Income Opportunities Research Articles

Afghanistan Saffron and Potential for the Economy: An Overview of International Trade and Domestic Well Being

Foreign companies import Afghan saffron, which is considered to be best quality in the world. These companies then apply their labels and market the product under their country names. By adopting methodology required for production and market analysis, a study was conducted to determine the potential for production, export and value share. The study used techniques such as compound annual growth rate (CAGR) and decomposition analysis to determine changes in the area, production and productivity of saffron from 1991-92 to 2021-22. The findings revealed that the growth rates of area, production and productivity of saffron significantly increased by 29.61 per cent, 29.06 per cent and 0.42 per cent annually respectively. Additionally, the returns per hectare of Afghanistan’s saffron were compared to other crops such as wheat, rice, corn and barley and the returns of saffron were found to be the highest. The export of Afghanistan’s saffron also increased annually, providing farmers with more income opportunities.

Digital technologies for the development of sustainable tourism in mountain areas

The promotion of sustainable tourism models in mountain areas represents a critical success factor for the territory and the environment. In political and economic literature there has been much debate in the attempt to interpret the phenomenon of growth and development with the changing socio-economic environment. Today the topic remains at the center of the debate of many economic policy authorities due to the exodus phenomena occurring in internal areas. In this study, we examined how the resources of mountain areas can create income opportunities as a function of the diffusion of sustainable income. On the one hand, in mountain environments, we have natural resources that represent common goods that must be maintained precisely according to the opportunities they create for sustainable tourism where they represent its essential feature. The complexity of the economic phenomena, which on the one hand leads to an exodus from these environments, determines the need to create new management structures, that can satisfy the needs of the local community and guarantee appropriate management of natural resources. In this study, we analyzed the relationships between sustainable tourism models and natural resource management considering the case of the Ficuzza Forest and applying new digital technologies such as mobile apps that allow you to make hotel reservations, read reviews about the best restaurant in the area, and buy museum tickets to avoid the queue. Starting from the theoretical framework, and subsequently analyzing the empirical case, we highlighted the utility flows that descend from the Bosco. The resulting results have considerable relevance for the planning of mountain territories. The study highlights that the interconnection between public and private management models can guarantee the growth and development of mountain territories.

Application of Meta-SWOT method for tourism development planning of Farsi Island of the Persian Gulf Region

Purpose: Tourism is a pivotal force in contemporary economies, shaping macroeconomic facets, such as national income, financial robustness, and employment opportunities. In an era marked by globalization, nations and urban centers aspire to elevate their competitive stance and augment community well-being through strategic blueprints for the tourism sector. Research Methodology: This research focuses on the evaluation of Persian Gulf tourism's standing vis-à-vis regional rivals while identifying the tourism assets and competencies of Farsi Island and scrutinizing their Value, Rareness, Imitability, and Organization (VRIO) attributes. The meta-SWOT strategic planning methodology is a paramount tool in this context. Results: The research unfolds in two phases: documentary and bibliographical scrutiny, and comprehensive surveys canvassing insights from ten tourism authorities judiciously chosen through purposive selection. The results shed light on the preeminent sway of macro-level factors, including national macro-management, governmental foreign policy, and international sanctions, as potent determinants of the tourism landscape of Farsi Island. Limitations: This study required long-term secondary analysis of data from Persian Gulf countries. However, these data have only recently been collected in a few countries; therefore, this study is based on primary data collection. Contributions: Concurrently, factors such as inadequate budget allocation and marginalization of the tourism sector within the country play pivotal roles in molding the Persian Gulf region's tourism trajectory.

