Growth And Challenges Faced By Micro, Small And Medium Enterprises In India

Umang Khandelwal, Raju Thomas, Shivani Jain, Akrati Upadhyay, Nidhi Yadav

Department of Commerce, Applied Business Economics, St. John’s College, Agra

DOI: https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.15647865

Abstract

Micro, Small, and Medium enterprises are the backbone of any country. Micro, Small, and Medium enterprises not only generate employment opportunities but also help industries by providing raw materials as well as finished goods. It significantly contributes to the Indian economy through domestic production, technology-oriented enterprises, export production, low investment requirements, operational flexibility, etc. Micro, Small, and Medium enterprises also help in reducing unequal distribution of income. An attempt is made to know the contribution and growth made by MSMEs in India and the challenges they are facing. There are various problems Micro, small, and Medium enterprises are facing as discussed in this paper.

Keywords: Challenges, growth, MSMEs, Enterprises.

Cite this article : Umang, K., Raju, T., Shivani, J., Akrati, U., & Nidhi, Y. (2025). Growth And Challenges Faced By Micro, Small And Medium Enterprises In India. Pahal Horizon, An International Research Journal, 5(10),1-12

Inclusive Education and Health status of Rural Women in Ganjam District of Odisha: A study

Sasmita Tripathy, Manas Behera

Department of Political Science, Rama Devi Women’s University, Bhubaneswar, Odisha

DOI: https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.15662588

This paper focused on the inclusive Development of rural women through Education and health. A study on Ganjam district under three block such as – Chatrapur, Ganjam and khallikote. Inclusive education is the weapons to achieve rural women empowerment. Education is regarded as the most important tool for empowering women in society. It involves more than just the evolution of an individual's personality. In India, increasing the level of education for women has a significant impact on living standards. Stated differently, the hard truth about women's education in India is that it is ultimately up to them. They believe that their sons will support their father as they get older and that their daughter would ultimately get married and move in with another family, thus they would rather spend money on their kids' education than on their daughter. Women's education is essential to raising their social status. Women are the noblest creation of God, according to Mahatma Gandhi, and they are even superior to men in their religious. To promote gender equality and the empowerment of women as effective ways to combat poverty, hunger and disease and to stimulate development in the field of Socio, Economics, political, Cultural, Educational and Health nutrition of rural women. That is truly sustainable.

Keywords: Role and status of Rural women, Review related literature, Inclusive education, methods of study, Gender equality, health status of Rural women , issues and challenges , Educational and health policy initiative ,way forward.

Cite this article : Sasmita, T., & Manas, B. (2025). Inclusive Education and Health status of Rural Women in Ganjam District of Odisha: A study. Pahal Horizon, An International Research Journal, 5(10), 13-25.

Adoption Levels Of E-Payment Systems Among E-Commerce Users: A Study In The Indian Context

Shivani Jain, Raju Thomas, Umang Khandelwal, Akrati Upadhyay, Nidhi Yadav

Department of Commerce, Applied Business Economics, St. John’s College, Agra

DOI: https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.15662649

This research paper investigates the adoption levels of electronic payment (e-payment) systems among e-commerce users in India. The term ‘E-Commerce Users’ here refers to ‘E-Commerce Consumers’ or in simple terms they are the ‘ Online Shoppers’ . Because e-commerce has advanced so quickly, the manner consumers do transactions for their purchases has changed. The widespread use of electronic payment systems, which give customers the ability to conduct safe and effective online transactions, is the main driver of this development. The adoption rates of electronic payment systems among e-commerce customers are examined in this study, along with the variables that affect their choices. The study is based on secondary data, examining trends, barriers, and factors influencing the acceptance and use of digital payment methods. Using a combination of qualitative and quantitative methodologies, the study examines the adoption rates of different e-payment mechanisms and considers factors including security, convenience, trust, and societal value. This study shows that although e-commerce customers are increasingly adopting electronic payment systems, their reluctance to do so is still caused by issues with security and trust. The findings suggest that while e-commerce in India is rapidly expanding, the adoption of e-payment systems varies due to factors such as user demographics, infrastructure limitations, security concerns, and regional differences. The study ends with suggestions for e-commerce companies and the government looking to increase the uptake of e-payments and encourage more participation.

Keywords: E-Payment Systems, E-Commerce Users, Adoption Levels.

Cite this article :Shivani, J., Raju, T., Umang, K., Akrati, U., & Nidhi, Y. (2025). Adoption Levels Of E-Payment Systems Among E-Commerce Users: A Study In The Indian Context. Pahal Horizon, An International Research Journal, 5(10), 26-37.

