RESEARCH REVIEW International Journal of Multidisciplinary
हिंदी में पढ़ें | ગુજરાતી માટે ક્લિક કરો RESEARCH REVIEW International Journal of Multidisciplinary is a double-blind peer-reviewed, open-access academic journal committed to advancing knowledge across a wide spectrum of disciplines through multidisciplinary research. The journal serves as a platform for scholars, practitioners, and researchers from diverse academic backgrounds to publish original and high-quality work that bridges disciplinary boundaries and fosters innovative thinking. The journal welcomes submissions in multiple languages — English, Hindi, and Gujarati — to promote inclusive academic communication and support linguistic diversity in global scholarship. Journal Information Journal Start Year: January 2016 Journal Title: RESEARCH REVIEW International Journal of Multidisciplinary ISSN (Online): 2455-3085 Impact Factor: 6.93 Crossref DOI: 10.31305/rrijm Frequency of Publication: Monthly (12 Issues per Year) Languages: English, Hindi, Gujarati Accessibility: Open Access Peer Review Process: Double Blind Peer Review Subject Coverage: Multidisciplinary Plagiarism Checker: Turnitin (Licensed) Publication Format: Online Article Acceptance Rate: 18% – 29% Contact Details Contact No.: +91-99784 40833 Email: editor@rrjournals.com Old Website: https://old.rrjournals.com/ New Website: https://rrjournals.com/ Address: 15, Kalyan Nagar, Shahpur, Ahmedabad, Gujarat – 380001 Key Features of RRIJM Journal was listed in UGC with Journal No. 44945 (Till 14-06-2019) Journal publishes online every month Online article submission system Standard double-blind peer review process
A Study on Impact of Leverage on Profitability Towards Selected Consumer Durable Companies
For a subset of consumer durable companies, this study examined the relationship between financial leverage and earnings per share (EPS) and operating leverage and EPS. The amount of assets obtained through the use of debt and equity share capital is expressed as financial leverage. Understanding the current liquidity status of some consumer durable companies, including Voltas Ltd., Crompton, Whirlpool, and Bajaj Electronics, is a further objective of this research. Some of these businesses have a significant relationship between financial and operating leverage and EPS (earnings per share). As a result, this study examines how these choices affect shareholder profits as well as earnings before interest and taxes. To achieve the goals of the current study, ratio and correlation analysis have been used. The study was conducted between the fiscal years 2018-19 to 2022-23. The study collected data from consumer durables company’s annual reports and official websites during a five-year period. Finally, this research suggested that in order to enhance profitability, the impacted consumer durable concern should minimize its usage of debt in the capital structure and fixed costs in its operations.
The political Ecology of Famine: British Canal Colonies and Hydraulic Alteration in the Punjab (1880-1930)
Incorporated into the context of British colonialism, the Punjab Canal Colonies is one of the largest efforts to transform the agrarian landscape in South Asia, spanning from 1885 to 1940. This work discusses British policies for allocating land grants in these colonies as well as the economic, political and social consequences of such policies. The British built lengthy canal systems, lasting for many years, in the semi-arid areas of western Punjab, and made these wastelands into productive farmland. This change alone had led to the conversion of less than 3 million acres to some 14 million acres of irrigated land by 1947, which allowed more than 1 million peasants to be settled. The research emphasizes the logic behind the land allotment policies which were devised to appease and "reward" loyal chiefs, landlords (zamindars), military pensioners, and other important elites, promoting political stability and bolstering colonial authority. Also, the colonies were mainly responsible for the commercialization of agriculture, specifically wheat and cotton, for the industrial needs of Britain. The study also examines socio-economic restructuring of rural Punjab and its consequences like the migration of people, the rise of the market towns and displacement of the native pastoral communities. This research examines the canal settlement and agricultural production in critical perspective of the canal revenue records and reveals the developmental and exploitative aspects of canal colonization. Above all, the canal colonies transformed the agrarian economy, and established new power structures which had lasting effects on regional society and post colonial agricultural systems
Socio-Economic Characteristics of Siliguri Municipal Corporation: A Ward-Level Analysis
Urbanisation is one of the most significant processes shaping the demographic, economic and spatial transformation of developing countries. In India, medium and large cities have emerged as centres of economic growth, migration, infrastructure development and service expansion. Siliguri Municipal Corporation (SMC), popularly known as the "Gateway of North-East India", represents one of the fastest-growing urban centres in eastern India. Owing to its strategic geographical location, excellent transport connectivity and expanding commercial functions, Siliguri has experienced remarkable socio-economic transformation during the last three decades. The present study examines the socio-economic characteristics of Siliguri Municipal Corporation at the ward level using Census of India data and secondary information obtained from various government publications. The study analyses population growth, household characteristics, population density, literacy, sex ratio, Scheduled Caste and Scheduled Tribe population, workforce structure, housing conditions and access to basic urban amenities. Descriptive statistical techniques, percentage analysis and comparative methods have been employed to examine inter-ward variations in socio-economic development. The findings indicate that Siliguri has experienced rapid population growth primarily due to migration, commercial expansion and improved urban infrastructure. Considerable disparities exist among municipal wards regarding literacy, housing quality, sanitation, workforce participation and access to civic amenities. The older central wards exhibit better socio-economic conditions than many recently incorporated peripheral wards. Increasing population pressure has also generated challenges including traffic congestion, environmental degradation, shortage of affordable housing, inadequate drainage and uneven provision of municipal services. The study concludes that sustainable urban planning, equitable infrastructure development, improved housing policies and efficient municipal governance are essential for balanced urban growth in Siliguri. The findings may assist planners, administrators and policymakers in formulating evidence-based strategies for future urban development.
The Evolution of Higher Education: Current Trends, Challenges, and Future Prospects
The global higher education landscape is undergoing a profound structural and ideological paradigm shift, accelerated by rapid technological advancement and changing socioeconomic demands. This article critically examines the evolutionary trajectory of higher education, tracing its transition from exclusive physical knowledge repositories to borderless, digital ecosystems. We analyze current macro-trends, including the mainstream integration of hybrid "click-and-brick" modalities, the proliferation of stackable micro-credentials geared toward lifelong learning, and the infusion of generative artificial intelligence (AI) into specialized curriculum design. Concurrently, the paper investigates the systemic challenges generated by this transition: specifically, the cognitive trade-offs associated with over-reliance on AI, widening digital infrastructure disparities among under-resourced institutions, and mounting financial sustainability crises under volatile governance models. Looking toward future horizons, we project that the sector will coalesce around data-informed predictive pedagogy, interdisciplinary and flexible academic pathways, and a renewed commitment to education as an equitable social project. Ultimately, this study offers a strategic framework for institutional leaders and policymakers aiming to balance market agility with academic integrity in an increasingly automated world.
