International Journal of Management and Development Studies
⭐ NOTICE ⭐ All issues published from December 2012 to December 2025 are available at old.ijmds.in. New submissions and current activities continue at ijmds.in. International Journal of Management and Development Studies is a fully peer reviewed / refereed journal dedicated to the publishing of scholarly articles from practitioners of and dissenters from international and regional studies. The journal also provides a platform for research in management and development studies. This journal publishes high-quality manuscripts engaging both theoretical and empirical issues in management, commerce, economics, and allied development studies. It also features case studies focusing on practical implications, papers related to learning and teaching in business, management, and development studies, as well as book reviews of recently published works. Articles published in the International Journal of Management and Development Studies are valuable to research scholars, policy makers, academicians, practitioners, and analysts in government and organizations seeking to understand the diverse and complex characteristics of international environments. While international-scope research is encouraged, papers focused on domestic contexts and issues are also highly welcomed to support global knowledge sharing and generalizability of research findings. Journal Information Title: International Journal of Management and Development Studies Journal Start Year: 2012 Frequency of Publication: Monthly (12 issues per year) ISSN (Online): 2320-0685 Peer Review Process: Double Blind Peer Review Subject: Business and Management & Development Studies Languages: English Accessibility: Open Access Plagiarism Checker: Turnitin (Licensed) Publication Format: Online Impact Factor: 5.81 (IIJIF) Contact Information Contact No.: +91-93284 90029 Email: editor@ijmds.in Website: https://ijmds.in/ | Old Website: https://old.ijmds.in/
School Leadership Strategies and Students’ Academic Performance in Public Day Secondary Schools in Karongi District, Rwanda
This study investigated how school leadership strategies enhance students’ academic performance in public day secondary schools in Karongi District, Rwanda. Three specific objectives guided the inquiry: (1) to examine the influence of student support programs on academic performance; (2) to evaluate the effectiveness of parental involvement in enhancing student academic performance; and (3) to analyse the role of data-driven decision-making (DDDM) processes in improving academic performance. A descriptive mixed-methods design was employed. The target population comprised 231 respondents across 77 public day secondary schools, from which a sample of 147 was drawn using Yamane’s (1967) formula. Purposive and simple random sampling techniques were applied, with data collected through questionnaires (deans of teachers, deputy head teachers) and structured interviews (head teachers). Quantitative data were analysed using SPSS version 21, while qualitative data were subjected to thematic analysis. Findings revealed a significant but uneven relationship between school leadership strategies and academic outcomes. Regression analysis confirmed a strong model fit (R = 0.78; R² = 0.61; F = 7.92, p = .001), with school leadership practices explaining 61% of the variance in academic support outcomes. Key findings include inconsistent implementation of remedial programmes, strong parental engagement in formal meetings but weak home-based support, and high rates of data collection without commensurate application to instructional improvement. The study recommends strengthening policies, leadership capacity, and stakeholder collaboration to sustain improvements in student academic outcomes.
Physical Resource Management Practices and Resource Performance in Public Secondary Schools: Evidence from Rulindo District, Rwanda
Background: Educational institutions in Rwanda face persistent challenges in the management of physical resources, which affects teaching quality and student learning outcomes in public secondary schools. Objective: This study examined the influence of physical resource management practices specifically acquisition, planning, allocation, and maintenance on resource performance in public secondary schools in Rulindo District, Rwanda. Methods: A mixed-methods, cross-sectional survey design was employed. The target population comprised 1,141 respondents including teachers, headteachers, bursars, and education officers, from which a sample of 410 was selected using purposive and stratified sampling. Data were collected through questionnaires, interviews, and documentary analysis, and analyzed using descriptive statistics, Pearson correlation, and multiple regression analysis. Results: All four management practices significantly influenced resource performance. Physical resource planning emerged as the strongest predictor (R² = 0.539, β = 0.734, p < 0.001), followed by allocation (R² = 0.517, β = 0.719, p < 0.001), acquisition (R² = 0.491, β = 0.701, p < 0.001), and maintenance (R² = 0.479, β = 0.692, p < 0.001). Pearson correlations ranged from r = 0.394 to r = 0.701 (all p < 0.01). Major challenges included insufficient funding (63.6%), delayed government allocations (45.5%), and irregular maintenance schedules. Conclusions: Physical resource management practices are critical determinants of resource performance in Rwandan secondary schools. Strengthening planning systems, ensuring timely acquisition, promoting needs-based allocation, and institutionalizing preventive maintenance are essential for improving educational quality and equity.