Application of Meta-SWOT method for tourism development planning of Farsi Island of the Persian Gulf Region

Purpose: Tourism is a pivotal force in contemporary economies, shaping macroeconomic facets, such as national income, financial robustness, and employment opportunities. In an era marked by globalization, nations and urban centers aspire to elevate their competitive stance and augment community well-being through strategic blueprints for the tourism sector. Research Methodology: This research focuses on the evaluation of Persian Gulf tourism's standing vis-à-vis regional rivals while identifying the tourism assets and competencies of Farsi Island and scrutinizing their Value, Rareness, Imitability, and Organization (VRIO) attributes. The meta-SWOT strategic planning methodology is a paramount tool in this context. Results: The research unfolds in two phases: documentary and bibliographical scrutiny, and comprehensive surveys canvassing insights from ten tourism authorities judiciously chosen through purposive selection. The results shed light on the preeminent sway of macro-level factors, including national macro-management, governmental foreign policy, and international sanctions, as potent determinants of the tourism landscape of Farsi Island. Limitations: This study required long-term secondary analysis of data from Persian Gulf countries. However, these data have only recently been collected in a few countries; therefore, this study is based on primary data collection. Contributions: Concurrently, factors such as inadequate budget allocation and marginalization of the tourism sector within the country play pivotal roles in molding the Persian Gulf region's tourism trajectory.

Application of Meta-SWOT method for tourism development planning of Farsi Island of the Persian Gulf Region

Purpose: Tourism is a pivotal force in contemporary economies, shaping macroeconomic facets, such as national income, financial robustness, and employment opportunities. In an era marked by globalization, nations and urban centers aspire to elevate their competitive stance and augment community well-being through strategic blueprints for the tourism sector. Research Methodology: This research focuses on the evaluation of Persian Gulf tourism's standing vis-à-vis regional rivals while identifying the tourism assets and competencies of Farsi Island and scrutinizing their Value, Rareness, Imitability, and Organization (VRIO) attributes. The meta-SWOT strategic planning methodology is a paramount tool in this context. Results: The research unfolds in two phases: documentary and bibliographical scrutiny, and comprehensive surveys canvassing insights from ten tourism authorities judiciously chosen through purposive selection. The results shed light on the preeminent sway of macro-level factors, including national macro-management, governmental foreign policy, and international sanctions, as potent determinants of the tourism landscape of Farsi Island. Limitations: This study required long-term secondary analysis of data from Persian Gulf countries. However, these data have only recently been collected in a few countries; therefore, this study is based on primary data collection. Contributions: Concurrently, factors such as inadequate budget allocation and marginalization of the tourism sector within the country play pivotal roles in molding the Persian Gulf region's tourism trajectory.

Livelihood Alternatives in Restored Peatland Areas in South Sumatra Province, Indonesia

Livelihood loss and lower income because of peatland mismanagement are crucial issues that must be resolved in peatland areas. Although many studies have assessed farmers’ livelihoods and income enhancement, progress in addressing these problems remains inadequate. To address this issue, this study aimed to analyze various existing alternative livelihoods in the peatland community in Ogan Komering Ilir District, South Sumatra Province, Indonesia, and analyze scenarios for creating livelihoods and increasing people’s incomes through changes in peat ecosystem management and peatland restoration programs. This study used a survey method conducted in South Sumatra Province’s OKI District, one of the four priority peat-restoration districts in the province. We used three sampling stages, while descriptive, tabulated, and mathematical methods were used for analysis. We analyzed the feasibility of livelihoods that used benefit-cost analysis. The results showed that Sonor cultivation of paddies and catching fish in Rawang (swamp) were the livelihoods of farmers in peatlands. The community has also been processing peatland commodities into other products, such as Purun woven, and Gula Puan (buffalo milk processing). Several alternative livelihood scenarios that are financially profitable and can be developed include salted and smoked fish, Purun woven handicrafts, paludiculture, and agrosilvofishery, which can provide farmers with short-, medium-, and long-term income opportunities. This study can contribute to policymaking by fully considering the role of peat resources in rural livelihoods.

Ecotourism Commodification from A Socio-Economic Perspective (A Case Study of Tanjung Puting National Park, Indonesia)

This research aims to determine the socio-economic impact of the commodification of ecotourism occurs in Tanjung Puting National Park. Data in this study were obtained using a case study method. The economic indicators used include income and employment opportunities. Meanwhile, social indicators include cultural acculturation and the community’s skill level. The results show that the development of this ecotourism is able to create more job opportunities for the public in the tourism sectors such as tour guide, food and beverages service, and travel agents. Public who taking opportunities will generate another source of income. In addition to contributing income to the local community, this ecotourism also contributes Non-Tax Government Revenue (PNBP). The social impact that arises is shifting of the public lifestyle becomes more westernized and an increase in the level of creativity of the public in business entrepreneurship.