Leadership and Growth of Coastal Karnataka: Contributions of R.V. Deshpande
Leadership plays a decisive role in shaping regional development by mobilizing resources, influencing public policy, and creating institutional frameworks for sustainable growth. Coastal Karnataka, comprising the districts of Dakshina Kannada, Udupi, and Uttara Kannada, has emerged as one of the economically dynamic regions of Karnataka due to its strong industrial base, educational institutions, ports, fisheries, tourism, agriculture, and service sector. Although Shri R.V. Deshpande represented the Haliyal constituency in Uttara Kannada district, his contribution extended beyond his constituency to the broader development of Coastal Karnataka. As Minister for Industries, Large and Medium Industries, Infrastructure Development, Tourism, and Commerce, he introduced policies and promoted investments that accelerated industrialization, tourism, infrastructure, entrepreneurship, and employment generation throughout the coastal belt. This article examines the leadership qualities and developmental initiatives of R.V. Deshpande and evaluates their contribution to the growth of Coastal Karnataka.
Cultural Influences on Perceptions of Mental Health
Mental health is not a culturally neutral construct; the way distress is experienced, labelled, explained, and treated is deeply shaped by the beliefs, values, and social structures of the community in which a person lives. This paper reviews contemporary literature on cultural influences on the perception of mental illness, drawing on studies from South Asian, East Asian, Latinx, African, and Western contexts. A narrative and thematic synthesis of peer-reviewed and grey literature was undertaken to examine six recurring themes: (a) biomedical versus supernatural and spiritual explanatory models of illness, (b) somatization as a culturally patterned idiom of distress, (c) stigma and its influence on help-seeking behaviour, (d) gendered patterns of perception and stigma, (e) acculturation and migration as moderators of mental health literacy, and (f) the role of cultural competence in clinical practice. Findings indicate that while the underlying forms of psychological suffering appear broadly similar across societies, the content, expression, and social meaning attached to that suffering vary considerably, and these variations have measurable consequences for diagnosis, treatment-seeking, and recovery. A comparative summary table drawing on the reviewed studies is presented to illustrate how explanatory models, stigma levels, and preferred help-seeking pathways differ across cultural settings. The review concludes that culturally responsive mental health care, which acknowledges indigenous explanatory models alongside biomedical ones, is essential for reducing global disparities in mental health outcomes.
From Philosophy to Practice: Reflected Values in Learners Shaped by Tagore’s Educational Vision
This paper presents an empirical exploration of how Rabindranath Tagore’s educational philosophy manifests in the value preferences of students at Patha Bhavan, Santiniketan, an institution founded on his pedagogical ideals. Using a self-developed Value Survey comprising 18 values derived from Tagore’s teachings, data were collected from 50 secondary and higher secondary students. Quantitative analysis through frequency distribution, median calculation, and rank ordering revealed a distinct value hierarchy. Humanity emerged as the most internalised value, followed by Confidence and Freedom. In contrast, Innovativeness was identified as the least prioritised. The findings demonstrate a strong alignment between Tagore’s humanistic, freedom-centric vision and the value orientation of the students, validating the role of an ideologically grounded educational environment in shaping ethical and conscious individuals. However, the lower ranking of values such as Innovativeness, Inquisitiveness, and Scientific Temper suggests areas for pedagogical refinement to fully realise Tagore’s integrated and creative vision of education. This study contributes to the discourse on value-based education by providing a methodological framework for assessing the congruence between educational philosophy and student value internalisation.
Plea Bargaining and the Right to Fair Trial: A Legal Dilemma
This research studies the complex relationship between plea bargaining and the fundamental right to a fair trial within the Indian legal system. Plea bargaining serves as a practical bridge between traditional adversarial trials and the urgent necessity for judicial efficiency. In the Indian context, this mechanism allows an accused person to admit guilt in exchange for specific concessions, such as a reduction in charges or a more lenient sentence, primarily to address the massive backlog of cases and the crisis of undertrial prisoners. Currently, nearly 70% of India’s prison population consists of undertrials, many of whom remain unaware of their eligibility for such settlements. The legal framework has recently transitioned from Chapter XXI-A of the CrPC to the BNSS, 2023. A significant change under Section 290 of the BNSS is the introduction of a strict 3rd day window for filing applications after charges are framed, intended to prevent the process from being used as a delaying tactic. However, successful dispositions remain below 5% of criminal filings, highlighting a persistent gap in awareness and legal access between urban and rural areas. A central dilemma identified in this study is whether an accused person can truly exercise free will when waiving their right to a full defence under the pressure of a slow and expensive legal system. Judicial interpretations, such as the 2026 ruling in Amanat Ali v. State of Haryana, have clarified that the court must not be a silent observer but an active protector of constitutional rights. The judiciary emphasises that the presence of a defence lawyer and a thorough inquiry by the magistrate are mandatory safeguards to prevent institutional coercion. The research concludes that while plea bargaining supports the right to a speedy trial under Article 21, it faces significant ethical and socio-economic challenges. Without robust judicial monitoring and mandatory legal aid, the process risks becoming a tool of convenience that unfairly pressures marginalised individuals. This paper advocates reforms that prioritise restorative justice and procedural integrity, ensuring that efficiency does not override the essential fairness promised to every citizen.
Eco friendly synthesis of silver nanoparticles using Azadirachta indica and their biomedical application
Nanotechnology has emerged as one of the fastest-growing interdisciplinary fields due to its extensive applications in medicine, agriculture, electronics, catalysis, and environmental remediation. Among metallic nanomaterials, silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) have gained considerable scientific attention because of their unique physicochemical, optical, catalytic, and biological properties. Conventional physical and chemical methods used for AgNP synthesis frequently involve hazardous reducing agents, high energy consumption, and environmentally toxic by-products, limiting their biomedical applicability [1,2]. Consequently, green synthesis approaches utilizing biological resources have attracted substantial interest as sustainable and eco-friendly alternatives [3]. Azadirachta indica (Neem), a medicinal plant rich in flavonoids, terpenoids, polyphenols, alkaloids, tannins, and azadirachtin, has been extensively explored as a reducing and stabilizing agent for biosynthesis of AgNPs [4,5]. Neem-mediated AgNPs exhibit enhanced antimicrobial, antioxidant, antifungal, anti-inflammatory, anticancer, wound healing, biosensing, and drug delivery properties owing to synergistic interactions between silver and phytochemicals [6,7]. Despite significant advances, several challenges including variability in nanoparticle size, lack of standardized synthesis protocols, toxicity concerns, and limited clinical validation continue to hinder biomedical translation [8]. Unlike previous reviews focusing broadly on plant-mediated nanoparticle synthesis, this review critically emphasizes neem phytochemistry, mechanistic pathways of AgNP formation, characterization techniques, biomedical applications, toxicological considerations, clinical limitations, and future prospects. Furthermore, recent advances, research gaps, and translational challenges associated with neem-mediated AgNPs are comprehensively discussed to provide future directions for sustainable nanomedicine research.
