over the ownership and control of the astounding wealth of Sree Padmanabhaswamy temple. Further, it decodes the legal reasoning behind the courts’ arguments and delves into ontological questions surrounding religious freedom and secularity. The discussion illustrates how notions of immaterial heritage anchored in ideas of kingship as well as kinship emerged as clinching evidence in the management and access to this sacred wealth. Finally, the analyses offer insights into the governance of sacred materiality through religio-legal categories in a postcolonial nation-state. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Covid‐19 lockdown in India in March 2020 revealed the presence of Adivasi communities in the marine fishing industry of Goa, a coastal state in India. While the migration for work of Adivasi communities from the central regions of the country is well recorded, their movement across geographies of the forest and the coast is relatively unknown. Working with initial data collected during the lockdown, interviews conducted after the pandemic and using secondary materials, the paper sought to understand the social and material conditions in the forest and the coastal regions that shape this movement. Centring the waged relation of Adivasi workers opened the door to thinking about the marine fishing sector in India as a capitalist industry, while paying attention to social reproduction highlighted how the coastal and forest regions are spatially linked through their movement and labour. This highlights that the coasts and forests are going through distinct processes of capitalist intensification and expansion. Making connections between ecological appropriation, historical processes of resource extraction and marginalization, the paper finds that the extraction of fish resources in Goa is made productive through the hierarchization and differentiation of Adivasi workers. It reveals how the social relations of identity and caste mediate access to and define conditions of work at sea. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ethnic conflicts have proved to be inherently dangerous and repressive across the globe. While this signification cannot be negated, a deeper articulation of liminal existences in the conflict‐prone areas requires more attention. Using case studies with a qualitative research design, the paper emphasizes on conflict as a social force, facilitating the (re)structuration of communities entangled within it. The paper explores the mundane lived experiences of the Adivasis and the Bodos, two of the ethnic communities living in Assam, a Northeastern state of India, by making a few claims. First, ethnic conflicts reorient social relations, intercommunity interactions and economic exchanges between the Adivasis and Bodos. Second, ethnic conflicts recourse varied negotiations and emotions in their being(ness), aspirational values, and embodied meanings in mundane life‐processes. The complex realization of identities for the Adivasis and the Bodos is fostered by the exposure of fear, past loss of life, and the varied interactions between victims and perpetrators in everyday social life. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Native residents are indispensable participants in developing and conserving the natural environment. Specifying the factors that lead to responsible behavior among the local people can help increase sustainability. This paper aims to investigate the pro-environmental behavior among the local residents of the Kashmir region defined by the components of Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB) and Value Belief Norm (VBN) Theory. To analyze the data, Confirmatory Factor Analysis (CFA) and Structural Equation Modelling (SEM) has been used as research methods. The results reveal that the three components of TPB (general environmental attitude, subjective norms, perceived behavior control) have a positive and significant impact on the pro-environmental behavior of residents. Moreover, the findings also demonstrate that the factors of VBN (altruistic, egoistic and biospheric values) significantly influence the general environmental attitude which in turn impacts the pro-environmental behavior of local residents. The paper seeks to contribute to the existing literature by adding local community insights based on the explanations given by socio-psychological theories within the context of natural environment. The study will help policymakers to understand better the residents' intentions and pro-environmental behavior so that they can develop strategies to manage and combat the environmental problems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this article, we analyse India's transport sector policy. The study examines the two important modes of transport, viz., road and rail, and analyses the efficiency of transport infrastructure from 2011 to 2019. Through Data Envelopment Analysis (DEA), we evaluate modes in terms of the capacity of registered road goods vehicles and railway goods wagons, truck km/train km and energy consumption and corresponding freight traffic. The analysis gives valuable insight into the fact that rail infrastructure is more efficient than road infrastructure. Still, current transport sector policies promote energy-intensive carbon-fuel road vehicles rather than energy-efficient alternative transport modes. The study suggests the changes that may be incorporated in inputs to improve the efficiency of the road infrastructure. The Data Envelopment Analysis (DEA)-Malmquist Index analysis reports the need for total factor productivity improvement in rail transport and the introduction of technological innovations in road and rail transport sector management. The study employs a well-to-wheel (WTW) based index to ascertain the energy consumed