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The entire world seems to have responded to COVID-19 pandemic in a knee-jerk manner with a short mindset without building on the existing strengths of public health infrastructure. National governments cannot be blamed for this as we are dealing with a crisis that comes once in a lifetime. Realising this, the Organized Medicine Academic Guild (OMAG) an association of major health associations in this country has suggested measures for long-term solutions to COVID-19-like pandemics in the form of a policy paper by OMAG. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The COVID-19 pandemic has exposed several chinks in the armour of public health infrastructure across the world. However, the impact of the pandemic has been assessed primarily from the perspective of the 'privileged' members of society. The experiences of the 'other' world inhabited by the marginalised communities, who have had their livelihoods crushed under the weight of the pandemic, have been scarcely documented. As thousands of migrant workers were more scared of death caused by hunger rather than the disease itself, the various steps taken by different countries to curb community transmission have unveiled the ugly side of these measures. For example, as several states such as the US, the UK, Singapore, Hong Kong, and India/Bharat imposed lockdowns, border closures, quarantines, inter alia, the most vulnerable section of the human population has been the migrant workers, especially those individuals who were employed in the unorganised sector. Thus, the global health crisis has unravelled deep-rooted deficiencies, racial biases, and an overall lack of concern and empathy for the lesser privileged, apart from the growing socio-economic divide between the rich and the poor. This research paper aims to explore the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on migrant workers in the informal sector by exploring the measures imposed by the US, the UK, Singapore, Hong Kong, and India/Bharat and analyse how their fundamental rights, including the right to development, were compromised. Through this paper, the author provides a five-point strategic framework that can be adopted globally to prevent such instances in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The paper critically dissects the contemporary policy landscape and its ability to counter precarious work for construction workers in the Indian context. By focusing on the governance challenges faced by welfare institutions and the pre-existing fault lines exposed by the pandemic, the paper argues that social policies are languishing and inefficient to respond to the challenges of growing precarity. The paper uses Breman's conception of 'Footloose labour' to understand informality related to construction workers and Gilbert and Terrell's social policy analytical framework to understand the institutional response. The two major arguments that make the social policy languish are the inability of the policy to alter neoliberal employment relationships and the operational challenges that institutions face in implementing welfare schemes for many footloose labourers. Moreover, the situation is further exacerbated by inherent contradictions of the state which is entangled between promoting economic growth through neoliberal policies while consecutively ensuring labour welfare. If the Institutional challenges persist along with the persuasion of neoliberal reforms, footloose labour is only going to be further marginalized and pushed to limits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

India's food processing industry is a sunrise sector and can scale new highs to supply good quality, nutritious, hygienically-produced and packed food products to the consumer and ensure better income for the growers. Rising incomes and a demand for healthy, packaged food ensure its sustenance without fear of recession. In India, this industry has a dualistic structure - organized and unorganized. There is substantial marketing importance of this industry. However, the extent of processing is still at a nascent stage, and the supply chain gaps and losses are the biggest challenges faced by the industry in India. The objective of this paper is to analyse different aspects of food processing industry in India and covers its importance, growth, potential, problems, and government policy. In the end, the paper carried out the SWOT analysis and offers a few policy steps required for exploiting opportunities that lie ahead food processing industry. [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]

India is home to a large number of tribal or Adivasi communities. Particularly vulnerable tribal groups (PVTGs) are one among them. The Indian state initiated several development programs in its affirmative action to benefit PVTGs. However, these initiatives have shown some effects on the ground, still a long way to go. After globalization, a lot of studies claim and argue that the state is slowly withdrawing from its agenda and encouraging multinational companies or corporations (MNCs) to take its role. The MNCs have started their operations by extracting resources without helping Adivasi communities. It led to large-scale protests by the tribal people and civil society organizations. The paper critically discusses development initiatives of the post-independent state to ameliorate the conditions of the PVTGs as part of their affirmative action policies. Furthermore, the paper draws inferences from secondary data sources collected from published and unpublished sources, documents, reports, and online sources. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, the stochastic frontier gravity model is applied to analyze the trade potential between China and Nepal and the prospects of Lanzhou-Kathmandu South Asian rail-road freight trains (LKSARFT). Based on the statistical data, we test the Exports Efficiency (EE), Bilateral Trade Efficiency (BTE), Exports Trade Potential (ETP), Bilateral Trade Potential (BTP), Extended Exports Trade Potential (EETP), Extended Bilateral Trade Potential (EBTP), Improved Exports Trade Potential (IETP) and Improved Bilateral Trade Potential (IBTP) between China and Nepal, the following analysis results can be found: for the bilateral trade model, the bilateral non-efficiency factor decreasing at a rate of 0.057 with time increasing, bilateral trade increasing at a rate of 0.057 with time increasing. For the exports model, the exports non-efficiency factor increasing at a rate of 0.004 with time increasing, exports trade decreasing at a rate of 0.057 with time increasing. The BTE between China and Nepal increases when time changes, the EE from China to Nepal remains constant changing during the 18 years. The changing range of BTE is 0.002-0.05; the changing range of EE from China to Nepal is over 0.1, larger than the BTE. The BTE and EE ranking among the eight South Asian countries are ranking fifth and fourth during the 18 years. exports trade resistance from China to Nepal is larger than bilateral trade resistance; The import trade potential from Nepal to China is huge, the focus of bilateral trade between China and Nepal may be changed, there are more goods may be exported from Nepal to China, and China may become trade deficit when trading with Nepal. Then, the development bottlenecks of the LKSARFT are analyzed. Finally, we give policy directions to boost bilateral trade efficiency and tap the potential of bilateral trade between China and Nepal., Competing Interests: The authors have declared that no competing interests exist., (Copyright: © 2024 Fei Tian. This is an open access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License, which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original author and source are credited.)

