Development Authority Research Articles

Assessing Financial Inclusion Across Indian States and Union Territories

Financial inclusion is essential for the effective channelisation of money, allowing individuals to access financial products and services that enhance their financial well-being and contribute to the economic growth of a nation. Governments worldwide are recognising the importance of financial inclusion and are taking initiatives to enhance it. In India, the Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana (PMJDY), launched in 2014 stands as a significant effort by the government to boost financial inclusion. This study is an attempt to assess financial inclusion across Indian states and union territories, focusing on three key dimensions: automated teller machines (ATM) penetration, insurance penetration and mutual fund penetration. This study is based entirely on secondary data, sourced from the annual reports of the Reserve Bank of India (RBI), Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (IRDAI), Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI), Association of Mutual Funds in India (AMFI) and Unique Identification Authority of India (UIAI). The findings of this study provide valuable insights into the current state of financial inclusion in India and will contribute to effective policy formation aimed at enhancing financial inclusion across Indian states and union territories.

Nationwide Assessment of Solar PV Power Potential Using Geospatial Data and Collaborative Research with Higher Education Institutions: Case of the Philippines

Abstract. Geospatial technologies present a significant opportunity to assess solar photovoltaic (PV) power potential through remote sensing techniques and geospatial analysis. This aligns with the goal of ensuring access to affordable, reliable, and sustainable energy, one of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) that the Philippine National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) aims to achieve. In support of the said SDG, a research project, called Project SINAG, has developed a method for estimating solar PV power resources utilizing high-temporal remotely-sensed data. The primary objectives of this study are twofold: first, to develop a webGIS platform for solar energy resource information access and decision support; second, to conduct information dissemination and capacitybuilding activities for various stakeholders in the solar energy sector. The localized assessment of solar PV power potential incorporates meteorological and geomorphological factors such as high temperature, dust deposition, and slope. Collaboration with academic institutions, government agencies, and the solar energy industry has been instrumental in providing capacity-building through training workshops, internships, and on-the-job training. Moreover, the project has produced information, education, and communication (IEC) materials, launched a webGIS portal, and supported data requests and student research. The webGIS platform serves as the primary information dissemination tool for the project, enabling rapid sharing of research outputs with end-users. To enhance the platform, future developments may include additional functionalities such as community forums, client feedback mechanisms, mobile application development, and the integration of real-time data for map layers and forecasting tools.

Insurance coverage for mental illness: A review through a lens of bioethics and the MHCA, 2017

Introduction: Health insurance coverage can serve as protection against catastrophic health expenditures. Section 21 (4) of the Mental Healthcare Act, 2017 (MHCA) mandates insurance coverage for mental illness to be on par with that for physical illness. Despite this, anecdotal evidence shows persons with mental health conditions are routinely denied or face difficulties in obtaining medical insurance coverage due to their mental illness. Method: We undertook an analysis of all insurance policy documents published on the Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (IRDAI) webpage for the year 2020-21 to examine their relevance to mental illness and to examine how the policy wording adheres to Section 21 (4) of the MHCA and the core principles of bioethics. Results: We sourced 459 health insurance policies for the year 2020-21 from the IRDAI webpage. Of these, 268 relevant insurance policies were analysed in depth for their adherence to the MHCA guidelines and principles of bioethics. Of the policies analysed (n=268), we found six policies (from two insurance providers) explicitly excluded mental illness across all domains, in direct contradiction of the MHCA and the subsequent guidance issued by the IRDAI. Most insurance policies excluded coverage for injuries due to attempted suicide or self-injury (n=224) or alcohol consumption/substance use (n=267). Out-patient services were included in 23 policies.>/p> Discussion: Health insurance policies continue to contain discriminatory terms for mental illness thus violating the principle of parity put forth by the MHCA and at odds with core principles of bioethics. Sustained advocacy efforts are required to ensure insurance providers abide by the principles of parity in letter and in spirit to remove differential or discriminatory terms for mental illness in their policies in compliance with Section 21 (4) the MHCA.