The Role of Robots in Human Development and Behavior
The rapid advancement of robotics and artificial intelligence has significantly transformed human life, influencing cognitive, emotional, social, and behavioral development. Robots are now integrated into education, healthcare, workplaces, and domestic environments. This descriptive research paper examines the role of robots in shaping human development and behavior through a comprehensive review of existing literature. The study highlights benefit such as enhanced learning and emotional support, while also addressing ethical and psychological challenges.
A Study of the Impact of Learning Environment and Learning Style on the Problem-Solving Ability of Secondary Level Students
At the secondary level, students' problem-solving ability is an important dimension of their cognitive, emotional, and social development. This ability is not limited merely to the intellectual level but also reflects students' capacity to think, understand, make decisions, and cope with real-life situations. For effective problem-solving, it is essential to develop analytical thinking, creativity, self-confidence, and a spirit of cooperation among students. In this context, the role of the learning environment becomes highly significant. A collaborative, motivating, and resource-rich learning environment provides students with opportunities to ask questions, conduct experiments, and explore various solutions. On the other hand, a teacher-centered and one-dimensional environment may limit students' active participation. Along with this, learning style also influences problem-solving ability, as each student acquires knowledge differently through visual, auditory, kinesthetic, or mixed learning styles. Therefore, it is evident that by adopting a favorable learning environment and implementing teaching-learning processes that align with students' learning styles, the problem-solving ability of secondary-level students can be effectively developed. Abstract in Hindi Language: माध्यमिक स्तर पर विद्यार्थियों की समस्या-समाधान क्षमता उनके संज्ञानात्मक, भावनात्मक एवं सामाजिक विकास का एक महत्वपूर्ण आयाम है। यह क्षमता केवल बौद्धिक स्तर तक सीमित नहीं होती, बल्कि विद्यार्थियों के सोचने-समझने, निर्णय लेने तथा वास्तविक जीवन की परिस्थितियों का सामना करने की योग्यता को भी प्रतिबिंबित करती है। प्रभावी समस्या-समाधान के लिए विद्यार्थियों में विश्लेषणात्मक चिंतन, सृजनात्मकता, आत्मविश्वास तथा सहयोग की भावना का विकास आवश्यक है। इस संदर्भ में अधिगम वातावरण की भूमिका अत्यंत महत्वपूर्ण हो जाती है। सहयोगात्मक, प्रेरक एवं संसाधन-सम्पन्न अधिगम वातावरण विद्यार्थियों को प्रश्न पूछने, प्रयोग करने तथा विभिन्न समाधान खोजने के अवसर प्रदान करता है। वहीं, शिक्षक-केन्द्रित और एकांगी वातावरण विद्यार्थियों की सक्रिय भागीदारी को सीमित कर सकता है। इसके साथ-साथ अधिगम शैली भी समस्या-समाधान क्षमता को प्रभावित करती है, क्योंकि प्रत्येक विद्यार्थी दृश्य, श्रव्य, क्रियात्मक या मिश्रित शैली के माध्यम से ज्ञान को भिन्न-भिन्न प्रकार से ग्रहण करता है। अतः यह स्पष्ट है कि अनुकूल अधिगम वातावरण और विद्यार्थियों की अधिगम शैलियों के अनुरूप शिक्षण-अधिगम प्रक्रिया अपनाकर माध्यमिक स्तर पर विद्यार्थियों की समस्या-समाधान क्षमता को प्रभावी रूप से विकसित किया जा सकता है। Keywords: माध्यमिक स्तर, समस्या समाधान क्षमता, अधिगम वातावरण, शिक्षण-अधिगम और अधिगम शैली।
Ruskin Bond and Indian Children's Literature: A Critical Study of Themes, Style, and Contribution
Children's literature plays a vital role in shaping the imagination, values, and intellectual growth of young readers. In India, Ruskin Bond occupies a distinguished position as one of the most influential writers for children. His stories, novels, essays, and memoirs have entertained generations of readers while simultaneously imparting moral values and fostering a love for nature and humanity. This paper examines Ruskin Bond's contribution to children's literature, focusing on the major themes, narrative techniques, characterization, and educational significance of his writings. The study argues that Bond's simple language, realistic portrayal of childhood, and celebration of nature have made his works timeless and relevant. Through a critical analysis of selected texts, the paper highlights Bond's role in enriching Indian children's literature and inspiring young readers.
Trauma and Cultural Memory Studies in the Select Works of Manjula Padmanabhan
This article examines the politics and poetics of trauma and cultural memory in five works by the Indian playwright and novelist Manjula Padmanabhan: the plays Harvest (1997), Lights Out (1986/2000), and Hidden Fires (2003), and the speculative novels Escape (2008) and The Island of Lost Girls (2015). Drawing on the trauma-theoretical apparatus developed by Cathy Caruth, Dominick LaCapra, and Shoshana Felman and Dori Laub, on Marianne Hirsch's concept of post memory, on Jan and Aleida Assmann's distinction between communicative and cultural memory, on Pierre Nora's lieux de mémoire, and on the postcolonial recalibrations of these frameworks by Michael Rothberg and Stef Craps, the article argues that Padmanabhan's oeuvre constitutes a sustained literary intervention into three intersecting registers of South Asian traumatic experience: the structural violence of neoliberal globalisation upon the racialised and gendered Third-World body; the domestic and urban violence inflicted upon women in late twentieth-century Indian cities; and the communal, sex-selective, and biopolitical violence that has marked the post-Independence subcontinent. Through close reading and theoretical analysis, the article demonstrates that Padmanabhan stages trauma not only as an event but as a temporal and representational impasse, and that her texts function as counter-memorial archives that resist the consolations of official commemoration. The article contributes to the broader project of pluralising trauma theory beyond its Euro-American canonical scene, and proposes that Padmanabhan's writing be read as a sustained, multimodal experiment in what may be termed speculative postmemory.
