Indian Context Research Articles

Factors Affecting Consumer Behaviour In Indian Fashion Retail Industry- A Study Of Recent Trends And Preferences.

This study investigates the multifaceted realm of consumer behavior within the Indian fashion retail industry, focusing on the intricate interplay of various factors shaping purchasing decisions. With an ever-evolving market landscape, understanding recent trends and preferences becomes paramount for businesses striving to remain competitive and relevant. Drawing upon a comprehensive review of literature and empirical research, this paper aims to dissect the intricate web of influences that drive consumer behavior in the Indian context. Key factors such as cultural nuances, economic dynamics, social influences, and technological advancements are scrutinized to unravel their impact on consumer preferences and buying patterns. Through surveys, interviews, and data analysis, insights are gleaned into the evolving tastes and preferences of Indian consumers in the realm of fashion retail. Additionally, the role of marketing strategies, brand perception, and customer experience in shaping consumer decisions is explored. The findings of this study not only provide valuable insights for businesses operating in the Indian fashion retail sector but also contribute to the broader understanding of consumer behavior dynamics in a rapidly evolving market environment. By staying attuned to the pulse of consumer preferences and adapting strategies accordingly, businesses can navigate the complex terrain of the Indian fashion retail industry with agility and foresight.

Does eLearning Require Self-regulated Discipline? Measuring and Validating a Scale for Online Self-regulated Learning Quotient

Self-regulation has gained much prominence due to its necessity and significance in eLearning environment. The nature of eLearning mandates higher self-regulation to attain efficacy. In this article, we study the Online Self-regulated Learning Quotient (OSLQ) scale as it is a pioneering scale that has been verified for studying self-regulation in eLearning environment. The literature delineates the need to empirically examine the reliability and validity of the OSLQ in various contexts. This study was conducted in two phases on business school students from tier one management institutes in India. In phase 1, we performed qualitative analysis through focus group discussions on a sample of 24 respondents to check the content validity of the scale. In phase 2, we performed quantitative analysis on a sample of 528 respondents. Exploratory factor analysis in phase 2 of the study confirmed six factors. Confirmatory factor analysis in phase 2 of the study confirmed scale validity. Based on the findings, we conclude that OSLQ is a valid and reliable scale to assess self-regulation among Indian students in eLearning context. These findings have added to the theoretical legitimacy of the scale. In terms of practical implication, our findings suggest that OSLQ may be employed in an Indian context. This has significant implications for future research in self-regulation studies in India, especially in the context of eLearning.

Crafting Inclusive Marketing Campaigns: Insights and Influential Factors in the Indian Context

With increasing diversity of consumers in the marketplace, marketers have begun to embrace inclusive marketing practices. However, there is still a lack of research on the topic, making it difficult for managers to understand how to design and execute effective campaigns. This study aims to fill this gap by identifying the key factors that contribute toward an impactful inclusive marketing campaign. The study used a sequential mixed-methods approach and first conducted interviews with 29 LGBTQIA+ and non-LGBTQ consumers to gain insights into their perceptions of effective inclusive campaigns. In the study’s second phase, ten industry experts provided inputs for the Fuzzy DEMATEL method to identify critical factors for an effective campaign. The findings revealed seven essential factors: social acceptance of the community, use of community-specific symbols, authentic communication about community issues, top management’s approach, inclusive hiring practices, brand history, and legal market structure, which were then grouped into social, communication-related, brand-related, organization-specific, and other macro-level categories. The study fills an important gap in the inclusive marketing literature and can serve as a practical guide for marketers to design and implement inclusive campaigns.

Management of traumatic brain injury in India: A protocol for systematic review and meta-analysis

Abstract* Introduction This systematic review and meta-analysis protocol aims to evaluate the management of traumatic brain injury (TBI) in India, addressing a critical gap in the understanding and treatment of TBI in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). Despite advancements in healthcare focusing primarily on communicable diseases, TBI remains a leading cause of death and disability worldwide, significantly affecting the quality of life of patients and their families. Recent interest has surged in platelet-rich plasma (PRP) as a novel treatment for TBI, necessitating a comprehensive review of its therapeutic benefits. Methodology The study will source articles from PubMed, EMBASE, SCOPUS, and the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, targeting a range of studies including randomized controlled trials (RCTs), observational studies, and cohort studies. The review will exclude case series, review articles, and studies not reported in English. The primary aim is to collate evidence-based data on TBI management, with particular focus on the Indian healthcare context, evaluating the efficacy of current treatments and the potential role of PRP in enhancing neurological function and recovery post-TBI. Data management will involve a rigorous selection process, with independent reviewers conducting initial screenings and resolving discrepancies through discussion or arbitration. A PRISMA flow diagram will illustrate the study selection procedure, and a standardized form will be used for data extraction, ensuring thoroughness and consistency. Conclusion By highlighting current knowledge gaps, this systematic review and meta-analysis will guide future research directions and clinical practice, potentially revolutionizing TBI management strategies in LMICs. This protocol underscores the necessity for high-quality, evidence-based approaches to TBI treatment, aiming to improve patient outcomes through enhanced management practices.