Flood Vulnerability Assessment in Paradip Coastal Area Using Weighted Overlay Index

Paradip, a prominent coastal city on India's eastern seaboard, presents a unique combination of environmental challenges and urban pressures. It has the largest tidal range among major regional tidal gauge stations, including Vishakhapatnam and Chennai. The city experiences an annual sea level rise of 2.33 mm, with projections indicating an increase of 0.183 feet by 2047 and 0.76 feet over the next century. The city's unique environmental and urban issues are exacerbated by its placement within the Mahanadi River's deltaic deposits, floodplains, and coastal marine deposits along the Bay of Bengal. The shoreline of Paradip is topographically uniform, with ground elevations ranging from 3.6 to 5.7 meters. According to India's Wind and Cyclone Hazard Map, Paradip is in the "Very High Damage Risk Zone," indicating the presence of significant wind speeds along the coast. The paper digs into these vulnerabilities and their possible influence on the coastal community, emphasizing the city's need to strike a balance between urban growth and ecological preservation. One of the main problems is flooding. Rainwater enters government buildings and impoverished areas because of encroachments on natural drainage systems. Dryland capable of residential, agricultural, and other economic activities is submerged by overflowing water which causes loss of life, property, and infrastructure. This study evaluates flood vulnerabilities in Paradip, a coastal city, using GIS and a weighted overlay index. By integrating satellite imagery, digital elevation models (DEM), and historical data on rainfall and soil types, we developed a detailed flood vulnerability map that categorises areas into high, moderate, and low risk. ArcGIS Pro 2.7.3 software and a weighted overlay index were utilized for the collection, processing, and display of spatial and attribute data. spatial analysis was the process used to produce the flood vulnerability map. The results provide essential insights for urban planning and flood mitigation strategies, with direct implications for improving disaster preparedness and climate resilience. The flood vulnerability map was then compared to the masterplan of Paradip which was proposed for 2030, to know the actual vulnerable area and to defy some major which were proposed by Paradip development authority. The study illustrates how remote sensing and GIS techniques can be effectively utilized to generate flood vulnerability data essential for informed decision-making.

Strategic plans on the context of business excellence models and its financial impact: the case of the Cavendish banana grower cooperatives

PurposeThis study was conducted to assess the alignment of the strategic plans of the Cavendish banana grower cooperatives to business excellence models (BEMs) and to determine its financial impact to elucidate the performance of the respective cooperatives. This is anchored on the primary objectives of cooperative business sustainability, expansion and sustained competitiveness, all of which are significantly impacted by the strategic plans. The BEMS establish the parameters that are useful in determining how well the strategic plans correspond.Design/methodology/approachQualitative and quantitative methods were used in this study. Strategic plans and audited financial statements (FS) for calendar year (CY) 2021 and 2022 of two Cavendish banana grower cooperatives in Region XI on the context of BEMs were evaluated and examined using the Malcolm Baldrige National Quality Award and Philippine Quality Award. Of the seven criteria, only five were considered as follows: organizational profile, leadership, strategy, workforce, process and result. The first four were taken from strategic plans, while result was from audited FS.FindingsThe strategic plans of the two cooperatives selectively satisfy some of the sub-criteria of each of the four criteria. Furthermore, the cooperatives followed the usual basic contents of and briefly presented in the strategic plans the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats (SWOT) analysis, strategic objectives, plans, targets and timelines. This suggests that the cooperatives are not familiar with the BEMs which could be attributed to the educational qualifications of the directors and officers, or possibly not introduced by the Cooperative Development Authority (CDA). On the financial performance, one cooperative has impressive records but generally had lower performance in 2022 compared to 2021.Research limitations/implicationsThis study covers only Cavendish banana grower cooperatives particularly located in the Southeastern part of Mindanao (CDA, 2021) in the Philippines where people are mostly of similar culture. This does not represent much diverse culture; thus, this may work only in organizations with similar culture. In other industries or organizations where cultural diversity occurs, there may be a need to conduct study to determine the level of adoption of BEMs by the cooperatives. On the other note, the samples are very limited that generalizability cannot be made. Conducting a similar study involving many cooperatives is suggested.Originality/valueThis study explores the alignment of the Strategic Plans of the Cavendish banana grower cooperatives to BEMs which has long been neglected.