Library as an Essential Component in the National Education Policy 2020: A Critical Analysis
The NEP 2020 refers to the National Education Policy 2020. The Government of India presented this policy document in July 2020. The National Education Policy 2020 recognizes the significant role libraries play in creating a culture of reading as a crucial part of lifelong learning. It also emphasizes the need to achieve this goal by providing adequate resources and trained librarians. However, the transformation of libraries goes beyond just access to physical and digital resources. It also involves reimagining the space as a vibrant hub for learning, collaboration, and innovation. The NEP 2020 promotes the development of interactive library spaces that inspire students and community members to think critically and creatively. Additionally, the policy emphasizes integrating libraries into the broader educational ecosystem to enrich and supplement the educational process. This includes working together with neighborhood organizations, universities, and educational institutions to engage a variety of populations and reach a larger audience. The importance of libraries in conserving indigenous and local knowledge is emphasized in NEP 2020. It promotes the growth of community libraries that act as repositories of traditional knowledge, cultural history, and folklore. In this sense, libraries serve as centers for academic pursuits and guardians of the nation's rich cultural legacy. The NEP 2020 lays out a thorough plan for libraries to become more than just places to store books; they will become hubs for inclusive education, cultural preservation, and creativity.
Knowledge Sharing among University Students in Vietnam: Current Practices and Solutions in the Context of Digital Transformation
Knowledge sharing has become an important topic in higher education, particularly in the context of digital transformation, where digital technologies have reshaped the way students access, exchange, and collaborate on knowledge. Although previous studies have highlighted the importance of knowledge sharing in learning environments, research on knowledge-sharing practices among university students in Vietnam remains limited in scope and context. Existing studies have mainly focused on specific regions or individual factors, making it difficult to obtain a comprehensive understanding of student knowledge sharing practices within the current digital learning environment. This study aims to examine the current situation of knowledge sharing in Vietnamese higher education and propose solutions to improve knowledge sharing practices. The findings highlight that while digital technologies facilitate knowledge sharing, technology alone cannot ensure active participation. Effective knowledge sharing requires a combination of digital infrastructure, information literacy, academic integrity, supportive leadership, and a strong culture of collaboration within educational institutions. This study contributes to the literature on knowledge management and higher education by providing insights into knowledge sharing practices in the Vietnamese context and suggesting directions for fostering more effective knowledge exchange in digital learning environments.
Organizational Justice in Baking Sector –A Confirmatory Factor Analysis
This study explores the dimensions of organizational justice and their impact on employees’ perceptions of fairness within the workplace. Using exploratory factor analysis (EFA), the research confirmed the suitability of the data, as indicated by a high Kaiser-Meyer-Olkin (KMO) value and a significant Bartlett’s Test of Sphericity. After addressing multicollinearity, thirteen items were retained for analysis. Principal Component Analysis (PCA) with Varimax rotation extracted three distinct factors explaining 77.22% of the total variance: Procedural Justice – Flawless and Ethical Procedures, Distributive Justice – Outcomes Justifying Performance, and Informational Justice – Supervisory Support. Procedural justice emerged as the most influential dimension, highlighting the importance of consistent, unbiased, and ethical procedures. Distributive justice emphasized fair outcomes aligned with employee contributions, while informational justice underscored the critical role of supervisors in providing clear and adequate communication. The findings suggest that perceptions of organizational justice are shaped by fair processes, equitable rewards, and effective supervisory communication, offering a robust framework for enhancing workplace fairness and organizational practices.
Digital India and Electoral Reforms: The Impact of Special Intensive Revision on the Modernization of Electoral Rolls
“Digital India and Electoral Reforms: The Impact of Special Intensive Revision on the Modernization of Electoral Rolls” focuses on analyzing the role of administrative reforms and technological interventions in India’s electoral process. India is the world’s largest democracy, and the accuracy and updation of electoral rolls form the foundation of free, fair, and transparent elections. The Digital India initiative has utilized Information and Communication Technology (ICT) to make electoral systems more transparent, accessible, and responsive. Through the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) process, efforts have been made to correct errors in electoral rolls, remove duplicate entries, update the details of deceased or migrated voters, and register new voters. The primary objective of this study is to examine how the technological measures implemented under the Digital India programme and the Special Intensive Revision process have modernized electoral rolls, and to assess their impact on electoral transparency, administrative efficiency, and democratic strengthening. The study also explores future challenges related to the digital divide, data security, and privacy concerns. The research adopts descriptive and analytical approaches. The study is primarily based on secondary sources, including government reports, policy analyses, documents published by the Election Commission, research articles, and official statistics obtained from digital platforms. Comparative and content analyses of the available data have been undertaken to evaluate changes in the quality of electoral rolls before and after the implementation of these reforms. The major findings of the study indicate significant improvements in the accuracy, transparency, and updation of electoral rolls through the use of Special Intensive Revision and digital tools. The reduction of duplicate entries, availability of online registration facilities, and enhanced data management capabilities have made electoral administration more streamlined and efficient. However, issues such as limited digital literacy in rural areas and concerns related to data security continue to require attention and improvement. Overall, the study demonstrates that electoral reforms under Digital India are emerging