S. No. Title and Authors Name
1
Impact of Emolument on the Work Satisfaction: A Case of Tea Plantation Workers in West Bengal
Indranil Ganguly*
Abstract
The tea industry contributes substantially to the Indian economy as it is one of the leading export products and is instrumental in employment generation for unskilled, semi-skilled and skilled workers engaged in plucking tea leaves from the bushes, processing tea leaves in the factory and serving the in the industry. Unskilled and semi-skilled workers who are in high demand, due to the absence of skill have to depend more upon the earnings from the services they render to cater to the consumption demand of their families. So, earning from the tea sector has a pertinent place for such workers. On the other hand, since the tea industry relies upon the collection of tea leaves and their processing which is done by workers, efficiency and efficacy of the performance of workers is very important for which, their satisfaction is essential. The workers who are not skilled, do not expect non-financial incentives as a priority and to meet their basic needs, their preference is financial incentives. The present research aims to inspect the impact of emoluments on workers’ job satisfaction in the context of Darjeeling. The study tries to seek the answers to the research problem the perspectives of examining the satisfaction level of tea plantation workers with their work and Emerging Dimensions of Business, Economics, Media and Financial..2 the impact of pay/emolument on their satisfaction with their job. To empirically examine the research problem, Solvin’s (1960) sample size formula is used on 400 workers taken through a simple random sampling technique. In this regard, permanent workers are considered for taking the sample. Structured Scale – 1) Warr, Cock and Wall (1979) ‘Job Satisfaction Survey’ scale and 2) Pay Satisfaction Questionnaire developed by Heneman III, H.G. and Schwab, D.P. (1985) were used to collect principal data. Descriptive statistics and regression analysis statistical tests were used to analyze the primary data. The result of the study found that tea plantation workers are satisfied. Regression analysis revealed that when pay increases, job satisfaction increases. So, pay has an impact on job satisfaction.
2
Exploring User Perceptions and Preferences for Innovative Financial Platforms: Risks, Engagement, and Key Features
Biraj Datta | Sanjukta Saha | Kaushik Das
Abstract
This study investigates students perceptions, preferences, and behaviors concerning innovative financial platforms, with a focus on understanding the risks, engagement drivers, and desired features among students in emerging markets. Portrayal on primary data from a survey of 119 college students in Nagaon, India, the research identifies fraud and scams, cybersecurity threats, and regulatory gaps as the most significant risks deterring adoption. Additionally, the findings highlight that mobile payment apps are the preferred financial tools, driven by their affordability, accessibility and user-friendly interfaces. Key features sought by users include security, ease of use, and low fees, underlining the importance of trust and cost-effectiveness in platform design. The study also reveals diverse patterns of information-seeking behavior, emphasizing the role of informal networks and self-directed learning in shaping user engagement. By addressing these insights, the research contributes to the development of fintech solutions tailored to user needs, promoting financial inclusion and enhancing trust in emerging markets.
3
The Impact of Microfinance on Rural Household Income
Sadam Ahamed | Rajat Sharmacharjee
Abstract
This study investigates the impact of microfinance on rural household income in five selected villages of Cachar district, Assam: Lalang Part- IV, Ujan Tarapur, Pailapool, Fulertal, and Kashipur. Employing a descriptive research design, the study uses both primary and secondary data. A sample of 150 microfinance beneficiaries was selected using purposive and convenience sampling methods. They were surveyed with structured questionnaires and interviews. Respondents were selected based on the criterion that they had availed themselves of microfinance loans at least six months prior to the study period, which spanned from August to December 2024. Socio-economic data reveal that most beneficiaries are female, aged 26–35 years, married, and engaged in agriculture. Using descriptive statistics and paired samples t-tests, the analysis demonstrates a significant increase in household monthly income post-loan, from an average of Rs. 5,144 to Rs. 8,408 . These findings highlight the potential of microfinance as a catalyst for sustainable rural economic growth.