Purpose: With the help of the newly developed Economic Policy Uncertainty (EPU) index, this paper attempts to find the influence if any, of the EPU on stock markets and certain key economic indicators in India. Methodology /Approach: The focus is on the influence of EPU on the stock markets, industrial production, new capital issues, exports and bank credit to commercial sector. Monthly data of economic indicators is collected for 66 months from January 2014 and tested with OLS and Quantile regression. Findings: It is observed that stock market, Industrial Production, new capital issues and bank credit are negatively related to EPU. Also, that impact of EPU is more on higher quantiles. Limitations / Implications: The study examines and proves the overall impact of EPU on selected economic indicators and the impact at different quartiles. This opens up vistas for further exploration of the findings to prove / disprove the same in other economic indicators and against certain specific events that spur the EPU index. Practical Implications: The paper has strong theoretical foundations. The methodology adopted has been research tested. There is a need to look at the EPU index closely and frequently to feel the pulse of the EPU and how it affects the economy. Originality Value: This is one of the attempts to evaluate the behavior of EPU and its implication on certain economic indicators. As EPU index is newly developed, this paper adds to the existing literature, especially in the Indian context. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the importance of global health diplomacy (GHD), with India emerging as a key player. India's commitment to GHD is demonstrated by its active participation in regional and multilateral projects, pharmaceutical expertise, and large-scale manufacturing capabilities, which include the production and distribution of COVID-19 vaccines and essential medicines. India has supported nations in need through bilateral and multilateral platforms, providing vaccines to countries experiencing shortages and offering technical assistance and capacity-building programs to improve healthcare infrastructure and response capabilities. India's unique approach to GHD, rooted in humanitarian diplomacy, emphasized collaboration and empathy and stressed the well-being of humanity by embracing the philosophy of "Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam," which translates to "the world is one family." Against this background, this paper's main focus is to analyze the rise of India's GHD amidst the COVID-19 pandemic and its leadership in addressing various global challenges. India has demonstrated its commitment to global solidarity by offering medical supplies, equipment, and expertise to more than 100 countries. India's rising global leadership can be attributed to its proactive approach, humanitarian diplomacy, and significant contributions to global health initiatives. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Comprehensive commercial surrogacy became legal in India in 2002, and many foreigners, including individuals and same-sex couples, sought Indian surrogacy services due to their affordability. Numerous scandals resulted, with increasing calls for the government to eliminate the exploitation of women in lower social strata. In 2015, the Indian government decided to exclude foreign clients and commercial surrogacy remained legal for local Indian couples only. Furthermore, to eliminate exploitation, the concept of altruistic surrogacy was introduced in 2016. In 2020, some restrictions within altruistic surrogacy practice were removed. Controversy remains, however, in various sectors, not least because surrogacy is a relatively new concept in India. In this paper, the advantages and disadvantages of both altruistic and commercial surrogacy in the Indian context are considered, and more appropriate policy concerning surrogacy practices is suggested., Methods: This paper is based on fieldwork conducted in India from 2010 to 2018. Interview surveys were conducted among doctors, policy makers, activists, former surrogates, and brokers. Government documents and media reports were also important sources., Results: Surrogacy for commercial purposes began in India in 2002, and stakeholders within the commercial surrogacy industry became well established. It was found that such stakeholders were strongly opposed to altruistic surrogacy as introduced in 2016. It was also found that women in lower social strata still sought some form of financial compensation from their reproductive labor. Controversies surrounding altruistic surrogacy continue within Indian society., Conclusion: Policies and practices aimed at eliminating exploitive need to consider the Indian context carefully. Any surrogacy practice might potentially be exploitive, and the distinction between commercial and altruistic surrogacy is too simplistic to be useful, with more nuanced understanding required. It is of critical importance that investigation continues on how to eliminate the exploitation of Indian surrogate mothers throughout the process, regardless of monetary compensation. The entire surrogacy process should be managed with sensitivity, particularly in relation to the well-being of the mother and child., (© 2023. The Author(s).)