Interface And Interplay Between Intellectual Property Rights (IPR) And Competition Law

Intellectual property rights (IPR) bestow exclusive legal privileges upon owners, restricting others’ access and thereby potentially reducing market competition. In contrast, competition law (also known as antitrust law) aims to foster competition and enhance market accessibility. These two domains may appear fundamentally opposed, yet an alternative perspective suggests that they can not only coexist but also mutually reinforce each other. This Paper endeavors to explore the interconnectedness and interdependence of IPR and competition law and seeks to unravel the common thread between these legal domains in the Indian context, providing a comprehensive understanding of their interplay. It underscores the essential role of both in bolstering a nation’s economic efficiency. By coexisting harmoniously, IPR and competition law contribute to a more robust system, and this study offers practical guidelines to enhance the effectiveness of India’s competition law framework and patent offices.

Caregiver burden in families of children with juvenile idiopathic arthritis in India.

Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis (JIA) causes caregiver burden on families with children affected with it. Our study aimed to explore this multifaceted burden in the Indian context. In this cross-sectional study, we administered the Hindi translated CAREGIVER questionnaire to adult caregivers in the families of JIA patients ≤ 18years. The responses to the 28 items were used to calculate the burden scores in various dimensions. The relationship of the global burden scores with demographic and socioeconomic factors were analysed. Non parametric tests were used. Two hundred twenty-one caregivers participated with a median age of 39years (IQR 32-45). This included 116 fathers, 50 mothers, 32 brothers, 18 uncles, three grandfathers, one sister, and one grandmother. The JIA patients had a median age of 15 (12-17) years, and the male-to-female ratio was 3.2:1. Enthesitis-related arthritis was the predominant subtype (72.4%). Most caregivers (70.6%) expressed sadness at diagnosis, and 29.9% continued to express sadness. Nearly two-thirds (65.6%) had to borrow money from others. More than half (59.3%) of the caregivers neglected their health, and 9.0% became sick. Male gender of the child, systemic JIA subtype, low socioeconomic status, high disease activity, extra-articular damage, high parent-reported disease activity and poor quality of life were associated with higher global caregiver burden. JIA has a significant emotional, social, economic, and labour impact on caregivers. Economic and psychosocial support needs to be given to family caregivers caring for children with JIA.

Strategic Planning Approach for Noise Control in Urban Areas

Cities, accommodates more than half of the world population, contributes a major role in overall global development. However, the urban environment has its own challenges, and most prevalent issue is noise pollution, and it is described as a contemporary plague. This problem is linked to various health issues in public like depression, fatigue, insomnia, headaches, and decreased concentration etc. Compounding the issue is the cumulative impact of noise, where the detrimental effects may not manifest immediately. The study emphasizes the critical need for strategic planning approach and the measures to tackle various urban noise sources. The study also focuses into existing policies and guidelines on noise control in Indian urban context and explores different noise analysis approaches and regulations of other countries through case studies. The analysis delivers a set of recommendations on reducing noise pollution through noise zoning, based on the case studies. These recommendations range from the installation of noise barriers along transportation corridors to the implementation of zoning regulations that segregate noisy industrial or commercial activities from residential areas. Additionally, the study advocates for the establishment of strict noise limits tailored specifically for road traffic, underlining the pivotal role of well-designed public transport systems. This not only help in reducing noise impacts but also promotes sustainable urban development. Overall, the study attempts to create quieter, healthier sustainable urban spaces.

Geographical altitude and stunting among children aged under 5 years in India

IntroductionPrevious studies have found positive associations between higher geographical altitude and increased risk of stunting in children under 5 years old, but little evidence exists on this relationship in the...