A study of human psyche in R. K. Narayan’s The Guide

Vishwendri Chaudhary

Department of English Studies and Research Jagdish Saran Hindu Post-Graduate College, Amroha

DOI: https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.15728923

This paper gives a critical view of Narayan’s comment on the human condition. It provides key psychological insights. These are presented through character studies. Raju, Rosie, and Marco are the focus. The story tracks their mental shifts. Raju’s change is central. He begins as a corrupt tour guide. He ends as a spiritual figure. Narayan shows this change in depth. The novel explores identity formation. It discusses moral confusion. It also speaks of redemption. The critique treats the novel as a bildungsroman. It tracks Raju’s growth. His journey moves from early life to inner change. His background plays a role. His environment shapes him. These shape his mental self. His moral confusion is studied. His two-faced nature is clear. His lies and actions matter. These bring major results. Suffering causes reflection. Faith brings change. Redemption becomes real. His mind evolves. Growth is slow but deep. Power is also examined. Control is present in ties. These ties reveal his nature. His adaptability stands out. His mental strength grows. Others also face trauma. Their minds show pain. These minds add to the theme.

Keyword: R.K. Narayan, The Guide, human psyche, identity formation, redemption, power dynamics, spirituality, moral ambiguity.

Cite this article :Vishwendri, C. (2025). A study of human psyche in R. K. Narayan's The Guide. Pahal Horizon, An International Research Journal, 5(10),38–47.

Contours of Jain life in Mughal India (1526–1707)

Ruchi Agarwal

St. John’s College, Agra

DOI: https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.15729015

This research paper, Contours of Jain Life in Mughal India (1526–1707), explores the complex and evolving relationship between the Jain community and the Mughal state across successive reigns. It investigates the extent of imperial patronage, religious negotiations, and socio-political interactions that shaped Jain life under various Mughal rulers from Babur to Aurangzeb. The study highlights the significant roles played by Jain Acharyas, poets, merchants, and ministers in gaining royal favor, securing religious concessions, and influencing courtly decisions, especially during the reigns of Akbar and Shah Jahan. Akbar’s era is marked as the golden period for Jain-Mughal relations, with Jain monks like Hiravijaya Suri and Yati Bhanuchandra influencing royal policies that reflected Jain ethical principles, such as bans on animal slaughter and pilgrim taxes. The paper further discusses shifting attitudes under Jahangir, the decline in patronage during Aurangzeb’s orthodox rule, and the continuation of economic alliances through influential Jain merchants such as Shantidas Jhaveri and Jagat Seths. Despite facing episodes of religious persecution and policy reversals, the Jain community sustained its traditions through temple-building, literary production, and strategic adaptation. The narrative also includes regional developments, especially in Gujarat, Agra, and Bihar, where Jains engaged actively in commerce, politics, and cultural exchange. Through primary accounts and scholarly references, the paper underscores the resilience and adaptability of Jainism in navigating the contours of Mughal political and religious frameworks.

Keywords: Jainism, Mughal Empire, Akbar, Hiravijaya Suri, religious tolerance, farmāns, Ibadat Khana, Jain-Mughal relations, Shantidas Jhaveri, Banarsidas, Digambara, Śvetāmbara, Ahimsa, temple patronage, Jain merchants, religious pluralism, Gujarat, Agra, medieval India, Mughal court, Jain Acharyas.

Cite this article :Ruchi, A. (2025). Contours of Jain life in Mughal India (1526–1707). Pahal Horizon, An International Research Journal, 5(10), 48–54.

A Study on the Relevance of Public Administration with Social Workers Towards the Realization of Sustainable Social Policy

Vishal Ajabrao Tembhurne, Mallikarjun S. Hugar

Central University of Karnataka, Kalaburagi

DOI: https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.16086367

Public Administration is a dynamic field dedicated to continually improving the delivery of public services through a multidisciplinary approach. While administration as an activity has existed since the inception of society, public administration as a distinct discipline emerged in the late 19th century and has continuously evolved to serve society better. Good social policies require special knowledge and expertise; earlier, most public policymakers did not have direct experience from ground reality, so they lacked firsthand information. However, the paradigm shifted from the government to governance; in this regard, non-governmental entities, civil society, and international organizations have played a crucial role in the overall decision-making process and policy framework directly and indirectly. So, social workers are vital contributors to Social Policy and its implementation in macro and micro settings, especially in social welfare policy. They are acutely aware of the quality and quantity of services and other outcomes of policy implementation. This paper explores the transformative impact of integrating the social worker role into public administration practices to establish a governance model prioritizing societal well-being and equity. The study delves into the multifaceted consequences of infusing social worker roles and values into bureaucratic structures, focusing on promoting human-centered approaches, pursuing social justice, fostering collaboration, upholding ethical standards, and implementing preventive strategies. This redefinition involves collaborative efforts between social workers and administrators for innovative approaches to address societal issues with moral considerations. The paper will discuss the theoretical debate on the role of the social worker perspective in the administrative context, helping to create a more effective, ethical, and responsive public service that meets the unique needs of communities.