In India, despite heavy constitutional protection, due to caste-based discrimination, millions of residents are still struggling to access their basic rights such as good food, quality of education, merit-based employment and basic living conditions. This paper illustrates the role of marginality (for more details please, see Braun and Gatzweiler 2014) in determining the accessibility of social capital and its functions to sustain basic needs in old-age. The coverage on discrimination and social hierarchy are some of the significant criterions in which functions of social capital are unproductive and further blocks the opportunities of adaptability in the later years. The paper addresses the issues of living arrangements and financial security among the elderly population. In conclusion, it recommends promotion of institutional care, pension protection and social safety measures for the creation of supportive environment for elderly population across all sections of the society. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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COVID-19 has become unprecedented challenge all over the world, especially for the healthcare sector. This disease being novel in its spread and impact has created a chaos globally. District hospital Pulwama falls within the administrative district of the Jammu and Kashmir region of India. This hospital is designated as a special COVID Care hospital since the spread of the Coronavirus. During this pandemic, even with scarce material and human resources, this hospital played a pivotal role in managing the crises caused by the spread of this dreadful communicable disease. There is an urgent need of having a relook at the role of secondary level health care institutes at district levels to meet the ever-growing health-related challenges. Policymakers need to take the present circumstances and the role played by these hospitals into account while drafting healthcare policies for the future. The Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) has provided an opportunity for this healthcare institution to learn and unlearn various methods and practices to deal with such situations in future. This paper is a sincere and genuine attempt to investigate the role of District hospital Pulwama in the Kashmir region of India, in mitigating the Coronavirus crises. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Regulation is a critical function in the governance of health workforces. In many countries, regulatory councils for health professionals guide the development and implementation of health workforce policy, but struggle to perform their responsibilities, particularly in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). Few studies have analyzed the influence of colonialism on modern-day regulatory policy for health workforces in LMICs. Drawing on the example of regulatory policy from India, the goals of this paper is to uncover and highlight the colonial legacies of persistent challenges in medical education and practice within the country, and provide lessons for regulatory policy in India and other LMICs.Main Body: Drawing on peer-reviewed and gray literature, this paper explores the colonial origins of the regulation of medical education and practice in India. We describe three major aspects: (1) Evolution of the structure of the apex regulatory council for doctors-the Medical Council of India (MCI); (2) Reciprocity of medical qualifications between the MCI and the General Medical Council (GMC) in the UK following independence from Britain; (3) Regulatory imbalances between doctors and other cadres, and between biomedicine and Indian systems of medicine.Conclusions: Challenges in medical education and professional regulation remain a major obstacle to improve the availability, retention and quality of health workers in India and many other LMICs. We conclude that the colonial origins of regulatory policy in India provide critical insight into contemporary debates regarding reform. From a policy perspective, we need to carefully interrogate why our existing policies are framed in particular ways, and consider whether that framing continues to suit our needs in the twenty-first century. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

COVID-19 has become unprecedented challenge all over the world, especially for the healthcare sector. This disease being novel in its spread and impact has created a chaos globally. District hospital Pulwama falls within the administrative district of the Jammu and Kashmirregion of India. This hospital is designated as a special COVID Care hospitalsince the spread of the Coronavirus. During this pandemic, even with scarce material and human resources, this hospital played a pivotal role in managing the crises caused by the spread of this dreadful communicable disease. There is an urgent need of having a relook at the role of secondary level health care institutes at district levels to meetthe ever-growing health-related challenges. Policymakers need to take the present circumstancesand the role played by thesehospitals into account while drafting healthcare policies for the future. The Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus-2(SARSCoV-2)has provided an opportunity for thishealthcare institution to learn and unlearn various methods and practices to deal with such situations in future. This paper is a sincere and genuine attempt to investigate the role of District hospital Pulwama in the Kashmir region of India, in mitigating the Coronavirus crises. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This research paper examines the evolution, impact, and potential trajectory of regional political parties within India's dynamic political landscape. Through an exploration of their historical origins, electoral significance, and policy priorities, the paper sheds light on the substantial role these parties have played in shaping both state and national governance. By delving into their historical roots, electoral strategies, and evolving policy agendas, this study illuminates the intricate interplay between regional and national politics, highlighting the unique challenges and opportunities these parties face in the context of India's diverse political fabric. Ultimately, this research underscores the importance of regional parties as pivotal actors in India's democratic journey, with implications that extend into the future of governance in the nation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

People leave their homeland, some to follow their dreams, some run from war, hunger and some by the sense of adventure but leaving homeland and settled in abroad is a life changing experience. A UN report -International Migration Highlights by UNDESA said that the Indian Diaspora (18 million residing outside India), is the largest in the world. Over the last years, the prime minister has repeatedly called attention to the importance of Diaspora which will play a key role in the promotion of Indian foreign policy goals. The purpose of this paper is to provide a conceptual overview of Diaspora, growing significance in foreign Policy, its Issues, challenges and government initiative. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Democracy and human rights are the two sides of the same coin. In democratic countries, human rights occupy a prominent place. There is great respect and recognition of human rights. While in non-democratic countries, human rights are curtailed to some extent. But in present century, many democratic countries have been targeted for the human right abuse at large. India is world's largest democratic country has a detailed chapter on fundament rights in part-III of the constitution. The constitution has made a provision for the protection of fundamental rights under article 32 and 226 through which different types of writs can be issued for the defence of fundamental rights. Theoretically, there is a detailed deliberation on the protection of fundamental rights in the constitution and also there is National Human Rights Commission for the protecting and promoting human rights in India. In addition to this, there are state level Human Rights Commissions also. There are International, national and state level non-governmental organisations that are perpetually monitoring human rights at length. But despite this, practically there are exorbitant violations of human rights in India. In this backdrop, this paper aims to demystify that 21st century marked an excessive human rights violations in India. The arbitrary arrest and detention, freedom of assembly and expression, unfair trails, excessive use of force, organised crimes in the name of religion, caste based domination are the key domains of human rights violations in India. This paper concludes that, India needs to frame protection of human rights policy in India that can cater the need for the protection human rights at length. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