Optimization Of The Authority Of Civil Servant Investigators (PPNS) In The Directorate General Of Taxes (DGT) Bangka Belitung Region In The Seizure And Blocking Of Suspect Assets For The Recovery Of State Revenue Losses

Tax crimes have become a significant issue in Indonesia, as taxes are vital for the government's development efforts. Failure to comply with tax obligations not only impacts the state's revenue but also hinders the equitable distribution of welfare to society. The purpose to be achieved in this study is to find out related to the authority of PPNS in the seizure and blocking of suspect assets in order to recover losses in state revenue. The method used in this study is empirical juridical where the data obtained through primary data by interviewing the DGT Bangka Belitung region. In addition, secondary data is also used to add information and strengthen the analysis related to the research topic. The results showed that the recovery of State losses can be done by the DGT where the authority can be done by confiscation and blocking of assets. This mechanism is carried out with the aim that the country does not suffer considerable losses. Tax investigation collection is one of the actions that can reduce tax crimes so that the activities carried out must be carried out efficiently in accordance with applicable regulations

Enhancing Urban Mobility with Aerial Ropeway Transit (ART): Future Accessibility Impacts of Multimodal Transit Expansion Scenarios

Aerial ropeway transit (ART) systems are emerging alternatives to augment existing transit systems in congested cities in the Global South, especially in urban areas with limited transit coverage because of road width constraints or topography. Integration of aerial cable car stations to an existing transit network can improve the overall accessibility of various population segments with significant positive benefits in relation to reducing transport-related social exclusion. This study evaluated the impact of introducing ART in the city of Varanasi (India) and assessed the spatial accessibility improvements to critical facility locations such as heritage sites, educational institutions, hospitals, and employment centers. Several multimodal transit expansion scenarios were considered in this study and the potential benefits of each case were quantified using the two-step floating catchment area (2SFCA) method. A multi-criteria decision-making (MCDM) approach was subsequently employed for identifying the optimal locations of ART stops. Microlevel analysis findings suggest that the mean accessibility values could increase up to 10.92% in the first phase of the ART implementation, which could subsequently increase to 24.7% and 49.8% for the subsequent transit expansion scenarios. The study also investigated the Varanasi ART DPR prepared by Varanasi Development Authority (VDA) and showed that a significant increase of 16% in accessibility levels could be achieved if optimal stop locations identified in this study were implemented. The proposed two-step (2SFCA+MCDM) method for identifying the optimal locations of ART stations in a multimodal transit network is expected to be an effective tool for transit system redesign using place-based accessibility measures.

Public Perception of Urban Green Spaces and its Tree Diversity in Delhi

The relationship between man and nature plays an important role in the everyday lives of human societies. Places like Delhi and its people face major challenges and issues of urbanisation affecting their health and well-being. Urban greens such as parks play a major role in bringing greenness into the lives of urban dwellers. Trees are seen as a major green component in the urban greens. This paper attempts to understand how public sees green spaces and their uses. Tree diversity index (The Shannon Index also known as Shannon Weiner Index, is a statistical index that measures diversity by estimating species richness and evenness.) canopy cover, and tree trunk diameter have been taken as indicators of greenness of park. Tree distribution at the species level is studied in one of the parks managed by Delhi Development Authority as ‘Landmark greens’. The park users’ perception is studied using an ethnographic method. Whereas the Shannon index is 2.2, which is a moderate value, 50 per cent of the visitors could only identify the popular species namely Neem, Banyan, Ashok, and Peepal. People are aware of the potential benefits of trees and plants or the role of green spaces in their overall well-being. Some of the visitors are the regular ones as they use the park with a purpose to heal from respiratory tract infection, obesity, diabetes, and palpitation, while there are 22 per cent visitors who found the park unsafe during certain instances.