Leadership Practices and Implementation of English as Medium of Instruction in Public Day Secondary Schools in Karongi District, Rwanda
This study examined the influence of leadership practices on the implementation of English as a Medium of Instruction (EMI) in public day secondary schools in Karongi District, Rwanda. Specifically, the study evaluated the influence of instructional supervision by school leaders, assessed the influence of teacher professional development programs, and examined how resource allocation by school leadership affects EMI implementation. Guided by Instructional Leadership Theory, the study adopted a descriptive survey design with a mixed-methods approach, collecting data from 154 respondents (77 school leaders and 77 deans of teachers) selected through census sampling. Data were collected using questionnaires and interview guides, and analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics (SPSS v.21) alongside thematic analysis. Findings showed that instructional supervision significantly enhanced teachers’ professional development, with classroom observation, feedback, and lesson plan review emerging as significant predictors (R = 0.854, R² = 0.729, p = 0.000). Teacher professional development programs also showed a strong positive relationship with teaching effectiveness (R = 0.87, R² = 0.76, p = 0.000), although participation in in-service training (35.6%) and English proficiency workshops (21.3%) remained low. Resource allocation strongly predicted teaching effectiveness (R = 0.88, R² = 0.77, p = 0.000), with teacher guides and teaching aids exerting the greatest influence, despite persistent shortages of English textbooks (51.9% inadequate). The study concludes that instructional supervision, teacher professional development, and resource allocation are critical leadership levers for effective EMI implementation, and recommends strengthening supervision systems, redesigning professional development to be context-responsive, and ensuring equitable distribution of instructional materials.
Influence of Educational Leadership Strategies on the Implementation of Remedial Programs in Public Secondary Schools in Kicukiro District, Rwanda
This study investigated the influence of educational leadership strategies on the implementation of remedial programs for low-performing learners in public secondary schools in Kicukiro District, Rwanda. Guided by four specific objectives, the study examined the influence of instructional supervision, leadership support, resource allocation, and stakeholders’ engagement on remedial program implementation. The research was anchored in Transformational Leadership Theory and Constructivist Learning Theory. A convergent parallel mixed-methods design was adopted, drawing on a sample of 155 respondents selected from a target population of 252 educational stakeholders through stratified random and purposive sampling. Data were collected via structured questionnaires, semi-structured interviews, focus group discussions, and document review. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and multiple regression analysis (SPSS Version 25), while qualitative data were subjected to thematic analysis. Regression results revealed that instructional supervision (β = 0.247, p = 0.003), leadership support (β = 0.224, p = 0.001), resource allocation (β = 0.196, p = 0.063), and stakeholders’ engagement (β = 0.183, p = 0.014) all positively influenced remedial program implementation. Instructional supervision and leadership support had the strongest significant effects. The study concludes that a combination of strong instructional oversight, visible leadership support, strategic resource allocation, and inclusive stakeholder participation is essential for effective remedial program delivery. Schools are recommended to strengthen leadership practices, invest in continuous teacher professional development, and build robust stakeholder engagement frameworks to improve outcomes for low-performing learners.
Influence of Adaptive Learning Technology Management on Academic Achievement in Public Primary Schools in Rutsiro District, Rwanda
This study investigated the influence of Adaptive Learning Technology (ALT) management on the academic achievement of learners in public primary schools in Rutsiro District, Rwanda. Three dimensions of ALT management were examined: planning for technology, use of Data Management Systems (DMS), and availability of ICT tools. The study employed a mixed-methods descriptive survey design. The target population comprised 18,601 respondents (6,400 teachers, 12,000 students, and 201 headteachers) from 29 public primary schools. A sample of 392 respondents (135 teachers, 253 students, and 4 headteachers) was selected using stratified random, simple random, and purposive sampling techniques. Data were collected through structured questionnaires, semi-structured interviews, and observation checklists. Reliability was assessed using Cronbach's alpha, and content validity was verified using the Content Validity Index. Quantitative data were analysed using SPSS version 21 through descriptive and inferential statistics. Findings revealed that planning for technology positively influenced academic achievement (R = 0.622, R² = 0.387, B = 0.695, p < 0.001), explaining 38.7% of the variance. Use of DMS demonstrated a moderate positive effect (R = 0.563, R² = 0.317, B = 1.034, p < 0.001), accounting for 31.7% of the variation. Availability of ICT tools showed the strongest individual relationship (R = 0.641, R² = 0.411, B = 0.601, p < 0.001), explaining 41.1% of the variance. Qualitative data corroborated quantitative findings, highlighting that deliberate technology planning, data-driven instruction, and equitable ICT access significantly enhance learner engagement and performance. The study concludes that systematic ALT management is critical for improving academic outcomes and recommends strengthening technology integration planning, expanding ICT infrastructure, promoting data-driven decision-making, and investing in continuous teacher professional development.
Analysis of Green Innovation, FinTech Adoption, Carbon Reduction, and Energy Efficiency in the Indian Banking Industry
The present study examined the role of green innovation, FinTech adoption, and carbon reduction in promoting energy efficiency in the Indian banking industry. With the increasing emphasis on sustainable development and environmentally responsible financial systems, banking institutions are rapidly adopting green banking practices and digital financial technologies to improve operational sustainability and reduce environmental impact. The study adopted a descriptive and analytical research design and utilized both primary and secondary data sources. Primary data were collected from 310 respondents, including bank managers, banking professionals, operational staff, and customers associated with public and private sector banks in India. A convenience sampling technique was used for selecting respondents, and statistical tools such as descriptive statistics, reliability analysis, correlation analysis, and regression analysis were applied using SPSS software. The findings of the study revealed that green innovation, FinTech adoption, and carbon reduction have significant positive impacts on energy efficiency in the Indian banking industry. The study further indicated that digital banking systems, paperless operations, sustainable financial technologies, and environmentally responsible operational practices contribute substantially toward reducing energy consumption and improving environmental sustainability. The research provides valuable insights for policymakers, banking institutions, and researchers regarding sustainable banking transformation and green financial development in India.
