International Journal of Management, Public Policy and Research
Identifying the Primary Socio-Economic and Structural Barriers Hindering Financial Inclusion in Iraq (2015–2021)
This research investigates the fundamental social, economic, and structural barriers hindering the progression of financial inclusion in Iraq between 2015 and 2021. Despite the strategic importance of financial integration for economic diversification, Iraq’s financial landscape remains characterized by a profound reliance on cash and a systemic distrust in banking institutions. Through a descriptive and analytical approach, this study identifies that while initiatives like "Salary Localization" have increased the number of bank accounts, they have failed to foster genuine financial engagement due to persistent structural deficiencies and cultural skepticism. The findings suggest that the lack of robust digital infrastructure, coupled with the high cost of financial services and historical institutional instability, represents the primary bottleneck. The research concludes with strategic recommendations, emphasizing the need for digital transformation, structural banking reforms, and the restoration of public confidence to bridge the gap between the unbanked population and the formal financial sector.
Financial Inclusion, Iraqi Banking Sector, Structural Barriers, Economic Stability, Digital Transformation
Copyright (c) 2025 International Journal of Management, Public Policy and Research https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
ACCREDITATION MECHANISMS IN HIGHER EDUCATION: A COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS OF NAAC AND QAA-UK EVALUATION FRAMEWORKS
Institutional accreditation is a cornerstone of quality assurance in higher education, guiding governance, accountability, and policy implementation. This study presents a comparative analysis of India’s National Assessment and Accreditation Council (NAAC) and the United Kingdom’s Quality Assurance Agency (QAA-UK), focusing on process workflow, scoring logic, weightage systems, and outcome generation. NAAC employs a metric-driven model with quantitative and qualitative indicators, automated CGPA calculations, and grade-based outcomes, promoting transparency and cross-institutional comparability. In contrast, QAA-UK emphasizes peer review, narrative evidence, and confidence-based judgments, fostering institutional autonomy, contextual evaluation, and stakeholder engagement. Comparative analysis highlights that NAAC facilitates benchmarking and policy alignment, while QAA-UK encourages continuous improvement and accountability through detailed review reports and follow-up action plans. Despite differing methodologies, both frameworks underscore the importance of structured assessment and peer involvement, albeit through contrasting mechanisms. The study concludes that a hybrid approach, integrating NAAC’s numeric rigor with QAA-UK’s peer-driven qualitative evaluation, could enhance accreditation effectiveness, transparency, and global alignment. Understanding these divergent and convergent practices offers valuable insights for policymakers, administrators, and accreditation bodies seeking to optimize quality assurance in higher education.
Copyright (c) 2024 International Journal of Management, Public Policy and Research https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
SARDAR VALLABHBHAI PATEL'S ENDURING IMPACT ON COOPERATIVE STRUCTURES AND INNOVATION IN INDIA
Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, widely revered as the “Iron Man of India,” is celebrated for his monumental role in achieving India’s political unification. However, his equally profound contribution to India’s economic architecture—particularly through cooperative innovation—remains underexplored. This study examines Patel’s pragmatic economic vision, emphasizing grassroots empowerment, decentralized governance, and collective self-reliance, with a particular focus on the cooperative movement. Tracing his journey from the peasant movements of Kheda and Bardoli to the institutionalization of cooperatives, the paper highlights how Patel transformed resistance-based activism into a sustainable model of economic empowerment. The research places special emphasis on the Amul cooperative as a case study, showcasing how Patel’s guidance catalyzed the creation of a three-tier, farmer-owned, democratically managed structure that revolutionized India’s dairy sector and inspired the White Revolution. It also explores Patel’s broader economic philosophy—his advocacy for domestic capital formation, private enterprise, infrastructure development, and rural-industrial balance—and contrasts it with the dominant Nehruvian model. In contemporary India, Patel’s legacy is being revitalized through policy initiatives such as the Ministry of Cooperation, the Sardar Patel Cooperative Dairy Federation, and the digitization of Primary Agricultural Credit Societies (PACS). These efforts reaffirm his belief that true nation-building requires not only political unity but also economic justice at the grassroots. The study concludes that Patel’s cooperative ideals provide a scalable and inclusive model for addressing modern development challenges—offering a blueprint for a self-reliant, equitable, and participatory Indian economy in the 21st century.
