Nano entrepreneurship refers to the creation and management of extremely small- scale businesses, often with limited resources and infrastructure. Inclusive growth, on the other hand, aims to ensure that economic development benefits all segments of society, particularly the marginalized and underprivileged. Nano entrepreneurship can play a vital role in promoting inclusive growth by providing opportunities for economic participation and empowerment.

In India, the demand for gold is deeply rooted in the country's cultural heritage, traditional values, aesthetic appeal, and desire for financial security. The government implemented various measures, including import and export restrictions, to regulate domestic gold demand. India's gold policy underwent significant changes between 1962 and 2024. These policies had a legal framework and impacted the socio-economic landscape. The gold policy enabled the government to mobilize funds through gold sales at various times. Gold also has fiscal implications, as part of its demand is driven by black money. The government believes that utilizing private gold stocks can help balance payments and promote fiscal reforms. In response to economic challenges, the government introduced timely modifications to the gold policy. Efforts were made to reduce smuggling by curbing gold demand and increasing transparency in the gold trade. These policy shifts have influenced gold's performance in India. The policy reforms have also encouraged some gold retailers to adopt organized practices and adhere to the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) mark of quality. This research aims to review India's gold policy reforms and their implications from 1962 to 2020.

Gold Investment in India: A Shift towards Sovereign Gold Bonds In India, gold is an integral part of tradition and culture, with most investors purchasing jewellery, coins, and biscuits before 2015. However, this form of investment comes with additional costs, such as locker facility fees for safekeeping. To address this, the Central Government launched three gold schemes on November 5, 2015, including the Sovereign Gold Bond (SGB) scheme, which is the focus of this study. The SGB scheme aims to discourage physical gold purchases and offer a secure and convenient investment platform. Backed by the Reserve Bank of India, SGBs are considered a safer alternative to physical gold, denominated in grams, and are substitutes for physical gold. This study examines the impact of SGBs on market liquidity, RBI's gold reserves, and Indian festivals, as well as their effect on physical gold demand and other investments.

Women entrepreneurs play a crucial role in enhancing the economic and social development of the society. Women are able to improve their social status in the society by active participation in entrepreneurship. This study helps to examine the social empowerment of urban and rural women entrepreneurs. This study compares various factors such as financial independence, decision making freedom, family recognition and support, improvement in self-confidence, active participation in community groups, overcoming gender-based barriers and expression of opinions in the society among the urban and rural women entrepreneurs of Palghar district. The survey was conducted among 104 women entrepreneurs of Palghar district through a multiple-choice questionnaire. The findings indicate that urban women entrepreneurs are more socially empowered than the rural women entrepreneurs.

In India, we have witnessed remarkable changes in our economy especially in financial sector one of the major reform is implementation of Liberalization, Privatization and Globalisation. It has impacted banking sector to a new revolution along with that in 90s Merchant banking was also popularized. In America, merchant banking is concerned with mobilising savings of people and directing their funds to business enterprise. Here, in India the need for specialized merchant banking services was felt with the rapid growth of the number and size of the issues made in the primary market. Nowadays, new entrepreneurs with new ideas, new innovations and new technology are entering the market for developing their own business and they would require a person who can transform their ideas into a venture. And then merchant bankers comes into the picture as they plays a vital role as a promoter, advisor, rehabilitator and an agent or intermediary for corporate enterprise. This study will enable us to know the role played by merchant banker in developing entrepreneurship in India.

The vision of Viksit Bharat 2047 focus on India as a developed nation with an aim to develop financial markets and whole economy. An important component of this vision is the development of the financial sector. Merchant banking is responsible for increasing economic growth, infrastructure development, and financial growth. This paper explores the working of merchant banking in the respect of Vision Viksit Bharat 2047, focusing on its contributions to capital formation, infrastructure financing, mergers and acquisitions (M&A), and advisory services. Through the analysis of selected banks, the paper evaluates the current scenario, challenges, and potential strengths to enhance the effectiveness of merchant banking in achieving this national goal of viksit bharat 2047. As India aims to become a developed nation by 2047, the efficiency and customer satisfaction within the banking sector, particularly in merchant banking, are crucial. Through a survey of 20 respondents and secondary data analysis, this paper examines the challenges, opportunities, and customer experiences related to merchant banking services, drawing insights into how these services can contribute to the realization of Vision– Viksit Bharat 2047.

The process of economic growth is strong-minded by financial and non-financial elements. It helps to make national output for nation's growth. However, the basic problem is to increase the supply of entrepreneurs which series of socioeconomic conditions and appropriate personal motivations. Therefore, that encouragement of entrepreneurs is need of time. The present study based on primary data collection. The performance of Prime Minister Employment Generation Programme (PMEGP) is the main theme of the study. The study emphasizes on entrepreneurs in Palghar district. Majority of the beneficiaries are higher educated and are engaged in Manufacturing sector. The study concluded that the government should make the awareness of this programme by arranging campaign for the entrepreneur for improving the economic status. The study focus on performance of PMEGP in entrepreneur development in Palghar District.

The Prime Minister's Employment Generation Programme (PMEGP) has been a pivotal initiative aimed at fostering entrepreneurship and employment generation in India. This study delves into the program's performance and achievements in the context of Palghar district, Maharashtra, a region characterized by unique socio-economic challenges and opportunities. The primary objective of this research is to evaluate the effectiveness of PMEGP in stimulating sustainable entrepreneurship, employment generation, and economic development in the India. Data was gathered through secondary sources. The analysis encompasses a comprehensive examination of PMEGP beneficiaries, their enterprises, employment created, and the socio-economic impact on the region. Key performance indicators, such as the number of projects funded, loan disbursements, and job creation, are critically assessed. of projects funded, loan disbursements, and job creation, are critically assessed.

