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Title: The Inflation-Unemployment Trade-Off in Bangladesh: Empirical Insights for Accelerating Progress towards Zero Poverty (SDG 1)

Abstract: This study empirically investigates the inflation-unemployment trade-off in Bangladesh and assesses its implications for achieving Sustainable Development Goal 1 (SDG 1) of zero poverty. High inflation erodes the real income of the poor, while unemployment directly limits earning capabilities, making the interplay between these variables a central determinant of poverty reduction. Using annual time-series data from 1990 to 2024, we employ an Autoregressive Distributed Lag (ARDL) model to test for the existence and stability of a long-run relationship. Our findings confirm a significant short-run trade-off but reveal that this relationship is unstable and weakens in the long run, suggesting that other structural factors dominate. The results indicate that unanticipated inflationary shocks disproportionately harm the poor, and persistent unemployment remains a formidable barrier to inclusive growth. The study concludes that a singular focus on either price stability or employment generation is insufficient for attaining SDG 1. Instead, Bangladesh requires an integrated policy framework that combines prudent monetary policy to control the inflation rate with targeted fiscal measures, investments in human capital, and productive sector diversification to generate new employment opportunities. This holistic approach is essential to effectively manage the trade-off and accelerate progress towards eliminating poverty.

By Shuvongkor Kumar Datta, S.K.S. Yadav, Jubair Ansary, Ariful Islam
In Volume: 14,Issue: 2
Title: Digital Payment Adoption and Its Influence on Consumer Behaviour: Evidence from Meerut District

Abstract: Digital evolution of payment services has been a crucial and evolving trend that has been witnessed in the Indian financial market. Technological advancement, government support, and a rise in smartphone devices have encouraged people to opt for more digital means of transferring money and changing the structure of financial and money markets. This paper attempts to provide an empirical analysis of how consumer behavior is shaped by the evolving nature of digital payment services, especially in Meerut districts of Meerut, a Tier-2 city that constitutes a mix of both urban and semi-urban class consumer crowd. This paper attempts to provide an empirical analysis of how consumer behavior is shaped through a structured questionnaire covering a sample size of 100 people and employed statistical methods for hypothesis testing and analysis. Findings show that demographic characteristics are not a significant factor in changes in consumer expenditure behavior and shape and are shaped by aspects such as trust, ease of convenience, and perceived usefulness of services. Additionally, it was found that ease of services of digital payment further contributes to an improvement in consumer satisfaction levels.

By S.K.S. Yadav, Samreen Khan
In Volume: 14,Issue: 2
Title: Redefining Trade Relations: The Effect of Atmanirbhar Bharat on India’s Imports and Exports with China

Abstract: This research explores the impact of India's Atmanirbhar Bharat (Self-Reliant India) policy on its trade relations with China, emphasising their role in global supply chains. It analyses changes in trade patterns, import dependency, export results, and sectoral shifts since the policy's 2020 implementation. By combining quantitative data with qualitative evaluations, the study reveals that the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative has introduced strategic measures for import substitution, supply chain diversification, and domestic industry support, focusing on enhancing local manufacturing, technological innovation, and entrepreneurship. The study highlights India's structural trade imbalances with China, driven by its significant demand for intermediate goods and capital equipment crucial for manufacturing. This dependence poses challenges to India's self-reliance and complicates trade relations in a globalised economy. The paper offers policy recommendations to enhance trade resilience and competitiveness against Chinese imports, including investing in infrastructure, promoting research and development, and forming strategic international partnerships to mitigate trade imbalances and support sustainable growth.

