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From Beans to Business: A Rise of Coffee Preneurs in Kodagu, Karnataka
Coffee is the world's third most consumed beverage after water and tea. India stands at the 7th position as the largest coffee exporter globally, with a significant contribution of 72.5% from Karnataka and 33% from Kodagu alone. This region plays a crucial role in the country's coffee industry, making it a vital component of India's economy, and 80% of the residents of Kodagu rely on coffee cultivation for their livelihood. Coffee farming is considered an annual crop that requires the generated income to be cycled to the subsequent year's coffee cultivation. Planters face numerous challenges during their production, which forces them to sell or convert their agricultural lands into concrete lands (buildings) or convert them into resorts, thereby changing their occupation, which makes coffee sustainability questionable. Therefore, coffee farmers have recently adopted an entrepreneurial approach to augment their income sources and support their livelihoods and occupations. This study aims to assess the key drivers of coffee farmers opting for entrepreneurial activities to assist coffee farming in Kodagu, Karnataka. This study has revealed that additional income, passion for farming, business skills, available resources, opportunity, satisfaction, innovation, creativity, unfair market prices, education, and socialising platforms are the key determining factors for coffee farmers to choose entrepreneurship. The Author(s), under exclusive license to Springer Nature Switzerland AG 2025. -
From Belief to Bandwidth: Navigating Freedom of Religion or Belief in the Age of Algorithms
As our lives become increasingly intertwined with digital technology and way people experience and express religion is also continuously evolving. This one chapter explores how idea of FoRB is evolving in digital world over course of time, where smartphones, social media, algorithms have become everyday tools for faith, connection, control. While digital spaces can open up new opportunities for interfaith dialogue, spiritual exploration, community- building, they can also pose serious risks. Issues like online hate speech, digital surveillance, content moderation, algorithmic bias often challenge free expression of belief. This chapter will have a closer look at how FoRB operates in online environments by combining insights from international human rights law, digital sociology, case studies from around world. We here focus on examining how free belief truly is in age of internet, considering what it takes to protect that freedom when technology both connects and controls. 2026 by IGI Global Scientific Publishing. All rights reserved. -
FROM CLASSROOMS TO CLICKS: EXPLORING STUDENT ATTITUDES AND CHALLENGES IN THE SHIFT TO DIGITAL LEARNING IN HIGHER EDUCATION
Aim/Purpose This study is a cross-sectional survey that explores attitudes towards online classroom engagement, online assessments, exams, and challenges in digital learning. Background Educational institutions have adopted digital platforms with varying degrees of success. The COVID-19 pandemic has prompted researchers and academics to reflect on digital interventions and their impact on pedagogy, learning, and assessment. However, in the present circumstances, online teaching, learning, and assessment will require learners to bring their own ethics, unrestrained by external institutional rules. Methodology The sample consisted of 1,017 students in higher education across India. The researchers developed a tool, the Digital Learning Scale, which was built on three factors: attitude towards online classroom engagement, attitude towards online assessments, and challenges in digital learning. This tool was used to collect data. Contribution The study results prove the effect of online learning and online assessments in higher education institutions. Findings The significant findings of this study are: (1) approximately 50% of the students prefer that there should be a balance between online and offline teaching, learning and evaluation; (2) there is significant positive high correlation between the last online exam and last offline exam scores; (3) there is significant positive correlations between attitudes towards online class engagement, attitude towards online assessments and exams and challenges in digital learning; (4) 65% of the students agree that digital learning increases social isolation; (5) 55% of the students agree that incidence of cheating by the students in online exams is evident. Recommendations Educational institutions should invest in robust strategies to promote academic for Practitioners integrity, provide technical support, and offer training programs that equip students with the necessary digital skills for achieving successful learning outcomes. Impact on Society There is a pressing need to prioritise digital literacy and integrity initiatives. Future Research Five years post-pandemic, research should be conducted in higher education institutions on the impact of online learning. (2025), (Informing Science Institute). All rights reserved. -
From Clicks to Insights: AI's Impact on India's E-Commerce SMEs
This chapter examines the transformative role of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in revolutionizing operational and strategic aspects of Indian e- commerce SMEs. It explores how AI- driven technologies enhance operational efficiency, streamline inventory management, and personalize customer experiences, enabling SMEs to compete effectively in a rapidly digitizing marketplace. By analyzing case studies, such as Sephora's virtual assistant and 1822 Denim's virtual fitting rooms, the chapter illustrates the tangible benefits of tailored AI solutions. Also addresses challenges to AI adoption, including financial constraints, data quality issues, and organizational resistance, while emphasizing the importance of ecosystem support and change management. Furthermore, the chapter highlights future trends in AI and their implications for SMEs striving for innovation and sustainability. By offering actionable insights and strategic frameworks, this chapter provides a comprehensive guide for SMEs and stakeholders aiming to harness AI for growth and resilience in India's e- commerce sector. 2026 by IGI Global Scientific Publishing. -