Trade liberalisation and manufacturing employment in developing countries

The manufacturing sector has played an important role in the structural transformation process in the developing world by providing jobs and income opportunities. Using data from 131 developing countries from 1991 to 2020, we estimate the impact of trade liberalisation on manufacturing employment using panel fixed-effects and instrumental variable regression approaches. We find that trade liberalisation – on average – has harmed manufacturing employment in developing countries. There are considerable differences at the regional level; the impact has been most substantial in sub-Saharan African and Latin American countries. At least in these regions, trade liberalisation has contributed to deindustrialisation. Policies that improve labour productivity in manufacturing will increase the competitiveness of manufacturing firms in these countries in the face of growing trade globalisation.

Impact of Youth Migration on the Agricultural Sector in Nepal

The paper examines the impact of youth migration on the agricultural sector in Nepal. Nowadays, youth are involved in both internal and international migration to seek better income opportunities and secure living conditions. The increasing trend of youth migration is significantly affecting the agricultural sector by transforming knowledge and skills through the adoption of agricultural technology, the selection of profitable crops, increasing productivity, increasing food security, and exporting crops. The paper follows descriptive research method and based on secondary data sources like scholarly articles, journals, and authentic reports to analyze qualitative and quantitative information. It concludes that youth migration is a significant issue, despite potential negative impacts in developing countries like Nepal. Migration boosts household income through remittances but can lead to labor shortages, land loss, and decreased productivity. Negative effects include increased reliance on remittance earnings and a deteriorating working attitude.

PENDAMPINGAN PENINGKATAN KOMPETENSI PENGOLAHAN TEKSTIL DENGAN TEKNIK MAKRAME PADA IBU PKK DUSUN SIDODADI DESA CANGGU KECAMATAN BADAS KABUPATEN KEDIRI

The article highlights the significance of macrame technique training as a skill that offers additional economic opportunities for PKK mothers, aiming to equip them with basic knowledge and skills in macrame techniques. It emphasizes the potential benefits of mastering macrame techniques, such as generating unique and economically valuable products, increasing productivity, and improving well-being.This article focuses on the implementation of macrame technique training to enhance the productivity of PKK (Pemberdayaan Kesejahteraan Keluarga) mothers in Sidodadi Hamlet, Canggu Village, Badas District, Kediri Regency. The community service method used in this research is ABCD (Community Asset Based Development). By applying the five steps of the ABCD approach, namely Discovery, Dream, Design, Destiny, Reflection and Evaluation. By mastering macrame techniques, PKK mothers can generate unique and economically valuable products, leading to increased productivity, additional income opportunities, and improved well-being. In conclusion, the article emphasizes that macrame technique training has brought significant benefits to the local PKK mothers. Through a series of activities involving potential identification, setting of expected goals, activity planning, and structured workflow, the training participants have successfully developed new skills in creating macrame handicrafts. The training outcomes also had a positive impact on increasing community participation, strengthening inter-resident relationships, and raising awareness of environmental sustainability.

Dynamic livelihoods, gender and poverty in marine protected areas: Case study from Zanzibar, Tanzania

Livelihood initiatives are common within marine protected areas (MPAs) aiming for poverty alleviation or higher income opportunities. However, results can be mixed in reality, as well as change over time. Furthermore, who benefits is a key consideration, as results can vary based on inequalities, including gender. Here, the monetary outcomes of different livelihood strategies were investigated across three MPA regions in Zanzibar, Tanzania. Using a quantitative approach, the results show that livelihoods have shifted in a six-year period, with livelihood strategies differing in poverty incidence and income. Livelihood initiatives, namely seaweed farming and tourism, did not provide significantly higher monetary returns compared to long-standing livelihoods, such as fisheries. Seaweed farming showed income stability but a high poverty incidence predominantly within women-headed households. During the study period, men primarily remained in fisheries, whilst women shifted to small-scale businesses and fisheries, largely exiting seaweed farming. This underscores a need for adaptive, gender sensitive management within fast changing coastal contexts.

