Institute of Management Development and Research(IMDR)

Abstract
Economic empowerment is in a primary phase where women are considered with men in all areas of economic activity. Kerala is a state where coir units are a part of its traditional culture and it is a female-intensive industry in rural areas of Kerala. This article aims to discover the factors associated with the economic empowerment related to mechanization and its impact on the economic well-being of women workers in rural areas of Alappuzha. This study was conducted in the capital of coir units in Kerala, Alappuzha with a sample of 100 respondents selected through the multi-stage sampling method. The main variables in this study identified through factor analysis comprised of financial management, women participation, financial independence, and skill development on the economic well-being of women workers. Percentages, mean comparison, ANOVA and regression are used for data analysis in this study. The study found that the replacement of old machines with new machines with innovative technology helped the women workers to achieve
economic empowerment which positively contributed to the economic wellbeing of women workers in rural areas of Alappuzha.
Keywords:- Economic well-being, Economic empowerment, Mechanization, Women worker.

Abstract
This study sought to determine customer satisfaction and loyalty among customers of private sector banks, with a particular emphasis on Federal banks.
Over time, there have been substantial developments in the financial sector. The establishment of RRBs, the admission of private sector banks and foreign banks, as well as the current emergence of e-banking, have all periodically led to significant changes in the structure and operation of banks in the Indian context. The study's findings indicate that the majority of consumers are familiar with ATM services. The vast majority of customers are aware of ATM services, and balance inquiries demonstrate a high level of awareness. CSAT scoring was employed in Likert scales to compute customer satisfaction and loyalty. Excellent satisfaction score was found for ATM and Internet banking. It was found that digital banking services had good consumer loyalty. It is suggested to offer loyalty programmes through mobile wallets, rewards programmes for frequent debit card users, and customized rewards programmes built on effective client segmentation.
Keywords:- ATM, customer loyalty, customer satisfaction, e-wallet, internet banking, mobile banking, private sector banks.

Abstract
India is an Agricultural Country. There is a heavy demand for investment capital and sustainable financial services for rural areas and agricultural activities necessary for global growth and food security. In particular, farmers in developing countries lack the required investment capital and access to financial services, thereby resulting in low agricultural productivity. This study looks at whether small farmers are happy with the money and support they get for their farms. We are checking if the financial help they get is easy to use, not too expensive, and actually helps them, and also looking at how where they live and other things affect their feelings about the support they get. The goal is to understand this better so we can make sure small farmers get the right help to make their farms better, their lives better, and to make sure they can handle challenges in their communities. This study used suitable statistical inferential tools to analyse data and interpret the results. The study concluded that socio-economic factors of farmers influence the selection of financial institutions to avail of agricultural credit and most of them are satisfied with the agricultural finance provided by the financial institutions.
Keywords:- Agricultural Finance, Small Holder Farmers, Contentedness, Granary, Credit, Satisfaction.

Abstract
A successful advertising strategy, thereby contributes to the creation and preservation of brand awareness by positively influencing the consumer perspective and the buying intentions. This study intends to examine the role of advertising media in building brand awareness as well as identify the impact of new millennium media over traditional advertising media in creating brand awareness and also highlight the Ripple Effect of brand awareness via social media. Only secondary data were used for this study. Based on the literature reviews, the result of the study revealed that social media advertising is considered an effective tool to spread information about brands and their privileges because social media can influence the consumer's purchase intention and also has more impact on brand awareness than traditional marketing. Along with the process of building brand awareness,
interacting with the audience in multiple ways of involvement via social media, the brands ensure not just loyalty, but create a lifelong impact on the customers, a chain reaction of ripple effect.
Keywords:- Advertisement Media, Social Media, Brand Loyalty, Ripple Effect, Brand Awareness.

