Individuals In India Research Articles

An Empirical Analysis of the Performance of Luxury Watch Portfolios among High-Net-Worth Individuals in India During the COVID-19 Pandemic

This study empirically evaluates luxury watches owned by high-net-worth individuals (HNIs) in India as unconventional alternative assets providing diversifying benefits. During the COVID-19 pandemic, the major stock exchanges in India, NSE and BSE, faced negative returns and high volatility, igniting numerous conservative investors to divest from traditional investments and retain alternative assets, such as luxury watches, due to their low correlation to financial markets. Owing to supply chain disruptions and demand forces, the overall secondary watch market prices surged throughout this period, creating high economic value for investors. Through hypothesis testing and attribution analysis, this paper evaluates the performance of watch portfolios owned by 57 HNIs, comprising of 464 watches, to investigate whether luxury watches are viable investments during economic downturns within the domain of alternative investments. Hence, this study employs suitable attribution tools such as Sharpe ratio, M2 Alpha, Treynor Measure and Jensen’s Alpha to understand the strength of their performance. Using academic literature, market data and primary data, this study found that luxury watches provided substantial portfolio diversification benefits and outperformed traditional assets like the NIFTY50 and gold in terms both nominal and risk adjusted returns during the pandemic. Brands such as Patek Philippe, Rolex, and Audemars Piguet achieved the highest performance, as Patek Philippe demonstrated superior risk-return trade-offs. Despite challenges such as valuation complexities and liquidity constraints, luxury watches provided remarkable upside potential, benefiting from a high retention rate due to their unique emotional features. Ultimately, the findings suggest that luxury watches can be viable alternative investments considering that 65% of these HNIs viewed their watch purchases as investment opportunities.

Income Inequality Among Transgender Individuals In India: With Data Evidence And Case Study From Chandigarh Tri-City

This research paper explores the Income Inequality experienced by transgender individuals in India. Despite legal recognition and progressive reforms, the transgender community continues to be victimised due to socioeconomic marginalization. This paper examines income inequality within the transgender population in Chandigarh Tri-City through primary data collection and analysis. The research explores factors such as educational attainment, employment opportunities, and access to social services that contribute to income inequality. By identifying these issues, the research aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of how economic inequalities exist and what measures are needed to bring inclusivity and equality for transgender individuals

Exploring the Impact of Makeup on Gendered Ideas of Femininity among Transgender Women in India

Abstract: In the context of India, where gender norms are deeply entrenched in patriarchal structures and the binary understanding of gender, this research investigates the impact of makeup on the gendered ideas of femininity among transgender individuals. Makeup serves as an expression of the self and a means for self-evaluation and self-enhancement. Transgender individuals are judged by society according to cisnormative gender stereotypes that include many components of gender characteristics and traits.1 The focus of this study is the perceptions of beauty, specifically the perceptions of transgender women’s beauty. Gender norms around femininity and masculinity are reflected in the gendered concept of beauty, which frequently determines what is seen as beautiful for each gender. Traditional ideas of femininity, for instance, place a strong emphasis on qualities like grace, gentleness, and nurturing. These characteristics may manifest as desires for physical features such as long hair, radiant complexions, and hourglass bodies. In contrast, characteristics linked to masculinity, such as power, aggression, and dominance, may affect how attractive men are perceived, emphasizing muscularity and angular features. Stereotypes related to physical attractiveness are a presiding element of gender stereotypes, as they are strongly and consistently associated with other components of gender stereotypes.2 While makeup is often associated with femininity, its significance and implications for transgender individuals within the cultural context of India remain understudied. Through qualitative methods such as semi-structured interviews, demographic questionnaires followed by focus groups as well as thematic analysis, along with discrepancy theory and self-image congruity, this study explores how transgender individuals in India navigate femininity through makeup practices, examining their experiences, perceptions, and challenges. Within a culture that enforces criteria on acceptable appearance for women, transgender women (i.e., those who were assigned male at birth and identify as women or feminine) may internalise cultural messages about ideal attractiveness related to traditional feminine gender presentation norms such as thinness and beauty (Serano, 2007). The hypothesis suggests a positive correlation between the use of makeup and perceived femininity. By investigating the experiences and narratives of transgender individuals, this research seeks to provide insights into the impact of such an invention on self-perception. Additionally, the study will investigate potential factors that may influence the relationship between the two, such as socio-cultural norms, and support systems. The findings of this research may contribute to a better understanding of the needs and challenges faced by transgender individuals in India and inform the development of more inclusive cosmetic policies.