Income inequality of tribal households in Bangladesh: A decomposition analysis

This paper uses field survey data to examine farm and non-farm income to reduce income inequality among tribal households in Sylhet district, Bangladesh. It uses a decomposition method and a regression-based decomposition method to measure income and expenditure inequality by source of income as well as by household and family characteristics. For this, non-farm income was considered as an external transfer of total income to decompose the Gini index and as a potential substitute for farm income, taking into account household preferences. The results indicate that income differences exist between farm and non-farm income, thereby increasing income inequality. The endowment effect on household characteristics was positive and significant, directly supporting the increase in non-farm income per capita daily household expenditure. On the other hand, in terms of its components, non-farm self-employment income reduces income inequality, while non-farm wage income increases income inequality. At the 50th quantile results, an additional year of age of the household head increases the per capita expenditure of farm and non-farm households by BDT 300 to BDT 400, respectively. Moreover, the education of household heads also positively and significantly affects the per capita expenditure of non-farm households. As estimated by the 50th quantile, farm and non-farm households with graduation had higher per capita daily expenditure than household heads with primary education. Raising household education level and total farm household income to a better level, adopting farm-income enhancement programs, and enacting policies to increase alternative income opportunities that will shift income from non-agricultural to agricultural tribal households, reduce income inequality, and bring about the well-being of tribal society.

Impact of Stone Quarrying on Sustainable Livelihoods and Environment in Selected Communities in Ghana: implications for the Sustainable Development Goals

Stone is a useful natural resource, but its extraction has sustainability implications for the environment and livelihoods. This study examined the impacts of stone quarrying activities on sustainable livelihoods and the environment, and the implications of the impacts for the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in selected host communities in Ghana. The study was underpinned by the Sustainable Livelihoods Framework (SLF) and the principle of environmental sustainability as a pillar of sustainable development (SD). One hundred and ninety-two participants were involved in interviews and focus group discussions, which were analyzed thematically. It was found that the activities provided prospects for sustainable livelihoods, but the impacts on livelihoods were mixed. For instance, whereas the activities provided opportunities for jobs, income, and other socio-economic benefits, they created disputes and health challenges. The environmental impacts included vibrations, noise, cracks in buildings, dust-polluted air and water bodies, land degradation, migration of wildlife, as well as stunted growth of crops and other plants around the quarry sites. The livelihood and environmental impacts had mixed (positive and negative) implications for most of the SDGs. Based on the mixed impacts and implications dynamics, the stakeholders, led by the government and its relevant agencies, are encouraged to chart quarrying pathways that are more environmentally friendly and socio-economically equitable. Such sustainable pathways should be guided by regulatory, educational, technological, and monitoring policy considerations that would minimize the negative impacts and maximize the positive ones to promote the achievement of the SDGs for improved livelihoods and sustainable development.

Anti-Inflammatory and Antioxidant Properties of Crude Methanol Extracts from the Flowers and Peels of Khlong Seng Local Durian (Durio Zibethinus Murr.)

The agricultural byproduct, represented by durian peels during the season, needs to be converted into economic value within the local area. This study aimed to assess the pharmaceutical properties, specifically antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, of methanol extracts from both flowers and peels of the local durian in the district. Additionally, in vitro testing was conducted to evaluate the impact on cells and the inhibition of nitric oxide induced by LPS. Results indicated that the flowers’ extract exhibited a higher concentration of antioxidants compared to the peels. The FRAP assay, using Trolox and Fe(II) as standards, showed statistically significant differences (p-value < 0.05) with values of 427.40 ± 7.64 µmole TE/g extract and 3,568.47 ± 77.55 µmole Fe(II) equivalent/g extract, along with a DPPH scavenging of 85.19 % and an IC50 of 114.50 ± 7.27 µg/mL. Concerning the inhibition of LPS-induced nitric oxide content, the peels’ extract, excluding KS7, demonstrated a response. KS10 exhibited the highest statistically significant difference (p-value < 0.05) in inhibition at concentrations of 0.6, 0.8 and 10 µg/mL, while others showed inhibition at 1.0 µg/mL. The outcomes of this research suggest the potential to enhance the value of agricultural waste, contributing to both the development of durian agriculture and public health at the local level. HIGHLIGHTS Exploring the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory attributes of Khlong Seng Local durian peel and flower The flowers primarily exhibit antioxidant properties, while the peel demonstrates anti-inflammatory characteristics across all samples of durians aged between 50 - 60 years The discovery highlighted the potential of agricultural waste, showcasing its capacity to be transformed into alternative products, thereby enhancing income opportunities for local farmers GRAPHICAL ABSTRACT