4
Geometric Brownian Motion and Its Application in the Forecasting of Bharat Heavy Electricals Limited Trends
Ronit Paul | Tanusree Deb Roy
Abstract
This study evaluates the effectiveness of Geometric Brownian Motion (GBM) in predicting the stock market behavior of Bharat Heavy Electricals Limited (BHEL), specifically focusing on forecasting the open and close stock prices over a forthcoming ten-day period. Using historical share price data from July 14, 2023 to March 31, 2024, the GBM model is applied to predict stock price movements from April 1, 2024, to April 15, 2024. The results demonstrated high accuracy in the model’s predictions, with discrepancies between forecasted and actual values generally narrow, highlighting specific instances of notable precision. Despite its effectiveness, the study identified limitations in predicting higher stock price values, suggesting a need for further model optimization to enhance accuracy at these data points. The findings emphasize the utility of advanced statistical models like GBM (Geometric Brownian Motion) in financial forecasting, aiding traders and investors in making informed decisions, with recommendations for future refinements to increase the model’s applicability and precision across different market conditions.
5
Sanatan Economics: A Timeless Alternative to Capitalism and Socialism for Sustainable and Inclusive Prosperity
Biraj Dey | Avijit Debnath
Abstract
The economic strategies employed by the United States, Russia, and China, which focused on leveraging women as contributors to production during their reproductive years and enforcing the one-child policy, have resulted in detrimental long-term economic consequences. While China has removed the one-child policy, the effects will become apparent by 2030, when men will struggle to find marriageable women. The U.S. increasingly relies on immigrant labor to sustain production. These models have focused on material and machine-based factors of production, undermining the value of labor. In contrast, Sanatan Economics emphasizes the enduring role of human labor, family, and ethical principles for infinite prosperity. It integrates agriculture, cattle rearing, and dharmic cultural practices, creating a sustainable economic cycle through festivals, tourism, and community engagement. Reviving this ancient economic model, rooted in holistic and inclusive growth, offers a path to global economic stability, advocating a balance between humanity, nature, and spiritual well-being. The failure of conventional economic models calls for a return to the timeless wisdom of Sanatan Dharma.
6
Evaluating the Impact of ONGC’s CSR on Socio-Economic Development in Assam: A Doctrinal Analysis
Farha Yashmin Rohman | Lutfur Rohman
Abstract
In India’s fast-growing economy, which is centred on sustainable development, Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) has emerged as a crucial instrument for fostering inclusive growth and equitable development. Oil and Natural Gas Corporation (ONGC), India’s largest oil and gas producer, has started a number of CSR initiatives to help the community and address societal problems. This chapter provides a thorough examination of ONGC’s CSR programs that support equitable development and inclusive growth in Assam. To assess the overall impact of CSR initiatives on several socioeconomic variables, the researcher has employed doctrinal research. The findings indicate that the company’s corporate social responsibility (CSR) approach is in line with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and has helped achieve sustainable development goals in the regions where the organisation operates. As a result of these initiatives, marginalised groups have been more actively involved in social and economic development, improving access to healthcare, education, and sanitation. Additionally, they have more opportunities for a living. The need of community collaboration and involvement in ensuring the effectiveness and sustainability of CSR initiatives is also emphasised in the chapter.
7
Public Sector Financial Reporting and the Union Budget
Malay Das | Prashanta Sharma
Abstract
Both transparency and accountability together with fiscal discipline receive strong support from the public sector financial reporting system. This chapter examines financial reporting in India the concepts along with regulatory structure and its integration to the Union Budget. The analysis explores four essential groups including the government institutions together with policymakers and citizens alongside investors. It emphasizes primary principles of transparency and accountability and good governance in these systems. The chapter examines how the Union Budget is arranged as well as how financial reporting monitors budget execution and it analyzes problems linked to data precision and political interference and transparency issues. Multiple digital innovations (PFMS, GST, DBT) and accrual-based accounting now exist with specialized budgeting approaches for gender and environmental sustainability and these developments receive research through global benchmark analysis. The last part of the research outlines future projections along with specific policy suggestions and outlines a direction for strengthening Indian public financial reporting systems. The fiscal management system of India will improve for effective governance alongside economic stability through the implementation of digital transformation together with institutional oversight and participatory budgeting.