Cooperative Leadership Economic Visionary
THE EVOLUTION OF SOCIAL MEDIA INFLUENCE IN U.S. PRESIDENTIAL ELECTIONS: A LONGITUDINAL ANALYSIS FROM 2008 TO 2024
Social media has transformed political communication and voter engagement over the past sixteen years. This study examines the evolving role of social media across five U.S. presidential elections from 2008 to 2024, analysing how digital platforms shifted from tools of grassroots mobilization to mechanisms of algorithmic persuasion, misinformation amplification, influencer politics, and AI-driven content manipulation. Using a qualitative longitudinal comparative case study approach, the research synthesizes secondary data from academic literature, platform analytics, policy reports, and media sources. Findings reveal a progression from participatory civic engagement in 2008 and 2012 to emotionally polarized digital warfare in 2016, crisis-mediated regulatory tension in 2020, and influencer- and AI-dominated short-video persuasion ecosystems in 2024. The study concludes that social media has restructured political behaviour, weakened rational deliberation, intensified polarization, and redistributed political power from institutional actors to digital platforms and influencers, posing critical challenges to democratic integrity.
social media, U.S. elections, digital political communication, misinformation, algorithmic persuasion, influencer politics, AI content, polarization, voter behaviour
Reimagining Probation in India: A Conceptual Analysis of the Probation of Offenders Act, 1958, Its Jurisprudence, and Institutional Challenges
The Probation of Offenders Act, 1958 (POA) was the first Act which started to shift the Indian penal system from punitive to rehabilitative. This Act had an objective to combat prison overcrowding, staving off the criminal socialization process, and giving offenders the chance at social reintegration. However, the Probation remains underused and the system viciously bypasses all the implementers. This paper approaches the study of probation from a doctrinal constitutional and international perspective, the case for which is built on comparative jurisprudence, institutional analysis, and comparative analysis. The paper posits that the system of probation in the country will necessitate synergistic reform across the spectrum of judicial education, standardized PSRs, the professionalization of probation officers, and the use of tech in judicial processes. This paper seeks to argue that probation, when viewed socially and philosophically through the lens of the constitution, is a constitutional right to not be jailed, and should be coupled with international legislation, the Tokyo Rules, which should call for reformative probation instead of punitive incarceration.
Probation of Offenders Act (1958), Rehabilitative Justice, Constitutional Rights (Article 21), Pre-Sentence Reports (PSRs), Institutional Challenges in Probation
A comparative study of customer satisfaction in public vs private banks using SERVQUAL model
In this study, customer satisfaction was evaluated in Indian public, private sector banks using SERVQUAL model, which evaluate service quality on 5 dimensions — Tangibles, Reliability, Responsiveness, Assurance and Empathy. A structured survey was conducted with 400 participants, ensuring equal representation for both bank types; the data were then analysed using reliability testing, gap analyses, and regression techniques. Therefore, the study concludes that private banks outperform their public sector counterparts in responsiveness, tangibles, and empathy, mostly due to superior technology and a stronger customer-oriented approach. Conversely, public banks continue to excel in dependability and trust, especially in rural markets, although they still face significant gaps in assurance. Based on regression results, responsiveness and tangibility are the best predictors of customer satisfaction in private-sector banks, while public-sector banks demonstrate assurance, reliability. The importance of ensuring service delivery continues to meet evolving customer expectations is drawn from the public demand, while public banks must focus on assurance building to remain competitive. Bank managers and policymakers, in emerging markets, are provided with practical steps through this research to convert targeted service improvements into greater satisfaction for customers, contributing to the literature of service quality.
SERVQUAL, service quality, customer satisfaction, public banks, private banks, India
An Econometric Disquisition on the Differential Occupational Market Valuation of Digitally-Enabled Micro-Credentials vis-à-vis Conventional Academe-Derived Degrees: A Pecuniary Recompense Perspective
The inexorable ascendancy of digital pedagogical modalities within the post-secondary educational ecosystem has engendered a tectonic shift in credentialing paradigms, concomitantly provoking a profound scholarly interrogation of the attendant economic externalities. This study rigorously explores the multifaceted macroeconomic and microeconomic reverberations emanating from the dialectical interplay between emergent online certifications and conventional academic degrees. Employing a rigorous mixed-methodological framework that synergistically amalgamates advanced econometric analyses with a robust qualitative meta-synthesis, the research elucidates the differential labor market signaling potency, human capital valuation, and income stratification effects precipitated by credential heterogeneity and inflation. Utilizing comprehensive, longitudinal datasets from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, National Center for Education Statistics, and the LinkedIn Economic Graph, this inquiry delineates nuanced labor market dynamics, wage dispersion patterns, and institutional economic viability underpinned by credential diversification. Findings evince that while online credentials ostensibly democratize educational access and facilitate labor market agility, they concurrently exacerbate wage polarization and occupational segmentation, thereby necessitating nuanced policy interventions that reconcile innovation diffusion with socioeconomic equity imperatives.
