Blogs - IISPPR

Climate Action

Role of Women in Climate Resilience in Delhi’s Informal Settlements

Rebeka Shaw, Aayushi Rai, Niyati Kotiyal, Ravi Ranjan Kumar, Kushi N Jain Introduction India is confronting a growing climate problem. Anthropogenic climate change is responsible for 37% of heat-related deaths worldwide, and the nation has routinely broken heat records. According to the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD), these deaths increased by 34% between 2013 and 2022 in contrast to the decade before. At the centre of this dilemma lies Delhi, a heavily crowded city with over 33 million inhabitants that is characterised by severe climate variability, chronic air pollution, and inadequate infrastructure. The majority of this exacerbated situation is concentrated in Delhi’s informal settlements, which are home to nearly 10 million people, in a city that is itself ranked among the most polluted in the world by the World Health Organisation (WHO). Women in these informal settlements are vulnerable on several levels in this situation. They are disproportionately impacted by climate-induced shocks like heatwaves, droughts, and floods since they are the major carers and managers of the household care sector. However, despite playing a crucial role in preserving the livelihoods of households and communities, they are often excluded from official climate decision-making processes. Systemic hurdles including restricted access to technology, education, financing, and land further exacerbate this marginalisation. Women and girls, who are more likely to experience violence, exploitation, and instability, makeup 80% of those displaced by climate disasters worldwide. However, despite these challenges, women are more than just helpless victims. Their leadership abilities, resilience, and local knowledge are crucial to adaptation initiatives. The important but frequently unseen roles that women play in enhancing climate resilience in Delhi’s informal settlements are highlighted in this article. Along with providing a detailed study of both grassroots action and structural gaps, it also looks at the larger policy frameworks that support or undermine their activities. Policy Landscape: Multilevel Governance for Gender-Inclusive Climate Action To understand women’s roles in climate resilience, we must first examine the multilevel policy frameworks that shape their participation. While the global and national policies reflect a growing recognition of gender equity in climate action, the extent to which these policies translate into effective, local implementation remains varied. Globally, the Paris Agreement and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)- especially Goal 5 (Gender Equality), Goal 11 (Sustainable Cities), and Goal 13 (Climate Action), underscore the importance of inclusive and gender-responsive urban planning. UNFCCC’s Gender Action Plan and CEDAW’s General Recommendation No. 37 further emphasize women’s leadership in disaster risk reduction and climate governance. Mechanisms like the Loss and Damage Fund created at COP27 provide financial support to vulnerable communities, including urban slum dwellers. At the national level, India’s National Action Plan on Climate Change (NAPCC) integrates gender considerations across key missions. Locally, the Delhi State Action Plan on Climate Change (SAPCC) encourages women-led adaptation strategies in areas like water conservation, waste management, and disaster preparedness. The Mukhyamantri Mahila Samman Yojana (2024) adds another layer by providing institutional and financial support to strengthen women’s climate resilience and livelihood security. These frameworks lay the foundation for gender-inclusive climate action. However, to gauge their real impact, we must shift our focus to the urban peripheries- Delhi’s informal settlements, where the struggle for survival and resilience plays out most vividly. Situating the Crisis: Delhi’s Informal Settlements as Climate Hotspot Delhi’s informal settlements are situated at the nexus of urban vulnerability and environmental stress. These neighbourhoods experience disproportionately higher impacts from extreme heat, flooding, and pollution. The city recently recorded temperatures as high as 52.9℃ in May 2024, exacerbated by the urban heat island effect and poor housing infrastructure, particularly in slum areas lacking proper ventilation and insulation. The projected increase in Delhi’s average annual temperatures by 1–4℃ by 2050 translates into a 4% rise in mortality for every degree above 29℃. Additionally, monsoon variability and heavy rainfall lead to flooding and water contamination, especially in areas close to the Yamuna River. These events result in disease outbreaks, loss of livelihoods, and increased health risks, further destabilizing vulnerable communities, particularly women, who already shoulder the burdens of domestic care and resource provisioning. These lived experiences underscore the urgency of centring women in climate adaptation efforts. Fortunately, several grassroots initiatives have emerged that do just that. MAP 1: Location of the Area of Study Source: Compiled by the Authors Women in Action: Grassroots Leadership and Community Resilience In response to the mounting climate challenges faced by women in these vulnerable communities, organizations like the Mahila Housing Trust (MHT) have played a critical role in empowering them to lead climate adaptation initiatives. MHT’s work spans climate education, leadership training, and infrastructural interventions tailored to the everyday realities of women in informal settlements. 1. Climate Education: Using tools like games and visual media, MHT demystifies climate science for women, focusing on everyday impacts- such as water shortages, disease, and heat waves. 2. Clean Energy and Cool Roofs: Through partnerships with electricity companies, MHT facilitates the installation of solar panels and promotes cool roofs- affordable solutions that significantly reduce indoor heat and energy bills. 3. Air Pollution Advocacy: In collaboration with Help Delhi Breathe (HDB), MHT has engaged female construction workers in resettlement colonies like Bakkarwala and Sawda Ghevra to raise awareness about air pollution. These women are not only learning about the hazards but actively mobilizing for clean air and influencing local policy. Complementing the efforts of organizations like MHT, individual leaders have also emerged from within communities to drive change. One such example is Shipra Narula, a former youth volunteer who began her journey with Swechha’s Yamuna cleanup campaign during her undergraduate years. Moved by the sight of the heavily polluted river, she transitioned from participant to leader, gradually expanding her work into city-wide afforestation projects such as Monsoon Wooding, which has planted thousands of native trees across Delhi-NCR. Shipra’s climate leadership is rooted not in formal authority but in lived experience and community action. She has worked closely with slum communities to improve access to clean water and sanitation, while also mentoring young people, especially girls, through