Crisis at the Jamudu Infrastructure Development Authority (JIDA)

Crisis at the Jamudu Infrastructure Development Authority (JIDA)

Detecting Land-Use Changes in Greater Kandy Development Area

As urban growth became a threat to Kandy city, the Urban Development Authority (UDA) has introduced a new concept called the “Greater Kandy Development Area (GKDA)” to control and manage the rapid urban growth, as well as to minimize its’ impacts towards the environment. This study examines the land use/ land cover changes in GKDA, in selected time periods using GIS and Remote Sensing techniques. Findings demonstrate that dynamic patterns of urban expansion cause progressive growth in built-ups and lowering in non-built-ups. In 2005, there were only 16.9 percent of built-up areas in GKDA but, it has increased up to 40 percent in 2020. 81.7 percent of non-built-up areas in 2005, has reduced up to 58.8 percent. As population growth happened inside the city limits, land use changes also happened within. These changes create clustered as well as sprawl development patterns.

Identity Struggle and Ethno-Social Conflict in Papua: Uncovering the Root of the Problem and Finding Sustainable Solutions

Background: Papua Province is a region rich in diverse ethnicities and has complex social dynamics due to significant ethnic differences. Social conflicts in Papua are not only conflicts between individuals, but also reflect broader changes with cultural, political and socio-economic aspects.Objective: The purpose of this study is to examine and analyze the determinants of social conflict in Papua based on ethnicity and to propose strategies for achieving sustainable social harmony.Method: This research employs a qualitative method focusing on indigenous Papuans, selecting informants such as traditional leaders, community leaders, youth, women, religious figures, and bureaucrats through in-depth interviews and literature studies conducted from July to August 2023.Results: Papuan ethnic identity is shaped by their unique cultural values and traditions, distinguishing them from other ethnic groups in Papua. However, the government's development programs fail to address this identity, contributing to the marginalization of Papuans.Conclusion: The conflict in Papua stems from Papuans fighting for their basic rights tied to their ethnic identity, rather than economic or political issues, highlighting the need for future research on development policies that respect this identity.

IMPLEMENTATION STRATEGY OF SUSTAINABILITY AND HIGHEST BEST USE (SHBU) APPROACH FOR FELDA LAND DEVELOPMENT

Sustainability and Highest Best Use (SHBU) approach is believed to be useful in assisting the Federal Land Development Authority (FELDA) to develop its land towards improving settlers’ prosperity and livelihood. This research aims to demonstrate a proposed strategy for implementing the SHBU using a mixed methods approach which integrates interviews and Geographical Information System-based Multiple-criteria Decision Analysis (GIS-based MCDA). The interview component seeks to obtain feedback and development aspirations from respondents in FELDA Gunung Besout 03, while GIS technology generates and displays the findings in spatial forms to empower decision-making. Data were analysed using content analysis and spatial analysis accordingly. The findings from interview shows that generally, the SHBU approach is suitable for land development. Besides, GIS-based MCDA reveals four types of future land development spanning about 796 hectares encompassing cropland, residential areas, and small business centres. The findings become the basis for crafting the implementation strategies aimed at developing FELDA land within the study area.

Nitrogen use efficiency of open-pollinated maize cultivars and topcrosses under low nitrogen soil

The study was conducted to evaluate the nitrogen utilization efficiency (NUE) of open-pollinated maize cultivars under low nitrogen soil conditions. It took place at the Lower Niger River Basin Development Authority in Ilorin, Nigeria, during the 2019 and 2020 cropping seasons. The nitrogen treatments (0, 45, and 90 kg N ha⁻1) were assigned as the main plots, while the genotypes were designated as sub-plots in a split-plot design. The NUE of open-pollinated varieties (OPVs) and Topcrosses significantly increased with the application of 45 kg of nitrogen per hectare compared to 0 kg. Similarly, the maize grain yield for both OPVs and Topcrosses ranged from 1.40 to 3.57 t ha⁻1 and from 1.07 to 2.64 t ha⁻1 across the two years with the application of 45 kg of nitrogen per hectare compared to 0 kg. With the exception of days to 50 % silking, all other traits tested exhibited a significant correlation with grain yield. A gene pool for tolerance to low nitrogen may have been present in the cultivars Dmr-Esr Y Cif 2 and Acr 95 Tze Comp 4C3, which combined well with other cultivars to produce high grain yield and NUE. Topcrosses, including Ev Dt-Y 2000 Str C0 × Tze-W Dt Str C4, Dmr-Esr Y Cif 2 × Acr 95 Tze Comp 4C3, Ak 95 Dmr-Esrw × Tzb Rel D4 CO-W, Dmr-Esr Y Cif 2 × Tze-W Dt Str C4, and Br 9922 Dmr Sr × Ev Dt-Y 2000 Str C0, also demonstrated strong potential for maize grain yield and NUE. This suggests that these crosses could serve as promising candidates for developing low nitrogen tolerance in maize for low nitrogen soil environments. A positive relationship between fertilizer levels, NUE, and grain yield indicates that proper nitrogen fertilizer management can enhance both NUE and the grain yield of maize genotypes. Genetic analysis revealed that both phenotypic coefficient of variation (PCV) and environmental variance (δ2p) were higher than genotypic coefficient of variation (GCV) and genetic variance (δ2g), suggesting that environmental influences were more significant than genetic factors for the tested traits. Consequently, improving these traits may be achieved by manipulating environmental conditions.