Digital pedagogy, Online education, Credentialing paradigms, Labor market signaling, Human capital, Credential inflation
Total Quality Management (TQM) Implementation in the Ethiopian Manufacturing Industries: A Systematic Review of Practices, Challenges, and Insights
Purpose: It is to comprehensively analyze the adoption of Total Quality Management in Ethiopian manufacturing industries, identify problems, investigate reported insights, and evaluate the impact of TQM on performance, competitiveness, and sustainability. Methods: A systematic literature review (SLR) employing a thematic approach was performed to identify, critically appraise, and comprehend practices and problems, investigate reported insights, and evaluate the impact of Total Quality Management (TQM) on performance in Ethiopia's manufacturing sector. Findings: Total Quality Management in Ethiopia's manufacturing industry is increasingly aligned with international standards, such as ISO 9001, EFQM Excellence, and MBNQA Performance Results. ISO 900 has enhanced operational performance, but many organizations view it more as a compliance measure than a strategic shift. Inadequate leadership, insufficient training, and fragmented quality programs hinder TQM adoption. There is a steady shift toward innovation-focused and digital quality management. Integrating global quality frameworks offers a path to better competitiveness and organizational excellence. Research limitations: This review focused on specific sectors and utilized cross-sectional methods, self-reported data, and findings that are context-dependent. This scope limits generalizability and reduces insights into the long-term effects of TQM. Practical implications: Integrating TQM frameworks can drive Ethiopia’s manufacturing sector towards sustainable competitiveness, innovation, and excellence. Originality/value: This study represents the first systematic review of Total Quality Management (TQM) in Ethiopia. To provide a comprehensive understanding it combines theoretical and thematic approaches.
TQM implementation, Manufacturing industries, Systematic review, Ethiopia
A Study of Employees' Perception about Customer Centricity & Organizational Processes: A Case of Classic Group of Hotels
This study investigates employees' understanding of customer centricity in organizational objectives, complaint handling, reward systems, trust, and communication within the Classic Group of Hotels. Using descriptive and inferential statistics (mean, median, mode, standard deviation, skewness, t-test, correlation, and regression), survey data from 120 respondents were analysed. Results highlight the value employees place on effective complaint processes, empowerment, and customer satisfaction. Trust and open communication were viewed positively, and recommendations are provided for improvement. The study concludes that a culture emphasizing trust and communication enhances both employee performance and customer experience, with practical implications for organizational policy and daily operations.
customer centricity, employee attitudes, trust in organizations, communication, reward systems
ANALYSIS OF PERFORMANCE OF RECENT SME IPOS LISTED ON NSEx AND BSEx
This research paper is specifically aimed at study of the performance of recent Initial Public Offers (IPOs) of Small and Medium Enterprises (S.M.E.) boarded on the National Stock Exchange (N.S.Ex.) and Bombay Stock Exchange (B.S.Ex.) during a carefully selected recent time-period. Let us think of high compliance and cost involved in normal listing of an IPO on any exchange. The introduction of a specially designed listing platform on each of the two major exchanges has provided comparative ease of fund raising from public and also providing liquidity in trading of such stocks on major exchanges. The fund-raising cost of these companies has lowered because of such specific listing arrangement in comparison to main board listing. Such a special facility has also provided opportunities for the investors to go for investing in more IPOs because main board IPOs are less frequent than smaller IPOs. Therefore, more companies can now afford to list and a number of S.M.E. IPOs came up in the market each year to board for listing on the exchanges. S.M.E. IPOs are also becoming popular as it increased the chances of getting allotment of a new issue of shares for various investors whether retail category, High Net Worth (HNI) category or any other category of interested buyer of new shares. At this instance, there arise a common research question in respect of these public offers, whether such offers to public still remain attractive and high rewarding and pour magical gains. Our analysis incorporates the average first-day gain or negative gain (loss) of S.M.E. IPOs which have got listed on the two exchanges during the specific time-period selected by us. A comparative analysis has also been performed to know whether one company issue on one exchange has any comparative advantage or different returns in comparison to the other exchange. Capital is one of the factors in limited quantity. It is always viable and prudent to invest money in those IPOs alternatives which have greater chances of allotment as well as pour attractive returns. Statistical analysis has been made for assessing the performance of IPOs under analysis with respect to the listing first day gains or negative gains and further comparative analysis has been made between S.M.E. IPOs on N.S.Ex. and B.S.Ex. by applying various statistical tools. Updated secondary data available on the public database on websites of N.S.Ex. and B.S.Ex. has been used for our analysis and own calculations have been made for statistical analysis using spreadsheet software and SPSS Data analysis software of I.B.M.
SME-IPO, N.S.Ex.-IPO, B.S.Ex.-IPO, IPO Returns, Listing Gains
Moderating Effect of CEO Duality on Board Independence–Financial Health Relationship: Evidence from Indian Small-Cap Textile Firms
This study examines whether CEO duality moderates the relationship between board independence (BI) and financial health in Indian small-cap textile firms. Using panel data for 17 Bombay Stock Exchange–listed companies from 2015 to 2024 (170 firm-year observations), financial health is measured through a Composite Financial Health Index (CFHI) integrating the Altman Z-Score, Springate S-Score, Zmijewski X-Score, and Grover G-Score. Moderation analysis, conducted via Hayes’ PROCESS macro (Model 1) with heteroscedasticity-consistent standard errors, reveals that BI alone has a positive but statistically insignificant effect on CFHI. However, CEO duality significantly weakens this relationship (B = –0.0156, p = .0126), supporting agency theory’s view that concentrated leadership power undermines board oversight. Findings suggest that governance reforms in high-risk, small-cap sectors should prioritise CEO–chair separation and strengthen the functional capacity of independent directors. This research contributes to corporate governance literature by integrating a multidimensional financial health measure with a moderation framework in an underexplored emerging-market sector, offering actionable insights for regulators, boards, and investors.