From commitments to actions: Towards impactful, decisive, and resolute impact investment
The many threats of climate change make it important for us as a society to prioritize sustainability and build a greener economy. While there may be initial costs associated with implementing environmentally friendly practices, the long-term benefits are immeasurable. Impact investments have the potential to generate significant profits and also allow investors to support innovative solutions aimed at addressing many ecological challenges. This study analyses the policies that are necessary for facilitating transformative investments while striving towards low GHG emissions, climate-resilient development, and conserving biodiversity along with essential ecosystem services. The authors delve into the efforts made by the Asian Development Bank towards climate change financing and its impact investments, exploring their strategies until March 2023 with an understanding of how these efforts have impacted the environment and also various economic sectors across Asia, and analyse ADB's investment approaches to gain insights on how they are achieving SDGs through their climate finance initiatives. 2024, IGI Global. All rights reserved. -
From Concept to Clinic
Virtual reality (VR) is an innovative technology with various applications in fields such as simulation, gaming, sports, and entertainment. VR technology has extended its reach into the medical industry, leveraging computer-generated information and visuals to simulate real-world sensory experiences. Augmented reality (AR) is an expertise that covers computer-generated virtual objects onto the real world when it is seen through mobile phones, tablets, or AR glasses. VR and AR have started popular in 2016. Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a many-sided neurodevelopmental condition and is caused because of difficulties in social interaction, communication, and iterative behavior. ASD is increasingly predominant globally, touching roughly 2 in 100. If there is timely diagnosis and intervention, then there will be fewer problems. In recent years, AR and VR technologies have become one best option and novel means in the analysis and treatment of autism. Controlled environments that can imitate real-life social situations, contribution clinician's critical insights into the perceptions, and interactions of individuals with ASD in relation to their surroundings will be provided by AR and VR. These technologies assist customized intermediations, rendering them extremely adaptable to the distinct requirements of each individual. 2026 Scrivener Publishing LLC. -
From convenience to sustainability: Reimagining quick commerce in India
The concept of quick commerce, characterised by its promise of near-instant gratification through delivering goods and services within remarkably short time frames, has set new benchmarks for consumer expectations. However, this convenience often comes at an environmental cost, ranging from increased carbon emissions to excessive packaging waste. In this context, this paper aims to explore the sustainability of quick commerce in India, examining its business models and evaluating its impacts through the lens of the three pillars of sustainability: economic, social, and environmental. This research aims to provide a comprehensive overview of quick commerce, evaluate its viability and sustainability in India using case studies, and offer strategic suggestions to balance this sector's rapid growth with responsible business practices. Given the urgency of the sustainability issue in the quick commerce sector, this paper contributes to the ongoing discourse on how emerging business trends can align with sustainable development goals by providing a holistic view of quick commerce in India. 2025 by IGI Global Scientific Publishing. All rights reserved. -
From Credentials to Careers: Evaluating Micro-Credentials Role in Placement Outcomes
The labor market complicates career entry, making alternative credentials crucial for employability. Micro-credentials help learners gain skills recognized for hiring and promotions, bridging the skills gap. Digital badges, Coursera certificates, and industry-backed credentials are common, but do they foster micro-skills (sub-skills of major competencies) that enhance job placement? This study examines whether micro-credentials create micro-skills and improve undergraduate placements in. 2026 by IGI Global Scientific Publishing. All rights reserved. -
From data to decisions: Harnessing AI and big data for advanced business analytics
This chapter focuses on the idea of business analytics through AI and aims to address how AI has emerged as a powerful force in augmenting and replacing traditional human-computer interactions in the realm of business analytics. AI-powered analytics can uncover hidden patterns, detect anomalies, and automate decision-making processes, significantly augmenting the efficiency and accuracy of data analysis. Thus, the purpose of this chapter is two-fold. First, the chapter sheds light on business analytics, big data, and big data analytics through AI. It delves into the theories of machine and deep learning and their synergy with big data analytics. Secondly, the authors analyze a case study to substantiate our theory. ML-based prediction models using stock market data are developed to underline the significance of adopting AI-driven approaches for business analytics. 2024, IGI Global. All rights reserved. -
From Dharma to Dialogue: A Scoping Review of Couple Interventions Based on Buddhist Wisdom