May 21, 2025 No Comments

Good Health and Well-being

Screens Before Speech: Rethinking Early Childhood Development in A Digital Age

Rebeka Shaw, Aayushi Rai, Niyati Kotiyal, Ravi Ranjan Kumar, Kushi N Jain Introduction In today’s hyper-connected world, digital devices are woven into the fabric of childhood from an early age. What once began as a tool for education and entertainment has evolved into a constant presence in children’s lives, shaping how they learn, play, and interact with the world. While technology offers undeniable benefits like interactive learning and easy access to information, its unregulated use has raised red flags about developmental and mental health risks. Studies suggest that excessive screen time, especially passive viewing, can hinder language development, disrupt sleep, and increase impulsivity and attention deficits. The constant stimulation from digital content and notifications can fragment children’s focus and impair their ability to concentrate on academic or social tasks. Sleep disturbances, often triggered by nighttime screen use, further compound these effects by affecting memory and emotional regulation. Psychological theories, such as Jean Piaget’s, remind us that active, hands-on interaction is crucial for cognitive growth. But in a world where screens replace physical play, these foundational experiences are often compromised. Add to that modern parenting pressures, urban routines, dual incomes, and digital babysitting, and the developmental equation becomes even more complicated. Adolescents, too, are facing the fallout. According to the WHO, nearly 14% of youth aged 10-19 suffer from mental health issues, with suicide ranking alarmingly as the fourth leading cause of death in this age group. And yet, health systems, especially in India, remain underprepared, with pediatric care often overlooking digital exposure as a root cause of behavioural challenges. The need for awareness, moderation, and informed strategies becomes urgent as AI-powered tools and digital content become increasingly embedded in childhood environments. In this digital era, the question isn’t whether children should use technology, but how, when, and how much. Navigating this terrain requires conscious parenting, evidence-based guidelines, and a healthcare system equipped to recognise emerging developmental patterns. The way we manage children’s digital exposure today will shape not only their mental health and learning capacity but also the very fabric of tomorrow’s workforce and society. Literature Review Mobile-based child health monitoring has emerged as a critical tool in strengthening maternal and child healthcare in India, particularly through initiatives like the POSHAN Tracker, Reproductive and Child Health (RCH) Portal, and the broader National Digital Health Mission (NDHM). Literature highlights the success of mHealth tools in enhancing immunisation tracking, antenatal/postnatal care, and nutritional monitoring. However, challenges persist in digital access, especially across rural and low-literacy populations. Studies in sociology emphasise the role of gender norms, caste hierarchies, and community trust in influencing the adoption of digital health tools. From a psychological perspective, user motivation, technology-related anxiety, and behavioural inertia impact usage by caregivers. Urban planning and sustainable urbanism literature underlines the infrastructural divide in health service delivery between urban slums and peri-urban areas. Meanwhile, public policy research critiques the fragmented implementation of digital health schemes, stressing the need for convergence and capacity-building among frontline health workers. Business and management studies focus on the scalability and sustainability of mobile platforms, highlighting the role of public-private partnerships in health tech ecosystems. The interdisciplinary review reveals that while technology offers promising solutions, socio-cultural, behavioural, infrastructural, and governance dimensions must be integrated for effective and equitable child health monitoring. Objectives of the Study The increasing integration of digital technologies into parenting, ranging from mobile-based child health monitoring applications to AI-assisted caregiving tools, has transformed the way early childhood is experienced and managed. Particularly after the COVID-19 pandemic, the reliance on screens for both caregiving and entertainment has grown significantly, leading to critical questions about its long-term impact on children’s mental, emotional, and cognitive development. This study aims to explore these complex dynamics within the Indian context, focusing on five core objectives: • To assess the developmental consequences of early and excessive screen exposure on infants and young children (aged 0–5 years), with attention to delayed speech, emotional dysregulation, attention disorders, and emerging symptoms associated with “virtual autism.” • To evaluate the role of digital tools, including mobile-based health tracking apps and AI-powered parenting assistants, in modern caregiving practices. This includes identifying both their benefits in health monitoring and the risks of digital overdependence. • To examine the readiness and responsiveness of India’s pediatric healthcare and early childhood education systems in identifying, diagnosing, and managing screen-related developmental concerns. This involves assessing gaps in infrastructure, training, and awareness. • To explore the extended social and behavioural consequences of early digital immersion, especially its correlation with adolescent impulsivity, risk-taking behaviours (including substance abuse and poor reproductive health awareness), and future workforce competencies. • To propose integrated policy-level recommendations that address parenting practices, pediatric healthcare protocols, public awareness strategies, and organisational preparedness for managing the digitally-formed generation. By addressing these objectives, the study seeks to provide a multidimensional understanding of how digital parenting is reshaping childhood and society at large. Findings and Discussions: Insights into Parenting and Developmental Issues In today’s hyperconnected world, digital devices are transforming not only how adults work and socialise but also the earliest stages of childhood development. Increasingly, children are being introduced to screens long before their first words, raising growing concerns among health professionals, educators, and parents. Emerging evidence, including from Indian pediatric practices, suggests that excessive screen time in early childhood is linked to delays in speech and social development, emotional regulation difficulties, shortened attention spans, and even autism-like symptoms in some children. This article explores the issue through three interrelated lenses: parenting practices, developmental impacts, and public health system readiness, supported by real-life case studies from India. Digital Babysitting and Parenting Practices Modern parenting is shaped by time constraints, nuclear family setups, and growing dependence on digital tools. With dual-income households and long work hours becoming the norm, especially in urban India, many parents rely on digital devices to manage childcare gaps , a trend often referred to as digital babysitting. In urban homes, devices are frequently used to pacify toddlers during meals, chores, or downtime. In semi-urban and rural areas,