Right to Drinking Water in India

The present paper provides a perspective on water from the known past to the present; how water has been perceived at different times. From being a community managed property or a means for achieving sustainable development goals, water metamorphosed into a commodity to be bought and sold. The management of water has become a complex policy issue due to ownership. On the other hand, equitable distribution of water has become a key area for public policy and its growing importance in national and international development. When water issues come to Indian context, it is often found that access to potable water is a dream for many states where majority population drinks contaminated water. The international agencies highlighted that water has a role in sustainable development and therefore there is a need to increase investment. With this objective the paper discuss about the changing role of the Indian State in provisioning potable water to its deprived community.

Women academics’ encounters with sexism in academic medicine: a collective biography from the Indian context

Background People of all genders face sexism in academia and medicine is no exception. One of the key strategies that we, as academics, can employ to resist it is to talk, study and write about it. Recent reports in the Indian media about sexism faced by women in higher education academia have led to the development of policies to curb it. But these measures work only on overt forms of sexism. The more subtle sexism that women face is barely talked about because it has become so internalized in society, that it is ‘normal’. Methods To initiate the discussion on sexism that women students and faculty face in medicine, the authors conducted a piece of feminist research using collective biography as the methodology. Essays written by four women at different levels of seniority in academia, on the sexism they encountered during their career trajectory were coded independently by two authors and categories and themes were derived from the codes generated. Strategies to address sexism were discussed. Results Four themes emerged from the analysis – sexism in academic medicine is a real presence, resisting sexism, need for social support for change to happen and optimism for change. All the four essays recounted encounters with sexism, the different ways they resisted these practices, the support they received from families and colleagues in moving ahead and a hint of optimism and hope for change. Conclusions This small inquiry into a pervasive problem that women face in their everyday work emphasizes the need for a multipronged approach to address it. While the older generation of women in medicine have relied mostly on their inner strength and resolve to combat sexism, it is time that a collective effort by both men and women is made to take academia closer to achieving equality.

Reconceptualizing online offenses: A framework for distinguishing cybercrime, cyberattacks, and cyberterrorism in the Indian legal context

From a legal standpoint, there are significant disparities in treating online offenses targeting individuals, organizations, and nation-states. These disparities arise due to influences that vary discreetly based on crucial factors such as the target, motive, or impact. This article draws upon the Information Technology Amendment Act (ITAA) of 2008 in India, analyses how these factors regulate online crimes, and thereby conducts a comprehensive analysis of current literature to differentiate cybercrime, cyberattacks, and cyberterrorism. The proposed framework includes a target-impact (intent) model to differentiate illicit online activities, complemented by a discussion on the actor-intent model, which emphasizes their treatment and implications within the legal context. The article explores the target-impact (intent) definition of cybercrime, highlighting its significance in capturing the cyber aspect and differentiating it from cyberattacks. Case studies are presented to illustrate these distinctions effectively. Furthermore, the article highlights variations in mitigation strategies, investigative protocols, punitive measures, and legal consequences corresponding to the identified classifications. Lastly, it incorporates insights from theoretical criminology and sociology, discusses how the proposed target-impact (intent) model aligns with the routine activity theory, and attempts to distinguish online crimes using the institutional theory.

Service Quality Dynamics: A Study on Indian Hotel Industry

The significance of assessing service quality for business performance has been acknowledged in various service marketing studies due to its direct influence on customer satisfaction and its indirect implications for customer loyalty. Despite the recognition of service quality and its measurement, very few studies have empirically examined the precursors and consequences of service quality after Covid-19 pandemic which has had a colossal structural impact on the world and from Indian context. In this study we gauge the antecedents and consequences of service quality pre and post the Covid-19 pandemic. The present study endeavors to ascertain whether all the dimensions of SERVQUAL carry equal weight in terms of their impact on overall service quality before and after the pandemic. Additionally, the study intends to evaluate whether the ranking of the SERVQUAL dimensions remains consistent before and after the pandemic. The study further empirically determines whether there exists a disparity in the total service quality score between the pre-Covid and post-Covid periods. The empirical findings suggest that all service quality dimensions are not of equal importance and exhibit a significant difference in their impact on the total service quality score during the post-Covid period. Consequently, in the study we conclude that ranking of five dimensions remains consistent in terms of their effect on the total service quality score during pre- and post-Covid periods.

A Rare Case of Sclerosing Encapsulating Peritonitis Secondary To Tuberculosis

Sclerosing encapsulating peritonitis is a relatively rare, potentially life-threatening condition that causes intestinal loops to become encapsulated as a fibro-collagen cocoon. Despite advances in treatment, mortality is high. It shows vague clinical signs and is therefore difficult to diagnose clinically. Abdominal Contrast Enhanced CT (CECT) is an excellent modality for diagnosing the condition, assessing its complications such as perforation, and guiding the treatment approach to the condition. This case report highlights a rare case of sclerosing encapsulating peritonitis in a young adult secondary to tuberculosis. Although the most common secondary cause of SPE is peritoneal dialysis, consideration of tuberculosis as a cause of such a condition is very important, especially in the Indian context.