Corporate Governance; Board Independence; CEO Duality; Financial Health; Textile Sector; Emerging Markets
The Impact of Work-from-Home on Work-Life Balance: A Bibliometric Analysis (2012-2025)
This study presents a comprehensive bibliometric analysis of research examining the relationship between work-life balance (WLB) and work-from-home (WFH) arrangements published between 2012 and 2025. Using Web of Science as the primary database, the analysis is conducted on 89 articles identified through the search terms "Work Life Balance" OR "WLB" AND "Work from Home" OR "WFH". The publication trend reveals a significant surge in scholarly interest following the COVID-19 pandemic, with peak productivity observed in 2022 (28 publications), followed by continued substantial output in subsequent years. Sustainability emerged as the leading publication venue (6.74% of articles), with PLOS ONE ranking second (5.62%). The institutional analysis identified the Swinburne University of Technology as the most productive institution (4.49% of publications). Geographically, research contributions were dominated by the United States (28.09%), followed by India (14.61%) and Australia (11.24%), with notable citation impact from studies originating in the Netherlands (456 citations). VOSviewer is applied to analyse and visualise research collaboration networks and keyword co-occurrence patterns using Web of Science data. The citation analysis demonstrates remarkable growth in scholarly influence, from minimal citations in 2012 to 1,622 total citations by 2025, with an average of 18.22 citations per article and an h-index of 19. Keyword co-occurrence analysis confirms the central focus on COVID- 19 (43 occurrences), work-life balance (31), work from home (24), and telework (22), with emerging emphasis on stress, family conflict, satisfaction, mental health, and burnout. This bibliometric assessment highlights the rapid evolution and increasing scholarly importance of research examining the relationship between remote work arrangements and work-life balance in the contemporary workplace environment.
Work-life balance, Work from home, COVID-19, Bibliometric analysis
GROWTH AND CHALLENGES OF TRADE BETWEEN INDIA AND CENTRAL ASIAN COUNTRIES: AN EXPLORATORY STUDY
The paper discussed the growing trade relations between India and the Central Asian countries, along with the challenges they face. It highlights that India now considers the Central Asian nations as part of its 'extended and strategic neighbourhood'. Kazakhstan, being the most economically developed country in the region, is also India's primary trade and investment partner. India's exports of goods and services to Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan exceed those to the other countries in the region. Additionally, Uzbekistan and Kazakhstan are the main sources of imports for India in the area. Except for Kazakhstan, India generally has a trade surplus with the other Central Asian countries. India's exports to Uzbekistan are more significant than to Kyrgyzstan and Kazakhstan. India has a strong trading relationship with Kyrgyzstan and Kazakhstan. The Trade Complementarity Index of India with central Asian countries is moderate. India exports more diversified products/services in central Asian countries. Even though there are good opportunities, there are still some practical challenges. Trade between India and Central Asia goes through other countries like Iran, Russia, or Azerbaijan. Each of these countries adds extra steps, paperwork, costs, and delays. High costs, rules that aren't about prices, and poor banking systems are stopping trade from growing. The International North-South Transport Corridor is a plan to connect India with Central Asia through the Chabahar Port in Iran. India is trying to increase trade with Central Asian countries by getting more investments. The India-Central Asia Dialogue has become an important way for India to build better connections in the region. Therefore, there should be constructive initiative from the governments of the region for increasing trade with India.
Business, Balance of payments, Export, Import, and Trade
Changing Scenario of Foreign Trade of India with special reference to External Debt: Causes and Government Initiatives
The paper explores how India's foreign trade has changed, with a focus on its external debt. It finds that India's trade is showing strong growth in the service sector, backed by solid foreign exchange reserves. India faces challenges in its international debt, including higher borrowing costs and lower credit ratings because of a high debt-to-GDP ratio. The country also struggles with larger repayment costs due to a weakening rupee and high global interest rates. Significant interest payments could put pressure on public finances, and over-reliance on foreign funds may lead to financial crises. These issues reduce funds available for development, slow economic growth, and make the country more vulnerable to external shocks, affecting investor confidence and overall economic stability. Recent trends show positive growth in total exports, especially in services, along with rising foreign direct investment. The external debt is mostly in US dollars and is well-supported by reserves, helping to maintain stability even with global challenges. In the past, government borrowing was the main source, but the 1990s brought more private sector debt, which is regulated by the Foreign Exchange Management Act of 1999. Even with the rise in debt, India's large foreign exchange reserves offer a high coverage ratio, reflecting strong stability in the external sector. Therefore, there should be proper monitoring the external debt so that the debt should not be a burden for the country.