Keywords: Social Policy, Social Work Principle, Administration Development, Social Justice

Cite this article :Vishal Ajabrao, T., Dr. Mallikarjun, S. H. (2025). A Study on the Relevance of Public Administration with Social Workers Towards the Realization of Sustainable Social Policy. Pahal Horizon, An International Research Journal, 5(10), 55-63.

Assessing ARPU growth and monetization strategies in the Indian telecom industry: A five-year comparative study of Bharti Airtel and Reliance Jio

Alina Abid, Sanjeev Sharma

St. John’s College, Agra

DOI: https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.17272543

The Indian telecom sector has evolved as one of the fastest-growing sectors in the world, driven by increasing digitalization, competitive dynamics, and the evolving subscriber base of two giant operators of the Indian telecom sector, i.e., Bharti Airtel Ltd. and Reliance Jio Infocomm Ltd., over a period of five years from FY 2019-20 to FY 2023-24. ARPU, the critical metric for assessing financial efficiency and subscriber monetization, was analyzed using secondary data from annual reports, TRAI publications, and other authenticated sources. The study finds that while both operators have illustrated a consistent ARPU growth, Airtel has continuously led with higher ARPU as compared to Jio, revealing its stronger ability to monetize its premium subscriber base and more effective plan pricing strategies. On the other hand, Jio’s ARPU growth illustrates a gradual shift from customer acquisition to revenue quality and sustainability. This study contributes to academic literature by addressing a major research gap of longitudinal ARPU-based comparative performance analysis in the Indian telecom industry.

Keywords: Average Revenue Per User (ARPU), Reliance Jio Infocomm Ltd., Bharti Airtel Ltd., Indian Telecom Sector, Subscriber Base, Trend Analysis.

Cite this article : Alina, A., Sanjeev, S. (2025). Assessing ARPU growth and monetization strategies in the Indian telecom industry: A five-year comparative study of Bharti Airtel and Reliance Jio. Pahal Horizon, An International Research Journal, 5(10), 64-72.

A Thematic Review On The Perfectionism-Procrastination Cycle in high-Achievers

Aseeria Mahamid Hasan

Department of Psychology, Isabella Thoburn College, University of Lucknow

DOI: https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.17272562

The relationship between perfectionism and procrastination and their combined effects on students, especially in high-achievers, is a major concern in academic fields. Research on similar topics and queries aims to study the stress and coping mechanisms these scholars might develop, and the mental health issues that are arising in the present day. It is necessary to explore the meaning behind such terms in depth, and their practical results in academic and work-related places, exploring the areas that have been neglected in past studies such as, how maladaptive perfectionism leads to procrastination, typically in high-performing individuals who find it troublesome to reach the exact result they are aiming for, and how these traits can be observed. Using several resources, such as Peer Reviewed Journals, Meta Analyses and Empirical Evidences, dating back to early 20th century findings and theories about psychoanalytic or cognitive behaviour to the very recent studies of 2024, this review paper aims to direct a clear view towards explaining how delay in initiation towards tasks might be linked to perfectionism in individuals within academic fields, taking in consideration the contextual and cultural background, such as family expectations, competition among peers, and societal views, etc.

Keywords: Perfectionism, Procrastination, High-Achieving Students, Academic Stress, Fear of Failure, Delay in Actions.

Cite this article : Aseeria, M. H. (2025). AA Thematic Review On The Perfectionism-Procrastination Cycle in high-Achievers. Pahal Horizon, An International Research Journal, 5(10), 73-80.

Understanding Financial Misbehaviour: A Perspective on Suboptimal Personal Finance Decisions

Aditya Luthra

NMIMS, Mumbai, India

DOI: https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.17272587

This paper examines the trend of financial misbehaviour by investigating how behavioural biases result in suboptimal personal finance decisions, defying the traditional assumption of investor rationality. With the help of empirical observations like global financial literacy rates, increasing household debt, and spiralling credit consumption, the paper identifies a stark gap between financial capability and responsibility globally. A classification of 18 behavioural biases that have been grouped into four thematic categories (temporal and risk-related, cognitive and heuristic-based, self-evaluation and belief-based, and social influence based) have been discussed at length. Each bias is exemplified using everyday examples like Buy Now Pay Later scheme, cryptocurrency valuations, and the GameStop stock price debacle to highlight their applicability and implications. In overcoming these biases, the paper assesses intervention measures like nudges, boosts, financial education, and policy reforms. It recommends that enhancing financial well-being needs to be tackled on two fronts: building individual decision-making capacity and reshaping financial environments through effective policy design. The research highlights the need to combine behavioural insights into financial literacy initiatives and regulatory frameworks to combat misbehaviour in an increasingly complex global financial landscape.

