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A Study on Dominating Functions in Signed Graphs
In this thesis, a study on Roman dominating functions in the realm of signed graphs is carried out. Unlike graphs, not all signed graphs admit a Roman dominating function, which leads to the primary problem of exploring signed graphs admitting a Roman dominating function. Further, variants of dominating function such as Roman {2}-dominating function, Minus dominating function and Signed dominating function in signed graphs are also studied. A dominating set of a signed graph S is dened as a set D and#8838; V such that each vertex v and#8712; V \ D has at least one neighbour u and#8712; D with and#963;(uv) = 1. The domination number and#947;(S) is the minimum cardinality among all the dominating sets newlineof S. A characterisation for minimal dominating sets of a signed graph along with newlinecharacterisations of signed graphs with domination number k, where 1 and#8804; k and#8804; 4 and newlinen and#8722; 2 and#8804; k and#8804; n are obtained. A Roman dominating function(RDF) on a signed graph S = (G, and#963;) is a function f : V (S) and#8594; {0, 1, 2} having the properties that (i) for every vertex u and#8712; V (G), f(N[u]) = f(u) + Pvand#8712;N (u) and#963;(uv)f(v) and#8805; 1 and (ii) for each vertex u and#8712; V (G) with f(u) = 0, there exists a vertex v and#8712; N +(u) having f(v) = 2. The signed graphs newlineadmitting an RDF are explored and certain classes of signed graphs such as paths, newlinecycles, stars admitting an RDF are characterised. Further, structural properties of signed graphs with 3-regular underlying graphs that admit an RDF are presented newlineand a characterisation of net-regular signed graphs with 3-regular underlying graphs, newlineadmitting an RDF is obtained. The signed graphs with Roman domination number equal to 2, 3, 4 and n are characterised. Further, criticality concepts have been examined by studying and#947;R-edge critical signed graphs S for which and#947;R(S +e) lt and#947;R(S), where the signature of the edge e is 1. A characterisation of and#947;R-edge critical signed trees with a single negative edge is presented, apart from some general results on and#947;R-edge critical signed graphs. -
Edge criticality in signed graphs admitting a Roman dominating function
A Roman dominating function(RDF) on a signed graph S = (G, ?) is a function f: V (S) ? {0, 1, 2} such that f(N[v]) ? 1 for every vertex v ? V (S) and any vertex v with f(v) = 0 has a neighbour u ? N + P (v) having f(u) = 2, where f(N[v]) = f(v) + ?u?N(v) ?(uv)f(u). The weight of an RDF is ?(f) = ?v?V f(v) and the minimum weight among all the RDFs on S is called the Roman domination number, ?R(S). In this article we explore the concept of edge criticality in signed graphs admitting an RDF by examining the signed graphs S such that ?R(S+uv) < ?R(S), for any pair of non-adjacent vertices u and v of S, such that the edge uv is positive. This work is licensed under https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ -
Financial Inclusion as a Tool for Social Equity: A Focus on the Elderly and Underprivileged
Financial inclusion is a key element in reducing poverty and promoting economic growth, particularly for vulnerable groups such as the elderly and the poor. This article explores the multiple barriers that these groups face in accessing financial services, including economic constraints, discrimination, and lack of identification and credit history. The report highlights the special challenges that older people face due to limited mobility and digital literacy. The study emphasizes the importance of a multi-faceted policy approach to improving financial inclusion, including developing simplified financial products, expanding financial literacy programs, and working with NGOs. The paper focuses on effective strategies and proposes interventions aimed at empowering these populations and improving their access to financial resources, ultimately supporting economic stability and reducing inequality. The findings highlight the need for policymakers and financial institutions to work together to address systemic barriers that impede the financial autonomy of vulnerable groups. The Author(s), under exclusive license to Springer Nature Singapore Pte Ltd. 2026. -
Measuring Support Providers Perspectives on Single-Session Therapy: Psychometric Evidence for SSTMS and BAT-Q
Objective: Effective Single-Session Therapy (SST) hinges on the support providers specific perspectives that align with SST thinking. This study provides validity evidence for the scores of the Belief and Attitude Toward Therapy Questionnaire (BAT-Q) and develops the Single-Session Therapy Mindset Scale (SSTMS). Method: A diverse global sample of 415 practicing and trainee mental health support providers involved with individual psychotherapy provided data online. Results: The BAT-Q demonstrated strong psychometric properties in our sample (Cronbachs ? = 0.833), confirming its continued relevance and reliability. Exploratory Factor Analysis helped with item reduction of the newly developed SSTMS. It demonstrated internal consistency (Cronbachs ? = 0.826) and significant correlations with the BAT-Q. Receiver operating characteristic curve analysis could identify a cutoff value of 46/60 on SSTMS to identify support providers with the mindset for successful SST practice. Conclusions: These scales empower researchers to explore SST implementation, training, and cultural impacts and support providers for self-assessment, ultimately advancing SST. 2026 Association for Assessment and Research in Counseling (AARC). -