Export, External debt, Foreign trade, Import, and Trade
An empirical Investigation into the Impulsive Purchasing Habits of women Consumers in Odisha's Apparel Industry
Customers' purchasing habits have significantly improved in Odisha due to the establishment of organized retail in malls and brand outlets. This trend has gained popularity primarily due to consumers' increased purchasing power and interest in fashion. The impulsive purchasing habits of female consumers in the clothing industry are highlighted in this article. The present study mainly clarifies the different elements that affect a woman's decision-making process, particularly in the clothing sector. Data is gathered using quantitative methods and pre-established scales. Regression analysis was used to determine the impact of salesperson influence, income level, credit card, store environment, and promotional strategy on a customer's impulsive purchase decision in the clothing industry.
Woman, Impulse decision making, Apparel Industry, Buying behaviour
Soft Power through Exclusion: India’s Veto on Azerbaijan in the SCO and its Message to Central Asia
On the sidelines of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) summit in Tianjin on September 1–2, 2025, a number of media outlets reported that India had blocked Azerbaijan’s bid for full membership. This event sparked active discussions among analysts and experts on international relations. Rather than direct forms of pressure or forceful confrontation, India’s decision was perceived as a demonstration of “soft power through exclusion,” a way to set red lines, protect its own interests, and simultaneously send a message to regional partners without open confrontation. This text examines how the SCO expansion mechanism works, why New Delhi is resorting to such an instrument now, and what message it sends to Central Asian countries regarding security, infrastructural connectivity, and the balance of power in Eurasia. The expansion of the SCO has always been seen as an important indicator of the changing balance of power in Eurasia. The accession of India and Pakistan in 2017, and Iran and Belarus in 2023–24, showed that the organization is moving beyond its Central Asian core and becoming a platform for great power rivalry. At the same time, the consensus mechanism turns any decision to admit new members into a test of the sustainability of unity. The news that India blocked Azerbaijan’s application allows us to consider the phenomenon of “soft power by exception,” when a state uses built-in institutional rules to advance its own norms. The question is why India exercised this right in 2025, and what does this mean for Central Asia?
soft power, India, SCO, Azerbaijan, Central Asia, consensus, veto, regional security
Analysis of Performance of Recent SME IPOs Listed on NSEx and BSEx
Comparative Study of the Financial Performance of the Selected Private and Public Sector Banks in India
The significance of banking institutions is growing steadily, as people seek secure and reliable places to safeguard their money. The credibility and reputation of a bank play a crucial role in influencing customer demand. With the advent of bank privatization, the growth of public sector banks has slowed down. At present, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) regulates the entire Indian banking industry, and all banks are required to comply with its guidelines and recommendations. For this study, the researcher selected three banks as a sample, covering a period of three years. Using balance sheet data, the financial performance of these banks was analysed and compared. The findings reveal that Punjab and Sind Bank demonstrates stronger profitability compared to the other two banks. The study suggests that Bank of Maharashtra should expand its business network in order to achieve growth similar to Punjab and Sind Bank, while Jammu and Kashmir Bank needs to reduce miscellaneous expenses and focus on capturing a larger market share.
profitability, net profit, total income, total expenditures
Adoption of Green Banking practices in Indian Banks: A Public-Private Sector Perspective
The idea of "green banking" emerged as a result of financial institutions around the world being forced to include sustainability in their operations due to the urgency of climate action and the growing environmental concerns. This study examines the adoption and execution of green banking programs in selected public and private sector banks in India, with an emphasis on strategic approaches, regulatory effects, and institutional commitments to environmental sustainability. The study compares the initiatives of public sector banks (State Bank of India (SBI) and Bank of Baroda (BOB)) and private sector banks (HDFC Bank and Axis Bank) using a descriptive and comparative technique based on secondary data from official reports and policy documents. The findings show that public sector banks are primarily motivated by institutional policies and national climate goals, as evidenced by SBI's early wind energy projects and the BOB's green deposit schemes. On the other hand, private banks demonstrate innovation-driven tactics that prioritize stakeholder-centric CSR initiatives, sustainable financial products, and digital transformation. The study also emphasizes how important it is for the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) to support green banking through policy measures, even though a major obstacle is still the lack of a defined regulatory framework. This study emphasizes the necessity of harmonized regulatory systems, intersectoral collaboration, and increased stakeholder awareness in mainstreaming green banking practices to achieve India's sustainable development goals.