There has been a surge of interest in interventions based on Buddhist traditions in the domain of relational therapy research. Our scoping review aimed to present a comprehensive overview of the current research landscape on this topic. Through systematic selection criteria, we identified 16 studies. We discovered that these interventions predominantly focused on mindfulness or compassiontwo pillars taken from the Buddhist tradition. Although the findings are varied, the collated evidence indicates that Buddhism-based interventions are promising in improving physical, mental, and relational health for individuals and dyads. However, the sustainability of these benefits needs to be examined. A point of concern is the possible dilution of the practices effectiveness when stripped of their comprehensive, traditional Buddhist context. We conclude from this review that while interventions such as mindfulness- and compassion-based programs can positively affect well-being, their efficacy might be constrained when these practices are detached from their broader, original Buddhist context. Therefore, future research should expand the field to develop intervention programs that maintain the integrity of holistic Buddhist wisdom to enhance relationship health and well-being. The Author(s), under exclusive licence to Springer Science+Business Media, LLC, part of Springer Nature 2025. -
From Exclusion to Inclusion: Empowering LGBT Integration with Allies, Workplace Strategies and Family Role Models
The workplace encounters challenge due to the absence of inclusive environments, resulting in potential loss of top-tier talent, diminished productivity and diminished business performance. This research endeavours to construct a comprehensive framework for the integration of Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender (LGBT) individuals, focusing on embedding gender and sexual minorities. This study examines the relationship between diversity-friendly workplace management and LGBT integration through advocacy by allies (ABA) and family role modelling. The research framework is constructed based on the principles of sociometric, signalling and family systems theory and is undertaken within the Indian IT/ITES sector, involving 546 employees across 9 technology parks through a survey methodology. The analysis was carried out utilizing Smart PLS software, employing structural equation modelling and making predictions using partial least squares. Mediation and moderation analyses were performed. Findings demonstrate that effective management of diversity-friendly workplaces has a favourable impact on the integration of LGBT individuals in work environments. Results also suggest that ABA plays a supporting role in this relationship through complementary mediation, while the influence of family role modelling is moderated. This study contributes substantially to both theoretical understanding and managerial practices. A cross-cultural, longitudinal and a qualitative perspective could have added more insights to the study. 2025 Management Centre for Human Values -
From Fabric to Function: Decoding Athleisure Wear Adoption through Fit-inspired Lifestyle and Social Influence; [Od tkanine do funkcionalnosti: analiza sprejemanja portno-elegantnih obla?il skozi zdrav ivljenjski slog in drubeni vpliv]
Athleisure wear has emerged as a prominent trend in the fashion industry, particularly among educated youth in India, and is driven by a growing focus on fitness, health and comfort. This study, based on the stimulus-organism-response model, examines the factors influencing athleisure wear purchase intention, with a focus on fit-inspired lifestyle, perceived product quality, social influence and brand reputation. The study examines how these factors influence enclothed cognition, ultimately impacting purchase intention. Partial least squares-structural equation modelling, based on the two-step approach, was employed using SmartPLS 4.0 software for data analysis. Data collected from young consumers in Bangalore indicated that a fit-inspired lifestyle, perceived product attributes and social influence had a positive influence on enclothed cognition, while brand reputation did not show a significant relationship. Additionally, enclothed cognition was found to be a significant predictor of purchase intention. The results suggest that the alignment of athleisure wear with a fit-inspired lifestyle, functional attributes and social validation plays a crucial role in shaping purchase intention. The study offers practical insights for marketers to focus on lifestyle alignment, product functionality and social engagement in their marketing strategies. The findings also highlight a shift in consumer behaviour where experiential and value-driven factors, such as product benefits and lifestyle fit, outweigh traditional brand reputation. Future research should include exploring diverse demographic segments, longterm behavioural patterns and the impact of sustainability and cultural values on purchase behaviour in the area of athleisure wear. 2026, University of Ljubljana Press. All rights reserved. -
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From Fossil Fuels to Green Finance: Economic Indicators and Circular Economy Transitions in Indias Renewable Energy Landscape
Previous studies have explored the economic and environmental factors that affect the growth of renewable energy, suggesting that crude oil prices, coal prices, and foreign investment are crucial for promoting green energy within the circular economy. This model promotes sustainability, resource efficiency, waste reduction, and the continuous use of energy, which fits hand in hand with the goals of renewable energy development. The relationship between carbon emissions and investments in renewable energy has been both positive and negative results according to studies based on their research in i.e. a positive relationship due to government conduct of low carbon footprints and circular economies in their research. Moreover, the effects of per capita income on the growth in the field of green energy is often oriented towards higher economic resources to promote sustainable development on this path strengthening the principles/circular economy. Broader application of these insights, this study investigates certain determinants of growth in the Green Energy Index of India and analyzes various economic and environmental factors over the past five years. By means of stationarity test, correlation analysis and multiple regression techniques, the relationship between these variables is studied. It helps them focus on specific obstacles and drive forward the transition to renewable energy, an essential element of the circular economy, which the study finds is positively impacted by per capita income and crude oil prices, clear evidence of the interplay between economic resources and investments in renewables. Nonetheless, the index demonstrates a negative co-relationship with coal prices, indicating the negative effect of being reliant on coal on the advance of green energy. The Green Energy Index was also found to have no meaningful relationship with foreign capital and carbon emission. The paper concludes by emphasizing that Green energy index of India may significantly improve through increased investments in energy generation through renewable resources in circular economy context. It recommends that further study should consider a longer time series analysis and more companies in this field to provide a clearer picture of the relationship between these variables and green energy expansion. 2025 The Editor(s) (if applicable) and The Author(s), under exclusive license to Springer Nature Switzerland AG. -