Exploring the Impact of Social Engagement on the Mental Health of Elderly Individuals in India

This study explores how social interaction plays a critical role in determining the mental health outcomes of older adults in India. Given the rapidly ageing population and changing societal dynamics, it is critical to understand how social relationships affect older persons’ well-being. This study intends to explain the complex relationship between older Indians’ mental health and social involvement through an exploratory approach. Data was gathered from a varied sample of senior citizens in various parts of Delhi the National Capital of India using a mixed-methods technique. The frequency and caliber of social encounters, feelings of loneliness, and mental health markers including anxiety and sadness were all assessed using quantitative questionnaires. By offering actual data on the importance of social engagement for senior people’s mental health outcomes in the Indian setting, this study adds to the expanding body of research on geriatrics. The results highlight the need for focused interventions and policies that support social inclusion, intergenerational relationships, and the particular difficulties faced by ageing populations in quickly evolving cultures such as India. Also, we have documented that by and large female elderly enjoy a healthy mental life as compared to males.

Tapping generative AI capabilities: a study to examine continued intention to use ChatGPT in the travel planning

ABSTRACT Generative AI has lately been established as a very effective tool impacting consumer decision-making. Thus, this study aims to evaluate the variables affecting the flow of controversial AI in travel and tourism. Despite the increasing interest in ChatGPT, little research has examined what factors influence the uptake of this novel AI tool and its implications in the travel planning industry. This work builds its conceptual model on UTAUT2 and PCI Theory and tests the antecedents of Flow which impacts continuance intention to use ChatGPT in travel planning. An online survey was administered among 408 individuals in India. Of the factors of UTAUT2 and PCI, social influence, compatibility, and image do not impact the flow state significantly. Additionally, the study establishes the relationship between Flow and the continued intention to use ChatGPT for travel planning with “external influence” as a moderator.

Bridging the gulf: How migration fosters tolerance, cosmopolitanism, and support for globalization

AbstractImmigration has been shown to drive ethnocentrism and anti‐globalization attitudes in native‐born populations. Yet understanding how global integration shapes intercultural relations also necessitates clear evidence on how migration affects the attitudes of migrants. We argue that migration can foster tolerance, cosmopolitan identities, and support for international cooperation among migrants who experience sustained contact with other cultural groups. We evaluate this theory with the first randomized controlled trial resulting in overseas migration, which connected individuals in India with job opportunities in the Persian Gulf region's hospitality sector. Two years after the program began, individuals in the treatment group were significantly more accepting of ethnic, cultural, and national out‐groups. Migration also bolstered support for international cooperation and cultivated cosmopolitan identities. Qualitative and quantitative evidence links these changes to intercultural contact overseas. By focusing on migrants rather than native‐born individuals, our study illustrates how cross‐border mobility can facilitate rather than undermine global integration.

Cardiovascular risk evaluation using lipid profile and blood pressure among obese and non-obese individuals in India.

Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are a group of disorders that affect the heart and blood vessels. Identifying high-risk individuals is a primary goal of cardiovascular disease prevention. The aim is to examine risk factor on assessing lipid profiles and blood pressure, both in obese and non-obese individuals. This study took place over a year at a Tertiary Care Hospital, were investigated the lipid profile and blood pressure of obese and non-obese participants aged 30-60 years. The obese group had an average age of 43.2±6.3 years compared to 45.1±5.8 years in the non-obese group, indicating a slightly older population in the obese group. The non-obese group had an average total cholesterol level of 193.7 mg/dL, with a total cholesterol (TC) level of 209.3 mg/dL. When it came to LDL cholesterol, the obese group had a higher level of 137.4 mg/dL compared to the non-obese group with 121.3 mg/dL. Conversely, HDL cholesterol levels were lower in the obese group at 44.1 mg/dL than in the non-obese group at 49.1 mg/dL. Obesity is associated with lipid metabolism and hypertension disturbances, especially with effect on HDL-C reduction and TC, TG, LDL cholesterol to high level. Thus, lipid profile and blood pressure among obese and non-obese individuals help in cardiovascular risk evaluation.

Crisis volunteering during COVID-19 pandemic in India: youth responds to health and human rights crisis

Purpose This study aims to explore the experiences of individuals in India who acted as informal crisis volunteers during the peak of the deadliest wave of the COVID-19 pandemic in the country. Design/methodology/approach An exploratory, qualitative design was used, and data gathered via a qualitative survey in three focus areas, namely, motivation, challenges and coping mechanisms. The sample (n = 112) comprised individuals (mean age = 21.89 years) whose volunteering efforts during the second wave of the COVID-19 pandemic were extended as part of volunteer groups or individually, online or offline, for minimum of 10 consecutive days to four months. Descriptive statistics and qualitative content analysis (Mayring, 2000) were used to analyze the data. Findings Most of the participants reported being inspired by social media activism to become crisis volunteers themselves. They also spoke of several human rights violations unfolding around them, namely, people denied right to health (availability and accessibility), rampant discrimination of various kinds and other systemic failures in crisis response by government bodies. Several reported undergoing extreme mental duress during the process, experiencing or witnessing harassment and dealing with corruption. A sense of collective identity and opportunities to engage in collective sense making and collective catharsis with fellow volunteers were reported as the most helpful coping mechanism. Originality/value Very little is known about the experience of informal crisis volunteers who assisted the public health system in India in various capacities during the pandemic. This paper explores those experiences, sheds light on various human rights violations that took place during the time and provides a glimpse into the potential of technology and social media in organized altruistic efforts.

Mixed methods study on latent tuberculosis among agate stone workers and advocacy for testing silica dust exposed individuals in India

The 2021 tuberculosis (TB) preventive treatment guidelines in India included silicosis as a screening group, yet latent TB infection (LTBI) testing for silica-dust-exposed individuals is underemphasized. Focusing on an estimated 52 million silica-dust-exposed workers, particularly agate-stone workers in Khambhat, Gujarat, our study aims to estimate LTBI prevalence, identify predictors, and gather insights from TB and silicosis experts. Employing a sequential explanatory mixed-methods approach, a cross-sectional study involved 463 agate-stone workers aged ≥ 20 years in Khambhat, using IGRA kits for LTBI testing. In-depth interviews with experts complemented quantitative findings. Among agate-stone workers, 58% tested positive for LTBI, with predictors including longer exposure, type of work, and BCG vaccination. Our findings reveal a nearly double burden of LTBI compared to the general population, particularly in occupations with higher silica dust exposure. Experts advocate for including silica-dust-exposed individuals in high-risk groups for LTBI testing, exploring cost-effective alternatives like improved skin sensitivity tests, and shorter TB preventive treatment regimens to enhance compliance. Future research should explore upfront TB preventive treatment for silica-dust-exposed individuals with high LTBI prevalence and optimal exposure duration. This study underscores the urgent need for policy changes and innovative approaches to TB prevention among silica-dust-exposed populations, impacting global occupational health strategies.