This paper examines the impacts of personalized recommendation systems on user trust and user behaviour on online platforms. Platforms today have artificial intelligence and suggest content and products based on what users are searching, watching or purchasing. Although this simplifies and makes platforms interesting to use, it also influences the level of trust users have on this platform. To understand this, a survey with active users of digital platforms was carried out. Statistical analysis was performed to identify a relationship between the measures of personalization, trust, and behaviour. The findings indicate that users have a higher trust in the platform when they believe that the recommendations suit them. Increased trust also results in increased engagement, including increased time on the platform or engagement in content. This research finds that personalization is most effective when it is ethical and transparent. Thoughtfully, it can foster long-term credibility and can contribute to sustainable online development.

This study examines the financial feasibility of establishing a small-scale herbal mosquito repellent startup using natural ingredients such as neem, nirgundi, camphor, and cow dung powder. A descriptive research design was adopted, and primary data were collected from 248 respondents through structured questionnaires. Statistical analysis, including chi-square testing using Jamovi (Version 2.3), was conducted to examine the relationship between awareness and purchase intention. The results indicate significant association between awareness of herbal repellents and future purchase intention (χ²(4, N = 248) = 74.3, p < .001). Financial analysis shows an initial investment of ₹3,47,000, an estimated annual profit of ₹2,28,384, a break-even point of 8,908 boxes annually, a payback period of approximately 1.52 years, and a return on investment of 65.8%. The findings suggest that the proposed herbal mosquito repellent startup is financially viable and has strong market potential, supported by increasing consumer preference for safe and natural products.

This study examines the marketing potential of plantable stationery as a sustainable alternative to conventional stationery products. With rising environmental concerns and increasing demand for eco- friendly solutions, plantable stationery offers an innovative product that combines functionality with environmental regeneration. A descriptive research design was adopted, and primary data were collected from 252 respondents using a structured questionnaire. Reliability was confirmed through Cronbach’s alpha, and hypotheses were tested using Pearson correlation and Welch’s ANOVA. The findings reveal a significant positive relationship between consumer awareness and purchase intention, as well as between environmental concern and consumer preference. Marketing strategies were also found to significantly influence buying behaviour. The study concludes that strategic green marketing and awareness initiatives can enhance market acceptance and promote sustainable consumption. However, the study is limited by its relatively small sample size and restricted geographic coverage, which may affect the generalizability of the findings.

Digital banking has rapidly evolved, enabling online money management while increasing vulnerability to fraud. Banks employ AI tools for real-time transaction monitoring to detect suspicious activities. A study assessed customer perceptions of AI fraud protection and its impact on satisfaction and trust. Survey results indicated that users found AI-based fraud detection to be quick and reliable, which alleviated concerns and fostered trust in digital banking. The findings suggest that effective fraud detection not only enhances security but also boosts customer satisfaction and retention in digital banking services. Thus, AI-driven fraud protection plays a crucial role in customer loyalty beyond mere security.

The incidence of lifestyle diseases is increasing at an alarming rate, and yoga has been found to be an effective, evidence-based, non-pharmacological solution for many of these diseases. In this study, an “AI-Driven Yoga Recommendation System” is presented, which consists of three main components: a rule-based system that maps 24 different healthcare conditions to yoga practices, a VGG16 Transfer Learning CNN for four- class pose classification with a 52-image custom dataset, and a MediaPipe BlazePose module that detects 33 real-time skeletal keypoints and offers live feedback. On a validation set of nine samples, the system showed 88.9% accuracy, a macro F1-score of 90.0%, and an AUC score of 1.00 for all four classes. The entire application can be run using a standard webcam and Flask web interface, with no additional hardware requirements. This demonstrates the effectiveness of the Transfer Learning approach with small datasets for real-world yoga coaching systems.

This study examines the level of Customer Relationship Management (CRM) awareness among small retailers. CRM is an important strategy that helps businesses maintain strong customer relationships and improve overall performance. Small retailers mainly depend on repeat customers and personal interaction, but many still use traditional methods for managing customer information. The objective of this study is to analyse CRM awareness, existing customer relationship practices, and the challenges faced by small retailers. The research follows a descriptive research design, and primary data was collected through questionnaires from selected shop owners. A total of 15 shops were surveyed from the Ramnagar and Dattanagar areas. The sample included different types of retail businesses such as medical stores, grocery shops, mobile shops, garment stores, and stationery shops, with three shops selected from each category. According to the results, the majority of respondents had a favorable opinion of CRM practices including keeping track of customers, interacting frequently, and offering quality service. Many merchants think that being courteous, keeping in mind the preferences of their customers, and promptly addressing concerns all contribute to the development of long-term relationships, customer loyalty, and trust. While the F-test (p > 0.05) reveals no significant variance within business experience groups, statistical results suggest a significant difference in CRM procedures and complaint management across business types (ANOVA, p < 0.05). The findings indicate that most retailers understand the importance of maintaining good customer relationships, proper communication, and basic record management. However, awareness about advanced digital CRM tools remains limited due to lack of technical knowledge, financial constraints, and limited exposure to modern technology.

Startups have an important role in promoting innovations, employment and economic development. However, they have to overcome various challenges during their early growth stage. Thus, this study aims to explore the major key challenges faced by startups during their initial phase. The major challenges may include funding issues, competition in the market, managerial inexperience, regulatory hurdles and technological hurdles. This research is based on descriptive research and uses primary and secondary data. In this paper the findings of the study show that funding issues, lack of awareness among customers and operational inefficiency are the major hurdles for the growth of startups. Thus, this paper concludes that with good financial planning, guidance, support of the government and effective business planning, startups can overcome their challenges during their early growth phase.

