Institute of Management Development and Research(IMDR)

Abstract
The current study looks at how supply chain management and technological investment are impacted by opportunities, obstacles, and institutional support from the Rubber Board. These factors then have an impact on efficiency metrics and the overall performance of rubber processing facilities. A systematic questionnaire was used to gather primary data from 165 rubber processing facilities. The associations between the variables were investigated using Structural Equation Modelling (SEM) in AMOS. The findings show that while obstacles have a detrimental impact on supply chain management and technology investment, opportunities and institutional support have a favourable impact. Investments in technology and supply chain management greatly increase efficiency metrics, which in turn improve the assessment of rubber processing units' performance. The study emphasises how efficiency plays a mediating function in converting operational and institutional inputs into quantifiable performance results.
Keywords: Rubber processing units, Supply Chain Management, Investment in Technology, Efficiency Parameters, Performance Evaluation, Structural Equation Modeling.

Abstract
Priority Sector Lending (PSL) plays a pivotal role in promoting inclusive economic growth by directing credit to sectors that are often neglected by traditional banking, including agriculture, micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), education, housing, and weaker sections. Despite the policy's importance, borrowers' awareness of loan parameters such as eligibility criteria, interest rates, repayment terms, documentation requirements, and government subsidies varies significantly across sectors. This study examines beneficiaries' awareness across loan categories, analyses gaps, and highlights areas for targeted interventions. Using primary data and statistical analyses, including ANOVA and Duncan's Multiple Range
Test (DMRT), the study reveals significant differences in awareness among borrowers of agriculture, MSME, General Service Sector (GSS), and weaker section (WS) loans. Findings suggest that awareness is highest among MSMEs and GSS beneficiaries, moderate among agricultural borrowers, and lowest among WS loan recipients. The study emphasises the need for targeted financial literacy programs to maximise PSL effectiveness.
Keywords: Priority Sector Lending (PSL), Borrowers' Awareness, MSME Loans, General Service Sector (GSS) Loans, Weaker Section (WS) Loans, Financial Literacy.

Abstract
Visual merchandising has become an important tool for influencing consumer behaviour in competitive retail environments. Despite its growing relevance, limited evidence exists on the relative importance of different visual merchandising elements in shaping buying behaviour, particularly in emerging markets. The present study examines the role of visual merchandising in influencing consumer buying behaviour and shopping experience. The study is based on primary data collected from 110 respondents using a structured questionnaire. Statistical techniques such as mean ranking, Chi-square test, and ANOVA were used for analysis. The findings indicate that atmospheric elements such as music and lighting, along with promotional offerings, have a stronger influence on buying behaviour than structural elements. The results also show that while digital features influence all age groups similarly,
physical features vary significantly across age groups. The study highlights the importance of effective store design in enhancing customer experience and influencing purchase decisions.
Keywords: Visual Merchandising, Consumer Buying Behaviour, Retail Environment, Shopping Experience, Retail Atmospherics.

Abstract
Work-life balance is defined as proper balancing between professional and personal responsibilities, becoming an area of growing concern in the contemporary economic world. While concern with the interface between work and life is not new, work-life balance has risen to prominence in academic and policy debates in recent years. Paramedical professionals are health-care professionals who perform clinical services for patients under the supervision of a physician and play a crucial role in healthcare delivery, often operating under demanding schedules, high patient loads and emotionally intensive environments. This study, "Life Beyond the Scrubs: Focusing on the Intersection of Work and Life among the Paramedical Workforce," identifies the influencing factors of work-life balance among paramedical professionals, examines the consequences of poor work-life balance and finds the
remedies. A quantitative research design was employed, collecting primary data from 75 paramedical professionals in Trivandrum district through a structured questionnaire. Statistical tools were used to analyze the data.
Keywords:- Paramedical workforce, work-life balance, Employee well-being, Health care professionals, organizational support.