With the completion of twenty-five years of bifurcation of Bihar, the time seems apt for an analysis of the fiscal health of the state. With the major revenue earning mineral and natural base moving into Jharkhand it remains to be seen as to how the various sources of revenue have performed. The present state of Bihar is largely an agrarian economy which is a nontaxable sector in the country. So, it remains a challenge for the state to mobilize revenue in the absence of varied taxbase options. The present paper dwells into the various sources of revenue for the state, their trends as well as their relation with respect to growth in Gross State Domestic Product (GSDP) of Bihar.
Socio-economic Status and Challenges Faced by the Beneficiaries of National Rural Livelihood Mission (NRLM) in the Bodoland Territorial Region of Assam
Background: The National Rural Livelihood Mission is among the world’s largest livelihoods programmes, empowering and mobilising rural poor women into self-help groups to promote financial inclusion and sustainable income, and carries particular significance in the ecologically vulnerable Bodoland Territorial Region of Assam. Objective: The study examines the socio-economic status of beneficiaries of NRLM in the region and identifies the principal challenges they face. Methodology: Primary data from 485 beneficiaries across Baksa and Kokrajhar districts were analysed using descriptive statistics, exploratory factor analysis and mean-score ranking. Findings and conclusion: Beneficiaries are predominantly Scheduled Tribe, married, middle-aged women from below-poverty-line households dependent on agriculture. Both household and individual monthly income rose markedly after joining, the share reporting no individual income falling from 60.6% to 7.6%. A single factor explained 52.24% of the variance in fourteen challenges, with insufficient loans, lack of education, high interest burden and lack of cooperation most pressing.
School Leadership Practices and Teacher Retention in Secondary Schools: Evidence from Ngoma District, Rwanda
Teacher retention remains a critical challenge in Rwanda's secondary education system. This study examined the relationship between school leadership practices and teacher retention in secondary schools in Ngoma District, Rwanda, specifically investigating the influence of teacher collaboration under leadership support, leadership mentorship and peer collaboration, and leadership seminars and training programmes. A cross-sectional mixed-methods descriptive survey design was employed. The target population comprised 55 school leaders and 1,774 teachers across nine public day secondary schools, from which a stratified random sample of 322 teachers and a purposive sample of 10 head teachers were selected (total n = 332). Primary data were collected through structured questionnaires and semi-structured interview guides. Reliability was confirmed via Cronbach's alpha (α = 0.930), and content validity was established using the Content Validity Index (CVI = 0.89). Quantitative data were analysed using SPSS (v.21), employing descriptive statistics and multiple regression analysis; qualitative data were analysed thematically. Findings indicate that all three leadership practice dimensions significantly and positively predict teacher retention. Teacher collaboration explained 36.5% of the variance in retention (R = 0.604, β = 0.604, p < .001); leadership mentorship and peer collaboration explained 32.7% (R = 0.572, β = 0.572, p < .001); and leadership seminars and training programmes explained 39.3% of the variance (R = 0.627, β = 0.627, p < .001). Correlation analysis further confirmed significant positive relationships between all three predictors and student academic achievement (r = 0.658, 0.614, and 0.687 respectively, p < .01). The study recommends that school leaders institutionalise structured mentorship programmes, strengthen collaborative decision-making, and ensure continuous professional development as strategic retention interventions.
Sustainable Consumption Behavior in the Clothing Industry: A Bibliometric Analysis
The study aims to provide an overview of the existing literature by identifying key contributors and emerging themes, and offering insights that can guide future research and inform policymakers in promoting sustainable consumer behavior within the clothing industry. Although numerous studies have explored Sustainable Consumption Behavior in clothing, to the author’s knowledge, only a few bibliometric studies have examined Sustainable Consumption Behavior in the clothing industry. A bibliometric analysis of 172 research papers on “sustainable clothing consumption behavior” published between the years 2005 and 2025 using Biblioshiny and VOSViewer software was conducted. The analysis incorporated both performance analysis and scientific mapping techniques. The findings of the study suggest the key themes and topics that could be explored by the researchers in future. Unlike previous studies that broadly examined sustainable consumption behavior, this study specifically focuses on sustainable consumer behavior within the clothing context, thereby offering a more industry-specific perspective.