8
Investment Opportunities and Risks in the Indian Stock Market: A Comprehensive Analysis of Trends, Challenges, and Future Prospects
Deepika Mazumder | Sweety Das
Abstract
The Indian stock market, one of the largest and most dynamic markets in the world, offers numerous investment opportunities for both domestic and international investors. However, the volatility, regulatory changes, and external factors pose significant risks to investors. This paper explores the investment opportunities available in the Indian stock market, evaluates the associated risks, and provides insights into the current trends and future prospects. The aim is to provide a comprehensive understanding of the factors influencing investment decisions, the role of regulatory frameworks, and the potential growth of the market in the coming years.
9
Celluloid India: Cinema as a Mirror to Society
Tamasa Ghosh
Abstract
Cinema plays a dual role in its relationship with society. On one hand, it reflects the societal norms, values, and realities, acting as a mirror to society. On the other hand, it is also influenced and shaped by the exact societal norms, creating a dynamic interplay between the two. It is a fascinating blend of art and technology, that influences our values, echoes our socio-cultural beliefs, and impacts the way we perceive the world. Cinema is beyond entertainment; it informs, reflects values, opens doors for new ideas, and often impacts our belief system. It creates an emotional connection with audiences and has the power to break stereotypes and propel social change. With the advent of technology, there has been a paradigm shift in the film-viewing experience. Watching films was once a community experience but with the rise in streaming platforms like Netfilx and Amazon Prime, ZEE5, SonyLiv, Hotstar to name a few, it has become a more personal experience. The transition of film viewing from 35mm and 70mm reels in theatres with the public, to television, VHS, VCR, and DVD players at home with family and presently to on-demand curated experience on OTT platforms has been remarkable. The medium has evolved with time and technology and so have the tastes and preferences of audiences. In this chapter, we will study the journey the films over the years their role in society, and their impact on the lives of their audience.
10
Sustaining Journalism in the Digital Age: The Rise of Subscription Models in Indian Digital News Media
Mizanur Rahaman | Deepak Upadhyaya
Abstract
This chapter examines the rise of subscription model as an alternative and sustainable revenue strategy for Indian digital news media. With tech giants such as Google and Facebook dominating digital advertising, online news outlets face mounting financial challenges and are increasingly turning to subscription-based revenue frameworks. The chapter highlights how traditional news platforms such as The Hindu, The Times of India, and on the other hand digital native platforms like Scroll and The Ken are experimenting with various approaches— including hard paywall, freemium model, and pay-per-use model—to generate a steady revenue stream for the media outlets. By shifting the focus from click-driven metrics to content quality, subscription models incentivize the production of high-quality, trustworthy journalism and infotainment content. Nonetheless, the transition is not without hurdles; deeply ingrained habits of free news consumption, price sensitivity among Indian consumers, and a cultural reluctance to pay for digital content vis-a-vas traditional modes of subscription pose significant challenges. The chapter also touches upon technological advancements in digital payments and personalized content curation, which support the model enumerated in the chapter. By analyzing current trends, consumer behavior, and case studies, the chapter assesses the potential of subscription model to secure the long-term sustainability of journalism and infotainment in India’s rapidly evolving digital landscape. Keywords: Media economy, Subscription model, Digital news media, Revenue model, Digital advertising, Freemium model, Pay-per-use model.