as an important step toward making the democratic system more robust, reliable, and trustworthy. Abstract in Hindi Language: “डिजिटल इंडिया और चुनावी सुधार: यह लेख “मतदाता सूची के आधुनिकीकरण में विशेष गहन पुनरीक्षण का प्रभाव” पर केंद्रित है, जिसमें प्रशासनिक सुधारों और तकनीकी हस्तक्षेप की भारत की चुनावी प्रक्रिया में भूमिका का विश्लेषण किया गया है। भारत विश्व का सबसे बड़ा लोकतंत्र है और निष्पक्ष और पारदर्शी चुनावों का आधार मतदाता सूची की शुद्धता और अद्यतनता है। डिजिटल इंडिया अभियान ने सूचना एवं संचार प्रौद्योगिकी का उपयोग करके चुनावी व्यवस्थाओं को अधिक पारदर्शी, सुलभ और उत्तरदायी बनाया है। विशेष गहन पुनरीक्षण (SIR) प्रक्रिया के माध्यम से मतदाता सूचियों में त्रुटियों को सुधारने, डुप्लीकेट नामों को हटाने, मृत या स्थानांतरित मतदाताओं के विवरणों को अद्यतन करने और नए मतदाताओं का पंजीकरण करने का प्रयास किया गया है। इस अध्ययन का मुख्य उद्देश्य यह है कि डिजिटल इंडिया कार्यक्रम में लागू तकनीकी उपायों और विशेष गहन पुनरीक्षण प्रक्रिया ने मतदाता सूची को आधुनिक बनाया है और इन सुधारों का चुनावी पारदर्शिता, प्रशासनिक क्षमता और लोकतांत्रिक सुदृढ़ीकरण पर क्या असर पड़ा है। साथ ही, यह अध्ययन डिजिटल विभाजन, डेटा सुरक्षा और गोपनीयता से संबंधित भविष्य की चुनौतियों को भी देखता है। अनुसंधान प्रक्रिया वर्णनात्मक और विश्लेषणात्मक दृष्टिकोणों का उपयोग करती है। यह अध्ययन मुख्यतः द्वितीयक स्रोतों पर आधारित है; ये स्रोतों में सरकारी रिपोर्टें, नीतिगत विश्लेषण, चुनाव आयोग द्वारा प्रकाशित दस्तावेज, शोध लेख और डिजिटल प्लेटफॉर्म से प्राप्त आधिकारिक आँकड़े शामिल हैं। उपलब्ध आंकड़ों का तुलनात्मक और विषयवस्तु विश्लेषण करने का प्रयास किया गया है ताकि पूर्व और पश्चात मतदाता सूची की गुणवत्ता में क्या बदलाव आया है। अध्ययन के मुख्य निष्कर्षों से पता चलता है कि मतदाता सूची की शुद्धता, पारदर्शिता और अद्यतनता में काफी सुधार हुआ है, क्योंकि विशेष गहन पुनरीक्षण और डिजिटल साधनों का उपयोग किया गया है। डुप्लीकेट प्रविष्टियों की कमी, ऑनलाइन पंजीकरण की सुविधा और डेटा प्रबंधन की क्षमता ने चुनावी प्रशासन को अधिक सुव्यवस्थित बनाया है। तथापि, ग्रामीण इलाकों में डिजिटल साक्षरता की कमी और डेटा सुरक्षा से जुड़े मुद्दे अभी भी सुधार की आवश्यकता दर्शाते हैं। कुल मिलाकर, यह अध्ययन दिखाता है कि चुनावी सुधार डिजिटल इंडिया में लोकतांत्रिक प्रणाली को अधिक मजबूत और विश्वसनीय बनाने की दिशा में एक महत्वपूर्ण कदम बन रहे हैं। Keywords: डिजिटल इंडिया, चुनावी सुधार, मतदाता सूची, विशेष गहन पुनरीक्षण, ई-गवर्नेंस।
Teacher Education under NEP 2020: A SWOC-Based Assessment
India's National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 marks a significant change in the country's education system, striving to reshape it from early childhood to higher education. Its core objective is to improve teacher education to develop a skilled educator workforce. Teachers' knowledge, dedication, quality, professional commitment, and motivation contribute to high-quality education and student achievement. A teacher's job has grown increasingly complicated due to new pedagogical and psychological theories, philosophy, sociology, globalisation, and today's ever-growing body of knowledge. Today's teacher education programmes must be well thought out and creative. Producing such teachers might seem a challenging task. In this context, it is appropriate to analyse the educational policy document, especially concerning teacher education. Therefore, this paper presents a SWOC (strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and challenges) analysis of NEP 2020 regarding teacher education.
The Nature of Devotional Philosophy in the Literature of Saint Rajjab: An Analytical Study
Saint Rajjab occupies an important position in the Nirguna Bhakti tradition of Hindi saint literature. He is regarded as one of the main disciples of Dadu Dayal, and his teachings reflect an integrated form of devotion, love, separation (Viraha), the glory of the Guru, remembrance of the Divine Name, and spiritual practice. The present research paper undertakes an analytical study of the philosophy of devotion embedded in the literature of Saint Rajjab. The primary objective of the study is to elucidate Rajjab’s perspective on devotion, its philosophical foundations, and its social and spiritual significance. Rajjab considered the worship of the Nirguna (formless) and Nirakara (attributeless) Brahman as the highest form of devotion. According to him, God is not confined to any particular form, caste, class, or religious boundary; rather, He is a universal power pervading the entire creation. The fundamental basis of Rajjab’s devotion is the remembrance of the Divine Name (Nama-Smarana), which he regarded as the simplest and most accessible means of attaining God. In his view, sincere remembrance of God with a pure heart is more significant than external rituals, pilgrimages, vows, and religious ostentation. The role of the Satguru is extremely important in Rajjab’s devotional practice. He believed that the Guru liberates the seeker from illusion, ignorance, and delusion, thereby paving the way for the realization of God. The sentiment of Viraha (spiritual longing and separation) also occupies a distinctive place in his teachings and appears to be influenced by Sufi philosophy of love. Through Viraha, he expressed the intense yearning of the soul for union with the Supreme Being. Furthermore, his writings reveal the influence of Nathpanthi yogic practices, particularly the concept of Ajapa-Japa (effortless and continuous remembrance of the Divine Name). Rajjab regarded desire, ego, attachment, and worldly entanglements as the major obstacles on the path of devotion and considered devotion to God as the most effective means of overcoming them. Abstract in Hindi Language: हिंदी संत साहित्य की निर्गुण भक्ति धारा में संत रज्जब का महत्वपूर्ण स्थान है। वे दादूदयाल के प्रमुख शिष्यों में गिने जाते हैं तथा उनकी वाणी में भक्ति, प्रेम, विरह, गुरु-महिमा, नाम-स्मरण और आध्यात्मिक साधना का समन्वित स्वरूप देखने को मिलता है। प्रस्तुत शोध-पत्र में संत रज्जब के साहित्य में निहित भक्ति-दर्शन का विश्लेषणात्मक अध्ययन किया गया है। अध्ययन का मुख्य उद्देश्य रज्जब की भक्ति-दृष्टि, उसके दार्शनिक आधार तथा सामाजिक-आध्यात्मिक महत्त्व को स्पष्ट करना है। रज्जब ने निर्गुण एवं निराकार ब्रह्म की उपासना को भक्ति का सर्वोच्च स्वरूप माना है। उनके अनुसार ईश्वर किसी विशेष रूप, जाति, वर्ग अथवा धार्मिक सीमाओं में बंधा हुआ नहीं है, बल्कि वह समस्त सृष्टि में व्याप्त सार्वभौमिक सत्ता है। रज्जब की भक्ति का मूल आधार नाम-स्मरण है, जिसे उन्होंने ईश्वर-प्राप्ति का सबसे सरल और सुलभ साधन माना है। उनकी दृष्टि में बाह्य कर्मकांड, तीर्थ, व्रत तथा आडंबर की अपेक्षा निष्कपट हृदय से किया गया ईश्वर-स्मरण अधिक महत्त्वपूर्ण है। रज्जब की भक्ति-साधना में सतगुरु की भूमिका अत्यंत महत्त्वपूर्ण है। वे मानते हैं कि गुरु ही साधक को माया, अज्ञान और भ्रम से मुक्त कर ईश्वर-साक्षात्कार का मार्ग प्रशस्त करता है। उनकी वाणी में विरह-भावना का भी विशिष्ट स्थान है, जो सूफी प्रेम-दर्शन से प्रभावित प्रतीत होती है। विरह के माध्यम से उन्होंने आत्मा और परमात्मा के मध्य मिलन की उत्कट आकांक्षा को अभिव्यक्त किया है। साथ ही उनकी रचनाओं में नाथपंथी योग-साधना, विशेषतः अजपा-जाप की अवधारणा का भी प्रभाव दृष्टिगोचर होता है। रज्जब ने तृष्णा, अहंकार, मोह और सांसारिक आसक्तियों को भक्ति-पथ की प्रमुख बाधाएँ माना है तथा उनसे मुक्ति के लिए ईश्वर-भक्ति को सर्वोत्तम उपाय बताया है। Keywords: संत रज्जब, भक्ति-दर्शन, निर्गुण भक्ति, नाम-स्मरण, गुरु-महिमा, विरह, अजपा-जाप, संत साहित्य, दादूपंथ, आध्यात्मिक चेतना।