Influence of School Management Practices on Learners' Academic Performance in Public Primary Schools in Rwanda: A Case Study of Gasabo District
This study examined the influence of school management practices on learners' academic performance in public primary schools in Gasabo District, Rwanda. Guided by Systems Theory and Academic Performance Theory, the study adopted a descriptive survey design with a mixed-methods approach. From a total population of 5,969, a sample of 374 respondents was selected using Slovin's formula. The sample comprised 10 head teachers (purposive sampling), 179 teachers (simple random sampling), and 185 class monitors (simple random sampling). Data were collected through questionnaires, interview guides, and focus group discussions. Instrument reliability was confirmed at Cronbach's alpha ≥ 0.70 and validity at a threshold of 0.70. Quantitative data were analysed using SPSS v.28 (descriptive statistics and regression analysis), while qualitative data were analysed thematically. Findings indicate that all three management practices students' progress monitoring (R = 0.249, F = 11.718, p = .001), instructional supervision (R = 0.230, F = 9.921, p = .002), and goal setting (R = 0.172, F = 5.390, p = .021) significantly influence learners' academic performance, with progress monitoring exerting the strongest effect. Paradoxically, regression coefficients for all three predictors were negative, suggesting that current implementation practices do not optimally translate monitoring, supervision, and goal-setting activities into improved student outcomes. The study recommends that policymakers and school leaders redesign these practices to be more feedback-oriented, developmental, and aligned with learner needs.
Influence of School Leadership Practices on Student Involvement in Decision-Making in Public Day Secondary Schools: Evidence from Gasabo District, Rwanda
This study examined the influence of school leadership practices on student involvement in decision-making in public day secondary schools in Gasabo District, Rwanda. Guided by Transformational Leadership Theory and Participative Leadership Theory, four leadership dimensions were investigated: organizing inclusive meetings, communication strategies, student empowerment, and engagement practices. A mixed-methods design with a concurrent triangulation strategy was employed. From a target population of 618, a sample of 243 respondents was selected through Yamane's formula; 239 valid questionnaires (98.3% response rate) were returned by teachers and students, while qualitative data were gathered from school leaders and sector education officers through semi-structured interviews. Quantitative data were analysed using descriptive statistics and multiple regression analysis in SPSS Version 27; qualitative data were subjected to thematic analysis. Cronbach's Alpha confirmed strong internal reliability (α > 0.700). Findings revealed that all four leadership dimensions significantly influenced student involvement: organizing meetings (B = 0.39, β = 0.36, p < .001, R² = 0.450), communication strategies (B = 0.34, β = 0.31, p < .001, R² = 0.410), student empowerment (B = 0.34, β = 0.32, p < .001, R² = 0.410), and engagement practices (B = 0.35, β = 0.33, p < .001, R² = 0.430). Together, the four predictors explained 43.0% of the variance in student involvement. Qualitative findings corroborated these results, showing that participatory, communicative, and empowerment-oriented leadership significantly enhances student confidence, ownership, and accountability. The study concludes that fostering participatory leadership, institutionalizing structured engagement mechanisms, and building student leadership capacity are essential for advancing democratic school governance in Rwanda.
A Study of Consumer Awareness of Blockchain-Based Loyalty Programs
The increasing digitization of business ecosystems has significantly transformed the way organizations interact with customers, leading to the widespread adoption of loyalty programs aimed at enhancing customer retention, engagement, and long-term value creation. However, traditional loyalty programs continue to face several structural and operational challenges, including lack of transparency, fragmentation across multiple platforms, low redemption rates, and vulnerability to fraud and data security breaches. In this context, blockchain technology has emerged as a transformative solution with the potential to address these inefficiencies. By offering a decentralized, secure, and transparent framework, blockchain enables real-time tracking of transactions, eliminates intermediaries, and enhances trust among stakeholders. Despite these advantages, the successful implementation of blockchain-based loyalty programs is highly dependent on consumer awareness, understanding, and acceptance of the technology. This study investigates the level of awareness of blockchain-based loyalty programs among consumers. A structured questionnaire was administered to a sample of 500 respondents, and the collected data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, Chi-square tests, and cross-tabulation techniques. The findings reveal that awareness levels are moderate, with significant variations across demographic factors such as age, education, and occupation. These findings offer valuable insights for businesses and policymakers to design targeted awareness initiatives and develop user-friendly systems to enhance adoption of blockchain-based loyalty programs.
Understanding the Role of Digital Technologies in Transforming Educational Practices and Evaluation Methods: An NEP 2020 Perspective
In India, the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 strongly advocates the incorporation of digital platforms and open learning systems to promote access, equity, quality, and learner-centered education. With specific reference to the objectives of NEP 2020, this review-based study examines the role of digital technologies in transforming teaching-learning practices and evaluation methods through SWAYAM online learning platform. Drawing upon existing research, and policy documents, the paper analyses how SWAYAM facilitates a transition from conventional classroom-based education to flexible digital learning ecosystems. The review highlights important features of SWAYAM, including structured course design, learner-friendly navigation, multimedia instructional content, interactive discussion forums, progress tracking, and transparent certification mechanisms. Emphasis is placed on the platform’s contribution to pedagogical transformation through learner-centered, self-paced, and collaborative learning models designed for online education. The study further explores the advancement of evaluation and assessment practices on SWAYAM, focusing on continuous formative assessment, automated feedback or grading system, proctored examinations, and continuous performance monitoring. These digitally enabled evaluation mechanisms closely reflect NEP 2020’s vision of performance-based assessment by promoting transparency, continuous feedback, and quality enhancement in higher education. The study concludes that digital platforms like SWAYAM have strong potential to transform education by modernizing teaching practices and changing the way evaluation is done. This platform also helps to create a more inclusive, flexible, and quality-focused higher education system in India.