Knowledge, Attitude, and Practice Regarding Dyslipidemia among Adult Patients Visiting Medicine Outpatient Department of a Tertiary Care Teaching Hospital in Delhi

Abstract Background: Dyslipidemia, a key risk factor for atherosclerosis, affects 25%–30% of urban and 15%–20% of rural individuals in India, as per the Indian Heart Watch study. Despite its association with cardiovascular diseases, there is insufficient understanding among the public. Given the scarcity of studies on knowledge, attitudes, and practices of dyslipidemia among the Indian population, this study aims to fill that gap. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional observational study was conducted from September 2022 to February 2024. A total of 288 adult patients visiting the medicine outpatient department were included in the study through convenience sampling. A structured questionnaire consisting of 42 questions was designed, pretested, and administered to the participants to assess their knowledge, attitude, and practices regarding dyslipidemia. Data regarding lipid profile tests (total cholesterol, triglycerides, low-density lipoprotein, and high-density lipoprotein) were collected, and medication adherence was also asked from the patients. Results: The study revealed a lack of knowledge, negative attitudes, and poor practices regarding dyslipidemia among the participants. The study included 288 participants with an average age of 40 years, predominantly males (53.1%). The majority of participants lacked knowledge about dyslipidemia (81.9%), with a prevalent misconception identified, with many participants incorrectly associating dyslipidemia exclusively with obesity. Among dyslipidemic patients, medication adherence was suboptimal, with a significant proportion discontinuing medication over time (87.3%). Factors associated with better knowledge of dyslipidemia included younger age, male gender, higher education level, professional occupation, higher income, unmarried status (who tend to be younger), urban residence, absence of comorbidities, and lower body mass index. Conclusion: The findings reveal significant gaps in awareness, negative attitudes, and suboptimal practices related to dyslipidemia and its management among the study participants. The majority of participants lacked knowledge about dyslipidemia, with a prevalent misconception associating it primarily with obesity.

Seeing with Sound: Neural Networks and Deep Learning for Indian Currency Recognition

Visually impaired individuals face significant challenges in distinguishing between different denominations of Indian currency notes, which hinders their ability to perform routine tasks such as shopping and financial management. Traditional methods of currency recognition, such as tactile features or optical scanners, are often burdensome and inconvenient. This groundbreaking system utilizes a deep learning model developed from a vast dataset of Indian rupee notes captured in diverse environments, including various orientations, stages of wear-and-tear, and lighting conditions, ensuring robust training. By leveraging Convolutional Neural Networks (CNNs), the system ensures a high degree of accuracy in identifying notes and generates distinct audio cues corresponding to each denomination, simplifying the differentiation process for visually impaired individuals. The use of neural networks enables the system to continuously refine its recognition capabilities, adapting and improving its identification methods with additional data, including updated note variations or unexpected scenarios. Upon widespread availability, this technology has the potential to revolutionize how blind individuals in India manage their finances, providing them with increased autonomy and confidence in everyday transactions. The proposed system offers several advantages over traditional currency recognition methods: it is non-invasive, requiring no physical contact with the currency notes, thus enhancing convenience; its portability enables implementation on mobile devices, facilitating access for users on the go; and it prioritizes user-friendliness by providing real-time audio feedback, further simplifying the currency identification process for visually impaired individuals. Overall, this innovative solution represents a significant stride towards empowering the visually impaired community in India, offering newfound freedom and self-assurance in managing their monetary affairs.

The unmet health needs of transgender and gender-diverse individuals in India: opportunities near and far

The unmet health needs of transgender and gender-diverse individuals in India: opportunities near and far

Exploring Financial Literacy: A Study of Socioeconomic Factors

This research project examines the relationship between socioeconomic factors and financial literacy among individuals in India. The study utilizes primary data collected through structured questionnaires from a diverse sample of respondents engaged in personal finance management. Descriptive analysis reveals that the average age of respondents is 24.4 years, with a wide range of income levels ranging from ₹0 to ₹200,000. Inferential analysis, including correlation and regression, indicates a significant positive correlation between income levels and financial literacy ratings. Furthermore, younger individuals and those with higher education and income levels exhibit better financial literacy. Based on these findings, the study recommends targeted financial education programs, early financial literacy initiatives, income-related interventions, and continuous learning opportunities to enhance financial literacy and promote economic stability in India. This research contributes to the understanding of the determinants of financial literacy and provides insights for policymakers, educators, and financial institutions to develop effective strategies for improving financial well-being in the Indian context.