After a prolonged agrarian impasse, agricultural production in West Bengal, India, grew at an unprecedented rate in the 1980s, a process in which the expansion of groundwater irrigation played an important role. The growth of groundwater irrigation and agricultural production, however, decelerated from the early 1990s. This paper argues that the deceleration in groundwater irrigation development in West Bengal since 1995 is primarily attributed to the adoption of different regulatory policies in two ways: directly, through controlling the overall installation of tubewells or decelerating tubewell electrification; and indirectly, through high electricity pricing for water use in agriculture. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With the onset of rapid population growthand urbanisation levels in India, significant amount of population will be living in urban areas. As existing cities are already densely populated with limited infrastructure, the emergence of townships in the vicinity of urban areas offers great potential for accommodate them. Townships have thus become an important means of sustaining urbanisation in India. This paper discusses the emergence of township development in Pune city and its neighbouring areas by performing an analysis of existing townships as cases. The salient features and major advantages of these townshipsare discussed in detail. The paper finds that the township development in Pune has been rather evolutionary: from 'satellite townships' that were based on the concept of 'counter magnet settlements', to 'integrated townships' that were based on the concept of 'sustainable development', and further to 'smart townships' which use the principles of 'new urbanism'. The paper therefore brings about how such evolution of township development can be replicated by other Indian cities to achieve the urbanisation and urban development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Climate change induced heat stress is predicted to negatively impact wheat yields across the Indo-Gangetic Plains (IGP) of India. Research suggests that early sowing of wheat can substantially reduce this impact. However, a large proportion of farmers sow wheat late across this region, likely resulting in large-scale yield loss. We examined the extent of late wheat sowing across the IGP and which perceptional, management, biophysical, and socio-economic factors are associated with delayed sowing using household survey data from 2429 farmers and the cumulative logit model. Our results indicate that despite understanding that early sowing can be helpful to avoid terminal heat stress, over 50% of farmers sow wheat later than their perceived ideal wheat sowing date. We find that variables related to how wheat fields are prepared prior to sowing are associated with wheat sowing date. Specifically, farmers who had shorter fallow periods prior to sowing wheat and those who used zero tillage were 95% and 65% more likely to sow wheat earlier, respectively. In addition, we found that how farmers managed their rice crop in the preceding cropping season impacted wheat sowing date - farmers who transplanted and harvested rice later and/or planted longer duration rice varieties sowed their wheat later. Our results suggest that policies that promote earlier sowing of rice, such as improved access to irrigation and direct seeding machinery, and reduced field preparation time, such as wider adoption of zero tillage technologies, can help farmers across the IGP sow wheat earlier. This is critical given that warming temperatures will only increase the negative impacts of terminal heat stress on wheat yields across this region over the coming decades., Competing Interests: Declaration of competing interest The authors declare that they have no known competing financial interests or personal relationships that could have appeared to influence the work reported in this paper., (Copyright © 2021 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.)

Extant literature shows that competition and Economic Policy Uncertainty (EPU) have a bearing on the economic growth, investments and payout policies. However, studies in this area have been limited in India. The objective of this paper is to examine the influence of competition and EPU on the Dividend Payments of Indian Pharmaceutical Industry and whether the dividend payment was affected by the Financial Crisis of 2008/09. The study is conducted on 12-year data i.e. from 1.4.2007 to 31.3.2019. Herfindahl-Hirschman Index (HHI) is used to check the market concentration and EPU is measured by the newly developed Newspaper based EPU index. Profitability, leverage and firm size are used as control variables. Fixed Effects model in Panel regression is used. Chow test checks if there was any break in the dividend payment during the Financial Crisis. The study establishes that dividend payment is inversely related to industry concentration - when there is more competition, there is more dividend payment in the industry. Dividend payment is positively related to EPU. Higher the uncertainty, higher the dividend. While leverage is inversely related to dividend payment, size of the firm does not play any role. Chow test confirms that Financial Crisis did not influence the dividend payout. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: This paper seeks to examine the export competitiveness and concentration level of the 15 top sugar exporting countries over the last 18 years (2001–2018) with special reference to India. Design/methodology/approach: First, the paper utilizes a review based approach and explains the structures of major sugar economies in context to protected and unprotected perspectives. Subsequently, empirical research was carried out to assess the competitiveness level of sugar using Revealed Comparative Advantage (RCA) approach and Hirschman Herfindahl Index. Findings: The study found structural changes in cane or beet sugar, and molasses over the time period between 2006 and 2015. Further, the findings confirmed that despite the stringent regulations in European Union, the United States of America, Guatemala, Mexico, Thailand, China, and India, the comparative advantage is high up to seven to nine sugar categories. Besides, despite the indulgent regulations in the Colombia, Brazil, and Canada, the comparative advantage is only consistent up to two to three sugar categories. Research limitations/implications: This study provides an overview of competitiveness patterns of 15 sugar exporting countries and further compare their comparative and concentration levels. In this context, in future, it would be interesting to study the macro-economic and firm and industry-specific factors which may strengthen the study findings. Practical implications: This study suggests that the sugar export of few countries (i.e. Mexico and Canada) is restricted up to their trade pacts and free trade zones which is restricting the competitiveness level and performance. Accordingly, such countries need to enlarge their business boundaries to foster their export competitiveness level. Rational subsidies and governmental assistance in diversification schemes in terms of products' range and sustainable processes can make India a consistent exporter in more categories. Originality/value: Although, the previous studies attempted to examine the sugar industry with particular country context, this study enlarge the body of knowledge through simultaneously examining the sugar export scenario of fifteen sugar exporting countries and providing a broad comparative view of their competitiveness and concentration levels. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Over the last decade India and Brazil implemented waste policy reforms to tackle the constraints of their waste management. This study compares those reforms using the methodological framework proposed by Wilson where waste policy evolves through a series of subsequent stages, depending on two aspects: local circumstances; and stakeholders' groups. The current research is exploratory in its scope, adopting this method to describe, compare and evaluate both Indian and Brazilian cases, and also verifying how the model performs when applied to developing countries. The paper confirms Wilson's conclusions, and adds a perception that in developing economies a special local circumstance is to be considered the point of departure, that is, the particular starting point of Wilson's evolution. In addition, the research concludes that participation of diverse stakeholder groups throughout the political process is fundamental, and could be key to overcoming the risks of policy setbacks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Describes India's National Action Plan for wildlife conservation, itemizing and explaining the main components and strategies of this action program. Also presents a historical perspective of conservation practices, policies, and programs. A table of India's national parks and sanctuaries with data from 1970 to 1983 is included. (ML)