Abstract
This study tries to analyze the volatility persistence and risk-return relationships in Exchange Traded Funds as the objectives. For this purpose, returns of 5 ETFs: Nifty Bees ETF, Motilal Oswal ETF, IDBI Gold ETF, Junior Bees ETF, and Infra Bees ETF are taken. Symmetrical GARCH models GARCH (1, 1) and GARCH-in-Mean are used to capture the volatility in the market. Modeling volatility using these models gives strong evidence for the volatility persistence in the ETF returns. We are able to conclude the presence of high volatility persistence and also that taking risks in ETF trading will provide higher rewards to investors.
Keywords:- ETF Return; Volatility, GARCH (1, 1); GARCH-in-mean; Volatility persistence

Abstract
In Kerala, the MSME sector has played a vital role in economic and social development as these are essentially dependent on traditional inherited skills and mostly use local resources. But the hard blow of COVID-19 has made this sector struggle for its sustainability. The present study aimed to learn the influence of COVID-19 on MSME sector in Trivandrum. The primary data were collected from various samples in Trivandrum district with the help of a structured questionnaire and Google Forms. The collected data were analyzed with the help of statistical tests namely one sample t- test, goodness of fit test, and mean score. It was found that all the financial problems had a significant impact on MSMEs during the COVID-19, cost reduction measures adopted by MSMEs during the pandemic had different effects on their revival, and government measures aimed at revival have had similar impacts and are interconnected. Entrepreneurs unanimously agree on the need for more support to resurrect closed businesses, reduced tax rates for units in the revival stage, tax rebates for affected individuals, and the offsetting of loans and interest incurred during the pandemic.
Keywords:- MSME, COVID-19, revival, lockdown, Government support.

Abstract
In the dynamic realm of modern marketing, the fusion of digital technology with sensory experiences has catalysed a paradigm shift in consumer engagement strategies. This abstract navigates the landscape of digital sensory marketing, elucidating its significance and exploring its profound implications for brand-consumer interactions. Drawing upon interdisciplinary insights from psychology, neuroscience, and marketing research, we
delve into the intricate mechanisms through which sensory stimuli influence consumer perceptions and behaviours in digital environments. From the evocative power of visual imagery to the immersive potential of audio and haptic feedback, we unravel the diverse ways in which digital sensory cues can captivate audiences and elicit emotional responses. Through a synthesis of empirical studies and industry practices, we uncover the effectiveness of sensory marketing strategies in shaping brand perceptions, fostering emotional connections, and driving consumer actions in the digital age. By dissecting
successful case studies and theoretical frameworks, we offer practical guidance for marketers seeking to harness the potential of sensory experiences to differentiate their brands and create memorable interactions with consumers.
Keywords:- Digital Sensory Marketing, Multisensory Experiences, Consumer Engagement, Augmented Reality (AR), Virtual Reality (VR).

Abstract
Financial performance refers to the overall performance of financial items included in the financial statements such as the balance sheet and profit and loss account of the company. It assesses the company's financial performance in areas such as liquidity, solvency, profitability, and efficiency. Public enterprises are those enterprises which under the administration of the government. The Kerala Minerals and Metals Limited (KMML) is a public sector undertaking controlled by the Kerala government that operates in the manufacturing sector. The study is conducted for a period of 5 years from 2017-18 to 2021-22. The research design adopted in the study is descriptive and analytical. The study employed secondary data gathered from KMML's financial accounts which are provided by the Centre for Management Development (CMD), articles, and newspapers. The liquidity, solvency, efficiency,
and profitability positions were satisfactory after using the ratio analysis. The study concludes that overall financial performance was satisfactory.
Keywords:- Financial Performance, Public Sector Undertaking, KMML, Liquidity, Solvency, Profitability, Efficiency.

Abstract
This study aimed to investigate the factors influencing the length of stay of migrants in their destination regions. By examining various aspects such as the condition in the destination region, religion, social capital, individual characteristics, migration motive, and employment opportunities, we sought to provide a comprehensive understanding of the determinants affecting migrants' duration of residence is study underscores the multifaceted nature of factors influencing the length of stay of migrants. Policymakers, community leaders, and stakeholders can leverage these findings to formulate more targeted strategies for enhancing the attractiveness and sustainability of destination regions for migrants. Future research could delve deeper into the interplay of these factors and explore dynamic changes in migration patterns over time.
Keywords:- Social Capital, Migration, Length of Stay, Host Region, Migrant Integration, Socioeconomic Factors.

Abstract
GST, introduced in India in July 2017, aimed to unify the tax system and create a common market. However, frequent alterations by the GST Council regarding policies, tax rates, and procedures have led to confusion among professionals and businesses. This paper focuses on the challenges faced by
the sawmill industry in Thiruvananthapuram district when compiling and filing GST returns. Data collected from 100 respondents via interviews highlight the social, economic, and practical implications of these challenges. Addressing these issues can lead to a more efficient tax system and benefit both
businesses and society.
Keywords:- GST, GSTC, E-way bill, GST return, refund.