May 21, 2025 No Comments

Blog

CYBERWARFARE AND AI IN DIPLOMACY

ABSTRACT In an era where technological warfare dictates geopolitical power, Cyber Warfare and AI in Diplomacy have become pivotal yet dangerously unregulated domains. The increasing reliance on AI-driven cyber operations, digital espionage, and strategic cyber-attacks has reshaped global diplomacy, yet the absence of legally binding international frameworks leaves nations vulnerable. While world leaders acknowledge the risks, consensus on governance remains elusive, creating a policy vacuum that adversaries continue to exploit. This article examines the evolution of cyber warfare, the integration of AI in statecraft, and the geopolitical implications of cyber conflicts. Through case studies of major cyber incidents, we analyse how nations leverage cyber warfare as a tool of power projection and diplomatic leverage. The research further explores how AI amplifies both offensive and defensive cyber capabilities, blurring the lines between warfare and diplomacy. Our methodology is multi-disciplinary, with each team member analyzing distinct aspects—historical evolution, contemporary threats, and policy gaps. By integrating real-world incidents, strategic analyses, and diplomatic challenges, we underscore the urgent need for global AI cybersecurity regulations. The findings suggest that without proactive international cooperation, cyber conflicts will escalate, destabilizing global security and reshaping diplomatic engagement. KEYWORDS: Cyber Warfare, Digital Diplomacy, Global Security, AI Policy, Cybersecurity, Autonomous Systems, and Conflict Prevention. INTRODUCTION The emergence of new technologies is largely responsible for the rapid changes in the global security landscape. Among these, governments, organizations, and society around the world are increasingly concerned about cyber warfare. Cyber attacks are a serious threat to infrastructure, national security, and even the balance of power in the world, making what was previously a theoretical or future idea an indisputable reality. In the context of cyber warfare and international relations, artificial intelligence (AI) has become both a tool and a challenge as the complexity and reach of cyber threats increase. The way battles are fought and settled has fundamentally changed as a result of the convergence of AI and cyber warfare. AI is transforming both military and diplomatic tactics with its capacity to process enormous volumes of data, anticipate cyber threats, and even make judgments in real-time. The lines separating classic combat from contemporary diplomacy are blurring as nation-states and other actors depend more and more on AI-driven systems. AI-powered cyber attacks can now do more than simply take down networks; they are instruments that can change the balance of power in the world and the way countries interact and negotiate with one another. This aim to investigate the expanding importance of artificial intelligence (AI) in the fields of diplomacy and cyber warfare, with an emphasis on how it affects security plans and conflict resolution. This article explores how technology is changing the character of diplomacy and conflict, from analyzing important case studies of cyber events to comprehending the moral and legal conundrums raised by AI. We’ll also examine how international organizations like the UN and NATO might address the issues raised by AI’s impact on international security. As we look to the future, understanding how AI will continue to shape both the battlefield and diplomatic discussions is crucial for navigating an increasingly complex geopolitical environment. This paper provides an in-depth analysis of these emerging trends and their potential implications for the future of international relations and cyber security. EVOLUTION OF CYBER-WARFARE Cybersecurity has evolved from an experimental field into a cornerstone of global security. In the 1970s, interconnected computing began with ARPANET, revealing vulnerabilities that led to the first self-replicating program, Creeper (1971). Though non-malicious, it prompted the creation of Reaper, the first antivirus. By the 1980s, as personal computing expanded, cyber threats became more sophisticated. The Morris Worm (1988), infecting 10% of the internet, marked a turning point, leading to the establishment of the Computer Emergency Response Team (CERT). The late 1990s and early 2000s saw cybercrime become organized. The ILOVEYOU virus (2000) exploited email vulnerabilities, infecting millions. The 2000s also witnessed a shift from disruption to financial and geopolitical motives. The SQL Slammer (2003) and Conficker (2008) worms demonstrated large-scale vulnerabilities, while the Stuxnet attack (2010), allegedly by the U.S. and Israel, introduced cyber warfare into physical systems by crippling Iran’s nuclear program. By the 2010s, cyber warfare expanded with the rise of ransomware, AI-driven hacking, and disinformation campaigns. The WannaCry (2017) attack disrupted global infrastructure, while deepfake-driven misinformation fueled cyber fraud, election interference, and identity theft. By the 2020s, cyber threats became more advanced, with AI-powered phishing and autonomous hacking targeting critical sectors, while deepfake technology became a tool for large-scale digital deception. In 2025, quantum computing threatens modern encryption, and AI-driven cyberattacks are increasingly weaponized. Recent incidents, such as the Ukraine Railway Cyberattack (March 2025) and suspected sabotage of Baltic Sea cables (November 2024), signal how cyber warfare is now an essential tool in geopolitical conflicts. As these threats escalate, global cybersecurity strategies must evolve rapidly to counter this new digital battlefield. AI IN CYBER-WARFARE The advent of Artificial Intelligence (AI) has triggered a paradigm shift in global security dynamics, particularly in the realm of cyberwarfare. As AI continues to evolve, its applications in digital warfare have become increasingly sophisticated, making both defensive and offensive cyber operations more potent. While AI enhances national security through automated threat detection and response, it also presents unprecedented risks if exploited by malicious actors. The dystopian possibilities of unchecked AI in cyberwarfare have been explored in various academic and literary works. One such notable reference is Martin C. Libicki’s “Cyber deterrence and Cyberwar”, which warns of AI’s potential to escalate digital conflicts beyond human control. The surge in cyberattacks worldwide is a testament to the growing role of AI in warfare. In recent years, nation-state actors and independent hacker groups have employed AI-driven malware, deepfake technology, and automated phishing campaigns to target governments, corporations, and even individuals. The SolarWinds hack and the Colonial Pipeline attack serve as stark reminders of how AI-enhanced cyber threats can cripple critical infrastructure. Additionally, AI-powered bots have been increasingly used in disinformation campaigns, manipulating public opinion