Evaluation of Academic Enhancement Program for Low-Income Students in Rural Malaysia

Malaysia National Science, Technology and Innovation policy 2021-2023highlighted thatScience, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) Education plays an important role for Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET). Many countries are now keen on integrating STEM into TVET education to maintain competitiveness and prepare the workforce to be more effective and productive in the knowledge-based economy. Penang Regional Development Authority (PERDA) initiated the B40@PERDA Academic Enhancement Programme to enhance the academic performance of primary and secondary school students from the B40 group, focusing on critical subjects.The study aims to evaluate the program's effectiveness and gauge student and teacher satisfaction. Using a quantitative approach, data were collected via questionnaires from students and teachers at various educational institutions. Respondents were randomly selected to ensure accurate representation. Analysis results showed that more than 95% of primary school students achieved the minimum proficiency level in EMAS with a minimum of 10% reaching the highest proficiency. For secondary school students, at least 50% attained at least a C grade in EMAS and 45.77% did so in Elective Science subjects (Physics, Chemistry, Biology, and Additional Mathematics). This study concluded that the B40@PERDA programme significantly improves EMAS proficiency among rural students and helps reduce dropout rates in these subjects. Furthermore, this programme is crucial for fulfilling the minimum requirements for TVET. By enhancing proficiency in critical subjects such as English, Mathematics, and Science, the B40@PERDA Programme ensures that students are better prepared for TVET pathways, ultimately contributing to their future career opportunities and the development of skilled labor in the region.

Developing Ecotourism Community Based Approach: A Sustainable Tourism Development Project o n Tanjung Surat Island

The Tanjung Surat Island Ecotourism Development Master Plan study was commissioned to support the Johor Southeast Development Authority (KEJORA) in creating a high-impact strategy to develop Tanjung Surat Island into a premier ecotourism destination for both local and international tourists. This study addresses the prevalent community misunderstanding regarding ecotourism development. The main objective of this study is to identify strategic planning through community engagement initiatives spearheaded by KEJORA on Tanjung Surat Island. Quantitative methods, including the distribution of questionnaires to 118 respondents, were employed to meet this objective. In addition to the questionnaires, the study incorporated several other data collection methods to ensure a thorough understanding of the community's perspective. These included structured interviews with key stakeholders, focus group discussions with community leaders, and participatory observation to gather qualitative insights that complemented the quantitative data. The study's findings will provide a comprehensive guide and reference for planning across economic, social, and environmental dimensions, aiding in the development of Tanjung Surat Island's ecotourism sector. This guide will benefit KEJORA and other stakeholders, including the private sector, interested in supporting and shaping the island's ecotourism future. Additionally, the study highlights the critical need for Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) to enhance the quality of existing services, ensuring they meet current and future demands and standards.