Keywords: Financial Behaviour, Financial Decision Making, Personal Finance, Behavioural economics, Bias, Heuristics, Risk, Interventions, Nudges.

Cite this article : Aditya, K. (2025). Understanding Financial Misbehaviour: A Perspective on Suboptimal Personal Finance Decisions. Pahal Horizon, An International Research Journal, 5(10), 81-95.

Colonising The Cloud- A Review of Digital Hegemony and Technology Inequality in the Global South

Asha Mary Alex

Deshbandhu College, University of Delhi

DOI: https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.17272601

The rapid expansion of artificial intelligence, platform ecosystems and cloud infrastructures are reshaping global power relations in ways that deepen historical asymmetries. While they are framed as vehicles of progress and inclusion, they form a new form of dependency, which positions many regions of the Global South as recipients rather than architects of digital futures. This paper will highlight how digital infrastructures operate as instruments of political and economic control rather than neutral tools, and examine how platform power, data extraction and algorithmic governance together reproduce systemic inequalities. With a synthesis of existing literature and sectoral evidence, the paper demonstrates that platform monopolies and externally imposed algorithm models have reconfigured advertising markets, humanitarian systems and welfare technologies. These cases reveal accountability gaps where local actors lack meaningful participation in design and oversight, but also economic consequences. The analysis underscores diverse responses and regulatory experiments, reflecting varied capacities and civic engagement rather than treating the Global South as a homogeneous category. This review identifies critical gaps in current research, including limited integration of the local knowledge system, underrepresentation of grassroots innovation and the absence of frameworks that move beyond technical fixes. It calls for a decolonial agenda which reimagines technology as a site of co-creation, placing plural and encouraging context-specific perspectives at the centre of global governance.

Keywords: digital inequality, platform power, data colonialism, algorithmic governance, digital sovereignty, Global South, decolonial technology, participatory design, technological dependency, cloud infrastructures.

Cite this article : Asha, M. A. (2025). Colonising The Cloud: A Review of Digital Hegemony and Technology Inequality in the Global South. Pahal Horizon, An International Research Journal, 5(10), 96-101.

The Role of Artificial Intelligence in Transforming Financial Risk Management: A Review of Literature

Shreya Kumar

NMIMS, Mumbai, India

DOI: https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.17272618

This paper presents a comprehensive overview of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in Financial Risk Management (FRM) in all its applications to credit risk, market risk, operational risk, liquidity risk, systemic risk, and cybersecurity. It demonstrates how AI techniques-machine learning, deep learning, and natural language processing-enhance predictability, real-time surveillance, and decision-making abilities beyond traditional models. The study critically assesses AI's transformational potential and its limitations, including algorithmic bias, data quality issues, model interpretability, and regulatory issues. Based on an extensive literature and practical implementation, the review stresses the growing contribution of AI to the development of resilient, adaptive, and efficient financial risk architecture while underlining the governance, transparency, and ethical protection imperatives for long-term adoption.

Keywords: Artificial Intelligence, Financial Risk Management, Machine Learning, Credit Risk, Market Risk, Operational Risk, Liquidity Risk, Systemic Risk

Cite this article : Shreya, K. (2025). The Role of Artificial Intelligence in Transforming Financial Risk Management: A Review of Literature. Pahal Horizon, An International Research Journal, 5(10), 102-116.

Impact of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy on Resilience and in Reducing Stress in the Workforce

Deepti Gupta

IGNOU, India

DOI: https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.17272625

The productivity of an employee at the workplace can be enhanced by alleviating their stressors and building their resilience. Research has been conducted with this objective using new approaches in CBT. ACT has been proven to be effective in relieving pain in cancer patients. Acceptance and Commitment Therapy represents a significant evolution in the landscape of psychological interventions, diverging from traditional Cognitive Behavioural Therapy by prioritising psychological flexibility over direct modification of thought content, along with better self-management and compassion. A humanistic approach can allow employees to focus on building their values and goals, resulting in a more efficient ecosystem at work. Thus, ACT can find its relevance in the workforce, where these key takeaways can lead to better productivity and a better quality of life. Work stressors can emerge from an extensive workload and demanding roles. This paper explores the key takeaways of the ACT role in enhancing psychological resilience and mitigating work-related stress among employees in various sectors. It synthesises observations made on ACT interventions implemented across diverse professional settings.

Keywords: Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Resilience, Stressors, Burnout, Self growth, Workplace.

Cite this article : Deepti, G. (2025). Impact of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy on Resilience and in Reducing Stress in the Workforce. Pahal Horizon, An International Research Journal, 5(10), 117-124.