May 19, 2025 No Comments

Blog

The Impact of Artificial Intelligence, Robotics, and Automation on Employment Trends and Income Inequality – Copy

This article talks about how automation, robotics, and AI are reshaping the global job market, bringing both progress and challenges. While these technologies enhance productivity and create new opportunities, they also threaten routine and mid-level jobs, potentially deepening income inequality. The text stresses the importance of government action, investment in digital infrastructure, and a focus on education and reskilling to ensure that technological advancement benefits everyone and no one is left behind.

May 19, 2025 No Comments

Good Health and Well-being

Patterns and Influenctial Factors affecting Menstrual Health Expenditure

Authors: Anamika R, Anaswara Obrin, Sreelakshmi PM. 1.Introduction Menstrual health is a fundamental aspect of women’s well-being, yet millions around the world continue to face barriers to accessing safe, affordable, and hygienic menstrual products. These barriers are often rooted in financial strain and social stigma surrounding menstruation. In many low- and middle-income countries, particularly in rural or underserved areas, menstruators are forced to resort to unsafe alternatives due to the high cost and unavailability of menstrual health products. The result is a pervasive cycle of “period poverty,” with consequences that extend beyond physical discomfort, impacting education, mental health, economic productivity, and social inclusion. This paper explores the role of financial constraints and social norms in shaping menstrual health expenditure and access. Drawing on both secondary data and a primary survey of urban women in India, the research highlights the disparities in menstrual product accessibility, spending patterns, and awareness across different income groups and age brackets. It also examines the challenges of adopting sustainable menstrual products and assesses the effectiveness of existing government schemes and private initiatives. By identifying key gaps in awareness, affordability, and accessibility, this study aims to provide actionable recommendations for policy and community-level intervention. 2. Literature Review Period poverty is an issue that is rooted in economic disparity and gender inequality. It reflects a broader systemic issue where essential health needs of menstruators, especially women and girls, are often overlooked. According to a World Bank Report, in 2022, over 500 million women globally lacked access to menstrual products and adequate facilities for menstrual hygiene management. An overview report for Low and Middle-income countries estimates 78% of menstruators use purpose-made menstrual health products, which include single-use pads and tampons, with reusable options remaining underutilized. The annual cost of such products amounts to $28.8 billion, with 99% of costs attributed to single-use items. Highlighting a significant opportunity to promote reusable menstrual products, which are more cost-effective and environmentally sustainable in the long term. (S.K et al,.2024). However, the uptake of reusable products remains low due to a lack of awareness, unavailability and social stigma. In India, the situation is alarming as 12% of women cannot afford period products. NFHS data show that in 2021, approximately 50 percent of women aged 15-24 years still used cloth for menstrual protection. In rural areas, many women resort to unsafe alternatives such as rags, sand, hay, and ash as alternative methods due to the lack of availability of products. This increases the risk of urinary tract infections (UTIs) and other health complications (Wilson, 2022). While the average cost of menstrual products per month is Rs. 300, this constitutes a significant burden for lower-income groups, particularly when the average daily wage remains around Rs. 180. Given that the exorbitant cost of period products is a gruesome burden on the lower-income groups. Around 23 million girls drop out of school annually due to the lack of safe and sanitary menstrual hygiene management, including access to products and a lack of awareness about menstruation. (Wilson,R.2022) In response, international and national organizations have introduced initiatives aimed at improving access and affordability. The World Bank suggests removing market entry barriers for the private sector companies to improve competition and access. Organizations like Zana Africa demonstrated a successful model by distributing sanitary pads and health education, which is supported by the Kenyan Teacher Service Commission. Similarly, in India, social enterprises like Aakar Innovations have empowered women to manufacture and distribute affordable, high-quality sanitary napkins, while also raising awareness about menstrual hygiene management. Their “Anandi” pads serve as a locally produced, low-cost and eco-friendly alternative. On the policy front, India has taken several steps towards improving menstrual health: Rashtriya Kishor Swasthya Karyakram (RKSK), launched in 2014 by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, focuses on raising awareness on menstrual hygiene among adolescent girls. ASHA workers distributed subsidised packs of sanitary napkins at Rs. 6 each. Under the Pradhan Mantri Bharatiya Janaushadhi Pariyojana (PMBJP), over 8,700 Janaushadhi Kendras offer oxo-biodegradable pads at just Rs. 1 per pad (Roy, 2024). While the measures adopted by the government shall be appreciated doubt still lingers on the effective implementation of these schemes. The supply of pads at health centers is reported to be irregular, which erodes the effectiveness of the scheme. The lack of awareness regarding the government initiatives promoting the use of menstrual products prevents women in need from availing them (S.K et al.,2024). The consequences of these systemic failures are not only physical but also social and psychological. Poor menstrual hygiene can lead to infections and reproductive health issues (Babagoli et al., 2022). At the same time, providing good access to menstrual hygiene products reduces the risk of infections and teen pregnancies and increases fertility. A sanitary pad intervention in Ghana found that after six months of free sanitary pad provision and puberty education, girls missed significantly less school (Montgomery et al.,2012). The word is synonymous with injustice and inequity (Jaafar et al.,2023). Affordability is a strong barrier to access to menstrual products, particularly for poor women. The implicit sexism and underlying gender inequality in the high pricing of essential female hygiene products is not unnoticed (Miller et al.,2024) 3. Methodology The cross-sectional analysis was conducted using primary data through questionnaire based web survey on urban women. Data has been collected from websites of The world Bank, The UN and the WHO. Articles from Google Scholar, National Institute of Health, International Journal of Reproduction, Contraception, Obstetrics and gynecology, Ujaas, Rashtriya Kishor Swaasthya Kaaryakram website for the comprehensive literature review. 4. Analysis A survey was conducted with 70 urban women aged between 20 to 50 years, segmented into three age groups: 20–30, 30–40, and 40–50. The respondents were categorized by household income: Low income: ₹15,000–₹35,000 Middle income: ₹35,001–₹75,000 High income: Above ₹75,000 Respondents also represented a diverse occupational range: employees (45.7%), self-employed, homemakers, students, and others. Educational backgrounds varied, with the majority holding postgraduate degrees (57.1%). This was to check the incidence of meeting menstrual requirements of non-earning female members