11
Problems Associated with the Performance of Rural Credit: A Case Study of South Tripura and Gomati District of Tripura
Kaju Nath | Amit Bikram Chowdhury | Nabendu Debnath
Abstract
Agriculture functions as the principal sustenance source for most Indian residents after sixty years of aggressive industrialization. The agriculture sector and its allied industries remain the prime force that generates income for India so agriculture functions as the fundamental support behind the country. The recent Indian agriculture field experienced significant development through green revolution despite its restricted application to specific agricultural regions and production types. The lack of credit facility remains a major issue among the many limitations and problems present in Indian agriculture. The rural population especially those belonging to weaker sections cannot achieve better living conditions due to limited access to credit facilities. The organized segment of cooperative banks and non-banking financial companies along with regional rural banks and commercial banks should create proper procedures and processes to address rural credit accessibility issues. Credit interventions in rural areas serve as a crucial agricultural component and constitute an efficient mechanism for economic development throughout rural territories. Rural credit acts as a means for millions of rural Indians to sustain their livelihood because they lack alternative sources of income.
12
Effects of Climate Change on Orange Cultivation: A Case Study of Orange Cultivators of Jatinga Village, Dima Hasao
Amanda Kordor Thabah | Aditi Nath
Abstract
It has been a common expression of the dwellers of Jatinga that ‘mother nature has always been kind to Jatinga’, a village of Dima Hasao District of Assam, known for its favourable climate and thriving orange production. But the changing climatic condition including fluctuation of rainfall, wind pattern, and temperature, frequent occurrence of wind storms and landslides faded the glory and fame of the village and put forth a challenge to the cultivators. Through qualitative case studies, this study gathered insights from six orange cultivators in Jatinga to understand how orange production has evolved in the midst of increasing climate change. Respondents reported shortened fruiting periods, slow growth, and alterations in fruit size and shape, leading to an overall decline both in quantity and quality over a period of time. The economic strain caused by reduced productivity has also raise concerns about their food security. The study also highlights the need for community resilience in dealing with the issue suggesting three key strategies including fostering collective action, strengthening knowledge networks, and enhancing social ties. These approaches could help farmers adapt to changing conditions thereby sustaining their livelihoods.
13
Youth Unemployment in India: Navigating the Workforce Dynamics
Kailash Pawdel |Benita Chhetry
Abstract
India has a huge youth population and is currently in a situation where demographic advantage can make a huge difference in economic growth if harnessed effectively. However, the country has been facing significant challenges in providing adequate employment opportunities for its upcoming younger workforce. The government has been constantly vocal on skill-based learning, and steps have been taken to formalise employment and skill-based learning, however, a large number of individuals have been employed or engaged in the informal sector. Also, the rise in higher education enrolment has not necessarily been capable enough of translating into better job prospects, leading to an increasing number of overqualified yet unemployed youth. There can be many factors responsible for this. Therefore, in an attempt to understand the complex work dynamics of youth employment in India, this paper takes a closer look at the overall employment scenario in India while trying to bring light to the issues in youth employment and work preference of Indian youths entering the workforce. It also offers a set of suggestions aimed at creating newer opportunities for young people, improving the entrepreneurship ecosystem, and fostering an environment where socio-cultural barriers are eliminated.
14
From Canvas to Commerce: The Role of Marketing in Selling Contemporary Art
Saday Chandra Das
Abstract
The intersection of art and commerce has long been a subject of debate, but in today’s market-driven world, marketing plays a pivotal role in shaping the visibility and value of contemporary art. This article explores how marketing strategies, branding, and digital advertising influence the perception and sales of contemporary artworks. It examines how artists, galleries, and auction houses leverage social media, influencer partnerships, and traditional advertising to expand their reach and attract collectors. Furthermore, the article considers the ethical implications of commercializing art, addressing the balance between artistic integrity and market demand. By analyzing industry trends, this study highlights the evolving dynamics of art promotion and the growing impact of advertising in transforming creative works from mere canvases into coveted commercial assets.
15
Is Women Empowered in India?