Green Banking, Sustainability, Public Sector Banks, Private Sector Banks, RBI, ESG, Sustainable Development
THE ROLE OF ESG PRINCIPLES IN SHAPING INSTITUTIONAL DEVELOPMENT IN INDIAN HIGHER EDUCATION
Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles have emerged as critical frameworks for sustainable institutional development across various sectors, including higher education. This paper explores the role of Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles in shaping institutional development in Indian higher education institutions (HEIs). It compares international best practices with Indian experiences to analyse their implementations, challenges, and opportunities for embedding ESG in the higher education sector. The study adopts a qualitative approach, drawing on secondary data from academic literature, institutional reports, and policy documents. This study reveals that while ESG integration in Indian higher education is gaining momentum, significant gaps exist in systematic implementation, reporting mechanisms, and stakeholder awareness. The paper provides insights into current practices, identifies key challenges, and proposes recommendations for enhanced ESG integration to foster sustainable institutional development in Indian higher education.
ESG principles, higher education, institutional development, sustainability, India
STUDY OF ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE AND ITS IMPLICATIONS IN THE IMPLEMENTATION OF CRM TECHNOLOGY
This study investigates the impact of AI integration in CRM technology on three critical aspects: AI-based customization, enhanced customer database, and AI integration in the CRM operations. The first research question was to establish whether there is a substantial enhancement of these aspects of CRM systems with the integration of AI. In the present study, the research used a sample of 100 respondents and adopted a quantitative research method with a random sampling technique to collect data. The use of descriptive statistics and Pearson correlation analysis was employed in the analysis of the relationship between the independent variable and the dependent factors. The analysis showed that there were low and insignificant association between the levels of AI integration and the three dependent variables. More particularly, the results revealed that the degree of AI integration was significantly but weakly and negatively related with the extent of AI personalisation (r = -0. 181), AI customer data management (r = -0. 104) and AI automation (r = -0. 134). The results of this study indicate that, counter to assumptions, AI integration did not significantly improve personalization, data handling, or the automation of CRM systems. Therefore, the study concludes that the expected positive effects of AI on the CRM functionalities were not observed in this sample, suggesting deficiencies in existing AI applications or their incorporation into CRM systems. The results point to the need for more research that can help to establish the efficiency of AI tools, how these tools can be fine-tuned and how they can be aligned to the objectives of CRM. If these factors are managed, they might assist with the realization of the potential of AI in redefining CRM systems. Thus, the findings of this research stress the need for further development of the AI tools and the elimination of the practical issues that hinder the enhancement of CRM performance.
FINANCIAL LITERACY AND ITS IMPACT ON MONEY MANAGEMENT PRACTICES AMONG HIGHER EDUCATION STUDENTS IN MANIPUR
This study examines the relationship between financial literacy and money management practices among college students in Manipur, a northeastern state of India with distinct socio-economic characteristics. Using a quantitative research design with multi-stage stratified random sampling, data were collected from 370 undergraduate and postgraduate students across government colleges, private colleges, and universities in Manipur. The study employed a structured questionnaire to assess financial literacy levels and money management practices across five dimensions: budgeting and planning, saving and spending behaviors, debt management, and financial decision-making. Descriptive statistics revealed concerning below-average financial literacy levels (M = 2.25) and correspondingly poor money management practices across all dimensions (M = 2.26 to 2.41). However, Pearson correlation analysis demonstrated strong positive relationships between financial literacy and all money management dimensions (r = .641 to .764, p < .001). Multiple regression analyses provided compelling evidence that financial literacy significantly predicts money management effectiveness, explaining substantial variance across budgeting and planning (R² = 53.1%), saving and spending behaviors (R² = 58.3%), debt management (R² = 41.1%), financial decision-making (R² = 45.6%), and overall money management practices (R² = 60.8%). All hypotheses were supported at p < .001 significance level with large effect sizes. The findings highlight the critical need for comprehensive financial education programs in higher education institutions and targeted interventions by policymakers to address financial literacy deficits among young adults in northeastern India. This research contributes valuable insights to the limited literature on financial behavior in culturally distinct developing regions and provides an evidence-based foundation for developing effective financial capability interventions.
Financial Literacy, Money Management, College Students, Financial Behavior
THE GROWTH OF FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS IN JAMMU AND KASHMIR WITH SPECIAL REFERENCE TO NON-PERFORMING ASSETS
The paper discussed the growth of financial Institutions in Jammu and Kashmir. It has found that regional rural banks, private sector banks, and public sector banks are playing vital role in credit distribution in Jammu and Kashmir. Private sector banks are in leading position of branches and touching points. Nearly 50% districts have credit-to-deposit ratio lower than the standard level 70%. There are mixed success in achieving credit targets in banks. Canara Bank is the largest beneficiary under the Pradhan Mantri Suraksha Bima Yojana. There is huge gap of beneficiaries of Atal Pension Scheme, and Prime Minister's Self-Employment Scheme. Banks are not achieving credit and beneficiaries target in priority sector. They achieved target of credit allocation in personal loans and housing sectors in non-priority sector. J&K Grameen Bank, and State Bank of India, has more linked with self-help groups. Total non-performing assets in Jammu and Kashmir under Kisan Credit Card is 270.26 crores which is 5% of credits. J&K SFC has the highest gross NPA percentage (56.85), followed by Cooperative Banks (33.80), and Regional Rural Banks (6.30). Public Sector Banks has the least gross NPA percentage (2.35), preceded by Private Sector Banks (4.02). Private Sector Banks has the highest gross NPA volume. MSME sector has the highest volume of non-performing assets, followed by Agricultural sector and MUDRA. PMEGP scheme has the highest volume of non-performing assets, followed by NULM, and NRLM. Therefore, government will implement policies for minimizing the non-performing assets in banking sector.