and pollutants emitted by freight-carrying road and rail modes between two leading business hubs of India, i.e., Ludhiana and Mumbai. The paper identifies policy gaps and suggests a holistic approach for need-based roadway investment and a time-bound development of railway infrastructure in India. Our study generates valuable implications for India's policy planners and government authorities and provides new insights to other countries. • The study examines road and rail transport, and analyses the efficiency and energy consumption of these modes. • The study suggests the changes to improve the efficiency of the road infrastructure. • The Data Envelopment Analysis (DEA)-Malmquist Index analysis and well-to-wheel (WTW) based index have been employed for the analysis. • The paper suggests a need-based roadway investment approach and a time-bound development of railway infrastructure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this paper is to analyse the policy implications of the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code (IBC) 2016, which was enacted in India as part of banking sector reforms. The study aims to answer the question: Has the policy helped banks enhance their asset quality, stability, and performance?" To determine the effect of IBC on these research variables, we used a difference-in-difference (DID) regression technique. We collected a sample of 924 bank year observations for three categories of banks -- public, private and foreign ownership banks for the period during 2010 to 2021. We first analysed the ownership-wise impact of IBC on asset quality, stability and performance. Then, we further investigated the policy's implications by dividing banks into unhealthy and healthy categories based on their Z scores. In our findings, bank stability and asset quality for three ownership banks (private, public and foreign banks) is significantly different from each other. For overall sample observations, the relationship between asset quality and banks stability is negative and significant. This suggests that a deterioration in asset quality leads to less change in bank stability, i.e. the result confirms banks' loan evergreening problem during the reform period. The results estimating the impact of IBC on stability of public sector banks was insufficient, except for risk capital. Our findings show that public sector banks have tightened their lending standards in anticipation of potential asset quality deterioration. However, our analysis of the IBC's impact on unhealthy banks' asset quality, stability and performance did not align with the policy's objectives. While the IBC policy in itself is passing through several changes in recent, the study's results can aid policymakers in better assessing the impact of banking policies in India and can be used a reference for future policy formulation. A few related areas where the study results will aid to help are insolvency resolution, developing liquidation and cross-board insolvency framework. This paper is the first effort to estimate the impact of IBC separately on asset quality, bank stability, and performance of banks in India. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The POCSO Act of 2012 in India is a crucial legislative measure aimed at distinguishing between adult and child sexual offenses, and establishing a child protection framework. It aims to protect children from sexual abuse. However, its practical implementation faces challenges, necessitating a comprehensive understanding of the situations involving the child victim. The Act, designed to create a legal sanctuary for children against sexual exploitation, hinges greatly on the judiciary’s aptitude to grasp the intricate challenges child victims confront. While the Act sets the stage for child protection, its effectiveness pivots on the sensitivity and comprehension of judges in handling cases involving child victims. This study endeavors to elucidate the obstacles faced by judges, ranging from limited awareness and entrenched biases, to the absence of specialized training. Sensitizing judges, the cornerstone of this paper’s discourse, is indispensable for fostering effective and empathetic decision-making. This study reverberates with a fervent appeal to recognize judges as torchbearers of change, instrumental in dismantling the shrouds of silence and indifference that have long cloaked child sexual offenses. Through a sensitized and empathetic judiciary, we aspire to build a society that unequivocally stands as a bulwark against the insidious menace of child sexual abuse. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Every day, all over the globe, people make the tough decision of leaving their homes in order to rebuild their lives and settle somewhere else for jobs or education; or they are compelled to leave their native lands and traverse international boundaries to provide a safe and sound environment for their families. Millions of people are also forced to migrate because of armed conflicts, insurgencies, or climate change. This paper explores the contemporary human rights issues faced by refugees and migrants, with special reference to Afghan refugees in India [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hand hygiene remains one of the most effective methods of preventing healthcare-associated infections. Hand drying is the end point of hand hygiene. Hand drying after hand hygiene is less explored, and the practice varies in different facilities. This explorative study was done to know the various hand-drying methods and practices of healthcare workers in Indian settings. This was a descriptive cross-sectional questionnaire-based observational study initiated from a tertiary care setup in Uttarakhand. Healthcare workers over 18 years of age directly involved in