May 19, 2025 No Comments

Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure

Q-commerce and it’s Impact on Traditional Retail Industry

Authors: Anamika R, Anaswara Obrin, Sreelakshmi PM 1.Introduction Q-commerce, also termed as Quick Commerce has been gaining immense popularity in the contemporary generation owing to the precedence of speedy and prompt delivery services. Quick commerce is a byproduct of e-commerce which focuses on delivering goods and services to the consumers very quickly within 30 minutes to 1 hour. The major characteristic of Q commerce is clearly indicated by the term itself and it will be the next generation of e-commerce (Nierynck, 2020). Specifically defined, Quick commerce is speed delivery of goods, often groceries, to urban customers under an hour, through some deliveries which takes less than 15 minutes. Products include food and grocery items, sanitary products, cosmetics, magazines etc. which are stored in dark stores, inaccessible to the general public, scattered across urban areas, facilitating fast online services. The supply-demand disequilibrium during the pandemic, simultaneously had an adverse effect of traditional retailers whereas served as an opportunity for online businesses (Elnahla and Neilson, 2021). Therefore, Covid-19 was particularly responsible for the increasing popularity of Q-commerce posed by the difficulties assiciated with going to retail stores and the risk of infection which had negaticely affected traditional retailers, several of whom had to shut down their stores due to lack of demand. This essay further exproles the impact of the rapid growth of Q-commerce on traditional retailers. 2.Literature Review The impact of Covid-19 virus and accelerated acceptance of online shopping technologies by consumers led to the introduction and faster growth of e-commerce and Quick-commerce (Gupta, 2024). The demand for quick delivery grew sharply thoughout the pandemic and a study conducted on q-commerce customers had showed that 12% of them had completely switched to online deliveries (Günday et al., 2020). This is a result of the convenience, increased business opportunities and probability of a successful business. The demand for Q-commerce is higher among the youth who are familiar with mobile phone usage (Tugberk Ariker, 2021) and online transactions. The arrival of Quick commerce have posed a serious threat to traditional retail market. This is evident from a recent study conducted on consumers perception on Quick commerce replacing traditional retail shops. Findings of this recent study showed that 55% of the people said yes indicating a gradual shift from the traditional retail shopping habits, 30% said no suggesting a strong hold to traditional grocery stores and 15% were reflecting uncertainty (Singh, Agarwal 2025).The estimated market size for Quick commerce around was $4 globally, out of this Indian market projected to reach $5 billion in 2025 from $0.3 billion in 2021 (Gupta, 2024).On a research conducted by IRJMETS adopting a quantitative approach it identifies that key factors including consumer behavior, conveniences, delivery speed, overall shopping experiences were of great importance through a questionnaire administered to 100 residents of Vadodara. It showed that a majority of respondents perceive Quick commerce as more convenient and faster than traditional retail, with 58% favoring its convenience and 69% recognizing its superior delivery speed (Mistry, Jethva, 2025). Surprisingly Quick commerce also faces challenges like the difficulty to strengthen its arrival and growth in the market. In Boston Consulting Group’s study, it critically evaluates the challenges of Quick commerce in gaining profits due to increasing the operational costs, warehousing, delivery logistics etc which is required to attract the customers. This report contrasts with the retail stores which operates on more stable margins (Singh, Agarwal 2025). The government has been focusing on protecting the interests of the small retailers and traditional Kirana stores, safeguarding local business interests and promoting fare competition. Various measures in the form of Acts, rules and policies have been put in place to ensure a leveled playing-field and to act against anti-competitive practices (India’s Ministry of Commerce and Industry, 2023). The government has been putting forward ONDC’s for integrating digital platforms, FDI regulations to protect the retail market and prevent the Quick commerce from taking advantage of the multi-brand retail stores. 