Joya Barbhuiya
Abstract
Through this paper an effort has been made to study the position of women and to find out whether the women in India is empowered by utilizing some measures based on the information from secondary sources. The analysis shows that despite of a number of initiatives undertaken by the government the position of women are comparatively lower as compared to men in India. Gender bias still exists as it has been clearly been seen in case of education as well as employment .Decision making of women in their own house is varied and it depends upon the age, employment and education. It has been found that in equal treatment in matter of gender is still carried on in the society. Beating of women is justified for many in the society even on the perspective of some women in our society itself, even women in many cases they have little say on how to spend the money even for household chores, even gender biasness is noticed in the profession of media where the number of women engagement is seen less as comparative to men. Political Participation too faces similar fate of gender discrimination. By a thorough observation a conclusion has been drawn that only the field of education and employment can lift the women and empowered them to a greater height and this also should be backed by the attitude of the people regarding gender equality.
16
Child Labour and School Dropout in Sonitpur District of Assam: Exploration of Status, Determinants and Linkages
Sanjay Sinha | Pori Borah| Arjina Begum
Abstract
Children are the foundation of a nation’s future, yet in developing countries, child labour and school dropouts hinder their potential to contribute meaningfully to society. This study examines the status and determinants of child labour and school dropouts in the Sonitpur district of Assam. A total of 100 children aged 5 – 14 years were selected using a multistage purposive sampling technique from two sub-divisions, Tezpur and Dhekiajuli. Primary data were collected through structured questionnaires. Statistical tables were used for descriptive analysis, while logistic regression was applied to identify the key determinants of child labour and school dropouts. Pearson’s correlation coefficient was employed to examine the relationship between the two phenomena. The findings indicate significant gender dispairities with male children being more affected in both child labour( 25 out of 29 cases) and school dropouts(29 out of 34 cases). Child labour was found to be slightly more prevalent in urban areas, whereas school dropouts were higher in rural regions. The regression Analysis identified caste as the strongest predictor of child labour( odds ratio=17.8), while family size emerged as the most significant factor influencing school dropouts(odds ratio= 8.810). Additionally, a statistically significant positive correlation was observed between child labour and school dropout. The results underscore the urgent need for policy interventions addressing socio-economic factors such as family size, caste and parental education to mitigate both child labour and school dropout rates in the region.
17
Labour Welfare Practices in Tea Industry: A Case Study of Cossipore Tea Estate in Cachar District of Assam
Brinda Roy | Soumendra Bhattacharjee
Abstract
Tea is the most widely consumed and reasonably priced beverage available in India. Tea plantation is a large agro-based and labour- intensive industry and the single largest employer in the country, providing work to about a million workers directly. Tea has become one of India’s most important commodities during the past few decades. A Survey was undertaken at Cossipore Tea Estate with a targeted sample of 200 labourers regarding the availability of various welfare facilities as part of an effort to investigate the roles played by management, the government, and labour unions towards labour welfare practices of the Tea industry in Assam. This study speaks about how the management is taking care of workers’ health, safety, and welfare. The welfare, health, and safety precautions provided by the management of tea gardens will immediately impact the workers’ attentiveness, confidence, physical and emotional well-being, and inclusive productivity. The primary data was collected for the study through a structured schedule and face-to-face Emerging Dimensions of Business, Economics, Media and Financial..216 interviews, and the percentage analysis method was used to interpret and analyse the data.
18
From Struggle to Strength: The Journey of Women in Rural Assam in Shaping Financial Stability Through Economic Independence
Nilanjana Deb
Abstract
Economic independence plays a crucial role in poverty reduction and enhancing women’s status in society, enabling them to participate in decision-making processes, contributing to gender equality, and improving their overall quality of life. In India, women’s participation in economic activities is often viewed as a silent revolution, empowering them through income-generating endeavours, fostering self-sufficiency, and ensuring financial stability. This study aims to highlight the transformative power of women’s economic participation in improving their financial independence and social status in rural Assam. Based on a survey of 2,192 respondents from 135 villages across 27 districts of Assam, conducted using a multi-stage area sampling technique, the study reveals that while weaving, poultry, and dairy farming are common activities among rural women, younger women are increasingly drawn to modern sectors like baking and beauty parlours. The findings show that women’s contributions have notably increased household income, with some respondents earning over Rs. 5000 per month through various economic activities. This has significantly contributed towards their financial independence and stability. Further, majority of respondents were able to save regularly thereby demonstrating the positive impact of participation in various economic activities on their financial stability.