The rapid advancement of quantum computing poses a fundamental challenge to existing consensus protocols in distributed systems, particularly those underpinning blockchain technologies. Classical Byzantine fault-tolerant mechanisms rely on computational hardness assumptions, which are vulnerable to quantum algorithms such as Shor’s and Grover’s. This study proposes a Quantum Entanglement Swapping Consensus (QESC) framework. This novel model uses entanglement swapping and Bell state measurements to enable secure, tamper-evident agree- ments among distributed quantum nodes. Building on quantum key distribution protocols (BB84 and E91) and experimental demonstrations of long-distance entanglement over 103 km of optical fibre [11], we present a theoretical model in which consensus arises from verifiable entangled correlations rather than computational puzzles. We compared QESC with Practical Byzantine Fault Tolerance (PBFT) and evaluated it across latency, fault tolerance, and eavesdropping resistance. The results show that QESC can achieve consensus finality with unconditional security guarantees. The study concludes with a discussion of the hardware limitations and a roadmap for experimental validation.

Artificial Intelligence is transforming startup ecosystems, yet accountability in AI-driven startups remains fragmented and weakly institutionalized. Innovation frequently outpaces responsibility and oversight, creating risks related to bias, opacity, and declining trust. This paper addresses this challenge by proposing a Responsible and Sustainable Innovation Framework (RSIF) to reconceptualize accountability within AI-driven startup environments. Drawing on interdisciplinary research in algorithmic governance, ethical AI, and startup management, the study examines how accountability gaps emerge across key stages of the AI lifecycle, including design, deployment, monitoring, and scaling. Although existing ethical AI guidelines, governance frameworks, and regulatory initiatives have made important contributions toward responsible AI adoption, they often presume mature organizational structures and dedicated compliance capacities. Such assumptions limit their practical applicability within fast-paced, resource-constrained startup contexts. Findings from a lightweight prototype implementation indicate improved accountability traceability, earlier risk identification, and clearer responsibility distribution, while also revealing persistent challenges related to governance capacity and operational constraints. By integrating transparency, traceability, stakeholder participation, risk auditing, and adaptive governance into a lifecycle-based model, the proposed framework offers a practical pathway for embedding accountability into startup operations. While limitations remain, this research establishes a structured foundation for aligning AI-driven innovation with ethical responsibility, societal trust, and long-term sustainability.

Educational institutions frequently replace opera- tional assets due to technological upgrades and administrative restructuring, leading to accumulation of reusable yet discarded materials. Conventional waste handling practices emphasize disposal instead of structured reuse, resulting in financial in- efficiency and environmental strain. This study proposes the EcoBid Smart System, a technology-driven digital platform inte- grating intelligent asset classification, transparent redistribution mechanisms, and sustainability evaluation metrics. A survey of 300 institutional stakeholders was analyzed using the Chi- square test of independence. Results reveal statistically significant associations between sustainability awareness, perceived eco- nomic benefit, digital transparency, and platform acceptance. The proposed framework aligns with circular economy principles and smart campus sustainability initiatives. Findings indicate strong stakeholder readiness and scalability potential, demonstrating that structured digital reuse systems can enhance institutional resource optimization while supporting environmental and eco- nomic sustainability goals.

This study examines the personalisation–privacy paradox in the daily digital habits of college students, focusing on the relationship between privacy concern, perceived benefits of personalisation, digital literacy, and actual privacy protection behaviour. Using a mixed-method approach, primary data from 75 respondents were analysed through correlation, regression, t-test, and Friedman tests, supported by qualitative case review. The findings reveal no significant relationship between privacy concern and protection behaviour, but confirm a significant gap between expressed concern and actual actions. Digital literacy plays a key role in how well students understand informed consent. The study shows that, even as urban college students become more aware of privacy issues, they often stick to convenient habits online.

The rapid advancement of digital technologies has transformed entrepreneurial ecosystems, providing university students with access to digital platforms, artificial intelligence, and online business tools. However, limited research integrates humanitarian values and sustainability awareness within student-led digital entrepreneurship frameworks. To address this gap, this study proposes and empirically validates the HADES Model (Humanity-Driven Agile Digital Entrepreneurship for Sustainability), a student-centric framework explaining Sustainable Startup Intention. A quantitative cross-sectional design was employed, collecting primary data from 300 university students using a structured questionnaire measured on a five-point Likert scale. Reliability was confirmed through Cronbach’s Alpha, and hypotheses were tested using multiple regression and mediation analysis in Jamovi. Bootstrapping with 5000 samples was applied to validate the mediation effect. The findings reveal that Digital Competence and Humanitarian Orientation significantly influence Sustainable Startup Intention, while Sustainability Consciousness does not show a direct significant effect. Digital Entrepreneurial Agility partially mediates the relationship between Digital Competence and Sustainable Startup Intention. The model explains 58% of the variance, indicating strong explanatory power. The study validates the HADES Model as a comprehensive framework aligning digital capability, ethical responsibility, and adaptive agility to foster sustainable digital entrepreneurship among university students.

The fast-paced evolution of digital payment methods in India has made a significant difference in the process of financial transactions. One such platform for digital payment method, which has become increasingly popular due to its user-friendliness, easy accessibility, and security, is Unified Payment Interface (UPI), which was launched by National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI). This research attempts to study the extent of awareness, adoption pattern, and satisfaction of users of UPI amongst the urban populace of Mumbai city. The current paper uses primary data obtained from 100 respondents using a structured questionnaire using convenience sampling. The results show that UPI is widely preferred by consumers due to its convenience, and promptness in transactions, while there are some apprehensions related to security and technicality of the system.

This study examines the level of awareness, perception, and investment behaviour regarding green bond investments among citizens of Mumbai. Green bonds, as instruments of sustainable finance, play a crucial role in funding environmentally friendly projects such as renewable energy, environmental protection measures and efforts to address climate-related issues. The study aims to analyse the extent of public awareness, understand investor perception, and evaluate the relationship between awareness and investment behaviour. A descriptive research design was adopted, and primary data was collected through a structured questionnaire from 81 respondents. The data was analysed using percentage method, tabular representation, and graphical tools. The findings reveal that while respondents possess a moderate to high level of awareness regarding green bonds, detailed understanding remains limited. It was also observed that awareness significantly influences investment decisions, and lack of information acts as a major barrier. The study concludes that increasing financial literacy, awareness campaigns, and institutional support can enhance public participation In green bond investments and promote sustainable financial growth.