Indian perspectives on single-session therapy: an initial qualitative study with psychiatric social workers
Single-Session Therapy (SST) is an emerging approach to mental-health service delivery that maximises the value of a single clinical encounter. It is gaining traction globally for its brevity and potential to address mental health concerns. This study explores perspectives of five Psychiatric Social Workers (PSWs) at a premier Indian psychiatric institute regarding SSTs suitability for the Indian population. Hybrid thematic analysis of a focus group discussion reveals both promising potential and significant challenges for adapting SST to the Indian context. Although participants noted that intentional one-time visits are currently uncommon at their institution, they identified SST as a responsive intervention for addressing caregiver burden and preventing relapse, suggesting its value as a responsive and opportunity-based intervention. Participants raised practical concerns regarding session structure, time constraints, and unpredictability of client return. Despite these cautions, they recognised SSTs potential to widen access to care in India. The discussion emphasises on need for specialised training, supervision, regulatory frameworks, and broader mental health promotion efforts to incorporate SST as a viable therapeutic intervention delivery method. This preliminary investigation serves as a valuable springboard for further research on the potential of SST in a country like India. 2026 GAPS. -
Prospects of Green Finance for a Sustainable Future: A Critical Study
Global initiatives for economic development started with the Industrial Revolution. However, it caused serious environmental issues. It necessitated to focus on ecofriendly developmental projects. Accordingly, the sustainable development paradigm has evolved to balance both environmental and developmental models. Although the UN affirmed sustainable development from 1987 onwards, its scope was elaborated with MDGs and SDGs. The declaration of SDGs in 2015 provided a framework for a global sustainable future. However, developing countries face financial hurdles in responding positively to the demands of SDGs that prioritize sustainable development and environmental protection. The OECD (2021) notes that developing countries experience 2.5 to 3.7 trillion dollars shortfall to meet the demands of SDGs. To address this complexity, developed countries, international institutions, and multinational and transnational corporations promoted green finance. From this perspective, this chapter critically evaluates the scope and functioning of green finance in light of a sustainable future. Copyright 2026, IGI Global Scientific. -
Role of BRICS in the International Relations of the 21st Century: A Critical Analysis Through the Lens of Multipolarity
Compared to the previous century, international relations in the 21st century are more intense and complex. The global order moved from multipolarity (pre-Second World War period) to bipolarity (post-Second World War period) to unipolarity (post-Cold War era). Although many believed that unipolarity would continue to exist for long under the superpower leadership of the USA, it was short-lived. Globalization, liberalization, and an open economy reshaped the international order that echoes interconnectedness and interdependence. Accordingly, the 21st century witnesses the revival of multipolarity. However, this period advances the emergence of developing countries to the global scenario, demanding active roles in policy-making and decision-making processes. The BRICS grouping is one such body. Consisting of ten emerging economies, it has a unique position to stand for the developing world's interests. From this perspective, this chapter critically examines the role of BRICS in 21st-century international relations through the lens of multipolarity. 2026 by IGI Global Scientific Publishing. All rights reserved. -
Aging Populations, Economic Growth, and Sustainable Development: A Policy Perspective
Over the last century (from 1925 to 2025), there has been a 311% growth in global population (from 2 billion to 8.22 billion). Scientific and technological advancements, increased educational and healthcare facilities, and active involvement of women in the labor market have contributed to this significant change. However, the globe faces an imbalance between the percentages of youth, working, and oldage populations. The decline in the fertility rate and an increase in longevity have contributed to the disproportionate growth of the old- age population. Although the increased life expectancy can be credited as a substantial achievement of society, there are complex discussions on the contributions of older people to economic growth. From this perspective, this chapter critically examines the role of the old- age population in enhancing economic growth and sustainable development of society. It also proposes specific policy suggestions for achieving the UN Decade of Healthy Aging objectives (2021- 2030) that align with the SDGs. 2026 by IGI Global Scientific Publishing. All rights reserved. -