A Comparative Study of Classical and Modern English Literature
English literature has undergone significant transformations from the Classical period to the Modern age, reflecting changes in social, cultural, philosophical, and literary values. Classical English literature is characterized by its emphasis on order, reason, balance, moral instruction, and adherence to established literary conventions. In contrast, Modern English literature emerged as a response to rapid industrialization, world wars, scientific developments, and changing human consciousness, emphasizing individual experience, psychological depth, experimentation, and innovation in literary forms. This paper presents a comparative study of Classical and Modern English literature by examining their major themes, stylistic features, literary techniques, and representative authors. It explores how Classical writers focused on universality, rationality, and social order, whereas Modern writers highlighted subjectivity, fragmentation, alienation, and the complexities of modern life. The study further analyzes the contributions of prominent literary figures from both periods and evaluates the evolution of literary expression across time. The paper concludes that while Classical and Modern literature differ considerably in their approaches, both have played a vital role in shaping the development of English literary tradition and continue to influence contemporary literary thought and criticism.
Effects of Genocide Against the Tutsi Survivors’ Parenting Styles on Youth’s Mental Health in Rwanda: A Case of Kigali City
Background: The 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi in Rwanda left profound psychological scars that continue to influence family dynamics and the well-being of the second generation. This study investigated the effects of parenting styles adopted by genocide survivors on the mental health status of their youth in Kigali City, addressing a critical gap in understanding intergenerational trauma transmission in urban post-conflict settings. Methods: A quantitative cross-sectional research design was employed. The target population comprised genocide survivor households across the three districts of Kigali City (Gasabo, Kicukiro, and Nyarugenge). Using a stratified two-stage cluster sampling technique, a sample of 376 parent-youth dyads was targeted, yielding a final analytical sample of 305 respondents (an 81.1% response rate). Data were collected using structured, interviewer-administered surveys featuring the Four-Factor Parenting Style Questionnaire and the General Health Questionnaire-12 (GHQ-12), which were translated and validated in Kinyarwanda. Data analysis involved Pearson correlation and multiple linear regression using SPSS. Results: The combined multiple regression model demonstrated strong explanatory power, accounting for 55.9% of the variance in youth mental health outcomes (R² = .559, p < .001). Uninvolved parenting emerged as the strongest positive predictor of youth psychological distress (β = .475), followed by authoritarian (β = .306), authoritative (β = .150), and permissive (β = .110) parenting styles. Notably, the unexpected positive association between authoritative parenting and youth distress highlights the complex influence of unresolved parental trauma and hyperarousal, where even warmth-and-structure-oriented practices may inadvertently transmit distress in this specific post-genocide context. Conclusion: Parenting styles significantly shape the mental health of youth in post-genocide Rwanda, with emotional disengagement and rigid control posing the highest risks. However, the pervasive impact of historical trauma means that family-level processes require specialized attention. The findings underscore the urgent need for trauma-informed, family-centered interventions that simultaneously address parental historical wounds and reshape parent-youth dynamics to foster psychological resilience in the younger generation.
Yoga Nidra and Academic Performance: A Descriptive Literature Review
In the present time, students are facing increasing academic competition, examination-related pressure, and mental stress, which adversely affect their academic performance. Yoga Nidra is an effective relaxation technique of Yoga that is considered helpful in strengthening mental balance and psychological health. The present study is based on a descriptive literature review, with the objective of analyzing the relationship between Yoga Nidra and academic performance. For this study, research papers, books, and review articles published from 2010 to 2025 were examined. The available literature revealed that Yoga Nidra is helpful in reducing stress and anxiety and in developing concentration, memory, cognitive ability, and emotional balance. All these factors positively influence the academic performance of students. Abstract in Hindi Language: वर्तमान समय में विद्यार्थियों को बढ़ती शैक्षणिक प्रतिस्पर्धा, परीक्षा संबंधी दबाव तथा मानसिक तनाव का सामना करना पड़ रहा है, जिससे उनके शैक्षणिक प्रदर्शन पर प्रतिकूल प्रभाव पड़ता है। योग निद्रा योग की एक प्रभावी विश्राम तकनीक है, जो मानसिक संतुलन एवं मनोवैज्ञानिक स्वास्थ्य को सुदृढ़ करने में सहायक मानी जाती है। प्रस्तुत अध्ययन एक वर्णनात्मक साहित्य समीक्षा पर आधारित है, जिसका उद्देश्य योग निद्रा एवं शैक्षणिक प्रदर्शन के मध्य संबंध का विश्लेषण करना है। अध्ययन हेतु वर्ष 2010 से 2025 तक प्रकाशित शोध-पत्रों, पुस्तकों एवं समीक्षा लेखों का अध्ययन किया गया। उपलब्ध साहित्य से ज्ञात हुआ कि योग निद्रा तनाव एवं चिंता को कम करने तथा एकाग्रता, स्मृति, संज्ञानात्मक क्षमता एवं भावनात्मक संतुलन को विकसित करने में सहायक है। ये सभी कारक विद्यार्थियों के शैक्षणिक प्रदर्शन को सकारात्मक रूप से प्रभावित करते हैं। Keywords: योग निद्रा, शैक्षणिक प्रदर्शन, तनाव, एकाग्रता, स्मृति, संज्ञानात्मक विकास
Artificial Intelligence-Based Digital Marketing and Consumer Buying Behaviour in the Electronics Sector
Artificial Intelligence (AI) has become a key component of modern digital marketing, significantly influencing consumer buying behaviour in the electronics sector. AI-powered tools such as personalized recommendations, chatbots, predictive analytics, and automated advertising help businesses understand consumer preferences and deliver customized experiences. These technologies enhance customer engagement, improve decision-making, and increase purchase intentions. This study examines the impact of AI-based digital marketing on consumer buying behaviour in the electronics industry. It highlights how AI-driven strategies contribute to customer satisfaction, brand loyalty, and purchasing decisions while also addressing concerns related to privacy, trust, and ethical use of consumer data. The study concludes that AI plays a vital role in shaping consumer behaviour and is transforming the future of digital marketing in the electronics sector.