3.Methodology This study adopted a cross-sectional design to explore the research question, by collecting primary data through questionnaire-based web survey using Google forms, administered to a targeted sample. Secondary data was sourced from academic articles sourced from Google Scholar, the Government of India’s Ministry of Commerce and Industry’s official website, and international journals including IJFMR, IJRPR and IRJMETS. The integration of primary and secondary data enabled a comprehensive and robust analysis, ensuring nuanced understanding and conclusions on the topic. 4.Analysis The aim of the survey was to understand consumer attitudes towards quick commerce platforms and analyze the impact of its rising popularity on the traditional retail industry. The analysis was done using primary data from a sample of 72 resondents. People from five different age groups participated in the survey (Below 18, 18-24, 24-34, 35-44, 45 and above) with the largest 65.7% of respondents being 18-24 years of age. Of the total respondents, 88.9% identified as female and 11.1% identified as male, reflecting a gender distribution skewed towards female participants. The samples were distributed across students, working professionals, home makers, retired and other with the largest proportion of samples being students (81.9%). Majority of the participants resided in urban areas (76.4%) followed by semi urban (18.1%).Only 5.6% of respondents lived in rural areas. The questions were designed to gather insights into consumer behaviors, preferences and perceptions regarding Quick commerce platforms compared to conventional retail shopping. The questions also explored the impact of rising popularity of Q-commerce platforms on the traditional retail industry. 5.Findings Majority of the respondents purchase from Quick Commerce platforms occasionally(56.9%)followed by respondents who use Q-commerce platforms weekly(22.2%).12.5% of participants have never used any Quick Commerce platforms. While 8.3% of respondents agreed that they purchase using Quick Commerce platforms on a daily basis. Instamart and Blinkit were the popular choices among the respondents(27.5%).Other Q- commerce platforms like Zepto, big basket, Jiomart were also widely used. 64.3% respondents used Quick Commerce platforms to buy groceries indicating that quick commerce is particularly favored for regular, time-sensitive purchases like fresh produce and pantry staples. 52.9% participants opted

May 19, 2025 No Comments

Quality Education

EDUCATION IN CONFLICT ZONES

Education in conflict zones is often disrupted by violence,displacement, and insecurity, depriving children of safe learning environments.This loss deepens existing inequalities and hinders long term recovery.Yet, education remains a crcial pathway to hope, resilience,and peace.

May 5, 2025 No Comments

Good Health and Well-being

IMPACT OF POVERTY ON HEALTH AND WELL-BEING

Poverty is more than just the absence of income—it is a persistent state that strips individuals of access to basic needs, dignity, and opportunities. One of its most devastating consequences is the toll it takes on health and overall wellbeing. In low-income households, the lack of nutritious food, clean water, and adequate shelter creates a fertile ground for disease and chronic stress. Preventive healthcare becomes a luxury, and even treatable illnesses can turn fatal due to delayed medical attention or unaffordable care.

Children growing up in poverty face heightened risks of malnutrition, developmental delays, and poor academic performance, creating a cycle where poor health undermines future earning potential and continues the chain of deprivation. Mental health, too, suffers deeply—feelings of helplessness, social exclusion, and constant financial anxiety lead to increased cases of depression, anxiety disorders, and substance abuse.
Addressing poverty is not just an economic imperative—it is a public health necessity. Holistic policies that combine income support, accessible healthcare, education, and community wellbeing can create resilient societies where no one is forced to choose between a meal and a medical check-up.