patient care were enrolled. A semi-structured questionnaire with both open-ended and close-ended questions was used with snowballing sampling technique. Statistical analysis was done using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS). Out of the eligible 395 respondents, 62.8% were female. The mean age of the respondents was 31.34 ± 8.44 years and average working hours were 8.87 ± 2.97 (range 4-24) hours. Only 72.7% did hand hygiene always before touching a patient. Nurses were more compliant about hand hygiene than doctors (P < 0.0001). A total of 82.8% were aware of appropriate hand-drying methods. Staff in the Intensive care unit Intensive care unit (ICU) setup were more aware of hand drying practices (P = 0.033). A total of 21.8% wiped their hands on their clothing to dry their hands. This was more in staff from paraclinical departments (P = 0.001). A total of 35.7% used handkerchiefs to dry hands. Resident doctors used handkerchiefs more than senior doctors or nursing staff (P = 0.01). A total of 49.9% of respondents spent less than 10 seconds in hand drying. Hand-hygiene knowledge is high among healthcare workers in India, but the knowledge of appropriate hand-drying practices is lacking. There is wide variation in the practice of hand drying. Better hand drying guidelines and incorporating hand drying as the essential endpoint of the hand hygiene ritual are warranted. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

On 4 October 2023, a glacier lake outburst flood (GLOF) occurred at South Lhonak Lake in the northwest of Sikkim, India, posing a severe threat to downstream lives and property. Given the serious consequences of GLOFs, understanding their triggering factors is urgent. This paper conducts a comprehensive analysis of optical imagery and InSAR deformation results to study changes in the surrounding surface of the glacial lake before and after the GLOF event. To expedite the processing of massive InSAR data, an InSAR processing system based on the SBAS-InSAR data processing flow and the AI Earth cloud platform was developed. Sentinel-1 SAR images spanning from January 2021 to March 2024 were used to calculate surface deformation velocity. The evolution of the lake area and surface variations in the landslide area were observed using optical images. The results reveal a significant deformation area within the moraine encircling the lake before the GLOF, aligning with the area where the landslide ultimately occurred. Further research suggests a certain correlation between InSAR deformation results and multiple factors, such as rainfall, lake area, and slope. We speculate that heavy rainfall triggering landslides in the moraine may have contributed to breaching the moraine dam and causing the GLOF. Although the landslide region is relatively stable overall, the presence of a crack in the toparea of landslide raises concerns about potential secondary landslides. Our study may improve GLOF risk assessment and management, thereby mitigating or preventing their hazards. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The ultimate aim of education in developing countries is to earn a livelihood. Agricultural Sciences is taught in India in more than 74 agricultural universities. This paper examines entrepreneurial readiness and aims to understand the various factors underlying the entrepreneurial readiness of agricultural students. Data from 422 students from 9 State Agricultural Universities (SAUs) in India formed the study sample. A self-reporting questionnaire was used to measure entrepreneurial readiness based on entrepreneurial intention, perceived ability, perceived attractiveness, entrepreneurial learning orientation, and passion for work. The correlation test revealed a positive correlation among all the variables, with correlation values ranging from 0.40 to 0.68. Most students (74.40%) had a medium level of entrepreneurial readiness. They were ambitious, willing to learn, and had the creativity, leadership, courage, and risk-bearing abilities required to be entrepreneurs. Regression analysis revealed that variables like gender, exposure to entrepreneurial training/workshops/seminars, and having an entrepreneur in the family are significant factors in entrepreneurial readiness. The findings help the agricultural universities' faculty and capacity building and training institutes design the contents of the entrepreneurship education programmes for agrigraduates to make them job providers rather than job seekers, thus contributing to an enhanced entrepreneurial ecosystem in agricultural universities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Rice is an important grain in Indian scenarios, and the purpose of the research work is to identify the attributes which can be the possible barriers in the traditional rice supply chain network. Design/methodology/approach: A multilevel conceptual model is developed based on the literature review, and a field study is conducted by administering a questionnaire from the experts. Fuzzy logic methodology and a ranking score method is applied to identify the rice supply chain performance and the barriers of the traditional rice supply chain network. Findings: The rice supply chain performance index for the traditional rice supply chain network is obtained, and the performance of the existing rice supply chain is found to be "fair". The "information flow" is the attribute that can be a critical weak attribute in the traditional rice supply chain network. A proposed model of the blockchain technology-enabled rice supply chain network is developed as a solution for the "information flow" barrier. Research limitations/implications: The present research work is focussed on the generalized rice supply chain model of the Indian scenario, and more detailed studies can be carried out based on the regional issues. Originality/value: The rice supply chain plays an important role in Indian economic development, and hence the current research paper focusses on identifying the barriers and the performance of the existing rice supply chain network. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Objectives: The second peak of coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19) experienced by India in April-May 2021 overwhelmed the health care system. A severe shortage of oxygen was experienced, and it was realized that some method of estimating the oxygen consumption should be available in order to streamline the distribution network of oxygen. Methods: In this paper, the authors propose a method of estimating the daily oxygen consumption for a hospital based on different formulae used to calculate oxygen consumption by various oxygen therapy devices. The proposed method was tested for its accuracy by measuring the actual oxygen consumption during the same period on the basis of pressure gauge readings difference observed on the liquid oxygen tank. The estimated and actual oxygen consumption was calculated each day for a period of 10 days. Results: The mean estimated oxygen consumption was 1.26±0.11 metric Tonne (MT), and the actual consumption was 1.34±0.08 MT. The estimated and actual consumption had a positive and significant correlation between them (correlation coefficient of 0.699). Reliability analysis performed using the Cronbach’s alpha revealed a factor of 0.94 as a coefficient between both variables indicating that the actual and calculated oxygen consumptions are nearly equal. The Bland and Altman analysis revealed a good agreement. Interpretation and Conclusions: It is concluded that the total oxygen requirement can be reliably estimated based on the proposed formulae, which can be useful to estimate the oxygen consumption of different hospitals, and plan the distribution of oxygen in a city or a district as a part of preparedness to deal with future surges of COVID-19 infections, if any. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Forest fire is a major disturbance in mountainous ecosystems across the world. It impacts the composition, functioning, and structure of the forest ecosystem. Demographic pressure and the related climatic factors are thought to exacerbate the danger of forest fires, although there is a lack of statistical data to support this, particularly in South Asian countries with limited historical records. The study looks at how forest fires interact with their causative variables, such as population, topography, vegetation, and climate regimes, in the forests of Northern India. In order to do so, the paper presents a 15-year trend analysis of forest burn scars. This investigation confirmed the utility of principal component analysis using multisource spatial data and correlation matrices. The findings reveal that the occurrence and intensity of forest fires in mountainous locations are influenced by anthropogenic activities, forests near roads and settlements are extremely vulnerable. Based on the analysis, we emphasize the need for restructuring the existing policies like National Action Plan for forest fires and forest fire prevention and management scheme into more practical science-based policies. These findings may be utilized in planning effective fire control processes in time, and the technique provided in this study may be used to discover potential fire-risk zones in other areas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The faculties are crucial to education. They should have enough training facilities and be encouraged to actively contribute to high-quality education and successful learning. Faculty engagement and development activities should be explored and included in learning organizations and employee engagement in India. This paper aims to describe higher education as a learning organization. The research will also assess how faculty development programs affect faculty engagement behaviors in these institutions and if professional development mediates this effect, which has not been previously examined. Design/methodology/approach: This study was conducted with quantitative data collected from 267 faculties through reliable and validated adapted questionnaires. Semistructured interviews were conducted with heads and professor-level faculties to gain insights into faculty development and engagement. Partial least squares structural equation modeling technique (PLS-SEM 3.3.6 version) was used to test the conceptually drafted model. Findings: Faculty professional development programs shown to improve higher education faculty engagement and professional progress. The studies also showed that higher education institutions must prioritize faculty development to become learning organizations. Professional development reduced the direct effects of faculty development program (FDP) on faculty engagement. This suggests that professional growth mediates the research. Practical implications: This research emphasizes and professional development to boost teacher involvement in B-Schools. Management must design faculty development programs to construct professional development and learning organizations, according to the results. Developing and writing rules that encourage faculty engagement in such internal and external programs would also enhance their academic and administrative abilities and assist higher education institutions become learning organizations. Originality/value: The study is one of the few to examine the impact of faculty development programs and professional development on faculty engagement in higher education institutions, particularly B-Schools, and its competitive mediating role. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]