Reviving Nutri-Cereals: A Comprehensive Study on Barnyard Millet’s Production and Consumption Behavior in District Chamoli of Uttarakhand State
The research study prospects the production status and consumption behavior of Barnyard Millet (Echinochloa Frumentacea) in a remote village of uttarakhand. Barnyard Millet (Echinochloa Frumentacea), locally known as Jhangora is a traditional cereal crop cultivated in the hilly terrains of Uttarakhand. Millets, traditionally cultivated and consumed in the Indian Himalayan Region, have been in integrated to the subsistence farming system and dietary patterns of rural communities of Uttarakhand. The research study focuses on identifying current trends in Barnyard millet production status including crop varieties, farming practice and challenges faced by local farmers of selected village. It also examines the consumption behavior, cultural significance and nutritional awareness among village households. Through a combination of field survey, interviews and participatory observations, the study highlights a gradual declined in Barnyard millet production for some decades. Because there was very less demand in the market bur now as people are focusing on their good health, they are now consuming it regularly, so market for millet is also clear from the study that the production of Barnyard millet in people has been increasing for about 5 to 6 years.
E-Commerce Faces Logistical Challenges in Rural India: Yielding the Benefits of AI and Automation
Background: According to Kishore Biyani, founder and CEO of Future Group, the mantra to ‘Think Digital’ has started gaining traction in rural India. The region now presents a significant opportunity for the expansion of e-commerce platforms. The growing penetration of e- commerce in rural areas has become a focal point of discussion. However, numerous challenges persist for consumers, sellers, and the government, particularly in achieving effective ‘last-mile' connectivity. It investigates how emerging technologies and government initiatives can transform the rural e-commerce experience, especially for consumers and sellers. Methods: The research adopts a qualitative case study methodology based on semi-structure interviews conducted in the Gurugram District of Haryana. Respondents include rural consumers, small scale sellers, and local officials, providing multi-stakeholder insights into the operational, logistical, and infrastructural aspects of rural e-commerce. Results: These study reveals that although rural regions like Gurugram are showing increased interest in digital commerce, significant challenges remain in logistics, delivery reliability, and trust- building. However, initiatives such as Drone Didi, AI automation, and the implementation of dark warehouses have strong to improve last mile delivery efficiency, reduce delays, and enhance overall consumer satisfaction. Conclusion: The paper contributes original insights into the rural e-commerce landscape by focusing on a specific and understudied region. It also appreciates the use case of AI and Automation in today’s and future world. It highlights localized government schemes, offering practical suggestions for marketers, platform developers, and policymakers aiming to scale operations in rural India.
Linking social media usage to online consumer behaviour through fear of missing out and hedonic needs
Social media platforms have altered how consumers learn about, assess, and buy items in digital marketplaces. This research analyses how social media and purchases are linked, focusing on the mediating factors of FOMO and hedonic needs. This research analyses the implications of social media presence in the emotional and purchasing behaviours of consumers. This study used a cross-sectional research design, and primary data was gathered through a structured questionnaire with 400 active social media users over 18 years in the Tricity region of Chandigarh, Mohali, and Panchkula. Participants were chosen through purposeful sampling. Results show social media presence positively affects online buying behaviour and FOMO and hedonic needs, which explains how digital content, peer connectivity, and the features of platforms affect buying behaviour. Moreover, the study shows the social media usage patterns are impacted by age, geographical region, occupation, and marital status. In the given factors, gender, study level, and economics present a minimal effect. This research integrates social media presence, psychological factors, and purchasing behaviour. This research also explains how responsible online marketing improves consumer engagement.
School Leadership Practices and Parental Involvement in Decision-Making: Evidence from Public Secondary Schools in Kicukiro District, Rwanda
Parental involvement in school decision-making is essential for improving school governance, accountability, and student performance. In alignment with the Rwanda Education Policy (2024), which emphasises active parental participation, this study examined the influence of school leadership practices on parental involvement in decision-making in public secondary schools in Kicukiro District, Rwanda. Specifically, it assessed how leadership practices in organising meetings, communicating with parents, empowering them, and engaging them in school governance affect parental participation. Guided by Epstein's Theory of Parental Involvement and Transformational Leadership Theory, the study adopted a mixed-methods convergent parallel design. The target population comprised 2,580 participants, with a sample of 346 respondents determined using Yamane's formula (95% confidence level). Data were collected through structured questionnaires for teachers and parents and interview guides for school leaders and education officers. Quantitative data were analysed using SPSS Version 27 employing descriptive and inferential statistics, while qualitative data were analysed thematically. Findings revealed that all four dimensions of school leadership significantly influenced parental involvement: organising meetings (R = 0.658; R² = 43.3%); communication strategies (R = 0.641; R² = 41.1%); parental empowerment (R = 0.681; R² = 46.4%); and engagement practices (R = 0.691; R² = 47.7%). All models were statistically significant (p < 0.001). The study concludes that effective, inclusive, and empowering school leadership is a critical determinant of meaningful parental involvement, and recommends strengthening follow-up mechanisms, feedback systems, and consistent empowerment to enhance school governance and student outcomes in Rwanda's public secondary schools.