The rise of plastics in the 20th century revolutionized modern life but inadvertently exacerbated the marine litter crisis. The proliferation of wastes such as single-use plastics has escalated pollution along the coastline, demanding coordinated, decisive, and unified action. While the absence of specific national marine litter policies is concerning, there is growing recognition of urgency to address this issue. A group of experts and stakeholders was involved through a multi-staged workshop to assess the generated information based on scientific evidence and formulate a framework for the National Marine Litter Policy (NMLP). This paper proposes policy options (4 targets & 20 strategies) to address marine litter pollution, especially plastics, and aims to elucidate the urgency and significance of implementing an NMLP as a comprehensive strategy to combat plastics pollution. Implementing dedicated policies and action plans tailored to the unique challenges faced by each country is a vital step towards sustainable oceans. [Display omitted] • This paper explores and evaluates policy options for tackling marine litter pollution. • The proposed NMLP framework features 4 key targets and 20 strategic initiatives. • Science-Policy-based tailored solutions designed for the Indian context • Source and sector-specific measures are the focal points. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The purpose of this paper is to identify the input, process and output factors (along with their manifest variables) of small and medium enterprises (SMEs), and to establish cause and effect relationships amongst the factors and sub-factors. Systems thinking, a holistic approach, is used to carry out qualitative analysis of the feedback loops. Design/methodology/approach: A well-structured questionnaire was developed to gather the relevant data to identify the factors affecting the performance of SMEs in a holistic manner. A total of 150 responses were collected during November 2015–March 2016. Factor analysis and path analysis were used to establish causal relationships between input, process and output factors. The systems thinking approach has been used for qualitative analysis. Findings: Feedback loops have been identified amongst input-process-output-input factors and amongst sub-factors. They enabled authors to infer that the managers/owners of SMEs are systems thinkers, if not completely, at least partially. Six negative feedback loops and one positive feedback loop prevail. System behaviour arises out of the interaction of positive and negative feedback loops; it appears that in the long-run, the SMEs attain their target levels. The following inferences are drawn: circular relationships are identified amongst input, processes and organisational performance (OP), modern management tools such as just in times, Kanban have long-term benefits and are perceived as ineffective by small enterprises and formal financing and functional transparency enhances OP. Originality/value: Systems thinking, a holistic approach, has been used to study the effect of input, process and output factors on one another. Such studies are sparse, especially, in the Indian context. Many studies have been conducted to study the effect of input and of processes on performance such as innovation, information technology, human resource, technology, government regulation on performance of SMEs in a silo but, rarely all together. The qualitative analysis adds value to the research. Many of the outcomes of the research have been largely discussed in Indian print media which indicates the pragmatic approach of the research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Indian government introduced the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code of India (IBC) in 2016 as reforms in insolvency and bankruptcy laws are crucial for improving the business environment and credit markets in India. The banking sector of India has been marred for long by the problem of Non-performing-Assets (NPAs), and many of its largest companies are struggling under massive debts. The main objective of the new law was to facilitate insolvency resolution and liquidation in a timely manner and to improve India's ranking in the 'ease of doing business' index. This paper highlights the importance of insolvency reform in the economic policy of any country, while it examines the insolvency regime in India under the IBC with respect to its prospects and challenges and implications of the Code for the Indian corporate sector. Thus, the paper contributes to the policy debate relating to this subject. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper examines India's urban challenges, successive policies of urban development and their impact on the much needed urban transformation. It examines successive policies, plans, and approaches to meet the ever rising urban challenges from the first Five Year Plan till the end of planning era and also underscores the highlights of urban planning through the entire five-year plan period. In the process, it investigates whether the ubiquitous urban deficit in India is actually due to the so-called 'reluctant urbanization' and whether the current policy of creating hundred smart cities can lead to urban transformation in India. This paper is based on the analysis of the available secondary data from various sources. By critically examining the available secondary data this paper explores whether India's urban deficit is a result of poor planning or lack of long term vision and strategy to meet the emerging urban challenges. This paper also critically looks into the emerging ICT-driven paradigms and design of the „smart cities? as models of urban transformation and juxtaposes them to India's own vision of creating hundred smart cities to ensure urban transformation. The paper concludes that any urban transformation should be socially inclusive, economically viable and environmentally sustainable. Technology should not be the end rather the means for bringing urban transformation and building smart cities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper answers research questions on screening and management of severe thinness in pregnancy, approaches that may potentially work in India, and what more is needed for implementing these approaches at scale. A desk review of studies in the last decade in South Asian countries was carried out collating evidence on six sets of strategies like balanced energy supplementation (BEP) alone and in combination with other interventions like nutrition education. Policies and guidelines from South Asian countries were reviewed to understand the approaches being used. A 10-point grid covering public health dimensions covered by World Health Organization and others was created for discussion with policymakers and implementers, and review of government documents sourced from Ministry of Health and Family Welfare. Eighteen studies were shortlisted covering Bangladesh, India, Nepal, and Pakistan. BEP for longer duration, preconception initiation of supplementation, and better pre-supplementation body mass index (BMI) positively influenced birthweight. Multiple micronutrient supplementation was more effective in improving gestational weight gain among women with better pre-supplementation BMI. Behavior change communication and nutrition education showed positive outcomes on dietary practices like higher dietary diversity. Among South Asian countries, Sri Lanka and Nepal are the only two countries to have management of maternal thinness in their country guidelines. India has at least nine variations of supplementary foods and three variations of full meals for pregnant women, which can be modified to meet additional nutritional needs of those severely thin. Under the National Nutrition Mission, almost all of the globally recommended maternal nutrition interventions are covered, but the challenge of reaching, identifying, and managing cases of maternal severe thinness persists. This paper provides four actions for addressing maternal severe thinness through available public health programs, infrastructure, and human resources. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The burning of agricultural residue from previous season's rice crop, primarily in the states of Punjab and Haryana, is a key contributor to poor air quality during the winter across North India. Air quality can deteriorate to catastrophic levels during the Agricultural Waste Burning (AWB) season in October–November, when fine particulate matter (PM2.5) concentrations can exceed WHO daily maxima over a sustained period by an order of magnitude or more, over a large swathe of the Indo-Gangetic plain. Over the past decade, attempts by Indian governments to change farmer behavior by incentivizing the use of novel technologies for managing rice residue without burning it have been met with little success. This paper uses farmer and expert interviews, as well as secondary data, to examine the barriers to adoption of these technologies in the state of Punjab. We analyze how operational factors (such as farm size, timing, technology availability, and choice) affect a farmers' decision to choose (or not) a rice residue management practice. We develop a financial model for analyzing the costs of residue management technologies that are consistent with the decision-making process of both small and large farmers. We find that more sustainable residue management practices can be cost effective relative to residue burn, especially when existing subsidies are applied. However, difficulties in accessing technological alternatives to AWB and subsidies for their use and a lack of trust in the government's ability to deliver the full benefits of subsidies, all contribute the low adoption of technological alternatives to AWB. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article explores India's policy and strategy engagements in Central Asian Republics with the aim of fostering close proximity in the field of economic development, security and political cooperation. It focuses in particular on actions, ways, directions, vision, achievements, methods, which play an important on the bilateral and multilateral cooperation between them. Because the geopolitical competition already has begun for the natural resources and energybetween the major powers (Russia, USA and China) and regional powers (Turkey, Iran, India and Pakistan)in the postcold war period which is known as „New Great Game? in Central Asia. In this dynamic geopolitical environment, India's policy with the regionshould reflect on the economic development, geopolitical engagement including strategic interaction, advantage, political support, mutual cooperation. Whereas India's engagement with Central Asia can provide an opportunity to be a part of a multilateral cooperative system particular, in security and trade ties. In this context, India should strive close to Russia, South Korea and Japan which emphasis close proximity, continue to engage in a resurgence policy to maintain geopolitical space with the proper diplomatic channel. Thus, this article has been divided into two parts, the first part of the paper has examined a comprehensive analysis and used level of analysis for explaining the foreign policy between India and Central Asian Republics. And another part has discussed the policy and strategy engagements of India with the Central Asian region in the 21st century. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Make in India-is an inspiring and vibrant slogan among every sector in India. Make in India emerged from Swadeshi movement covering 25 sectors of economy. Government of India has announced Make in India in 2014 to encourage companies to manufacture their products in India. As per current policy, 100 per cent foreign direct investment is permitted in all the 25 sectors, except for space (74per cent), defense (49 per cent) and news media (26per cent). It is a comprehensive and unique program to renovate the outdate processes and polices. This is a kind of invitation to foreign companies to witness the large demographic market, various natural resources and skills that are available in India. This will indirectly hit the foreign direct investment inflow. The Make in India move is an economic event which explores new avenues and trends in FDI in recent years through its Ease of Doing Business procedures. This paper is to analyse how Make in India is the trend setter in foreign direct investment inflow and evaluate the reasons behind it. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Education has always been regarded as the foundation on which the human resource potential can be fully utilized for productive purposes. Access to quality education is the best gift which can be given to the youth of any nation. In India, the National Education Policy 2020 (henceforth NEP) was introduced on July 20, 2020. It also marked a renaming of the Ministry of Human Resource Development as Ministry of Education. With the aim of transforming the nation into a vibrant knowledge hub, the NEP has many challenges and possibilities ahead and the present paper is a survey of the same. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Economic assets play a key role in the growth of renewable power projects and depend on financial scenarios and policy structures offered by government policies. The focus of the study is to assess the impact of the existing economic scenarios and related government policies on wind and solar power deployment in India. The financial analysis of wind and solar power projects, along with parametric and sensitivity analysis, were performed based on the techno-economic parameters of recent wind and solar energy projects. Factors incorporated into the study are capital cost, annual cash flow, project terminal cost, discount rate, cost of capital, tax rate, capacity factor and technological degradation factor. The results show that the values of levelized cost of electricity (LCOE) calculated for recent wind and solar projects are ₹4.89/kWh ($0.0698/kWh) and ₹4.05/kWh ($0.0578/kWh), respectively, which can be reduced to ₹2.36/kWh ($0.0337/kWh) and ₹2.12/kWh ($0.0303/kWh) through proper amendments to the existing policy, an improved financial framework and technological enhancements. The study will be beneficial to policymakers and project developers, helping to boost the future deployment of wind and solar power projects. (Note: USD ($) was converted to Indian rupee (₹) at an exchange rate of 1$ = 70₹ throughout the paper.) [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Issues To review the burden of alcohol use in India, examine current policy initiatives and programs specific to India and provide a roadmap for future actions. Approach: A literature search was undertaken to review available published research papers, unpublished reports and anecdotal media information in the period 2000–2020 to assess the burden and pattern of alcohol use and appraise alcohol control policies in India. Key Findings: The per‐capita alcohol consumption among individuals aged 15+ years was 5.7 L, which increased over time. Prevalence of alcohol use varied across states with considerable impact on the nation. Regulatory policies and alcohol control programs vary across Indian states, with poor enforcement and implementation. Taxation and pricing policies are revenue oriented. Policies are needed to address the aggressive and innovative marketing strategies of the alcohol industry. The system for regular monitoring of alcohol burden and conducting alcohol policy analysis needs strengthening. Implications: Alcohol use and its public health impact would continue to increase in India in the absence of effective policy and programs; the country may not achieve its stated goal of relative reduction of alcohol use prevalence by 10% by 2025. Conclusion: The prevailing alcohol control policies and programs in India have been less than fully effective in controlling the burden of alcohol use and its associated impact. There is a need for comprehensive, evidence‐based and consensus‐driven national alcohol control policy to appropriately guide and support the Indian states in regulating alcohol and reducing the associated burden. Effective implementations of such policies are central to its success. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Large carnivores face high extinction risks, often exacerbated by the absence of adequate information on their ecological requirements, and the high economic and socio‐political commitments that their conservation warrants. Country‐scale conservation plans can serve as effective frameworks to prioritise areas, actions, and conservation investments.We explore conservation tenets of retention, recovery, and restoration for the Endangered dhole Cuon alpinus in India – a global stronghold for the species. Specifically, we: 1) examine the current status of dholes in India's states using a recent distribution assessment; 2) identify areas for directing management interventions – zones to be targeted for population recovery and for habitat recovery; 3) identify potential areas for range expansion; 4) use eco‐socio‐political criteria to determine state‐wise conservation priority scores and likelihood of conservation action; and 5) conduct an exhaustive review of all published literature on dholes.Dholes occupy ~49% of potential habitats in 685 of mainland India's 2342 sub‐districts. We identified 143 sub‐districts with potential for dhole population recovery, 145 for habitat recovery, and 404 for range expansion. Of the 34 mainland states/union territories, 17 were identified as high priority for dhole conservation. Of these, nine are adequately equipped to implement management actions to conserve dholes, while eight need to improve capacity towards increasing likelihood of conservation success.Literature on dholes (from 1874 to 2019; n=237) was dominated by natural history notes, followed by distribution records and studies of population ecology. A majority of the reviewed studies were from India (55% of 215 country‐specific papers). The number of studies showed an exponential increase over time: 43% were published in the last decade.Our review of published literature revealed significant knowledge gaps in terms of quantitative ecological assessments across all dhole range‐countries. Given this context, our results provide a comprehensive, multi‐dimensional, and administratively feasible road map for dhole conservation in India, with potential applicability in other dhole range‐countries and also for other threatened species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pulses are an important ingredient in the vegetarian diet of Indian masses. These are important because these have a high value for maintaining the optimal blood sugar levels and also restoring energy over a long period of time after the meals because the carbohydrates provided by pulses are released slowly as compared to cereals. In general, pulses are one of the most sustainable crops as it utilizes only 359 liter of water to produce one kg of pulses as compared to 1,802 liter for soybeans and 3,071 liters for groundnut. They play a significant role in contributing to soil quality by fixing nitrogen in the soil. India is one of the largest producer as well as consumer of a wide variety of pulses that is dominated by the tropical and sub-tropical crops such as chickpea, black gram, pigeon pea, green gram, lentil & so on. In this study, analysis has been done to help out the researcher and policy makers to take decisions regarding future initiatives and programs. In India during 2017-18 pulses were grown over an area of 29.99 million hectare producing 25.23 million tones with yield of 841 kg / per hectare. The cropping area of pulses in Haryana as compared to India is almost decreasing. The trend of contribution of pulses by Haryana at national level is also decreasing which reduces from 0.10 million tons in 2000-01 to 0.06 million tons in 2016- 17. In India, about 5.63 to 10.90 percent share of food grains production is of pulses. The percentage growth rate in the cropped area as well as in production of total pulses in India shows much fluctuation but serious downfall in case of Haryana. The present study tries to review and analyze the current policy environment and suggests ways and means to improve the pulses production scenario in the country and Haryana as well. It advocates the need to diversify from cereal–based cropping systems to pulses-based cropping system with certain policy decisions like crop diversification, improving seed replacement rate, improved crop production techniques etc. This paper analyses status of pulse crop in India as a whole and Haryana in particular along with paradigm shift required in policy decision, pulse research, technology generation & dissemination, commercialization along with capacity building of farmers and frontier areas of research & extension. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In today's globalized world, one in every of the good challenges moon-faced by corporations is integration of CSR in business. Stakeholders need plenty a lot of from corporations than simply following growth and profit. CSR has come back an extended approach in India and alternative rising markets. From responsive activities to property initiatives, corporates have clearly exhibited their ability to form a big distinction within the society and improve the general quality of life. This paper focuses on the thought of CSR, its dimensions and relevancy in rising markets with special respect to India. The thought of company Social Responsibility (CSR) isn't new in India. It emerged from the 'Vedic period' once history wasn't recorded in India. therein amount. Kings had associate degree obligation towards society and merchants displayed their own business responsibility by building places of worship, education, inns and wells. company Social Responsibility has been outlined and conceptualized in many ways in which throughout the past four centuries following a method of study, discussion and scholarly confrontation around the theme. The thought 'Corporate Social Responsibility' (CSR) refers to 'soft', voluntary self regulation adopted by corporations to improve aspects of the corporate, this may relate to labour, environmental and human rights problems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Compensation for research related injuries is a subject that is increasingly gaining traction in developing countries which are burgeoning destinations of multi center research. However, the existence of disparate compensation rules violates the ethical principle of fairness. The current paper presents a comparison of the policies of Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa (BRICS)., Methods: A systematic search of good clinical practice guidelines was conducted employing search strategies modeled in line with the recommendations of ADPTE Collaboration (2007). The search focused on three main areas namely bibliographic data bases, clinical practice guidelines data bases and a restricted internet search. A manual search of references cited in relevant guideline documents was also conducted. The search terms, Medical Subject Headings (MeSH) and key words were developed for a PubMed platform and then adapted for all other data bases. The search terms were kept constant for each country with the only difference being the country name. The documents so obtained were subjected to systematic content analysis., Results: The study revealed that there is vast panoply of regulations which exist on a continuum. On one extreme is India with comprehensive regulations that are codified into law, and on the other end there is China which does not have specific laws regulating research related injuries. There are a number of differences and similarities such as mandatory insurance requirements, existence of no fault compensation, compensable injuries and the role of research ethics committees., Conclusions: It is imperative to enact legislations that protect participants without stifling the research enterprise. There is need for consistency and ideally harmonization of such regulations at a global level. A model policy on compensation for research related injuries should borrow from the best aspects of the different country policies and should be informed by the cardinal ethics principles of autonomy, justice and beneficence.