Social integration of internally displaced persons in Ukraine: Problems and challenges for governing local communities

This study aims to evaluate social integration and obstacles for internally displaced persons (IDPs) in local communities for further improvement of governing local communities regarding the integration of IDPs in new surroundings. The expert sample included 38 representatives of relevant authorities, scientists, NGOs, and volunteer organizations from 11 Ukrainian regions. The survey was conducted using the online questionnaire method via Google Forms. The results show the low participation of IDPs in most political and civil activities in new communities. The level of social integration according to these criteria is, respectively, 3.0 and 3.2 points out of 6 possible. At the same time, the level of economic integration (3.7 points) and integration into cultural and sports initiatives (3.6 points) are comparatively high, which are a feature illustrating the readiness to be involved in some kinds of activities in a new community. A significant result is also the fact that according to most signs of social integration, in the evaluations of experts, there are assessments of the activity of IDPs at a level that exceeds the activity of residents (6 points). Such results indicate the existence of a resource for developing communities due to the use of the potential of IDPs. This is especially characteristic of activities in counteraction to russian aggression, involvement in grant and project activities, search for opportunities for legal income, and support of social justice principles in labor relations. AcknowledgmentThis study is funded by the National Research Foundation of Ukraine under project No.2021.01/0343 “Ensuring social protection of ATO/JFO participants and social integration of IDP under the condition of increasing threats to social security.”

A Comparison of the Physical Properties Between Merino Wool and Camel Hair Through Discriminant Analysis

ABSTRACT The applicability of camel hair is still conditioned by a gap in the knowledge about this raw material, which in turn hinders its supply chain, commercial possibilities, and the value that the product reaches in the market. The present research compares the physical-mechanical properties of Canarian camel hair versus Merino sheep wool, the world’s most popular proteinic fabric material, using a discriminant canonical analysis. The attributes that maximized differences between both types of animal-origin fibers were related to average fiber diameter, fineness, length staple, and residual dirt. Although slightly shorter than sheep wool, camel hair can reach a prominent fabric quality and spinning performance given its greater average diameter and its lower variation within small fragments along the snippet, as well as the higher distance from the tip to the finest point in the staple, which is an indicator for the breaking point. Such characteristics are known to increase bending rigidity during the manufacturing process. Residual dirt may be associated with the low-input, extensive exploitation of camels. The present paper provides a reference for maturing pre-process and manufacture techniques for the further valorization of camel hair in the present-day textile industry and, thus, engages income opportunities for this livestock production.

Efektivitas Pemberian Dana Usaha Terhadap Pemberdayaan Ekonomi Perempuan (Studi Kasus Koperasi Wanita Mayangsari 38b Banjarrejo)

One of the activities to encourage women's empowerment in the economic sector is the provision of business financing through non-bank financial institutions such as banks and cooperatives. Working capital loans are goods (money) or services used to run a business that must be repaid within a certain period of time based on a contract between the borrower and the lender. This study explores how business financing from non-bank institutions, like the Mayangsari Women's Cooperative, empowers women in the economic sector. The type of research used is field research. Field research is research carried out in the field or at the research site, namely the Mayangsari 38B Banjarejo Women's Cooperative. Borrowers met key criteria, including generating income and developing their businesses. The success lies in adhering to empowerment principles. Members understand the loan purpose and strive for effectiveness metrics. The program aims to start or grow businesses, ensure good loan repayment, offer income opportunities, and foster independent business ownership. This is evident in members acquiring new skills and some even starting new businesses without further loans, proving the program's sustainability. This case study showcases the potential of business loans to empower women, not only financially but also by fostering independence and entrepreneurial spirit. By adhering to sound principles, such programs can contribute significantly to women's economic development and overall well-being.