Mental Health and Well-Being of Women in the Workplace: A Case Study of Bangalores Garment Industry
There has been a significant change in workplace dynamics over the last few decades. Women participate in all fields of the labour sector and hold key roles in numerous areas. They are qualified, skilled, and perform comparatively better than men in key positions. However, the working conditions in developing countries are not as progressive as in the developed world. It is particularly evident in the unorganised sector, such as the garment industry. Women workers are discriminated against based on gender and place of birth concerning wages, promotions, etc. They face job insecurity and financial burdens, which cause insecurities related to want, fear, and indignity. They also fail to balance workplace responsibilities and household activities as they lack support from their family members and the management. It adversely affects their mental health and well-being. From this perspective, this chapter employs the unstructured interview method to investigate the mental health and insecurities of women workers in Bangalore's garment industry. Copyright 2026, IGI Global Scientific Publishing. Copying or distributing in print or electronic forms without written permission of IGI Global Scientific Publishing is prohibited. Use of this chapter to train generative artificial intelligence (AI) technologies is expressly prohibited. The publisher reserves all rights to license its use for generative AI training and machine learning model development. -
Revisiting National Security and Economic Growth in the Context of Rising Military Spending
Military spending has increased substantially across the globe over the last few decades. The Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI) states that the 2024 global military expenditure accounted for almost 2.5% of the global GDP. All regions of the globe have increased their military spending regardless of the difference between developed and developing countries. The NATO members determined to increase their military spending to 5% of the GDP by 2035. It will force other nations to also engage in the battle of spending more on the military. Although the military spending is increased on the grounds of national security, it puts forward only a restrictive vision without prioritizing the people's genuine concerns, interests, and security. A people- centered understanding of national security is essential for guaranteeing a sustainable future that allocates the benefits of economic growth for people's well- being and societal welfare. This chapter, thus, critically examines the rising military expenditure in the context of national security and economic growth. 2026, IGI Global Scientific Publishing. All rights reserved. -
Sustainable Education and Economic Development: A Critique of the Kerala (India) Model
Education is essential for societys growth and economic development. From the UDHR, all international conventions, national constitutions, and enactments have prioritised education for transforming society. This became more explicit with the SDG4 (quality education). Based on the UDHR and SDG4 guidelines, India also prioritises augmenting the educational sector in its policies and programs. The national education policies provide a foundational framework for this effort. Although many researchers praise the Kerala model of education, several others sharply criticise it as not aligning with the demands of quality and job market requirements. In 2023, almost 250000 students emigrated from Kerala for educational purposes. The student emigration constitutes nearly 11.3% of the states total emigration, raising serious concerns about the quality of education. From this perspective, this chapter critically examines sustainable education and economic development aspirations, evaluating the educational landscape of the most literate state in India, Kerala. 2026 by IGI Global Scientific Publishing. All rights reserved. -
Digitalization and Human Rights: Navigating through Ethical and Legal Concerns
Digitalization became popular with the digital revolution of the late 20th century, propelling the shift from mechanical and analog electronic technology to digital electronics. It significantly contributed to all fields of human interactions, ensuring sustainable development, human well-being, and societal welfare. The latest innovations and constant changes in the technological world have broadened the scope of digitalization. Along withthe many advantages, digitalization poses some particular challenges to global society. Although these complexities can be attributed to system failures, they are primarily due to the misuse of digital technologies. Some people fraudulently use digitalization to satisfy their egoistic and profit-oriented motives, neglecting the fundamental claims of others. This shows that ethical principles and legal standards have not been adequately respected in the digital space. From this perspective, this chapter, using the critical analytical method, examines the required ethical and legal concerns to protect human rights in the digital space. Copyright 2026, IGI Global Scientific Publishing. Copying or distributing in print or electronic forms without written permission of IGI Global Scientific Publishing is prohibited. Use of this chapter to train generative artificial intelligence (AI) technologies is expressly prohibited. The publisher reserves all rights to license its use for generative AI training and machine learning model development. -