While much of the literature on future food consumption in India in the decades ahead focuses on cereals, this paper presents estimates of potato demand to the year 2030 according to three different scenarios. Estimated increases in total food demand for potato range from 20 to 30 million metric tonnes and from 5.5 to 15 kg capita−1 year−1, with modest, if any, increases in foreign trade. These estimates highlight the potato's growing importance in Indian diets as food consumption patterns continue to evolve while maintaining their traditional roots. They also call for a series of public and private initiatives to facilitate the realization of the potato's potential future contribution to food consumption and nutrition in India. These include renewed support for research and development as relates to improved technologies for the potato sector both on and off the farm. It also involves opportunities for industry to combine market-driven innovations to achieve commercial success with benefits for growers, consumers and the environment as well. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

India's position on climate change negotiations is likely to have far reaching implications for the success of global climate cooperation. Since the beginning of negotiations, the principle of equity and common but differentiated responsibilities (CBDR) remained the centerpiece of India's stand. The stand started to evolve at the 15th Conference of Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change at Copenhagen in 2009, when India accepted voluntary commitments to reduce emission intensity. Though India still swears by CBDR, status of the principle in the negotiations has become doubtful after the Durban Climate Conference in 2011 committed all parties to take emission targets. This paper traces major transition points in India's negotiating position over the years and provides a descriptive context of its climate-related concerns. It analyzes the interview responses of 15 top scientists, experts, and negotiators to build upon core areas of climate change issues in India, its future role, and position in negotiations. Interviewees, in general, were in favor of protecting the carbon space for the poor who had very low emissions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

New policy and legislative initiatives in India over the last decade, from the Special Economic Zones Act 2005 to subnational state-level counterparts, have encouraged processes of corporate urbanisation, by facilitating the development of ‘industrial townships’ largely by private actors. This emerging policy architecture places a range of municipal functions, infrastructures and services in the domain of the (private) township, paralleling processes of urban gating and enclave growth worldwide. This paper analyses the relevant policies and laws to examine the role of the state in facilitating the growth of such urban clubs in India and fostering privatised provision of public goods. With few evaluations of the scope and impacts of such urban development in India, the case of Jamshedpur, an early prototype of corporate urbanisation, highlights how such sites may encourage patterns of unplanned and under-provisioned growth around the core. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

The purpose of this paper is twofold; first the paper explores and describes the complex ways in which social exclusion can (sometimes) be reconstituted within policy attempts at social inclusion: the quota policy in India. Second, the paper provides a grounded account of the connectedness of inclusion/exclusion and an illustration of how those positioned as excluded can avoid and manage the ‘problem’ of exclusion by ‘passing’ as the more privileged ‘other’. The substantive focus of this paper is with the caste-based experiences of Dalit students at one elite Indian university. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Physical, Regulatory and Brand value risks due to climate change challenges are foreseen by businesses globally. This paper is oriented towards these challenges and prepared a comprehensive Greenhouse gases (GHG) footprint plan and identification of mitigation opportunities for ONGC, a fortune 500 and national oil company of India. Internationally recognized standards and guidelines like Greenhouse Gas Protocol, ISO-14064, and American Petroleum Institute compendium have been referred for quantifying carbon emissions in nearly real 400 + operation control facilities. The GHG inventory is based on Operational Control approach to identify the boundary for which emissions are to be quantified and two significant scopes of emissions viz Direct Emissions and Indirect Emissions are identified and quantified. The quantification concluded that GHG emission footprint for the year 2016–17 is in the range of 9 million tons of CO 2 equivalent. GHG emissions mainly account due to stationary combustion, fugitive emissions and wastewater treatment, which share the around 56% of total emissions. Another 24–26% of emissions are contributed due to flaring, processes by glycol dehydrator, acid gas removal units, and by electricity purchased from the grid. As a result, it has been found that ONGC emits 187 kg CO 2 e emissions per tonne throughput and also compared with its global peer organizations. At the organization level, "Key Industrial Sites" have been identified as contributing higher GHG emissions and accordingly key "hot-spots," a list of 15 GHG mitigation opportunities have been proposed in the paper. Two GHG mitigation initiatives based on solar energy and bioenergy application undertaken at ONGC has also been briefed on case studies. Highlights • Comprehensive carbon footprint plan and identification of mitigation opportunities for Oil and Natural Gas Corporation (ONGC), a fortune 500 and national oil company of India. • Guidelines like Greenhouse Gas Protocol, ISO-4064 and American Petroleum Institute compendium are referred for quantifying carbon emissions from direct and indirect sources. • Green policy, incentives and mandatory compliance. • CO2e emissions per tonne throughput and also compared with its peer global organisations. • Key hot-spots, with a list of 15 GHG mitigation opportunities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]