INVESTIGATING THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN SURGICAL TEAM COMMUNICATION AND PATIENT OUTCOMES

Surgical team plays a vital role in the care of patients during the surgery. For safe patient outcomes, surgical team members must effectively communicate within the surgical site. Communication breakdowns in the complex operating room atmosphere can result in unfavorable outcomes. To reduce risks, avoid errors and provide the best possible care for patients, the surgical team must communicate clearly and effectively with one another. Enhancing the quality of surgical treatment requires an understanding of the connection between communication and patient results. Objective: The purpose of this study was to investigate the connection between patient satisfaction outcomes and surgical communication between teams focusing on how the improved communication practices can enhance the patient safety in terms of care quality and satisfaction level in surgical setting. Method: The study comprised of 187 health care providers between the ages of 18 and 65 who were examined for the association between surgical team communication and patient outcomes after ethical approval from Hospital ethical committee. Descriptive cross-sectional study was carried out in the District Headquarters Teaching Hospital, Kohat Development Authority Kohat from January 2022 to July 2022. Data was Analyzed on SPSS and shown in tables. Results: The analysis shows a strong positive correlation (.595) between team communication and patient outcomes, with healthcare professionals that rates the quality of communication at an average of 3.84 out of 5, which is closely linked to a decrease in surgical complications and an increase in patient satisfaction. Sticking and communicating according to communication protocols was rated at 3.76, underlining its importance in patient safety improvements. Conclusions: The study affirms the crucial impact of effective communication among surgical team members on improving patient outcomes and safety in the operating site. The enhanced communication directly relates with faster patient recovery, lesser complications and higher patient satisfaction.

Le Pakistan face aux interdictions, à la censure et aux ordonnances présidentielles : le cas de Naya Pakistan par PTI

Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), in its manifesto, promised a free and independent media with an autonomous Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority (PEMRA) which does not become a tool in the hands of the ruling party (Insaf, 2018). The present study examines the increased control of the PTI government and the military on media outlets, independent journalists, artists, and literary figures around the country. The paper also discusses the rebalancing of power structure and political dynamics in Pakistan, along with the role of presidential ordinances: Pakistan Media Development Authority (PMDA) and amendment to Prevention in Electronic Crimes Act (PECA), which aim to bolster control, curb the narrative, and further limit the freedom of expression. The paper investigates the institutionalization of these draconian regulations whose impact has already started to appear with the confiscation and setting ablaze of Urdu translations of Mohammad Hanif’s novel: A Case of Exploding Mangoes by unknown men in Karachi, a novel which illustrates the historical fictional account of General Zia’s last days as President of Pakistan (Hussain, 2020). Dawn, one of the country’s oldest newspapers, has been banned and denied distribution in army cantonments since 2018. It is hoped that the present study will create awareness regarding this shift of balance towards authoritarianism and provide factual understanding of the country’s current political milieu.

Indian marine products exports: Growth, instability and geographical diversification

The export of marine products is a significant source of foreign exchange and plays a crucial role in the Indian economy by generating income and employment opportunities. The marine sector contributed 25% (4.13 million t) to the overall fish production in India during the fiscal year 2022-23. The primary objective of this study is to analyse the growth rate, instability, and geographical diversification of marine product exports in terms of both quantity and value. Secondary data related to the major export destinations (Japan, USA, European Union, China, South-East Asia, Middle East and others) and item-wise export (shrimp, finfish, cuttlefish, squid, dried, live, chilled and others) of marine products from India during the period 2000-01 to 2019-20 were collected from the Marine Product Export Development Authority (MPEDA). The growth rate, instability and geographical diversification of exports were estimated using the semi-log regression model, instability index (Ray’s method) and Simpson’s diversity index, respectively. The findings reveal that the overall growth rate of marine product exports over the last two decades was 7.13%. Dry fish exhibited the highest growth rate (15.34%) among all products, and South-East Asia showed the highest growth rate (16.05%) among destinations. However, a significant decline in growth rates of export quantity and value was observed between the two decades for all items, except for frozen shrimp, accompanied by an increase in export instability. The Simpson’s diversity index indicated a significant diversification of 70%, reflecting wide variety of marine products exported as well as the broad range of destination countries. Keywords: Ray’s instability index, Seafood exports, Simpson diversity index, Growth rate