Abstract
Employee turnover is the rate at which employees leave the organisation for voluntary or involuntary reasons. It is a critical challenge faced by IT companies. From the literature review, it is found that the most common type of turnover is voluntary turnover, meaning employees leave by their own choice. Many studies indicated that work stress, career growth opportunities and work-life balance are strong predictors contributing to turnover. Thus, this study examines the effects of Work Stress, Career Growth Opportunities, and Work-Life Balance on Turnover Intention among IT professionals in the context of Kerala. Findings revealed that Work stress has a strong positive effect on turnover intention, whereas career growth opportunities
and work-life balance have negative correlations with turnover intention. Work Stress was the strongest predictor of turnover intention, and it was followed by Career Growth Opportunities. Work-Life Balance was excluded from the model due to lack of statistical significance. The study will help IT companies to address stress, promote career development, and design and strengthen employee support systems so as to reduce attrition and enhance workplace well-being.
Keywords: Work Stress, Career Growth, Work-Life Balance, Turnover Intention, IT Professionals.

Abstract
This study conducts a bibliometric analysis of 500 documents recovered from the Dimensions database (2023-2026) to map the intellectual and thematic structure of AI-driven personalisation and privacy studies. Using Bibliometrix (R) and VOSviewer, publication trends, citation dynamics, collaboration networks, and thematic evolution are examined. Results uncover a compound annual expansion rate of 24.36 per cent, with China and the United States leading worldwide contributions. Thematic mapping identifies artificial intelligence-precision medicine-humans as motor themes, while demographic-driven personalisation constitutes essential study streams. Emerging clusters suggest a shift toward wearable devices, deep learning, and big and substantial language models. Privacy management, nonetheless, remains comparatively underdeveloped relative to technological innovation. The study proposes a future inquiry agenda emphasising explainable AI, privacy-preserving architectures, and regulatory alignment frameworks.
Keywords: Artificial Intelligence, Personalisation, Privacy, Bibliometric Analysis, Data Governance.

Abstract
The rapid growth of FinTech payment systems has significantly reshaped digital transactions. However, there remains a lack of comprehensive evidence on how perception-related and satisfaction-related factors collectively influence user outcomes, particularly in emerging economies. Addressing this gap is increasingly important as the adoption of digital payments accelerates and user retention becomes a key competitive concern. This study investigates the role of perceived security, trust, ease of use, convenience, benefits, and awareness in shaping user perception. It further examines how customer support, feature availability, and perceived value contribute to transaction efficiency and overall user satisfaction. The findings indicate that all identified perception-related factors have a significant impact on user perception. In addition, feature availability, customer support, and perceived value were found to positively influence transaction efficiency, with feature availability emerging as the most influential factor. These results suggest that enhancing system
functionality and strengthening support services are critical to improving user satisfaction. Overall, the study offers practical insights for FinTech service providers, policymakers, and researchers by providing an evidence-based framework to enhance adoption, operational efficiency, and user experience in digital payment systems.
Keywords: FinTech Payment Systems, User Perception, Customer Satisfaction, Transaction Efficiency, Feature Availability.

Abstract
This study examines the influence of Jesuit leadership on institutional quality among teaching faculty in Jesuit colleges in Kerala. Grounded in Lowney's (2003) Ignatian framework, self-awareness, ingenuity, love, and heroism. The study adopts a descriptive analytical design using purposive sampling of 115 faculty members across four institutions. Findings reveal a consistently high perception of Jesuit leadership across all four dimensions, with largely uniform influence across age, experience, faculty stream, tenure, and institution type. Limited gender and religion-based variations were observed in specific dimensions. Overall, Jesuit leadership functions as a stable, inclusive, and values-driven model that positively shapes institutional quality, faculty commitment, and academic culture.
Keywords: Jesuit leadership, institutional quality, higher education, faculty perception, Ignatian values.

Abstract
This study investigates the influence of Emotion Regulation and Emotion Utilisation on the positive attitude of retailers towards challenges. Factor analysis revealed two major components of EI as Emotion Regulation and Emotion Utilisation, with satisfactory reliability of Cronbach's Alpha for Emotion Regulation 0.927, Emotion Utilisation 0.712 and attitude 0.850. The results of ANOVA revealed a significant effect of Emotion Regulation levels on attitude, F (2, 137) = 13.316, p < .001. Correlation and multiple regression analyses showed that Emotion Regulation was significantly and positively (F (2, 137) = 15.555, p < 0.001) associated with attitude. The findings suggest that higher Emotion Regulation fosters a more positive outlook among retailers.
Keywords: Emotion Regulation, Emotion Utilisation, Attitude, Small retailers, Emotion knowledge.