This study examines financial literacy among self-employed women in Mumbai, focusing on their money management, banking usage, and investment practices. Data from 80 respondents across small businesses, beauty parlours, retail shops, and street vendors show different levels of financial knowledge, with beauty parlour owners and small business worker having the highest awareness, while retailers and street vendors having the lowest. Young age women and those with higher education are better at using bank services, digital payments, and making investments like fixed deposits. The findings highlight the need for training and support to help women make better financial decisions and become more independent.

Promoting sustainable development and responsible business practices now depends much on environmental accounting. With a comparative analysis based on gender and level of study (undergraduate and postgraduate), the current study investigates the degree of knowledge of environmental accounting among commerce students in Mumbai. A systematic survey with a Likert scale gathered first-hand information. Against a target sample size of 80, 86 replies were gathered—enough for research. Data interpretation for the investigation uses percentages. With clear gender and academic level variations, the results show that most business students have major environmental accounting awareness. The research draws attention to how important it is to reinforce environmental accounting ideas within the curriculum for business.

This study examines the impact of celebrity endorsement on consumer buying behaviour and its effectiveness as a promotional strategy. The research focuses on key factors such as celebrity credibility, attractiveness, and expertise in influencing consumer perceptions, brand image, and purchase decisions. A quantitative descriptive research design was adopted, and primary data was collected through a structured questionnaire from consumers in Mumbai, mainly college students. The hypotheses were tested using percentage analysis of respondents’ opinions. The findings indicate that celebrity endorsements enhance brand recall and image, generate positive consumer responses, and significantly influence buying behaviour. The study concludes that well-matched and credible celebrity endorsements play an important role in shaping consumer attitudes and purchasing decisions, making them an effective marketing tool in competitive markets.

Artificial Intelligence (AI) has emerged as a transformative force in the financial sector, reshaping the way investors access information, evaluate risk, and make investment decisions. The integration of AI into financial services through robo-advisors, algorithm-based trading systems, and digital investment platforms has significantly altered traditional investment practices. This study aims to analyse the impact of Artificial Intelligence on the investment behaviour of investors in Mumbai, with specific focus on demographic variables such as age, gender, educational qualification, income level, and investment experience. The study is based on primary data collected from 80 investors in Mumbai using a structured questionnaire. The data was analysed using the percentage method to examine behavioural patterns and relationships. The findings reveal that age, education, income, and investment experience significantly influence the adoption of AI-based investment tools, whereas gender does not have a notable impact. The study concludes that AI has enhanced efficiency, accuracy, and confidence in investment decision-making, particularly among educated and experienced investors, while also highlighting the importance of responsible and informed use of technology.

This study analyses the awareness and investment behaviour of salaried and working individuals regarding tax-saving schemes. The research focuses on age-wise awareness differences, gender-based investment preferences, and the relationship between financial awareness and diversification of tax-saving investments. Primary data was collected through a structured questionnaire from service-class individuals in Mumbai using a convenience sampling method, and hypotheses were tested using the percentage method. The findings show that younger individuals have higher awareness compared to elder respondents, males prefer market-linked options while females favour traditional schemes, and higher awareness leads to more diversified investments. The study concludes that although tax-saving schemes are widely used, gaps in awareness and risk understanding remain, highlighting the need for improved financial literacy and structured financial education initiatives.

Information and communication technology (ICT) has emerged as a transformative force in higher education , reshaping traditional pedagogical practices and fostering a technollogically enriched learning environment. This study investigates the current role and impact of ICT in teaching and learning across colleges in Mumbai.

This study focuses on the awareness and satisfaction level of employees regarding training and development programs at State Bank of India (SBI) in Mumbai. Training and development play a vital role in improving employee skills, knowledge, and overall performance. The purpose of this study is to understand how well employees are aware of the training programs provided by SBI. It also examines the level of satisfaction among employees toward these programs. Primary data has been collected through a structured questionnaire from SBI employees. Various factors such as training methods, relevance of training, frequency, and usefulness have been analyzed. Percentage analysis has been used to interpret the data in a simple manner. The study reveals that most employees are aware of the training and development initiatives conducted by SBI. A majority of respondents expressed satisfaction with the quality and effectiveness of the training programs. However, some employees suggested improvements in training duration and practical exposure. Overall, the study concludes that SBI’s training and development programs positively contribute to employee growth and organizational efficiency.

One of the main features of modern banking is online banking. Online banking helps people to carry out transactions such as paying bills, checking their account balance, and transferring money online. The aim of the study was to find out more about the usage of online banking by the people in Palghar city. The research was conducted using primary data collected from 121 respondents using a structured questionnaire. The main aim of the study was to assess the level of awareness and usage, satisfaction levels, and challenges associated with the usage of online banking services. From the study, it was evident that most people using the questionnaire were aware of online banking and used the service frequently because it was easy to use and gave them access to the service. However, the service was also associated with some challenges such as insecurity, poor internet connection, and a lack of knowledge about technology. The research indicated that a large number of people in Palghar city used online banking. Establishing trust and promoting the safe and effective usage of online banking services would be achieved by enhancing the security features, providing training, and creating awareness.

Work-life balance has become a major concern for working women employees, particularly in metropolitan cities like Mumbai, where professional demands and personal responsibilities often overlap. This study aims to examine the work-life balance of working women employees in Mumbai and to identify the factors influencing their ability to manage work and personal life effectively. The research also analyses the impact of work-life balance on job satisfaction, stress levels, and overall well-being of working women. The research concludes that a healthy work-life balance is essential for enhancing job satisfaction, productivity, and quality of life of working women employees. The study suggests that organizations should adopt employee-friendly policies and supportive work practices to help working women achieve a better balance between their professional and personal lives.