May 5, 2025 No Comments

Uncategorized

Political Implications of India’s Foreign Policy Shifts

Political Implications of India’s Foreign Policy Shifts Author: Anto Mariya M M Introduction India and its foreign policy have been a puzzle for many, with significant shifts over the years. These shifts in India’s relations with the nations of the world have undoubtedly had an impact on its global positioning. In addition, the implications of Indian foreign policy shifts have been multifaceted. The article primarily focuses on its impact on its neighbourhood as well as domestically in terms of the role of its federal states. The growing role of paradiplomacy in international engagement by Indian states is also captured. Changes have been witnessed in its stance on nuclear policy and its eloquent role in global institutions. India was able to become a Nuclear weapons state despite international sanctions. India has become more vocal on multilateral platforms due to its evident growth in hard and soft power. Impact on India’s Neighbourhood and Beyond Keeping strategic autonomy as the top placeholder in Indian foreign policy, India has left NAM in the past. India was once a leader of non-aligned countries, but its present moves strive towards multi-alignment. The Modi Government’s ‘Neighbourhood First Policy’ made the immediate neighbours the main priority. However, in reaction to China’s rise in the region, India turned its diplomatic priorities to Southeast Asia by transforming its ‘Look East Policy’ to a proactive ‘Act East Policy’. It has been challenging for India to restrict Chinese influence in South Asian countries’ investments and infrastructure. Through development assistance programs and connectivity projects in Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, and Afghanistan, India has attempted to counterbalance China’s assertiveness by putting forward its own projects, such as the IMEC, in opposition to the Chinese Belt & Road Initiative. With BRI, the String of Pearls and all that, the Indian foreign policy shifts have led to an increased focus on maritime security. India uses groupings like the Quad to grow its influence in the Indo-Pacific. Regarding the relations with Pakistan, India has taken a proactive approach, even launching surgical strikes in response to terrorist attacks like the Uri attack, stressing that cross-border terrorism is a no-go. Ignoring SAARC and moving on with BIMSTEC, an organisation excluding Pakistan for regional engagement. India’s stance on its neighbourhood has changed with shifts in its foreign policy approaches. Effect on Indian Federalism The shifts in Indian foreign policy have led to more vocal Indian states on the foreign policy agenda. Earlier, the subject of foreign policy was solely an issue of the central government. However, times have changed. The consequences of foreign policy decisions and actions have repercussions on the states as well. India’s stance on the fishermen’s issues and the state of relations with Sri Lanka have a direct impact on Tamil Nadu (Thakkar, 2021). The agreements and disagreements over the Teesta River water sharing affect the people of West Bengal. A large diaspora in Gulf nations is from the state of Kerala, and cordial relations with them are crucial. Kerala, thus, has an interest in ties with the Gulf nations. The Northeastern states sharing borders with sovereign states are no exception. The political developments in Myanmar, like the military coup, strain the Northeastern state of Manipur. The states in Northeast India are faced with refugee crises whenever there is political turmoil and instability in their neighbouring, bordering countries. These federal states, thus, become invested in India’s relations with those nations that share borders with them, as well as India’s response to such foreign policy issues. Paradiplomacy refers to the international activities carried out by subnational entities which are not sovereign states. In traditional diplomacy, sovereign states engage in diplomatic relations with each other, but paradiplomacy involves subnational entities asserting themselves on the international stage (Bharat, 2023). Paradiplomacy gives states space where their local sentiments can be addressed, thus leading to decentralisation in foreign policy decisions. In the case of Gujarat, the state has been projecting itself as the ideal investment destination in India. It is undeniable that Gujarat, through its subnational engagements, has increasingly attracted not just economic investments but is also now paving the way for cooperation on sustainable development (South Asia@LSE, 2017). The growing role of para-diplomacy is evident in issues affecting the states’ economic as well as security interests. It is challenging the traditional centralisation of foreign policy decision-making. Indian federalism is changing in the sense that the states are no longer passive recipients. Thus, the shifts in Indian foreign policy are a reason for the changing dynamics of federal-state relations in India. Indian Voice in Global Institutions India’s more vocal participation in multilateral forums shines a light on its rise on the ladder among global powers. India is the largest democracy in the world, home to 1.4 billion people, has the fifth largest economy, and is moving forward in technological aspects. India has larger aspirations to become a dominant power, shaping the course of global politics. In line with its hard power and soft power growth, the advocacy for equitable representation and reforming the existing global governance structure resonates with them. India has traditionally supported UNSC revisions to reflect geopolitical realities (India’s Role, 2024). In addition to permanent member status for itself in the Security Council, it proposes adding African and Asian states to permanent and non-permanent membership. The United Nations, as instituted in 1945 after the Second World War, do not represent the current power dynamics, which is why nations like India are striving for a reformation in the UN. Permanent membership could give India veto power over any decisions in the forum. This eloquent stand for permanent membership shows its growth in strategic power, a consequence of its shifting foreign policy. Even in the fight against climate change, India stands with developing countries, asking the wealthier nations to finance more for the cause on global platforms like the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) and the International Solar Alliance. India has been encouraging South-South cooperation in climate finance as well as global governance reforms. In addition to