HIV-1 low-level viraemia predicts virological failure in first-line and second-line ART-experienced individuals in India: A retrospective longitudinal study.

To study the prevalence of low-level viraemia (LLV) and its association with virological failure (VF). We conducted a retrospective analysis of 3498 participants at YRG CARE, Chennai, India (2013-2018) on antiretroviral therapy (ART) for ≥6 months with two or more plasma viral load (pVL) measurements. Results were stratified for those with pVL <1000 copies/mL: fully suppressed (FS) (pVL <40), low-LLV (pVL 40-199), mid-LLV (pVL 200-399), and high-LLV (pVL 400-999). The study assessed the association with VF (pVL >1000 copies/mL) using Cox proportional hazard model. Among 3498 participants, 2965 (84.8%) were FS and 533 (15.2%) were LLV. During the follow-up, 348 (10%) experienced VF, with 222 (6.3%) experienced after LLV (42% of LLV) and 126 (3.6%) experienced after FS (4.3% of FS). When compared with FS, those with LLV had a greater risk of VF [adjusted hazard ratio (aHR) = 12.7; 95% confidence interval (CI): 10.2-15.9]. First-line participants had a higher VF incidence (aHR = 15.8, 95% CI: 11.4-21.9) than second-line participants (aHR = 5.6, 95% CI: 4.1-7.7). Those with high-LLV had the highest VF risk (aHR = 22.856, 95% CI: 15.204-34.359 vs. aHR = 8.186, 95% CI: 5.564-12.043, for first-line vs. second-line participants, respectively), followed by those with mid-LLV (aHR = 13.375, 95% CI: 8.327-21.483 vs. aHR = 6.261, 95% CI: 4.044-9.695) and low-LLV (aHR = 12.976, 95% CI: 7.974-21.118 vs. aHR = 4.158, 95% CI: 2.826-6.119). The prevalence of LLV was intermediate in our study population. There was a higher risk of VF among individuals with LLV, and this risk increased with the increasing levels of LLV. Close monitoring of individuals experiencing LLV could help in the early identification of VF.

Lived Experiences of Indians with Acne: Navigating Social Support and Mental Well-being

This qualitative inquiry delved into the complex lived experiences of individuals in India navigating acne and its impact on social support dynamics and psychological well-being. Through subjective narratives, the study revealed profound emotional repercussions, challenges to self-perception, and sociocultural influences. Participants reported feelings of embarrassment, anxiety, and insecurity, exacerbated by societal beauty standards and external scrutiny. Familial support provided crucial emotional solace, while societal pressures, especially through social media, heightened psychological distress. Supportive peer relationships mitigated adverse effects on self-esteem. Coping strategies ranged from therapy-seeking to skincare regimens. Cultural factors and gender disparities, including male emotional invalidation, were identified. This research contributes to understanding the multidimensional challenges faced by individuals with acne in India, highlighting the need for tailored interventions promoting resilience and holistic well-being.

Precision Medicine for COVID-19 Based on the Inflammatory Response

Background The threat due to the global pandemic of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) demands a search for effective treatments to combat the severity of the infections and their associated morbidity and mortality in vulnerable populations. One of the medications with putative antiviral, anti-inflammatory, and immunomodulatory effects is fluvoxamine, a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor and σ-1 receptor agonist. A few studies have reported doses of 100–300 mg/day to be effective. Aim This retrospective study evaluates the outcomes of an individually tailored dosing strategy for fluvoxamine, based on measurements of inflammatory status, in treating COVID-19-positive individuals in India. Methods This study included patients with severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 infection visiting the outpatient department of a super speciality hospital in India from February to July 2021. Fluvoxamine was initiated at 50 mg or 100 mg twice daily based on their individual C-reactive protein (CRP) and D-dimer status. By day five, patients with rising or static levels of CRP and D-dimer were up-titrated. Results In a population of 104 individuals infected with COVID-19, 10 required up-titration of dose, and 94 patients did not need up-titration. Overall, there was very low mortality (N = 1) and hospitalization rate (8.7%). Those individuals who required an up-titration on day five had significantly elevated CRP and D-dimer levels compared to those who were maintained at the initial dose of 50 mg twice daily. In such patients, up-titration of the dose on day 5 appeared to offer better treatment benefits and outcomes. In our study population, there was only one mortality during the course of COVID-19. Conclusions Given the individual variability in the host immune response to severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 infection, tailoring the dose of a drug such as fluvoxamine based on the inflammatory status of the individual may be beneficial. Individually tailored dosing could combat disease progression while reducing side effects.