This study focuses on the comparative financial analysis of Tata Motors Ltd. for the financial years 2023-24 and 2024-25 using ratio analysis. The main objective of the study is to evaluate the company’s financial performance, liquidity position, profitability, solvency, and overall efficieny during the selected period. Various financial rations such as Current Ratio, Debt-Equity Ratio, Net Profit Ratio, Return on Capital Employed, and Asset Turnover Ratio are used to analyze the company’s financial statements. The Study compare the performance of both financial years to identify growth trends, strengths, and areas of improvement.

The cosmetic industry has witnessed a significant transformation in recent years due to growing awareness of sustainability, environmental protection, and ethical consumerism. This study examines the impact of sustainability and ethical considerations on women's choices of cosmetic products in Valsad District, Gujarat. The research investigates how factors such as eco-friendly packaging, cruelty-free certification, organic ingredients, fair trade practices, and corporate social responsibility influence purchasing decisions among female consumers. A quantitative research design was adopted across different age groups, educational backgrounds, and income levels in Valsad District. The findings indicate that environmental consciousness and ethical awareness significantly affect brand preference and purchase intention. Younger and highly educated consumers show stronger inclination toward sustainable and ethically produced cosmetics. However, price sensitivity and limited product availability remain key challenges in adopting sustainable alternatives. The study highlights the growing shift from conventional cosmetic consumption toward responsible consumer behaviour in semi-urban and developing regions. The research offers practical implications for cosmetic brands, marketers, and policymakers aiming to promote sustainable consumption practices.

In India, organic farming is gaining importance as an alternative agricultural system that supports sustainable agricultural development while maintaining ecological balance. The present study aims to examine the influence of economic, social, marketing, and government policy factors on farmers’ decisions to adopt organic farming practices in Satara District of Maharashtra and to assess the extent and effectiveness of financial support provided by government agencies to farmers practicing organic farming. The study indicate that economic conditions, social awareness, market access, and government policies play an important role in influencing farmers’ decisions to adopt organic farming practices. Several government schemes provide financial assistance for organic farming, many farmers face challenges such as limited awareness, procedural complexities, and inadequate access to institutional support.

Street vendors play an important role in the urban informal economy by providing affordable goods and services and creating livelihood opportunities for ecomonically weaker sections of society. However, they often face challenges such as irregular income, limited access to institutional credit, and financial insecurity. To support street vendors affected by the covid-19 pandemic, the Government of India launched the Pradhan Mantri Street Vendor’s AtmaNirbhar Nidhi (PM SVANidhi) Yojana in June 2020 to provide collateral-free working capital loans and promote financial inclusion. The present study examines the socio-economic empowerment of street vendors through the PM SVANidhi Yojana in the Mumbai region. The study is based on both primary and secondary data. Primary data were collected from 380 street vendor beneficiaries through a structured questionnaire . The data were analysed using descriptive statistics and hypothesis testing through a One Sample T-Test at a 5 percent level of significance. The findings indicate that after receiving financial assistance under the scheme, vendors experienced improvement in income generation, savings, asset acquisition, and their ability to manage unexpected financial expences. The study concludes that the PM SVANidhi has contributed to improving the economic conditions and financial stability of street vendors in the Mumbai region.

As India approaches its centennial of independence in 2047, the country's vision highlights a robust, equitable, and environmentally sustainable development plan. Climate change (CC) is one of the most urgent issue facing the world today. It is essential that all nations must give this issue top priority and act quickly. Furthermore, more funding is needed to solve this problem. Green finance has become an essential global instrument for promoting sustainability and addressing environmental issues. Along with more conventional green finance mechanisms like green bonds, climate funds, and public initiatives, the Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) fund is essential to the advancement of sustainable development in India because of the implementation of Section 135 of the Companies Act, 2013. This study introduces a conceptual model that positions CSR funds as a supplementary approach to green finance in India. It looks at the theoretical relationships between green finance frameworks, environmental sustainability, and corporate social responsibility. On the basis of secondary data, this study redefines corporate social responsibility (CSR) as a structured green financing option that can produce quantifiable environmental results, rather than just a compliance requirement. The paper concludes by discussing the policy implications and institutional mechanisms for integrating CSR spending into India's larger green finance ecosystem.

As India approaches its centennial of independence in 2047, the country's vision highlights a robust, equitable, and environmentally sustainable development plan. Climate change (CC) is one of the most urgent issue facing the world today. It is essential that all nations must give this issue top priority and act quickly. Furthermore, more funding is needed to solve this problem. Green finance has become an essential global instrument for promoting sustainability and addressing environmental issues. Along with more conventional green finance mechanisms like green bonds, climate funds, and public initiatives, the Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) fund is essential to the advancement of sustainable development in India because of the implementation of Section 135 of the Companies Act, 2013. This study introduces a conceptual model that positions CSR funds as a supplementary approach to green finance in India. It looks at the theoretical relationships between green finance frameworks, environmental sustainability, and corporate social responsibility. On the basis of secondary data, this study redefines corporate social responsibility (CSR) as a structured green financing option that can produce quantifiable environmental results, rather than just a compliance requirement. The paper concludes by discussing the policy implications and institutional mechanisms for integrating CSR spending into India's larger green finance ecosystem.