Impact of Artificial Intelligence (AI) on Modern Commerce
Artificial Intelligence (AI) is rapidly transforming modern commerce by enhancing efficiency, personalization, and decision-making across business operations. This article examines how AI-driven technologies—adopted by companies such as Amazon and Netflix—are reshaping customer experiences through recommendation systems, automating routine processes, and enabling data-driven strategies. It highlights AI’s role in optimizing supply chains, improving fraud detection, and revolutionizing marketing through targeted advertising platforms like Google Ads. While the benefits of AI include increased productivity, cost reduction, and enhanced customer engagement, the article also addresses critical challenges such as data privacy concerns, ethical risks, algorithmic bias, and workforce displacement. The article concludes that AI represents a fundamental shift in commercial practices, and its successful integration requires a balanced approach that combines technological innovation with responsible governance and ethical considerations.
Factors Affecting Consumer Intention to Use Blinkit in Rajkot City
In today’s era, internet has become one of the most popular platforms to shop online including online grocery shopping (OGS) which has been considered relatively new but a promising sector of e-commerce in India. This study explores the factors influencing customer intention to use Blinkit, a quick-commerce platform, in Rajkot city. A study was carried out for understanding the key factors affecting customer intention such as Trust, Convenience, and Security. A survey was developed, and responses were collected and analysed using multiple regression analysis. The findings suggest that one of the major determinants of customer satisfaction while buying groceries from Blinkit and the study provide insights for Blinkit to optimize its services, improve customer satisfaction in Rajkot city. A simple random sampling method was used, and a structured questionnaire was employed to collect data. In total 225 respondents have been given preference having to blinkit. Founded in 2013, it has evolved to specialize in rapid delivery of groceries and a wide range of household items. Operating through a network of strategically located "dark stores," Blinkit ensures that orders are fulfilled and delivered to customers within minutes, significantly enhancing convenience. Blinkit has stiffened its position in the competitive Indian market, focusing on leveraging technology to meet the demands of fast-paced urban lifestyles.
An Empirical Study of Sectoral Turnover Behaviour and GST Revenue in India During the COVID-19 Pandemic
This study examines the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on sectoral turnover and Goods and Services Tax (GST) revenue in India using an empirical approach. The research is based on monthly data from September 2018 to August 2021, divided into pre-COVID and during-COVID periods. It focuses on selected sectors such as steel, aluminium, zinc, and lead to analyse changes in turnover behaviour, along with GST revenue trends. The findings reveal that the nationwide lockdown significantly disrupted economic activities, leading to a sharp decline in sectoral turnover, particularly in April 2020. However, the extent of impact varied across sectors, with aluminium showing relatively stable performance compared to others. Statistical analysis using paired t-tests indicates a significant impact of COVID-19 on the turnover of steel, aluminium, and lead, while zinc remained largely unaffected. In contrast, GST revenue, despite an initial sharp fall, demonstrated resilience and recovered steadily, showing no statistically significant long-term impact. The study concludes that while COVID-19 severely affected production and turnover in certain sectors, GST revenue stability may be attributed to price adjustments and gradual economic recovery. The paper highlights the need for targeted policy interventions to stabilize sectoral performance and sustain economic growth.
Relationship between Hunger and Health Outcomes of Children: Evidence from South Asian Region
Purpose: South Asian region shows a pronounced vulnerability to various development parameters like hunger, poverty, malnutrition, etc. Despite technological advancements over the years, the region is more or less found herself at the lower bottom of the development ladder. At this back drop, the paper tries to examine the incidence of hunger in South Asia using calorie undernourishment and also makes an attempt to explore the relationship between hunger and children health outcomes. Methodology: Present research work is based on secondary data gathered from the GHI report, 2024. It has used Roy’s (2017) methodology for analysing the status of hunger and has also constructed Children Health Outcome Index (CHOI) in line with the works of Nath and Roy (2023). It has sought to investigate the relationship between hunger and CHOI by using a panel regression model. Findings: Results of the study indicate that the proportion of undernourished has been dropping, but a sudden spike in hunger was observed in 2024, except in Bangladesh and Sri Lanka. In respect of children health outcome, except Afghanistan, other South Asian countries are making progress, although at a slow rate. Regression results exert that Children Health Outcome Index (CHOI) is positively and significantly associated with calorie undernourishment. Originality: This paper contributed to the limited empirical evidence on hunger in South Asian nations. It dives into the deep to measure the state of hunger among the South Asian countries and tries to find out whether there is any significant relationship between undernourishment and CHOI.