Indian Maritime Policy in the 21st Century: An Analysis of Strategic Challenges and Emerging Opportunities
The maritime domain has emerged as a critical arena of economic connectivity, geopolitical competition, and strategic engagement in the twenty-first century, particularly within the Indo-Pacific region. As a nation strategically located in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR), India increasingly views maritime affairs as central to its national security, economic growth, and regional influence. This paper examines the evolution of India's maritime policy, focusing on its key pillars, including maritime security, naval modernization, maritime diplomacy, SAGAR, and the Blue Economy. It analyzes major challenges such as China's expanding presence in the Indian Ocean, maritime terrorism, piracy, climate change, cyber threats, and vulnerabilities in maritime trade routes, while also highlighting opportunities arising from the Blue Economy, port-led development, connectivity corridors, technological innovation, and regional cooperation. The study argues that India's maritime policy has evolved into a multidimensional strategy aimed at strengthening security, economic development, and regional leadership. It concludes that a coherent and integrated maritime approach is essential for achieving India's vision of becoming a leading maritime power in the Indo-Pacific by 2047.
Environmental Problems Arising from Mining Activities in Tijara Tehsil and Prospects for Sustainable Development
Alwar district of Rajasthan is a highly significant and mineral-rich region, where mining activities related to stone, gravel, and construction materials are extensively carried out, particularly in Tijara Tehsil. In recent years, rapid industrialization, urbanization, and infrastructure development have led to a substantial increase in the demand for mineral resources, resulting in the expansion of mining operations. Although these activities have contributed to regional economic growth, employment generation, and industrial development, they have also given rise to serious environmental imbalances and ecological challenges. The present research paper analyzes the environmental problems caused by mining activities in Tijara Tehsil from a geographical perspective. The study provides a detailed examination of major impacts such as air pollution, decline in groundwater levels, contamination of water sources, land degradation, reduction in agricultural productivity, loss of biodiversity, and noise pollution. Furthermore, it highlights the effects of mining on local livelihoods, public health, and the social structure of the region. The study also explores the possibilities of achieving sustainable development while addressing the environmental challenges associated with mining activities. Abstract in Hindi Language: राजस्थान का अलवर जिला खनिज संपदा की दृष्टि से अत्यंत समृद्ध एवं महत्त्वपूर्ण क्षेत्र है, जहाँ विशेष रूप से तिजारा तहसील में पत्थर, बजरी तथा निर्माण सामग्री से संबंधित खनन गतिविधियाँ व्यापक स्तर पर संचालित की जाती हैं। विगत वर्षों में औद्योगिकीकरण, नगरीकरण तथा आधारभूत संरचनाओं के तीव्र विकास के कारण खनिज संसाधनों की मांग में उल्लेखनीय वृद्धि हुई है, जिसके परिणामस्वरूप खनन कार्यों का विस्तार हुआ है। यद्यपि इन गतिविधियों ने क्षेत्रीय अर्थव्यवस्था, रोजगार सृजन तथा औद्योगिक विकास को प्रोत्साहन प्रदान किया है, तथापि इनके कारण पर्यावरणीय असंतुलन एवं पारिस्थितिक संकट की समस्याएँ भी गंभीर रूप से उभरकर सामने आई हैं। प्रस्तुत शोध-पत्र में तिजारा तहसील में संचालित खनन गतिविधियों के फलस्वरूप उत्पन्न पर्यावरणीय समस्याओं का भौगोलिक दृष्टिकोण से विश्लेषण किया गया है। अध्ययन में वायु प्रदूषण, भूजल स्तर में गिरावट, जल स्रोतों के प्रदूषण, भूमि क्षरण, कृषि उत्पादकता में कमी, जैव विविधता के ह्रास तथा ध्वनि प्रदूषण जैसे प्रमुख प्रभावों का विस्तृत विवेचन किया गया है। साथ ही स्थानीय जनजीवन, स्वास्थ्य एवं सामाजिक संरचना पर पड़ने वाले प्रभावों को भी स्पष्ट किया गया है। Keywords: खनन, पर्यावरणीय प्रभाव, तिजारा तहसील, भूमि क्षरण, जल प्रदूषण, सतत विकास।
Copper Sulphate Saline Etching: An Approach of Nontoxic Printmaking in Contemporary Indian Art
Toxicity is a major problem that aligns with chemical pollution affecting the environment and human health. Many commonly used hazardous art materials cause pollution within studios and have toxic effects on those involved in art practice. Especially in conventional printmaking, materials such as chemicals, acids, and petroleum-based solvents are hazardous and highly toxic. It is important to note that many non-hazardous alternatives for all four major methods of printmaking (relief, intaglio, planography, and stencil) have been developed since the late twentieth century by advanced printmakers around the world. Awareness of toxicity and sustainable art practices has been widely disseminated through internet platforms and various workshops, camps, and residency programmes in advanced countries since the beginning of the twenty-first century. However, non-toxic printmaking materials are highly expensive and are not readily available in the Indian market. Despite that, a few Indian printmakers have begun to practise non-toxic practices by sourcing and arranging the required materials from those available in the local market. Copper sulphate saline etching, also known as salt etching, is a process of intaglio matrix-making for aluminium and zinc plates that is non-hazardous and safer than conventional etching methods. The practice of this medium has been expanding in both institutional and contemporary contexts. This text discusses the activity and practice of “copper sulphate saline etching" and its outcomes in key Indian printmaking centres such as Delhi, Kolkata, and Santiniketan. The study focuses on qualitative research approaches that have inspired printmakers to explore new directions in Indian printmaking.