The retail landscape in the Pune region is undergoing a period of significant uncertainty, characterized by a decline in physical foot traffic and declining daily sales due to the rapid rise of web-based shopping. This study proposes and investigates the Hybrid Resilience Theory, which posits that the long-term survival of small-scale retailers depends on a strategic integration of social capital with digital efficiency. Utilizing a mixed-methods approach and concurrent triangulation, the research examines how traditional strengths—specifically personal trust, indigenous credit systems, and long-term customer relationships—act as a "competitive moat" against the pricing advantages of global digital giants. The study analyzes a decade of market evolution from 2015 to 2025, capturing shifts in consumer behavior across urban, semi-urban, and rural clusters, including Kothrud, Deccan, and Pimpri-Chinchwad. Quantitative analysis involving multiple regression and ANOVA is used to measure the "Trust-Premium," testing the hypothesis that social bonds and personalized service are stronger predictors of customer loyalty than simple price discounts. Preliminary literature reviews suggest that while digital disruption is a major threat, nearly 88% of India's retail remains unorganized and reliant on these personal links. The findings are expected to reveal a "digital ceiling" where the sensory experience and human touch of physical markets outweigh the convenience of apps for specific consumer needs. Ultimately, this research provides a practical roadmap for merchants to adopt tools like UPI and WhatsApp outreach while preserving the traditional "bazaar wisdom" that supports the socio-economic fabric of Maharashtra.

Women entrepreneurs play a crucial role in enhancing the economic and social development of the urban and rural women entrepreneurs. Women are able to improve their social status in the society by active participation in entrepreneurship. This study helps to examine the social empowerment of urban and rural women entrepreneurs. This study compares various factors such as financial independence, decision making freedom, family recognition and support, improvement in self-confidence, active participation in community groups, overcoming gender-based barriers and expression of opinions in the society among the urban and rural women entrepreneurs of Palghar district. The survey was conducted among 104 women entrepreneurs of Palghar district through a multiple-choice questionnaire. The findings indicate that urban women entrepreneurs are more socially empowered than the rural women entrepreneurs.

The carbon market in India is evolving as an effective instrument for economic growth and reducing greenhouse gases. The carbon credit market plays a very important role in carbon credit trading. Carbon credit markets are divided into compliance (compulsory) and voluntary markets. The compliance market is regulated by the government, whereas the voluntary market is one in which companies buy credits to meet voluntary sustainability or net-zero goals. This paper discussed the recent scenario of the carbon credit market in India. Further, it highlights the comparison between the compliance market and the voluntary market mechanism in India.

Work-life balance (WLB) has become an important concept in today’s professional world, especially for working women who manage both domestic and professional responsibilities. Women working in government hospitals face multiple challenges such as long working hours, shift duties, emergency calls, extra workload pressure, and emotional and physical stress. The present study aims to examine the work-life balance of working women in government hospitals of Beed district, Maharashtra where women face challenges like inadequate infrastructure, staff shortages, limited family support and to assess their impact on personal life. The research is based on primary data collected from 20 women employees working in government hospitals through a structured questionnaire.

This research explores the adoption of food delivery apps like Swiggy and Zomato in Mumbai through the integrated lenses of TAM (focusing on perceived usefulness and ease of use) and UTAUT (emphasizing performance expectancy, effort expectancy, social influence, and facilitating conditions), using solely secondary data from studies, reports, and literature. It highlights Mumbai's urban challenges—such as technical glitches, delivery delays, high costs, food safety issues, privacy concerns, and digital literacy gaps—that hinder sustained use amid the city's fast-paced, diverse environment. Social factors like peer recommendations drive uptake, while psychological elements including convenience and trust boost intentions. Literature reviews underscore growth drivers like discounts and variety, revealing a gap in combined framework analyses for this region. The study offers actionable recommendations for developers (e.g., intuitive designs, referral programs) and policymakers (e.g., infrastructure investments, literacy campaigns) to enhance engagement and inclusion in India's burgeoning US$55 billion food delivery market by 2025. Overall, it bridges theoretical insights with practical strategies for equitable digital adoption in emerging urban markets.

The Prime Minister’s Employment Generation Programme (PMEGP) is a flagship credit-linked subsidy scheme of the Ministry of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises implemented through the Khadi and Village Industries Commission to promote self-employment and micro-enterprise development in rural and semi-urban areas. This study examines the role of PMEGP in generating employment opportunities with a primary data analysis from Palghar District. The research is based on primary data collected from PMEGP beneficiaries through structured questionnaires and field interactions. The study analyzes the socio-economic background of beneficiaries, Entrepreneurship development Training, and the number of employment opportunities created through these units. Statistical and descriptive methods are used to evaluate the effectiveness of the scheme in promoting entrepreneurship and local employment. However, challenges such as procedural delays, lack of awareness, and limited access to training and financial guidance still affect the optimal utilization of the scheme. Strengthening institutional support, improving awareness, and simplifying implementation mechanisms can further enhance the effectiveness of PMEGP in employment generation.

As the worldwide fast-food industry expands due to urbanization and customer demand for convenience, food safety remains a critical element in determining both public health and business sustainability. Legislative frameworks regulate hygienic norms, yet subjective "perceived hygiene" rather than objective laboratory safety often determines client patronage.An analysis of consumer food safety perceptions suggests that visible hygiene indicators, such as clean staff attire and tidy, transparent preparation areas, heavily influence customer trust, often outweighing actual knowledge of food safety. Data interpretation typically reveals a tradeoff where consumers accept lower hygienic standards at street vendors in exchange for affordability. Recommendations to improve satisfaction include implementing mandatory, standardized training for vendors, adopting digital hygiene rating systems, and upgrading infrastructure to ensure access to clean water.This study collects data from consumers using a quantitative cross-sectional survey design in order to assess how visual hygiene cues, such as staff clothing, cleanliness of the premises, and food handling methods, affect overall customer happiness. According to preliminary expectations, informal stalls maintain high satisfaction through transparency and price point despite lower perceived sanitary rigor, while organized chains are viewed as safer due to consistent branding. The research's conclusions will give stakeholders, such as food sellers and public health officials, practical advice on how to match operational hygiene with customer expectations. In the end, the study adds to the body of knowledge by measuring the relationship between sanitary trust and customer retention, providing a road map for enhancing safety communication in a food industry that is becoming more and more competitive.