Work, Wages, and Women’s Autonomy: Panchayat-Level Insights into the Economic Impact of Rural development in rural India
Economic stability in rural regions is essential for inclusive and sustainable development, particularly in drought-prone areas where livelihood vulnerability and gender inequality persist. Women’s economic empowerment significantly improves household welfare, as women tend to invest a larger share of their income in children’s education, nutrition, and family well-being. This study examines women’s financial independence and empowerment through participation in rural development schemes in the drought-prone Purulia Sadar subdivision. The study aims (i) to construct a Composite Financial Independence and Empowerment Index (FIEI) using standardized indicators and Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP) weightages to measure economic and social impacts, and (ii) to assess socio-economic and spatial variations across Panchayats and identify determinants shaping income gains, financial inclusion, and empowerment outcomes. Primary data were collected from 395 respondents across 13 Panchayats using purposive random sampling. Results show that participation in financial decision-making averages 35.57 (SD = 6.25), while financial independence averages 50.58 (SD = 9.95), indicating moderate progress toward autonomy. Higher empowerment scores are observed in Manara (0.528), Ghongha (0.641), Lakhanpur (0.489), and Ghatbera-Kerowa (0.548). The Kruskal–Wallis test (H = 10.52, p = 0.0052) confirms significant inter-Panchayat disparities. The findings highlight the need for targeted, Panchayat-level interventions to strengthen women’s financial empowerment.
From Social Contract to Democracy: A Philosophical Analysis
This paper provides a philosophical examination of the intellectual shift from classical social contract theory to contemporary democratic ideology. In my view, democracy ought to be perceived not as a divergence from contractarianism but as its moral and institutional apex. This research critically examines the works of Hobbes, Locke, Rousseau, and Kant to elucidate the evolution of key notions like as consent, political obligation, equality, and sovereignty into the essential principles of constitutional and deliberative democracy. The paper additionally analyses how twentieth-century theorists reconceptualized the social compact as a normative instrument for expressing justice, legitimacy, and public reason in pluralistic communities. Simultaneously, it confronts significant critiques—feminist, racial, and communitarian—that question the exclusions and abstractions inherent in classical contract theory, thus highlighting the necessity for its democratic reconstruction. The article contends that contemporary democracy embodies the dynamic actualization of contractarian principles, institutionalized via constitutionalism, representation, and participatory processes. The analysis enhances contemporary political theory by illustrating that the lasting significance of democracy resides in its ability to critically inherit, amend, and enrich the normative framework of the social contract tradition.
Cold Chain Infrastructure as a Growth Driver for India’s Agriculture Exports
India’s agricultural sector possesses immense potential in global trade; however, its export performance continues to be constrained by significant post-harvest losses and infrastructural deficiencies. One of the most critical challenges in this context is the inadequacy of cold chain infrastructure, which directly affects the quality, shelf life, and international competitiveness of perishable agricultural commodities. The present study investigates the role of cold chain infrastructure as a key growth driver for India’s agricultural exports by utilizing both primary data from 200 respondents and secondary data obtained from government reports, international organizations, and published research sources. The study adopts a descriptive and analytical research design to evaluate the existing status of cold chain facilities, analyze trends in agricultural export performance, and assess the impact of cold chain infrastructure on reducing post-harvest losses and enhancing export competitiveness. The findings indicate that cold chain capacity in India remains insufficient and unevenly distributed, with limited integration across perishable agricultural supply chains, leading to post-harvest losses estimated at nearly 25–30 percent. Further analysis reveals a strong positive relationship between cold chain development and agricultural export growth. Commodities supported by organized cold chain systems demonstrate improved quality preservation, longer shelf life, better price realization, and enhanced compliance with international quality standards. Although policy initiatives such as those implemented by APEDA and other government agencies have contributed to infrastructure development, notable gaps persist in accessibility, operational efficiency, and regional coverage. The study concludes that cold chain infrastructure is a vital enabler of export-oriented agricultural development. Strengthening cold chain systems through integrated infrastructure planning, technological innovation, investment support, and effective policy implementation is essential for reducing post-harvest losses and improving India’s competitiveness in global agricultural markets.
Guidance and Counselling in Inclusive Education: A Constructivist Approach to Supporting Diverse Learners
The goal of inclusive education is to guarantee equal chances for participation and success for students of all backgrounds and abilities. Through a constructivist lens, this essay explores the function of advice and counseling in inclusive classrooms, highlighting the active role that students play in creating meaning and knowledge. It looks at how counseling techniques might be modified to promote the cognitive, social, and emotional development of various learners by encouraging introspection, teamwork, and personal development. The study identifies successful methods for fostering engagement and empowerment, including scaffolding, peer cooperation, customized instruction, and reflective practices. Along with discussing potential solutions including professional development, technology integration, and collaborative frameworks, it also addresses the difficulties that inclusive advice faces, such as scarce resources, inadequate training for educators and counselors, and institutional limitations. The research emphasizes the significance of learner-centered, context-sensitive techniques that foster self-confidence, resilience, and social competence by placing guidance and counseling within a constructivist framework. The results imply that successful counseling not only improves academic performance but also fosters holistic development, empowering students to overcome obstacles and contribute significantly in inclusive environments. Overall, the study shows that developing educational settings where diversity is respected, equity is promoted, and every student may reach their full potential requires constructivist-guided counseling.