Banks, Credit, Financial Institutions, Government, and Non-Performing Assets
DILEMMA OF CEO ANDY BYRON’S RESIGNATION IN THE CONTEXT OF AMERICAN FOUNDATIONAL SOCIO-CULTURAL NORMS- A CASE STUDY
In July 2025, Astronomer, a well-known IT corporation based in New York, United States, came into the undesired spotlight due to an intimate moment between its two top-level executives, CEO Andy Byron and Chief Public Officer Kristin Cabot, at a Coldplay concert that went viral in social media, which sparked public and workplace backlash and later on the resignation of Byron. This controversy and reaction led to rethink about the foundational socio-cultural norms of United States (Western Culture), which makes it different from the rest of the world. This case examines whether Byron’s resignation was justified, contrasting foundational American socio-cultural norms (post-independence period 1776-1820s) such as Individualism and Self-reliance, Materialism and Masculinity, Equality, Civic Engagement and Moral Restraint, Openness to Innovation and Risk, with their modern evolution. Dilemma discussed in this case, will be helpful for the management, HR and political science scholars and Practitioners to understand the challenges of ethical conflicts.
TRANSFORMING BUSINESS EXPANSION WITH GAMIFICATION: EXPLORING INDUSTRY SPECIFIC STRATEGIES AND INNOVATIONS
Aim: This systematic review aims to examine successful gamification methods responsible for business expansion. Methodology: A thorough literature search was done to find pertinent research. To make sure that the studies chosen for inclusion and exclusion were focused on gamification methods in business contexts. Data extraction and synthesis were carried out to analyse the selected studies. Results: Initially, 1046 records were identified, of which 61 studies met the inclusion criteria. The review revealed a growing trend in gamification research within business contexts. Various business-specific frameworks based on gamification were identified, including point systems, leader boards, progress tracking, and personalization. Findings: The results imply that gamification techniques are crucial in promoting business expansion by enhancing customer engagement, increasing productivity, and fostering innovation. Conclusion: This systematic review provides an understanding of the trends, frameworks, and future directions to businesses by developing effective gamification strategies to facilitate growth and expansion in diverse industries.
gamification, business expansion, innovations, customer engagement, productivity
IMPACT OF KEY FINANCIAL INDICATORS ON SUSTAINABLE GROWTH IN INDIAN PHARMACEUTICALS: A COMPARATIVE PRE- AND POST-COVID STUDY
In this research, authors analyze the interaction of the main financial indicators Net Profit Ratio (NPR), EBITDA, Return on Capital Employed (ROCE) and Return on Net Worth (RONW)) to the Sustainable Growth Rate (SGR) of Indian pharmaceutical firms and compare the results between the pre-COVID (20152019) and post-COVID (20202024) period. The main goal will be to determine the way the importance and influence of these financial variables of sustainable growth developed in accordance to macroeconomic disturbance. Based on a strong sample of publicly traded pharmaceutical corporations, the analysis makes use of Pearson correlation and multi-regression to figure out solid connection and causal influence between them amid the two periods. The results demonstrate that before the advent of the COVID-19 pandemic, a prevalence of drivers based on the returns existed and the only material predictor of SGR was RONW. The model itself, however, still in the post-COVID market, names only a single positive significant factor, and this is the indicator NPR, whereas the indicator EBITDA appears surprisingly to have a great negative influence on the SGR, reflecting the strategic switch of the focus between capital efficiency and profitability-oriented growth in an economic turmoil. The general regression models of the two periods show excellent explanatory values (R 2 > 90 %) and hence support the hypothesis that financial metrics are relevant in the prediction of Green growth. These leads to the rejection of the null hypothesis which means it has been proved that there is in existence financial indicator that has a significant and context-dependent role to play on SGR. The research has critical implications on financial managers, investors, and policy-makers in that financial solutions should only be adaptive, period-specific, and according to the future economic realities and resilience-based growth goals.
Sustainable Growth Rate (SGR); Net Profit Ratio (NPR); Return on Capital Employed (ROCE); Return on Net Worth (RONW); EBITDA; Financial Performance; COVID-19 Impact; Capital Efficiency.