Digital marketing has become an important strategic tool for small and medium enterprises (SMEs) seeking to improve visibility, customer engagement, and financial performance in an increasingly competitive economy. This study examines the impact of digital marketing usage on the financial performance of SMEs in Suburban Mumbai. The main objective is to assess whether digital marketing activities contribute to sales growth, customer acquisition, profitability, and business expansion. The study adopts a quantitative survey design based on primary data collected from 75 SMEs located in major suburban business zones of Mumbai. Data were gathered through a structured questionnaire containing Likert-scale items measuring digital marketing usage and perceived financial performance. The data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, correlation, and regression analysis in SPSS. The findings reveal a strong and statistically significant positive relationship between digital marketing usage and SME financial performance. Regression results show that digital marketing usage explains a substantial proportion of variation in financial performance, indicating that enterprises using digital marketing more actively tend to experience higher sales growth, customer acquisition, and lead generation. The study highlights the strategic importance of digital marketing for SMEs and emphasizes the need to strengthen digital capabilities among small businesses.

The importance of green lifestyles and environmentally friendly consumption behaviors is increasingly attracting the attention of many people, especially Gen Z. On a large scale in India , handmade bamboo products have always been considered famous traditional products with a strong growth market, and today's young people are extremely interested in such environmentally friendly products. The present study aims to focus on the relationship between green lifestyle and Generation Z's purchase behavior towards handmade bamboo products in Palghar district. Through a survey of 98 Gen Z consumers, quantitative data was processed. The research results emphasize the direct positive impact of green lifestyle on consumer behavior of handmade bamboo products in Palghar. A quantitative research design using a structured questionnaire was adopted to collect primary data from youth consumers in Palghar district. The findings suggest that environmental consciousness and perceived product quality significantly influence purchase intention, while lack of awareness and limited market availability act as barriers. The study provides insights for policymakers, entrepreneurs, and self-help groups involved in bamboo product manufacturing to improve marketing strategies and expand the market for bamboo products.

Work environments play a crucial role in influencing employee productivity, creativity, health, and overall well-being. In recent years, modern office spaces have become more technologically advanced but less connected to nature, resulting in increased stress, fatigue, reduced concentration, and lower job satisfaction among employees. Biophilic interior design is an innovative design approach that integrates natural elements such as sunlight, vegetation, natural materials, ventilation, and water features into indoor environments to improve human well-being and performance. The present study examines the impact of biophilic interior design on employee productivity and well-being in workplace environments. The research is based on primary data collected through a questionnaire survey of 50 corporate employees working in office environments. The study uses descriptive and quantitative research methods, including Likert scale analysis, percentage analysis, and graphical representation of data. The findings of the study indicate that natural lighting, indoor plants, natural ventilation, and outdoor views significantly improve employee productivity, lessen stress, decorate creativity, and growth task satisfaction. The study also finds a strong positive correlation between biophilic design elements and employee productivity levels. The research concludes that biophilic interior design is not only an aesthetic or environmental concept but also a strategic management and human resource tool that organizations can use to improve employee performance, well-being, and organizational productivity.

Gold continues to be a preferred investment option in India, evolving from physical ownership to financial instruments such as Gold ETFs and Gold Mutual Funds. This study examines retail investor awareness and preferences between these two options in Mumbai’s Eastern Suburbs. Using primary data collected from 100-150 respondents across Mulund, Bhandup, and Vikhroli, the research analyses factors influencing investment decisions, including risk, return, liquidity, and convenience. The findings reveal higher awareness of Gold Mutual Funds compared to Gold ETFs, though investment preference is nearly balanced. Liquidity and cost efficiency drive ETF preference, while convenience and systematic investment options favour Mutual Funds. Hypothesis testing confirms that awareness and key factors significantly influence investor decisions, while no strong overall preference exists between the two instruments. The study highlights the role of financial literacy in shaping investment choices and emphasizes the need for enhanced investor education.

In India, women play an important role in fish processing and marketing. This helps them to generate income to support their families. This research will help us to understand the problems and ways of empowerment of the fisherwomen in Palghar district with the help to micro – credit schemes. The methodology consists of five years of data on fish production, micro-credit, SHG growth, banking access, repayment, field visits, semi-structured interviews and observation at local markets. Results show a steady rise in fish production and more women joining Self-Help Groups. Banks reach more women now, and repayment rates are very strong. Inspite of this there is a mismatch between fish production & formal credit. Field visits show that many women still rely on informal credit and use daily savings routines that aren’t regulated. That makes it tough for them to save up and stand on their own. Increased microfinance outreach, digital payments, improved financial education, and credit solutions that adapt to the fluctuations of the fishing industry are all recommended by the study. These women's economic independence and resilience might be greatly increased by addressing these more significant financial obstacles and creating an inclusive financial system. Ultimately, the goal is to make coastal development more sustainable and to encourage women-led growth in the blue industry.

The rapid evolution of digital technologies has significantly transformed the operational and service frameworks of public sector banks in India. This study examines the extent and impact of digital transformation in Bank of India and Bank of Maharashtra over the period 2014–2024. The research adopts a descriptive and comparative approach using secondary data from annual reports, Reserve Bank of India publications, and relevant academic literature. The study integrates tabular and conceptual analysis to evaluate technological adoption, service delivery efficiency, and financial inclusion. The findings reveal that digital transformation has enhanced operational efficiency, reduced transaction time, and improved customer accessibility in both banks. However, Bank of India demonstrates a more innovation-driven approach, while Bank of Maharashtra emphasizes inclusive digital growth in rural and semi-urban regions. The study concludes that digital transformation is a key driver of competitiveness and sustainability in public sector banking, although challenges such as cybersecurity risks and digital literacy gaps persist

This study investigates the influence of financial literacy and digital platforms on the investment decisions of young investors in the Thane region. Recently, the growing importance of being financially aware and the easier access to digital technologies have had a big effect on how people invest, especially Millennials and Generation Z. The research utilizes both primary and secondary data, with primary data gathered via a structured questionnaire from 104 participants in Thane. The findings reveal that young investors possess a good understanding of basic financial concepts; however, their practical application in investment decision-making remains moderate. The study also indicates that while more than half of the respondents use digital investment platforms, the frequency of usage is relatively low, and reliance on such platforms for decision-making is moderate. Mutual funds and gold are the most preferred investment options, reflecting a risk-averse attitude among respondents. A deeper look shows that being financially literate has a big and good effect on investment choices, while digital platforms only have a small effect on investment behavior. There is also a positive link between financial literacy and using digital investment platforms. The study concludes that enhancing financial literacy is crucial for improving the quality of investment decisions, whereas digital platforms serve as supportive tools rather than primary determinants of decision-making.The study underscores the necessity for financial education programs and the creation of accessible digital platforms to foster informed and responsible investment behaviors among young investors.