By Arvind Kumar Yadav, Nitin Kumar
In Volume: 14,Issue: 2
Title: Military Presence of United States in Korean Peninsula Conflict and Intensification of Nuclear Development Programme by North Korea

Abstract: In the last decades, the Korean Peninsula has remained a region of constant political conflict and worrisome instability. In recent times, the tension between North and South Koreas has gathered momentum following North Korea’s nuclear development programmes and subsequent display of military prowess by both Koreas in a fashion that is characteristic of arms race of the Cold War era. The United States has wielded into the situation in the Peninsula to the effect of ending the catastrophic nuclearization. This has ballooned the historical conflict between the United States and North Korea. The paper examines Military Presence of United States in Korean Peninsula Conflict and Intensification of Nuclear Development Programme by North Korea, in order to ascertain if the continuous military presence of United States in the Korean Peninsula as sustained by Biden’s Presidency contributes to the intensification of catastrophic nuclear weapons development programme by North Korea. The study adopted the ’Realist Theory’ as its anchor blue-print in a pragmatic effort to explain why the engagement between the two states remain largely hostile. The study adopted content analysis for the purpose of analyzing documented materials generated through secondary sources of data collection as well as the qualitative method of data analysis. The findings show the serial and catastrophic worsening of United States and North Korea conflict with the unabated military presence of United States in Korean Peninsula and how it has intensified nuclear development programme by North Korea. Recommendations were proffered along these findings as follows, the need for reduction in the high military presence of the US in Korean Peninsula which the government of North Korea perceived as a threat to the national security of North Korea. The facts shows that North Korea will continue to feel threatened so long as the US heavy military remain in the Korean Peninsula.

By Fortunetus Izuchukwu Oguwuike
In Volume: 14,Issue: 2
Title: Attitudinal and Contextual Barriers to Green Product Adoption among Educators and Administration: A Case Study of Educational Institutions in Meerut

Abstract: This study investigates the perceived barriers hindering the adoption of green products within the educational ecosystem of Meerut, India, specifically adopting an institutional perspective. Recognizing educational institutions as crucial agents for promoting sustainability, the research aims to identify the structural, procedural, and normative impediments faced by schools, colleges, and universities in transitioning towards environmentally preferable goods and services. Utilizing a qualitative approach, data was gathered from secondary sources, through online mode and focus group discussions with key institutional stakeholders, including administrators, and faculty members in Meerut. The analysis reveals a complex interplay of perceived barriers operating at multiple institutional levels. Key impediments identified include: 1) Economic Constraints: Predominant concerns regarding the higher initial costs, green products and stringent, inflexible budgetary allocations; 2) Structural & Procedural Hurdles: Lack of clear institutional green procurement policies, cumbersome bureaucratic approval processes, and limited access to reliable suppliers/vendors offering certified green alternatives; 3) Behavioral & Awareness Factors: Insufficient institutional commitment and leadership prioritization, resistance to changing established procurement habits, and a lack of awareness or training among institution stakeholders regarding the benefits and availability of green options. The findings emphasize that overcoming these barriers requires targeted intervention sat the institutional level, including the formulation of supportive green procurement policies, dedicated budgetary provisions, streamlined processes, capacity building, and fostering a stronger organizational culture of sustainability.

By S.K.S. Yadav, Avika Baliyan
In Volume: 14,Issue: 2
Title: The Impact of Pawnbroking on Local Communities with special reference to Bangladesh

Abstract: This study examines pawnbroking's impact on social entrepreneurship and its implications for social development. It posits that Pawnbroking aids vulnerable entrepreneurs, often excluded from formal credit, in accessing quick financial resources, thereby enhancing social entrepreneurship. Through a meta-analysis and literature review, including three case studies from Bangladesh, the findings indicate that, despite exploitative practices, pawnshops are vital for providing the impoverished with financial access and supporting social welfare. However, risks such as asset loss, debt cycles, and exploitation of desperate borrowers are also highlighted. The study emphasizes the need for regulatory oversight and more accessible financial systems that protect borrowers while maintaining accessibility. Overall, pawnbroking offers both advantages and challenges for local communities in Bangladesh, necessitating a balance between quick cash access and consumer protections to promote healthier community dynamics.

By José G. Vargas-Hernández, Amina Khatun, Csongor Czipf, Absalón J. Salmerón-Zapata
In Volume: 14,Issue: 2

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