Leveraging Cybersecurity in the Context of Digital Arrest, Fraud, and Identity Theft: An Ethico-Legal Perspective
The cyber world is becoming increasingly complex due to the diverse nature of cybercrimes. Although crimes like fraud, harassment, and identity theft exist in both the cyber and physical worlds, their magnitude is unpredictably high in the cyber world. However, digital arrest fraud is unique to cyberspace. Digital arrest fraud and identity theft are the top-listed cybercrimes, causing unimaginable monetary loss, anxiety, depression, fear, and isolation among the victims. The current cybersecurity measures and tools, as well as the legal and ethical framework, fail to address the evolving nature of cybercrimes. Such a scenario demands more collaborative efforts and a renewed approach to ensure global cybersecurity. From this perspective, this chapter critically examines the evolving nature of cybercrimes and the available legal and ethical framework to underline the importance of leveraging cybersecurity through some required changes in the ethico-legal landscape. It argues for a globally accepted regulatory system and international cooperation to ensure cybersecurity. Copyright 2026, IGI Global Scientific Publishing. -
Blue Economy, Maritime Law, and SDGs: Converging AI and Climate-Smart Policies for a Sustainable Future
Oceans cover 72% of the Earths surface, constituting 99% of the living space by volume. By absorbing almost 25% of the carbon dioxide, it tries to prevent global warming. Oceans and maritime resources are becoming key players in international economic interactions, which has developed the idea of the blue economy. However, the increased economic interactions cause various insecurities, like interstate disputes, maritime zone confusions, piracy, terrorism, pollution, and illegal and unregulated exploitation of marine resources. This necessitated the advancement of maritime law with more possibilities and enforcement mechanisms. The interplay between the blue economy and maritime law is essential to realize Sustainable Development Goal No. 14. Their mutual dependence and empowerment are vital for conserving and promoting marine resources. From this perspective, this chapter, using qualitative methodologys critical analytical method, explores the possibilities of converging AI and climate-smart policies with the blue economy and maritime law framework to realize a sustainable future. Copyright 2026, IGI Global Scientific Publishing. Copying or distributing in print or electronic forms without written permission of IGI Global Scientific Publishing is prohibited. Use of this chapter to train generative artificial intelligence (AI) technologies is expressly prohibited. The publisher reserves all rights to license its use for generative AI training and machine learning model development. -
Japan and Human Security Policy Praxis: Relevance and Inclusiveness for Indo-Pacific Partnerships
Post-war Japan focused on promoting its national interests with limited engagement in international settings. Japan became a leading economy through its hard work and positive commitment by the 1980s. Thereafter, it gradually became involved in the international arena by supporting various developmental projects in developing countries. The advancement of the United Nations Development Programs (UNDP, 1994) human security paradigm provided a suitable framework for Japans foreign policy engagement. However, in the first decade of the 21st century, Japan and other leading actors in the Indo-Pacific region recognized the importance of partnerships in limiting Chinas biased expansion strategies. Accordingly, the Quad and the Indo-Pacific Economic Framework evolved. Compared to other actors in these partnerships, Japans prioritization of the human security paradigm makes it a significant player in the sustainable future of the Indo-Pacific region. From this perspective, this chapter critically examines Japans people-centered and inclusive human security policy praxis. 2026, IGI Global Scientific Publishing. -
Right to Internet Access vs. National Security Concerns: Addressing the Complex Questions of the Digital Era
The globe has made tremendous progress over the last few decades. The scientific and technological advancements have provided immense possibilities and opportunities to the world through the latest digitalization process. The present century is even termed as the digital era. Internet access is the most crucial element for the maximum utilization of digital technologies. Accordingly, the concept of digital rights evolved and identified the right to Internet access as the most essential digital right. However, several countries have not implemented this right as part of their human rights framework due to a lack of an international covenant or treaty. Besides, many countries violate the right to Internet access through many mechanisms, claiming national security grounds. In 2024, almost 300 Internet shutdowns happened across the globe, violating peoples fundamental rights. From this perspective, this chapter examines the relevance of Internet access and critically evaluates the national security defensive mechanism. 2026 by IGI Global Scientific Publishing. -