AI driven Upskilling and Reskilling of Employees in India
Artificial intelligence (AI) is revolutionizing all sectors of the Indian economy. This change has led to the imperative of upskilling and reskilling the skills of employees. This paper is purely based on secondary data sources such as NASSCOM, KPMG, Deloitte, McKinsey, World Economic Forum, reports of the Government of India, and reputed academic journals. The study found that by 2025-26, 65-70% of the workforce in India will need to learn new AI-related skills. Only 38% of employees currently have access to AI-based training programs. The skill gap has been found to be highest (45-60%) in IT, banking, financial services, and manufacturing sectors. Government schemes such as 'National Skill Development Mission 2.0' and 'iGOT Karmayogi' are emphasizing on AI-based learning platforms. The findings clearly suggest that AI-powered training can increase productivity by 25-40%, but the digital divide, limited access to SMEs, and gender-based inequality are serious challenges. The research suggests that the public-private partnership (PPP) model and adaptive AI platforms can secure the future of Indian employees.
Language as a Tool of Social Construction and Representation
Language is much more than a neutral channel of information flow, it is an active, constitutive process that creates social realities, forms identities and continues or challenges systems of power. The theoretical data and empirical aspects of language as social construction/representation tool are reviewed in this research article. The article presents the theoretical background of the analysis of linguistic practices as a means of generating meaning, performing social differentiation, and naturalising the dominant ideological formations, drawing on the early works by Ferdinand de Saussure, Ludwig Wittgenstein, John L. Austin, Pierre Bourdieu, Michel Foucault and modern scholars of critical discourse analysis. The literature review combines the major theoretical frameworks, such as social constructionism, theory of the speech acts, critical discourse analysis, and systemic functional linguistics, as well as major empirical research on the topic of gender, race, and political discourse. The implications of the discussion to education, media, policy, and social justice advocacy are taken into account. The paper ends with the conclusion that the constructive power of language cannot be understood without being critically aware because, perhaps, it can also be transformed.
Discourse of Dignity in The Remains of the Day by Kazuo Ishiguro
This paper discusses dignity discourse in the Remains of the Day by Kazuo Ishiguro, and the way that the notion of dignity influences the identity, the vision of the world, and the choices of the main character Stevens. Dignity, a professional ideal that is based on discipline, emotional control, and unswerving devotion to an employer is introduced in the novel as a professional ideal. Stevens, an English butler, who is old, understands dignity as the capacity to lock his personal emotions and express unwavering composure in the execution of his job in Darlington Hall. The use of first-person narration and later retrospective reflection, through Stevens, shows how this strictness of definition of dignity results in emotional suppression, inaction, in the severing of significant personal relationships, in her case, with Miss Kenton. Another feature, which is pointed out in the research, is that the loyalty to Lord Darlington leads Stevens to ethical blindness as, despite the political sympathies of his employer being doubtful, he still remains loyal. This research shows how Ishiguro criticizes strict class divisions and socially defined principles of professionalism by examining the definitions, models, implications, and eventual reversal of the concept of dignity in the novel.
The Problem of Induction and Its Philosophical Significance in Russell’s Theory of Knowledge
This study examines Bertrand Russell's discourse on the concept of induction, which is essential for elucidating how individuals obtain knowledge beyond direct experience. Russell contends that although we have direct acquaintance with sense-data and recollections of past experiences, the majority of our understanding of the external world—encompassing physical things, natural laws, and future occurrences—relies on inference. These conclusions are informed by overarching concepts that enable us to understand one event as indicative of another. The principle of induction is thus crucial in validating our anticipations regarding the future based on patterns discerned in the past. Russell scrutinizes the prevalent idea that past repetitions serve as evidence for like future events. Common beliefs, such as anticipating the sun's rise tomorrow due to its historical consistency, exemplify this dependence on inductive reasoning. Nevertheless, Russell underscores that such anticipations cannot produce absolute certainty. Rather, recurrent linkages between events merely augment the likelihood that the same pattern would persist. He articulates the inductive principle by asserting that when two types of events (A and B) have been consistently observed in conjunction without any counterexamples, an increased frequency of such occurrences enhances the likelihood of their simultaneous recurrence. With a sufficiently high sample size, this probability may near practical certainty. Notwithstanding its significance, Russell contends that the principle of induction cannot be logically substantiated. Specific instances may corroborate a basic principle, although they cannot definitively ascertain its universal validity. Furthermore, induction cannot be validated through experience, as every reference to prior success inherently assumes the legitimacy of induction itself. Nonetheless, Russell asserts that the inductive principle is essential for quotidian reasoning and scientific investigation. In its absence, forecasts regarding the future and scientific generalizations would lack a basis, rendering knowledge beyond present experience unattainable.