HARMONY IN GROWTH: EXPLORING AGRO-FORESTRY'S ROLE IN SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT AND ENVIRONMENTAL CONSERVATION IN INDIA

This research explores the pivotal role of agro-forestry in fostering sustainable development and environmental conservation within the Indian context. Through an in-depth examination, it elucidates the intricate dynamics between agricultural practices and forestry interventions, emphasizing their collective potential in mitigating environmental degradation while enhancing rural livelihoods. The present paper focuses on the status of agro-forestry in India. The main objective of the present paper is to know the types of agro-forestry, need of agro- forestry and challenges of agro- forestry in India. This paper is basically a descriptive analysis based on secondary data source. India is a vast country with huge population pressure. Majority of the people are dependent on agriculture. Hence India needs large geographical area under agriculture. To maintain the healthy and sustainable environment India needs to increase forest cover area. The present paper finds that it is not possible to increase forest cover due to huge population pressure, but the country has the maximum scope to exhilarate greenery through agro-forestry method. This paper also finds that agro-forestry in India is running in a scattered way which is not enough as per the needs. Hence some constructive steps should be taken from the government side.

The Economics of Millets in India

The article presents a compelling argument for reevaluating the role of millet production in India's economy. Millet, with its historical significance dating back to ancient civilizations and its inherent environmental resilience, indeed offers a promising avenue for sustainable agriculture in regions with limited water resources. The fact that millets require minimal inputs underscores their potential as economically efficient crops. However, despite these advantages, millets have fallen into obscurity in the 21st century. Understanding the reasons behind this downtrend and analysing the potential for revitalizing millet production is crucial. The economic rationale presented in the article sheds light on the opportunities and scope for leveraging millets to drive economic development, particularly in the Indian context. By conducting a theoretical and economic analysis based on secondary data, the article aims to uncover the underlying economic dynamics of millet production. This analytical approach provides insights into the challenges and opportunities associated with reintegrating millets into India's agricultural landscape, the article highlights the importance of reassessing the role of millet production in India's economy. By recognizing the economic potential of millets and addressing the barriers to their cultivation and consumption, policymakers can harness this ancient grain to foster sustainable agricultural practices and drive economic development.

Grape Leaf Disease Identification and Classification using Deep Learning

In the Indian agricultural context, where crop quality profoundly influences farmers' profits, safeguarding crops from potential threats is paramount. Our proposed solution employs deep learning, specifically Convolutional Neural Networks (CNNs), to detect and classify grape leaf conditions accurately. By analysing image datasets, our system efficiently predicts grape leaf disorders and provides actionable recommendations. Through training the CNN with publicly available plant disease images and employing various visualization methods, we observed that neural networks can effectively mimic human decision-making processes in diagnosing issues, thus holding promise for enhancing agricultural practices and minimizing crop losses in the future

The Legal Effects of Collective Bargaining In Employment Contract In India

This paper explores the legal implications of collective bargaining on employment contracts in India. Collective bargaining, as a cornerstone of labor relations, serves as a mechanism for negotiating terms and conditions of employment between employers and employees. In the Indian context, where labor laws are robust and protective, understanding the legal effects of collective bargaining is crucial for stakeholders in employment relationships. Through a comprehensive examination of relevant statutes, case law, and practical implications, this paper elucidates how collective bargaining agreements influence the rights, obligations, and enforceability of employment contracts. It delves into the role of collective bargaining in shaping wages, working conditions, benefits, and dispute-resolution mechanisms within organizations and industries. By analyzing the intricate interplay between collective bargaining and the legal framework governing employment contracts, this paper highlights the significance of collective bargaining as a means to achieve fairness and equity in labor relations. It provides insights for employers, employees, policymakers, and legal practitioners to navigate the complexities of employment contracts and foster harmonious labor-management relations in India.