May 5, 2025 No Comments

International Relations

Maritime Security in the Indo-Pacific: Assessing the Role of Key State Actors

Maritime Security in the Indo-Pacific: Assessing the Role of Key State Actors Author: Anto Mariya M M Introduction The Indo-Pacific is a maritime region which has become an arena for geopolitical competition. The region has become the contemporary strategic interest of state as well as non-state actors. With the challenges of territorial disputes, IUU fishing and piracy, cooperation for maritime security becomes imperative (Maritime Security – Pacific Forum, 2024). Power politics also play out in the region. Maritime security can mean the strategies adopted to safeguard the maritime infrastructure from vulnerabilities. It encompasses a range of activities aimed at safeguarding maritime assets, ensuring the safety and security of trade routes, and preventing illicit activities at sea (Windward, 2024). Major powers like the USA and China, as well as regional players like India and Japan, have a strategic interest in safeguarding the maritime region of the volatile Indo-Pacific. Even the often-ignored small island and littoral states play an important role. This article examines the roles of different state actors from a broad power spectrum in the region’s maritime security. Role of State Actors United States The United States has the largest military presence in the Indo-Pacific region, sustained by its naval bases and fleets. The US’s presence in the region started primarily as a move to curtail communism in the area during the Cold War (Gopal, 2017). However, the United States’ interests have widened, and so has its naval force in the region. One of its goals in the region is safeguarding important shipping routes in the Indo-Pacific and the free flow of trade supported by its allies. India, Japan and Australia are some of the key partners of the United States in the Indo-Pacific’s security domain. However, the primary target in maritime security of the Indo-Pacific is to tame the Chinese dragon from expanding its territory and influence, mainly in the East and South China Seas. To cut back Beijing’s regional dominance, the US has even encouraged India, another regional player, to take the role of ‘Net Security Provider’. It includes President Donald Trump preferring the term Indo-Pacific over Asia-Pacific in light of China’s expanding politico-military activities. Thus, the United States’ maritime security focus has been to increase regional stability and stop nuclear proliferation and terrorism, including its many other security initiatives. The global power, the USA, conducts the world’s largest international maritime exercise, the Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC) exercise. It has also emphasised partnerships such as AUKUS with Australia and the United Kingdom, as well as the Quadrilateral Security Dialogue with the democratic nations of Japan, India, and Australia. These military exercises and alliances are also part of the US’s greater role in the Indo-Pacific region. China China’s imperial aspirations of becoming Zhongguo, or the ‘Middle Kingdom’, which refers to being the centre of the world, are still very much present (Air University (AU), 2024). China realises its path to superpower status through regional hegemony. It forms the rationale why China spends a great deal of effort exerting control over the Asia-Pacific, such as its Belt and Road Initiative and its components like the Maritime Silk Road, or making expansive jurisdictional claims in the South China Sea – the Nine-Dash Line. International law, even the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea, signed by China, takes a back seat in this matter. This assertion by China has caused the South China Sea to emerge as a flashpoint in the region. Beijing wants to reduce the presence of the United States in the region to a great extent. Oftentimes, the Indo-Pacific has become a stage where the power politics between the USA and China play out. The Chinese want the United States’ military forces, its allies and security partners farther away from its shores. It is the only way they can protect themselves from frequent maritime challenges. Thus, China aims to reach an unassailable strength to have control over the economy and military in the region and extend its global influence. India The adoption of the concept of Indo-Pacific, replacing Asia-Pacific, emphasised a bigger role for India. However, it was initially cautious. Nations like the US wanted India to be part of the security architecture of the region. The assertiveness of China in the Indian Ocean called for India to take a proactive role. In the confluence of the Indian and Pacific Oceans, India’s position and interests in the Indian Ocean overtook the Pacific, unlike the US, Japan and Australia (The Indo-Pacific in Indian Foreign Policy, n.d.). India’s main priorities for involvement in the region are energy security and economic prosperity. It needs to secure sea lanes for its oil imports and trade routes from Maritime threats. To counter the aggressive Chinese behaviour, India engages with like-minded partners through the Quad, BIMSTEC, IORA, and ASEAN forums. New Delhi also endorses the vision of a ‘free and open Indo-Pacific. Thus, India is a regional power with a crucial role to play in the maritime security of the Indo-Pacific region. Japan Japan, a keen player in the Indo-Pacific geopolitical domain, takes up the Free and Open Indo-Pacific (FOIP) Strategy. It is often overlooked, but Japan plays a crucial role in reducing the small Pacific nations’ reliance on China. Japan aids these small maritime nations in protecting their water with various capacity-building measures. For instance, Japan engages with small island states in the Pacific, such as Fiji, Micronesia, and Palau, to promote their maritime security capability. Tokyo’s initiatives support a rules-based maritime order and help stabilise the Pacific region against external coercion (IPDForum, 2024). Japan also partners with the United States and Australia to secure the sea lanes and strives for the same through initiatives like the Blue Dot Network and the Indo-Pacific Partnership for Maritime Domain Awareness (IPMDA). Japan is thus a key regional power, addressing challenges of illegal fishing and environmental threats and, by and large, fortifying maritime security in the region. Small Maritime States The littoral and island states in the Indian and Pacific oceans are

May 5, 2025 No Comments

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