This study examines consumer awareness of security risks in digital payment systems. Nowadays, many people are using digital payment methods like UPI and mobile payments. Because of this, security has become an important issue. This study gave emphasis on understanding how much people know about digital payment frauds and whether they follow safe practices while making payments. The data was collected using a questionnaire and analyzed in a simple way. The results show that most people know about common frauds, but not everyone follows proper safety steps. Some people still take risks while doing digital transactions. The study concludes that digital payments are widely used, but people need better awareness and should be more careful while making transactions to avoid fraud.

Quick commerce (Q-commerce) is an emerging segment of e-commerce that focuses on delivering products within a very short time frame, usually between 10 to 30 minutes. This business model has gained immense popularity in metropolitan cities such as Mumbai due to the fast-paced lifestyle of urban consumers. The growth of smartphone usage, digital payments, and advanced logistics networks has accelerated the expansion of quick commerce platforms. This study examines the rise of quick commerce in Mumbai, its drivers, impact on consumer behavior, challenges faced by businesses, and implications for traditional retail. The study concludes that quick commerce is transforming urban retail by prioritizing speed, convenience, and hyperlocal delivery models.

India’s growing digital economy. With platforms promising delivery in just 10–15 minutes, buying daily essentials has become faster and easier than ever. This shift is not limited to big metropolitan cities—it is now clearly visible in tier-2 cities like Vasai, Maharashtra. With a population of over 1.3 million, Vasai represents a mix of middle-class households, working professionals, and daily wage earners. Its strategic location near Mumbai, combined with high smartphone usage and affordable internet access, has made it an ideal environment for the growth of quick commerce services.While quick commerce has been widely studied in large cities, there is limited research focusing on smaller urban areas like Vasai.

This research study focuses on understanding the consumer buying behaviour towards the Nykaa online shopping app among college students, with special reference to skincare products. In today’s digital era, online shopping has become an important part of consumers’ daily lives, especially among young students who prefer convenience, variety, and better offers. Nykaa, being one of the leading beauty and lifestyle e-commerce platforms in India, has gained significant popularity among students due to its wide range of skincare, cosmetic, and wellness products. The main purpose of this study is to examine the factors that influence students’ buying decisions while using the Nykaa app. These factors include product variety, price, discounts and offers, product reviews, brand trust, delivery services, payment options, and the overall user experience of the app. The study also aims to measure the level of customer satisfaction and identify the common problems faced by users while shopping online. For this research, data is collected through a structured questionnaire from college students. The study uses simple statistical tools such as percentage analysis, tables, and charts to understand the responses clearly. The findings of the study help in understanding the preferences, attitudes, and satisfaction level of the consumers. This research is useful for understanding how online shopping apps influence the buying behaviour of young consumers. It also provides suggestions for improving customer satisfaction and helps Nykaa enhance its app features, marketing strategies, and service quality. Overall, the study highlights the growing importance of online shopping platforms in the beauty and skincare market and their impact on consumer decision-making.

This research explores the impact of social media platforms, specifically Instagram and Facebook, on consumer buying behavior. A structured survey was conducted to understand how advertisements, influencer recommendations, and customer reviews on these platforms affect purchasing decisions. The Findings reveal that a significant proportion of respondents are influenced by Instagram and Facebook advertisements to try new products, with Instagram emerging as slightly more effective due to its visual-centric approach. Customer reviews and influencer endorsements were found to play a crucial role in shaping trust and purchase intent. Frequency analysis shows that most users encounter product promotions multiple times per week, and a notable percentage of consumers have made purchases directly through social media platforms. The study’s data are illustrated using charts and tables, including pie charts and tables representing platform influence, showing frequency of exposure and depicting changes in purchase behaviour. Based on these findings, it is suggested that marketers should focus on targeted visual content, engage influencers relevant to their niche, and actively encourage positive customer reviews to maximize conversion. In conclusion, social media has transformed traditional buying behaviour, making digital engagement and social commerce essential tools for influencing consumer decisions.

This research investigates the evolving payment behaviour in Thane’s retail markets, where modern shopping malls and traditional open-air markets coexist, creating a distinctive dual-track economy. The study focuses on the shift from cash to digital payments, particularly via UPI platforms, driven by factors such as convenience, transaction speed, safety, and ease of tracking expenses. Primary data collected through structured questionnaires indicate that most consumers—predominantly young adults—prefer digital payments, with Google Pay and Phone Pe emerging as the most widely used platforms. The adoption of digital payments by retailers, coupled with influences from organized retail outlets and improved internet connectivity, has reinforced this trend, reflecting a broader transformation in consumer habits and retail practices. Despite the growing popularity of digital transactions, cash continues to play a role in Thane’s retail ecosystem, highlighting a hybrid system of payments. Technical challenges, including network disruptions, payment failures, and security concerns, particularly affect older and less tech-savvy users, preventing a complete transition to cashless transactions. The findings suggest that while digital payments are poised to expand further, cash is likely to remain relevant in certain contexts due to trust and tangibility factors. The study concludes that strengthening digital infrastructure, enhancing user awareness of secure payment practices, and maintaining accessible cash options are essential to support an inclusive and efficient retail payment environment in Thane.