A multi-criteria decision framework to evaluate sustainable alternatives for repurposing of abandoned or closed surface coal mines

Surface coal mines, when abandoned or closed, pose significant environmental and socioeconomic challenges. Repurposing these sites is crucial for sustainable land use and responsible resource management. This study presents a comprehensive decision framework tailored to the Indian mining context, utilizing a hybrid approach combining the analytic hierarchy process (AHP) and technique for order preference by similarity to an ideal solution (TOPSIS) methodology. The proposed framework assesses and ranks alternative repurposing options by considering a multi-criteria evaluation, including ecological, economic, social, and regulatory factors. AHP is employed to determine the relative importance of these criteria, reflecting the unique priorities and perspectives of stakeholders involved in the repurposing process. TOPSIS then identifies the optimal alternatives based on their overall performance against the established criteria. This hybrid methodology contributes to informed decision-making in the sustainable repurposing of abandoned surface coal mines in India. It aids in identifying the most viable and environmentally responsible alternatives, promoting efficient land use and resource conservation while addressing the challenges associated with abandoned mine sites. The methodology’s applicability extends globally to industries facing similar repurposing challenges, facilitating the transition toward a more sustainable and responsible land reclamation and resource management approach. The methodology is implemented using real mine data and demonstrates the analysis for evaluation among multiple alternatives such as solar parks, fish farming, eco-resorts, forestry, and museums. In our study, eco-resorts show more promise based on the significant potential for local economic development, provision of local employment, long-term revenue generation, potential for upskilling local youth in management, gardening, construction, and animal husbandry, and serving as a site for exhibitions of various arts and crafts.

Does spatial context of Third Place matter? Revisiting the Third Place concept based on user preferences: case of Kolkata, India

ABSTRACT Third Places (TPs), defined by Oldenburg in suburban American context are social informal gathering spaces, except home and workplace. Major literature focused on how TPs create social capital and cohesion within communities, largely benefitting socially, psychologically and even economically. Over the years, the TP concept is contested to globally transform from its initial theme of communitarianism to present dominant forms of neo-liberal consumerism. This posed significant threat to the inherent idea of affordable sociability rooted in characteristic plainness and neutral ground of TP. Moreover, exploring the spatial patterns and the influence of geographical variations on the nature of TP across urban landscapes is largely understudied. This study thus aimed to develop a consolidated understanding of the spatial dynamics of TPs in Indian context. The paper presented a city level, empirical based quantitative study based on online questionnaire survey. Commercial TPs are found to be most preferred. Research findings showed that the types of TP significantly affect the individual’s preferred travel distance. Also, one’s behavioural attributes as a whole significantly affect the catchment of the TPs, influenced by spatial variations. Hotspot analysis demonstrated three significant spatial concentrations across the city based on distance-based clustering. It showed heterogenous agglomerating tendencies of TP.

Factors associated with help-seeking by women facing intimate partner violence in India: findings from National Family Health Survey-5 (2019–2021)

BackgroundIntimate partner violence (IPV) against women has harmful effects on their psychological and physical health. However, help-seeking for IPV is significantly low among women in the Indian context. This study examines the different factors that influence help-seeking behaviour among women in India. It also studies associations of the type of IPV with the source of help.MethodsThe study analyses data from the fifth round of the National Family Health Survey that was conducted in India (2019–2021). Independent variables were categorized at individual, relationship-household and community levels. The Stata 14.2 software was used to calculate the prevalence ratios and their corresponding 95% confidence intervals. Variables with p-values less than 0.05 were considered statistically significant. Poisson regression helped identify factors associated with help-seeking.ResultsResults indicate that among 72,320 women aged 18–49 years, 17,765 women ever-faced IPV. Of them, 14.2% of women who faced either physical and/or sexual IPV sought any help. Husband’s consumption of alcohol almost doubled the likelihood of help-seeking among women (19.91%), compared to women whose husbands did not drink alcohol (10.19%). Witnessing parental IPV also increased the odds (17.26%) of help-seeking. Women who were not empowered were more likely to seek help (14.11%) compared to women who were empowered (12.56%). The police were the predominant source where women went for formal help (6.94 to 8.43%), followed by doctors (1.84 to 2.71%). Close to 1 in 4 women (22.5%) sought help for sexual IPV, while 14.4% of women sought help for physical IPV. Around 95% of all women who faced IPV sought informal help, with 3 in 5 of them approaching their own families, and 3 in 10 approaching their in-laws or marital families.ConclusionsTwo significant factors that associate positively with help-seeking by women facing IPV are husbands’ alcohol consumption and witnessing parental IPV. Most women preferred informal help from the natal family, while among formal providers, the police were the foremost choice. Programmes and initiatives to build capacities of communities, and of police to respond to women seeking help for IPV, would enable more women to reach out for help.