Nexus of Gender and Renewable Energy: Importance and Trends in Global and National context

This is an article on “Nexus of Gender and Renewable Energy: Importance and Trends in Global and National context”. Here, as per objectives of the study, literatures on the respective issues have been reviewed by a desk review process. This paper has highlighted the issues on importance and trends of gender-energy nexus. The reviews have tried to show association between SDG 7: "Ensure access to affordable, reliable, sustainable and modern energy for all.” SDG: 5 is "Achieve gender equality and empower all women and girls" for sustainable development. The major highlight of the paper is effective Policy implication, participation, importance and trends, poverty and energy justice and transitions are inseparable entities of gender energy nexus. Energy access saves time, reduces drudgery, reduces indoor air pollution levels, improves education and improves health of women, alleviates poverty etc. Energy access creates new opportunities for income generating activities.

EXAMINING THE SUSTAINABLE GROWTH OF AGRICULTURAL TOURISM IN THE STATE OF MAHARASHTRA

Background: Agritourism, the fusion of agriculture and tourism, has gained prominence as a unique travel experience offering rural settings and agricultural activities to tourists. This study focuses on the sustainable growth of agritourism, particularly in Maharashtra, India. Objectives: To investigate the scope of agri tourism and to study the potential of agritourism in domestic market. Methodology: Research design was descriptive in nature. The study was conducted in the cities of the state of Maharashtra: Pune, Aurangabad, Nagpur, Thane, Raigad, Pune, and Satara. 125 potential tourist were selected for the study. The samples were selected on the basis of convenience sampling technique. Tool used for collection of data was online questionnaire. Data was analyzed on the basis age, gender, educational qualification, annual income & place of residents of the respondents and statistical analysis was done on percentage basis. Results: It was found that 72% of the respondents were aware of the concept of agritourism. The interest level of the potential tourist in various activities of agritourism varied: 22.3% of the respondents were interested in tasting local food, learning local culture & tradition response percentage was 17.8%, for learning local cooking it was 17.5%, relaxation was 16%, farming experiences was 13.2%, and participation in local handicraft response percentage was 10.5%. Conclusion: The study concluded that agritourism holds significant potential in India, offering additional income opportunities for farmers and enhancing rural economies. Recommendations include the establishment of collaborative societies, government support, and strategic partnerships to promote and sustain agritourism development in Maharashtra and beyond.

A sentiment analysis approach for understanding users’ perception of metaverse marketplace

This research explores the user perceptions of the Metaverse Marketplace, analyzing a substantial dataset of over 860,000 Twitter posts through sentiment analysis and topic modeling techniques. The study aims to uncover the driving factors behind user engagement and sentiment in this novel digital trading space. Key findings highlight a predominantly positive user sentiment, with significant enthusiasm for the marketplace's revenue generation and entertainment potential, particularly within the gaming sector. Users express appreciation for the innovative opportunities the Metaverse Marketplace offers for artists, designers, and traders in handling and trading digital assets. This positive outlook is tempered by notable concerns regarding security and privacy within the Metaverse, pointing to a critical area for development and assurance. The study also reveals a substantial neutral sentiment, reflecting users’ cautious but interested stance, particularly regarding the marketplace's role in investment and passive income opportunities. This balanced view underscores the evolving nature of user perceptions in this emerging field. Theoretically, the research enriches the discourse on technology adoption, particularly in virtual environments, by highlighting perceived benefits and enjoyment as significant adoption drivers. These insights are invaluable for stakeholders in the Metaverse Marketplace, guiding the development of more secure, engaging, and user-friendly platforms. While providing a pioneering perspective on Metaverse user perceptions, the study acknowledges its limitation to Twitter data, suggesting the need for broader research methodologies for a more holistic understanding.