Drone Surveillance: Ethical Considerations for a Sustainable Future
The evolution of drones underlines the 20th-century scientific and technological progress. They evolved within the military context and remained within that circle for almost a century. The 21st century has increased the possibilities and opportunities of drones by incorporating Artificial Intelligence and machine learning technologies. Accordingly, drones are widely used in almost all fields of human inter-action. Among them, the use of drones for surveillance stands out due to its advantages and potential risks. The built-in cameras of the automated drones used not only by law enforcement agencies but also by private actors can collect personal information, raising serious ethical concerns. Although drone surveillance is beneficial to society, as it can restrict illegal activities and violations of human rights, it poses apprehensions concerning the privacy and security of people. From this perspective, this chapter examines the vital ethical considerations essential for realizing a sustainable future while using the method of drone surveillance. 2026 by IGI Global Scientific Publishing. All rights reserved. -
Revisiting Environmental Security and Climate Justice: A Human Security Perspective
A healthy and secure environment is essential to the survival of all living beings. Human interactions as individuals, social beings, and economic agents depend on the ecosystem. However, humans brutally exploited the ecosystem beyond its regenerating capacity, causing severe damage to environmental sustainability. This chapter employs a systematic review and thematic content analysis. The finding shows that humans profit-oriented and egoistic interests caused unparalleled damage to nature, resulting in global warming, biodiversity loss, and anthropogenic climate change. Such a precarious situation compelled global leaders to prioritize environmental security primarily through the 1987 sustainable development paradigm. In this regard, the United Nations Development Program (UNDP) introduced the human security paradigm in 1994 as a broader framework, encompassing environmental security as its core category. Both Millennium and Sustainable Development Goals echo the spirit of human securitys people-centered approach. From this perspective, this chapter critically revisits environmental security and climate justice through the lens of the human security paradigm. 2026 by IGI Global Scientific Publishing. All rights reserved. -
Poverty Eradication via Sustainable Human Development: A Human Security Approach
Poverty has been one of the major human insecurities throughout history. It became more evident in the aftermath of the Industrial Revolution. Though economic growth was suggested as an effective mechanism for poverty eradication, it severely increased inequality together with poverty. Realizing the importance of poverty eradication for human well-being, the United Nations initiated many policies and programs including Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) and Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Based on the framework of MDGs, the SDGs was moving towards the achievement of no poverty by 2030. But the Covid-19 pandemic slowed this pace, demanding more earnest effort from the international community. This chapter, in this perspective, using critical analytical method examines the possibility of human security approachs sustainable human development model for the realization of SDG1. The chapter advances human securitys all-inclusive and comprehensive human-centered sustainable development model as an effective mechanism for poverty eradication in the entire globe. Copyright 2026, IGI Global Scientific Publishing. Copying or distributing in print or electronic forms without written permission of IGI Global Scientific Publishing is prohibited. Use of this chapter to train generative artificial intelligence (AI) technologies is expressly prohibited. The publisher reserves all rights to license its use for generative AI training and machine learning model development. -
Poverty, globalization, and human security: A policy perspective
Poverty has been an ongoing insecurity to humanity. But it was mostly understood in relation to basic needs, income, and wealth. Bretton Woods Institutions and the World Trade Organization propagated globalization and its interconnectedness as capable mechanisms for poverty eradication. Although globalization takes the credit for alleviating poverty, many authors argue that it was the outcome of the successful welfare policies of China and India. Globalization is criticized for prioritizing the developed world's interests and its multinational and transnational corporations and equating development only with an increase in gross domestic product. However, together with interconnectedness, human insecurities like poverty and inequality also increased. The latest World Bank (2024) and World Inequality Lab (2022) data affirm this precarious situation. This chapter thus examines the feasibility of the United Nations Development Program's human security approach for a successful (national and international) poverty eradication program through its people- centered perspective. 2025, IGI Global Scientific Publishing. All rights reserved.