From knowledge tradition to knowledge economy : Positive interludes in India higher education /
International Journal Of Educational Planning & Administration, Vol.5, Issue 1, pp.19-23, ISSN No: 2249-3093. -
From Linear to Circular: A Holistic Strategy for Sustainable Development in Emerging Economies
The immediate upheaval for transitioning and slipping from mundane linear system to deliberately choosing sustainable and equitable circular economy system has been in airs, suggesting its shared benefits and changed outlook. The current research paper proposes a framework RE-GENO which supports the design of responsible circular economy practices and argues that this framework can act as a preliminary tool for improving and expanding the decision-making context for a more equitable transition through use of artificial intelligence. The research papers have discussed the idea of transitioning from linear economy that results in generation of large amount of waste to a circular economy which leads to sustainable form of consumption and have further highlighted the challenges followed by it and application of artificial intelligence in its transition. They have given different frameworks which could form base of transitioning into it but at the same time, there has not been enough insight on implementation of it in Indian based economy. This research paper brings up a modified version for a framework whose main aim is to provide a new base for moving to circular economy and focusing on strategies on its efficient implementation in developing nation like India. It is found that application of this framework in India requires multifaceted approach that integrates all aspects such as technology, education, government initiatives and monitoring through risk analysis to foster sustainable growth, production, and consumption. Hence, the paper suggests that successful implementation might open the way for more sustainable and efficient resource management strategies across a variety of businesses. 2025 The Editor(s) (if applicable) and The Author(s), under exclusive license to Springer Nature Singapore Pte Ltd. -
From Madras to Tanzania: Exploring Nurse Migration in Benyamins Nishabda Sancharangal
This chapter examines Nishabda Sancharangal (Benyamin, 2020), a Malayalam Novel that reconstructs the life of a Syrian Christian woman from Central Travancore who pursued nursing education in colonial Madras. In 1941, her journey took her to Borneo in the Malay Archipelago and later to various locations across the British Empire, culminating in her tragic death in Ifakara, Tanzania, in 1954. By weaving together fragmented accounts from diverse sources, the novel maps her silent and often-overlooked migration within the Empire. Her letters to her family serve as crucial narrative devices, revealing her motivations and sacrifices. She willingly endured hardship, war, and relentless toil to secure a better future for her family who faced their own internal migration from Central Travencore to North Malabar in search of cultivable land. The chapter also examines the transformations within the Syrian Christian community in the early twentieth century, shaped by socio-economic crisis in the agrarian sector and patterns of both internal and transcontinental migration. The novel highlights the transition from a predominantly agrarian way of life to one defined by migration and care labour, positioning these shifts within the broader colonial enterprise. Through this lens, the chapter explores the far-reaching impact of empire on the rural lives of an agrarian community, illuminating the intersections of labour, gender, and displacement. The Author(s), under exclusive license to Springer Nature Singapore Pte Ltd. 2025. -
From Mass Campaigns to Phygital Governance: Health Literacy, Policy Advertising, and Reform Pathways in India
Over seven decades, Indias health literacy journey has progressed from traditional mass campaigns to integrated phygital governance, blending physical outreach with digital communication. This paper examines the evolution of health communication, policy advertising, and reform through the lens of Indias Five- Year Plans (19512017). It traces the shift from school- based civic education and rural health campaigns to technologically enabled, participatory Information, Education, and Communication (IEC) strategies. While health literacy has remained a core national priority, persistent gaps in equity, access, and behavioral outcomes endure. The study underscores the need for phygital inclusion, participatory communication, and data- driven governance to strengthen public health systems and ensure equitable, sustainable health literacy for all citizens in the digital age. 2026 by IGI Global Scientific Publishing. All rights reserved. -
From maximum force to the field equations of general relativity and implications
There are at least two ways to deduce Einstein's field equations from the principle of maximum force c4/4G or from the equivalent principle of maximum power c5/4G. Tests in gravitational wave astronomy, cosmology, and numerical gravitation confirm the two principles. Apparent paradoxes about the limits can all be resolved. Several related bounds arise. The limits illuminate the beauty, consistency and simplicity of general relativity from an unusual perspective. 2022 World Scientific Publishing Company.