TO STUDY CONSUMER PERCEPTION TOWARDS SOCIAL COMMERCE PLATFORMS AND THEIR INFLUENCE ON PURCHASE DECISIONS AMONG YOUTH
The rapid advancement of digital technology has transformed the way consumers engage with brands and make purchase decisions. Social commerce platforms, which integrate social media and e-commerce, have emerged as powerful tools influencing consumer behavior. Today’s youth, being highly active on platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, and Telegram, rely on user-generated content, reviews, influencer recommendations, and peer feedback to evaluate products and services before making a purchase. This study examines consumer perceptions towards social commerce platforms and their impact on purchase decisions among youth. It explores the factors that drive consumer trust, engagement, and purchase intentions, including the credibility of online reviews, brand interactions, and personalized recommendations. Additionally, the study investigates how demographic factors such as age, gender, and income level shape consumer attitudes toward social commerce. With the increasing popularity of social commerce, understanding these behavioural patterns is crucial for businesses looking to enhance their digital marketing strategies. The findings of this research will provide insights into the key elements that influence young consumers’ decision-making processes, helping brands optimize their engagement strategies and improve customer experiences on social commerce platforms.
Social Commerce platforms, User-Generated Content, Perceptions, E-commerce, social media
THE SYNERGY OF PUBLIC RELATIONS AND SOFT POWER IN INDIA'S INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS
In an increasingly interconnected world, nations leverage public relations and soft power to enhance global influence and foster international relationships. India, with its extensive and diverse diaspora, stands at the forefront of this paradigm shift, utilizing the unique cultural and social capital of its expatriate communities to bolster its global strategy. This paper explores the interplay between public relations, soft power, and diaspora engagement, illustrating how India can effectively harness these elements to enhance its international standing. We examine the theoretical frameworks underlying soft power and public diplomacy while integrating the strategic role of the Indian diaspora in promoting cultural exchange, economic ties, and political advocacy. Case studies of successful diaspora initiatives illustrate the potential of these communities in shaping perceptions of India abroad. Additionally, we address the challenges in aligning diaspora efforts with national interests, highlighting the need for a cohesive and collaborative approach. By proposing a comprehensive model for integrating diaspora efforts within India's public relations strategy, we aim to provide actionable insights for policymakers and practitioners. This paper underscores the importance of a unified strategy that not only promotes India's cultural heritage but also strengthens its geopolitical influence through the active participation of its diaspora, ultimately contributing to a more robust and nuanced global presence.
Public Relations, Soft Power, Diaspora, India
STRENGTHENING INDIA'S GLOBAL STANDING AND SOFT POWER: A STUDY ON STRATEGIC COMMUNICATION AND DIPLOMATIC EFFORTS
This paper attempts to investigate the various ways India is projecting itself on the international stage and enhancing its soft power through strategic communication and diplomatic initiatives. The paper further indicates how India utilizes its democratic values and rich cultural heritage- notably, its popular cinema-in its soft power strategy. With the turn of the century, India has had greater global engagement in terms of democracy, including participation in the United Nations Democracy Fund in 2005. In addition, India's digital diplomacy engagements have been looked into for reaching out to the diaspora and global audiences via modern communication avenues. It throws light on the role of a robust and independent media landscape that fosters awareness of foreign policy among the public. It has been considered very important by India to communicate effectively in the digital age so that a favorable global image can be created for itself. The paper also discusses leadership dynamics to understand the personality traits and leadership styles of the prime minister of India, which, the authors assert, have been key to navigating the world's power dynamics. The article concludes by advocating a synergistic model for enhancing India's soft power and global presence, with the four key components being democratic engagement, cultural diplomacy, strategic communication, and leadership consolidation, thus providing a platform for India to exert its influence on the world stage.
India, global stand, soft power, Strategic communication, diplomatic initiatives, cultural diplomacy, popular cinema, digital diplomacy, media landscape, leadership dynamics
A STUDY OF THE FACTORS IMPACTING ONLINE SHOPPING BEHAVIOR IN GUJARAT
The scope of social e-commerce has grown over the years. Social e-commerce can be best explained if a consumer purchases products or services using a social network. Consumers can purchase online through social media platforms such as Instagram, Facebook, WhatsApp, YouTube, Twitter, and LinkedIn. The usage of social media sites in online shopping has grown too much. Almost every individual utilizes these platforms for various purposes, and most of them use them to shop online because they are convenient and save time. These platforms offer multiple items to make it through the consumer's demands in many buying options. Therefore, a study was conducted to determine what factors influence consumers' decision-making through social e-commerce websites. In the present research, a structured questionnaire was designed, and 103 responses were gathered from the users of social media who were shopping online. Data collected were intended to identify the drivers of their online purchasing decisions. Based on the factor analysis, three variables were identified: trust in social media networking sites, Trust in friends' recommendations and reviews on SNSs, and Willingness to Pay for Services on SNSs, which impacted the online shopping behavior of consumers.
Consumer Decision Making, Social E-Commerce, Social Media Platforms, Online Shopping, Purchase Decisions