Current recommendations for immunization in children with cancer: A narrative review
Pediatric cancers are one of the leading causes of death by disease among children world-wide, with non-cancer related morbidity and mortality burden due to vaccine preventable diseases being disproportionately high in developing countries. Besides standard-dose chemotherapy, groundbreaking therapeutic approaches - Monoclonal antibodies (MA), small molecule Janus kinase inhibitors (JKI), Chimeric antigen receptor T cell (CAR-T Cell) Therapy and Immune check point inhibitors (ICI) - have revolutionized oncology. This narrative review, collated until April 2026, elucidates key principles and enumerates relevant immunization strategies recommended by leading international bodies. The Infectious Diseases Society of America (IDSA) 2013 and Italian Association Paediatric Haematology Oncology (AIEOP) 2025 guidelines recommend ‘only routine immunization/continuation with boosters’ (resuming the schedule starting from the suspended dose) starting 3-6 months after chemotherapy completion. In contrast, the British ‘The Children and Young People's Cancer Association’ (CCLG) 2026 and Australian Immunization Handbook 2026 guidelines explicitly recommend revaccination with a single dose (even if the series had been completed prior to chemotherapy), commencing 3 months after chemotherapy completion. Live vaccines are contraindicated during cancer therapy. Live vaccines should be administered at least 4 weeks prior to commencing treatment with MA. Due to strong immunosuppressive effects on B-cells and hypogammaglobulinemia, for Blinantunomab [Anti-CD19], Inotuzumab-ozogamicin [Anti-CD22], Rituximab and Obinutuzumab [Anti-CD20], non-live vaccines are to be administered 6 months after stopping therapy, while live vaccines can be administered 12 months later. For Brentuximab-vedotin [Anti-CD30] and Gentuzumab-ozogamicina [Anti-CD33], non-live vaccines are to be administered 4 and 5 weeks respectively after stopping therapy, while live vaccines can be administered 3 months later. Live vaccines are recommended 2-4 weeks before or at least 3 months after JKI therapy ends. Live vaccines should be administered at least 4 weeks before commencing pre-CAR-T conditioning regimens. Non-live vaccines are to be administered at least 3 months after stopping CAR-T regimen. Live vaccines can be administered after 12 months provided there is evidence of immune restitution (CD19+ or CD20+ B cells > 0.2 × 109/L and CD4+ T cells > 0.2 × 109/L), evidence of detectable IgA, and at least 8 months since the last intravenous immunoglobulin dose. All live vaccines must be completed 4 weeks before the first ICI infusion, or administered at least 3 months after the final ICI dose. Routine sibling/contact vaccinations should continue except for oral poliomyelitis vaccine, which is contraindicated.
Chimeric antigen receptor T-cell therapy
Quality Dimensions of Pre-Service Secondary Teacher Education in Odisha: An Empirical Assessment of Infrastructure, Faculty Preparedness, Pedagogical Practices and Internship Experiences
Teacher education plays a pivotal role in determining the quality of school education. The present study examined the implementation of pre-service secondary teacher education programmes in Odisha in relation to the provisions of the National Council for Teacher Education (NCTE) Regulations, 2014. A descriptive survey design was employed to collect data from five B.Ed. institutions affiliated with Utkal University. The sample comprised 198 student teachers, 15 teacher educators, and institutional heads. Data were collected through structured and expert-validated questionnaires focusing on physical infrastructure, faculty qualifications, pedagogical practices, and internship modalities. The findings revealed that while the sampled institutions largely complied with basic infrastructural norms prescribed by NCTE, significant deficiencies were observed in inclusive education facilities, appointment of pedagogy specialists, and utilisation of technology for teaching-learning. Lecture and discussion methods continued to dominate classroom transactions, whereas ICT-integrated and learner-centred approaches were employed only to a limited extent. Although internship programmes provided substantial school exposure, their duration remained below the mandatory requirement of twenty weeks. The study further identified a persistent gap between theoretical preparation and classroom practice. The study concludes that strengthening faculty quality, ensuring inclusive infrastructure, enhancing technology integration, and improving internship implementation are essential for improving the quality of teacher education in Odisha.
Electronic Word of Mouth and Impulsive Buying Behaviour in Online Shopping: A Heuristic-Systematic Model Perspective
The increase in the number of digital platforms has changed consumer information systems. Electronic word-of-mouth (eWOM) has emerged as one of the most influential factors shaping online purchasing decisions and impulsive buying behaviour among digital consumers. Academic interest in eWOM and impulsive buying behaviour (IBB) has increased. However, a theoretical explanation of the cognitive processes connecting these two constructs has yet to be developed. In this study, we examine the Heuristic-Systematic Model (HSM) as a theoretical framework for explaining how eWOM characteristics trigger distinct cognitive processing paths. Consequently, it mediates impulsive buying behaviour in general e-commerce settings. We propose a conceptual model grounded in the fundamental theory of consumer behaviour, information processing theory and the latest empirical research. eWOM stimuli trigger either heuristic or systematic processing. Heuristic activation is the more likely antecedent of impulsive purchase decisions. Six theoretical propositions were made along with a discussion of the moderating variables. This study contributes to the development of theory and practical knowledge of digital consumer behaviour and offers avenues for future empirical research.
Prevalence and Predictors of Sleep Quality among Institutionalized Elderly: A Cross-Sectional Study
Introduction: Ageing is accompanied by physiological and psychosocial changes, among which sleep disturbances are highly prevalent. Poor sleep quality contributes to cognitive decline, reduced functional ability, and diminished quality of life. Institutionalized elderly are particularly vulnerable, making systematic assessment of sleep essential Methods: A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted among 100 elderly residents of selected old age homes in Madurai. Data were collected using a structured proforma and the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI), a validated tool comprising 19 items across seven components. Descriptive and inferential statistics were applied to analyze demographic variables and their association with sleep quality. Results: The findings revealed that nearly all participants experienced sleep disturbances, with 48% reporting moderate difficulties, 47% mild difficulties, and only 1% reporting good sleep. Regression analysis showed that age was the only significant determinant of sleep quality (p < 0.001), while other demographic variables such as gender, education, marital status, financial dependency, and chronic illness did not show significant associations. Conclusion: Poor sleep quality is highly prevalent among institutionalized elderly, with advancing age being the strongest predictor of sleep disturbances. These results highlight the need for comprehensive interventions—medical, psychosocial, and lifestyle-based—to improve sleep health and overall well-being in this vulnerable population.