Indian Sign Language Detection using Machine Learning

Indian Sign Language (ISL) serves as a primary means of communication for millions of hearing-impaired individuals in India. However, the lack of comprehensive tools for interpreting ISL poses significant challenges in facilitating effective communication and integration of the deaf community into society. This research paper explores the advancements, challenges, and potential applications of Indian Sign Language detection technology. It provides an overview of existing techniques for ISL detection, including computer vision-based approaches and wearable devices. Additionally, the paper discusses the unique challenges associated with ISL detection, such as variations in gestures and environmental factors. Furthermore, it examines the potential applications of ISL detection technology in various domains, including education, healthcare, and accessibility. By analyzing current research trends and technological developments, this paper aims to contribute to the advancement of ISL detection technology and its societal impact. . KEYWORD : Indian Sign Language, Sign Language Detection, Computer Vision, Wearable Devices, Accessibility, Communication, Deaf Community

The Impact of Social Stigma on the Mental Health of LGBTQ Community

LGBTQ+ community people experience and worries of sexual stigma that affects their mental health. This study investigates the relationship between social stigma and mental health outcomes among LGBTQ+ individuals in India. Utilizing data from a diverse sample of 400 participants, comprising males, females, and non-binary/genderqueer individuals, gathered through an online questionnaire, the research examines the impact of social stigma variables including Rejection, Inferiority, Support Loved Ones and Social Perception Isolation and Loneliness Emotional Resilience parameters such as Unhappiness, Nervousness, and Suicidal Thoughts. Statistical analyses, conducted using SPSS, reveal moderate to moderately strong correlations between experiences of social stigma and adverse mental health outcomes, highlighting the urgent essential for targeted interventions toward reduce stigma then enhance rational healthiness support within LGBTQ+ communities in India and beyond. These findings underscore the importance of fostering inclusive environments and tailored interventions to promote the well-being of LGBTQ+ individuals. Keywords: LGBTQ+, Social Stigma, Mental Health, Queer

Empowering lymphatic filariasis affected individuals in India: acknowledging disability status and ensuring justice

Empowering lymphatic filariasis affected individuals in India: acknowledging disability status and ensuring justice

Analysis on Impact of Financial Influencers on Gen Z Investing in India

Financial influencers play a significant role in shaping the investment decisions of Generation Z (Gen Z) individuals in India. With the proliferation of social media platforms and online communities, these influencers have emerged as trusted sources of financial advice, insights, and recommendations. Gen Z investors often turn to these influencers for guidance. This study examines the influence of financial influencers on the investment decisions of Generation Z (Gen Z) individuals in India. With the rise of social media platforms and the emergence of financial influencers, there has been a notable shift in how individuals, particularly the younger demographic, approach investing. Through a combination of quantitative analysis and qualitative insights, this research seeks to understand the extent to which financial influencers affect the investment choices and behaviours of Gen Z investors in India. The study also explores the types of financial content preferred by Gen Z, the platforms they engage with, and the factors influencing their trust in financial influencers. By gaining a deeper understanding of these dynamics. In the present study results indicates the survey sample consisted of approximately 65% females and 35% males. Around 50% of Gen Z participants regularly rely on financial influencers' advice for financial decisions.