Abstract
Quality of work life is an important factor that determines the satisfaction level of employees in any organisation. Employees working in Oil companies, especially those in petrol pumps are much overlooked categories as they serve an important duty which calls for greater safety and security in their work. But these employees are made to work in the most unsatisfactory working conditions with unreasonable remunerations and in hectic work schedules characterized by long working hours, night shifts, highly risky workplaces, violence from travellers and so on. The study aimed to determine the extent of QWL enjoyed by the employees working in various petrol pumps in the Alappuzha district and also to understand the impact of QWL on the job satisfaction of these employees. For that 100 petrol pumps were taken for the study and with the help of a structured questionnaire, proper information was sought from the employees working in these pumps. The study revealed that QWL has much influence and impact on the job satisfaction of these employees.
Keywords:- Quality of work life, job satisfaction, risky workplace, Grievance, redressal.

Abstract
The Unified Payments Interface (UPI) has emerged as a cornerstone of India's digital payment landscape, revolutionising the way digital financial transactions are conducted. This article examines the patterns and difficulties related to UPI adoption in India, focusing on the reasons behind its broad acceptance as well as its explosive growth as its features. Through published sources, we examine the development of UPI adoption, highlighting the steady increase in the number of banks that live on the platform and the surge in transaction volumes and values over time. Despite its success, UPI faces several challenges, including technological, infrastructural, and man-made problems. By dissecting the idea of UPI, this article seeks to provide a concept study of UPI as well as an analysis of the difficulties UPI has encountered as a result of many internal and external factors affecting UPI-based electronic
payments.
Keywords:- UPI Unified Payment Interface, E-Payment, Digital payment, NPCI, Digital Currency, PMJDY, NFC, Central Bank Digital Currency, CBDC.

Abstract
Participatory Forest Management (PFM), involves collaboration between village communities and the Forest Department to manage forests and foster community development. This study assessed the impact of PFM on Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), focusing on poverty reduction, food security, health, and environmental sustainability. The effectiveness of PFM in achieving these goals is under-recognized. This systematic review investigated the tangible effects of PFM on socio-economic well-being and environmental sustainability in forest-adjacent communities. Its findings offer insights for policy formulation to enhance the PFM's contribution to sustainable development.
Keywords:- Participatory Forest Management, Sustainable Development Goals, forest-adjacent communities, community development, forest conservation

Abstract
This study explores the evolution, current dynamics, and emerging trends in supply chain management (SCM), aiming to provide insights for businesses
navigating the evolving landscape of SCM practices. In the present era, the study examines the integration of Industry 4.0 technologies, such as artificial intelligence, the Internet of things, and blockchain, and their implications for supply chain strategies and operations. Furthermore, it explores emerging trends in sustainability, ethical practices, and technological innovations, shedding light on their impact on the future of supply chain practices. The study investigates the strategic implications of historical challenges, such as economic recessions, natural disasters, and pandemics, on SCM strategies, including resilience, risk management, and adaptation strategies. Overall, this study offers a comprehensive overview of past developments, current dynamics, and future trends in SCM, equipping businesses with strategic insights to navigate and succeed in an increasingly complex and interconnected global marketplace.
Keywords:- Supply chain management, digitalization, technological integration, resilience, risk management, diversification, contingency planning, blockchain.

Abstract
This research study investigates the perceptions of customers towards the Banking Ombudsman Scheme aims to provide valuable insights into its
effectiveness and impact from the customer's perspective. Focused on the context of the Indian banking sector, particularly in Kerala, this survey-based research employs quantitative methods to gather and analyse data. The study utilizes a structured questionnaire to collect responses from a diverse sample of banking customers in Kerala, assessing their awareness, experiences, and satisfaction with the Banking Ombudsman Scheme. It explores customers' knowledge of their rights, the ease of accessing the scheme, their past interactions with it, and their overall perception of its utility as a dispute resolution mechanism. Through statistical analysis, the research identifies key trends, customer sentiment, and factors influencing their perceptions, including demographic variables and past banking-related issues. The findings of this research contribute to a better understanding of how customers perceive the Banking Ombudsman Scheme and its role in enhancing consumer protection within the banking industry.
Keywords:- Banking Ombudsman scheme, customer sentiment, Customer's perception, Banking sector, Kerala.