Abstract
This study examines Kerala Start-up Mission's (KSUM) contribution to the development of Kerala's digital entrepreneurial ecosystem for women. Women
entrepreneurs confront challenges like poor networks, restricted access to capital, and technological barriers in the context of the growing digital transformation. Primary data were collected from 100 women entrepreneurs who were registered with KSUM across sectors such as IT, fintech, edtech, and digital services. Statistical techniques such as ANOVA, mean analysis, and correlation were used to assess the efficacy of institutional support systems. The findings show that KSUM significantly improves leadership and digital skills, strengthens entrepreneurial abilities, and makes
it easier to reach market and financial opportunities. The most effective ecosystem components were found to be networking and incubation assistance. The study also shows that enhanced sustainability and entrepreneurial performance are correlated with increased institutional support. The study offers policymakers useful information to support women-led digital businesses and emphasises the significance of structured institutional interventions in fostering gender-inclusive entrepreneurship.
Keywords: Digital Entrepreneurial Ecosystem, Women Entrepreneurs, Startup Policy, Institutional Support, Kerala Start-up Mission.

Abstract
Growing environmental concerns and health awareness have significantly influenced consumer purchasing behaviour, leading to the emergence of green consumerism. Green consumerism refers to the conscious preference for eco-friendly products that minimise environmental damage and
promote sustainable consumption. Young consumers play an important role in this transition as their consumption choices are often influenced by environmental awareness, social influence, and value-driven behaviour. This study examines the major factors influencing green consumerism among
youngsters by analysing their awareness levels, consumption behaviour, motivating factors, and perceived barriers. A quantitative research approach was adopted, and primary data were collected from 80 respondents using a structured questionnaire. Descriptive statistics, correlation, and regression
analysis were employed to analyse the data. The findings reveal that youngsters demonstrate moderate to high awareness and a strong inclination toward green consumption behaviour. Factors such as environmental awareness, peer influence, personal responsibility, and trust in eco-labels positively
influence green consumerism. However, barriers including limited availability, lack of knowledge, and convenience issues restrict the widespread adoption of green products. The study highlights the need for improved awareness programmes, better accessibility to green products, and supportive
policies to promote sustainable consumption among young consumers.
Keywords: Green Consumerism, Eco-friendly Products, Youth Consumption Behaviour, Environmental Awareness, Sustainable Consumption.

Abstract
India's defence manufacturing sector has transformed from dominance under the Defence Public Sector Undertakings (DPSUs) and the Ordnance Factory Board (OFB) to a more diversified ecosystem that includes private sector companies and MSMEs. This article examines the growth trajectory and frames it within the broader reforms that have taken place since 2014 and strive to increase defence exports, improve and encourage indigenous innovation and reduce dependence on imports. In addition, the article also highlights significant achievements in production and exports; it also opens up continuing challenges such as reliance on technology, financial difficulties, delays in procurement and decentralised R& D. To achieve strategic self-reliance, the study holds that enhanced technology development, economical procurement, MSME assistance and intense export promotion are essential for equitable growth and development.
Keywords: Defence Manufacturing, Atmanirbhar Bharat, Make in India, DPSU, MSME

Abstract
The study examines user difficulties and service gaps in online food delivery platforms among customers in the Thiruvananthapuram district. The findings
reveal that Swiggy is the most preferred application, while high delivery charges and late deliveries are the major customer concerns. Product-related issues, such as stale food and unhygienic practices, were reported at a low level. The study also found no significant difference in customer issues across age groups, while female customers experienced greater difficulty in order tracking. The study suggests improving delivery efficiency, refund systems, order accuracy, tracking facilities, and customer support to enhance customer satisfaction and service quality.
Keywords: Online Food Delivery, Order Tracking, Food Delivery Apps, E-Service Quality.