19
Discovering Voices from the Margins: The Role of Media in Addressing the Issues of Social Protection among the Tea Garden Laborers of Assam
Puja Sen
Abstract
Tea is rooted in a very particular way in the lives and culture of various people in India. Tea plantation is still ongoing and shares a large part of Assam’s economy. Planting is an intensive process of labor. Assam’s tea plantations have a distinct type of labor participation and a specific social history. Colonial administration brought labors from outside the state. In Assam, the working condition of plantation labor has been wretched from the very beginning. Although a number of welfare programs and social protection schemes have been introduced by the government, it has not done much to help the tea garden workers. This study is a theoretical attempt using secondary data to analyse the impact of media in the implementation of social protection schemes. It employed techniques of both quantitative and qualitative research. This paper discusses the social development of the Assam’s tea garden labor. It also examines various welfare schemes and analyzes the social conditions of tea garden labor. Health and education, among the many are considered as important social development indicators. This paper looks at their problems amidst various government-floated social welfare program and examines future 249Discovering Voices from the Margins: The Role of Media in .... implications with special reference to the tea garden laborers of Assam using secondary data sources from journals, research reports, news websites and so on. Finally, it poses some pertinent questions and gives valuable suggestions about how to tackle the problems of tea garden labour.
20
Consumer Insights on Energy Drinks: A Study of Coca-Cola and Its Market Rivals
Biraj Datta | Sanjukta Saha | Kaushik Das
Abstract
This study investigates students perceptions, preferences, and behaviors concerning innovative financial platforms, with a focus on understanding the risks, engagement drivers, and desired features among students in emerging markets. Portrayal on primary data from a survey of 119 college students in Nagaon, India, the research identifies fraud and scams, cybersecurity threats, and regulatory gaps as the most significant risks deterring adoption. Additionally, the findings highlight that mobile payment apps are the preferred financial tools, driven by their affordability, accessibility and user-friendly interfaces. Key features sought by users include security, ease of use, and low fees, underlining the importance of trust and cost-effectiveness in platform design. The study also reveals diverse patterns of information-seeking behavior, emphasizing the role of informal networks and self-directed learning in shaping user engagement. By addressing these insights, the research contributes to the development of fintech solutions tailored to user needs, promoting financial inclusion and enhancing trust in emerging markets.
21
A Critical Discussion on Gender- Based Indices in Understanding and Measuring Gender-Gaps in Context of Backward Economies
Amrita Pramanick
Abstract
This paper is based on a critical survey of the literature on existing indices of measuring Gender-Based Inequalities and Empowerment. The main contribution of this paper is to conceptualize a broader and lay the foundation for a more native (locally sensitive) measure of gender- based inequalities and empowerments, in the backdrop of changing roles of women among rural, semi market-based economies and not- so-industrialized districts in India. The idea that a global index fails to capture the essence of gender-based empowerment among backward economies is raised out of two major concerns - that the ranking of the counties in the global south on the basis of such inequality indices has been persistently low, and that village, semi-industrialized economies with higher distance from urban markets may exhibit a distinct pattern of gender-based empowerment as per the ambit and present definition of ‘Empowerment’. And that the global indices fail to account for. Hence, the paper attempts to construct a background study to support the above mentioned proposition and lay down the basis for the construction of a more locally specific measure of index that will augment more specific choice of policies based on the same to address local gender-biases in paid work, livelihoods and labor markets.