CONCERNS ABOUT FIBROADENOMA EXCISION IN YOUNG FEMALE PATIENTS VIA CIRCUMAREOLAR VERSUS RADIAL INCISION

Fibroadenoma is the most common benign breast tumour in young female patients between 15 to 30 years of age. Lumpectomy is the most common surgical procedure, usually carried out via Circumareolar or Radial incisions depending upon size and location in the breast. Both of these incisions for lumpectomy have advantages and disadvantages of their own. In this study, we compared the outcome in terms of healing of wounds, Aesthetics and patient satisfaction. Objective: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of Circumareolar and Radial incision for lumpectomy, Aesthetic outcome and patient satisfaction in young female patients who opted for surgical excision. Methods: After ethical approval from the Hospital ethical committee and informed written consent from the participants; 189 patients were included and equally divided into Group A for Circumareolar incision and into Group B for Radial Incision participants, who met inclusion and exclusion criteria for this study. Data was collected by the Concerned Surgeon on a Pre-Designed Questionnaire in the District Headquarters Teaching Hospital, Kohat Development Authority Kohat from January 2021 to July 2021. Data was analyzed and shown in Tables. Results: The results demonstrate a significant preference for the circumareolar incision over the radial incision in the excision of large and peripherally located fibroadenomas among young female patients. A higher percentage of young female patients (63.04%) underwent circumareolar incision, reporting shorter recovery times (mean = 2.04 weeks) and greater satisfaction with the surgical outcome (mean satisfaction score = 5.43), compared to those who had a radial incision (37.25% underwent the procedure, with mean recovery time = 0.91 weeks and mean satisfaction score = 0.03). Statistical analysis further supports the efficacy of the circumareolar approach over the radial one, with significant differences in both recovery time and satisfaction levels (p < 0.000 for both measures), indicating its effectiveness and patient preference. Conclusion: Circumareolar incision is the best incision for large and peripherally located fibroadenoma excision in young female patients without any further morbidity or compromising quality of life.

Assessment of the State of Pharmacovigilance in Secondary Hospitals in the Federal Capital Territory of Nigeria, Using WHO Pharmacovigilance Indicators.

The importance of pharmacovigilance (PV) in ensuring drug safety, especially in the detection and prevention of adverse drug reactions (ADRs) is critical. However, PV activities in Nigeria still face many challenges, such as very low spontaneous reporting rates, and inadequate training and funding. This study assessed the state of pharmacovigilance in the federal capital territory of Nigeria (FCT), using WHO pharmacovigilance indicators. A cross-sectional questionnaire-based survey was carried out among secondary healthcare facilities in the FCT. The WHO Pharmacovigilance Indicators Questionnaire, which consists of the structural, process and outcome measures, was used to collect data from the focal person for pharmacovigilance at all the consenting facilities. Descriptive statistics were used to summarize all variables. Ethical approval was obtained from the Ethics Review Committee of the FCT development authority. Of the 14 secondary healthcare facilities in the FCT, 11 agreed to the study (response rate = 84.6%). Among the respondents, 4 (36.4%) were females, and 2 (18.2%) had 9 years of experience in pharmacovigilance. For the core structural indicators, 7 (63.6%) of the facilities had a pharmacovigilance center while only 4 (36.4%) had a copy of the Nigerian pharmacovigilance policy. Regarding financial provisions, 10 (90.9%) hospitals reported that there was no regular financial provision for the center while 10 (90.9%) centers had a standard adverse drug reaction reporting form. For the core process indicators, the mean ± SD of the nine core process indicators ranged from 0.9 ± 3.0 to 75.6 ± 38.6 and the total number of reports in the local database, therapeutic ineffectiveness, and medication error were limited. The assessment of pharmacovigilance activities in the Federal Capital Territory of Nigeria revealed significant gaps in infrastructure, financial support, and process implementation. Despite the presence of pharmacovigilance centers in the majority of facilities, the lack of consistent financial support and limited adherence to core process indicators highlight the need for enhanced training, resources, and policy enforcement to improve ADR reporting and overall drug safety monitoring. Strengthening these areas is crucial for advancing pharmacovigilance practices and ensuring patient safety in Nigeria.