IISPPR

Category: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure

Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure
Rubin cyriac

ESG Reporting- history, present and future- A comparative study of India and United States

This paper provides a comprehensive analysis of the evolution, significance, and future of ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) reporting, with a comparative study between India and the United States. It explores the historical development of ESG frameworks, regulatory compliance, investor influence, and corporate accountability. The study also highlights key trends, challenges like greenwashing, and the role of technology in improving ESG transparency. Finally, it examines the future trajectory of ESG reporting and its potential for global standardization.

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Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure
Srijan Vishwakarma

Intellectual property rights in the Digital age

Intellectual property rights in the Digital age Srijan Vishwakarma, Rishita Golait, Aryan Bhardwaj, Prashant Pippal Abstract This study investigates the evolution and challenges of intellectual property rights (IPR) in the digital era. It explores how digital technologies have reshaped the landscape of intellectual property protection, focusing on copyright, patents, trademarks, and trade secrets. The paper examines the impact of emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence, blockchain, and digital rights management systems on IPR enforcement. It also addresses the global issues of IP protection in an interconnected digital world and proposes viable solutions for effective IP management. These solutions, if implemented, have the potential to significantly improve the management and protection of intellectual property rights in the digital age. Keywords: Intellectual Property Rights, Digital Age, Copyright Protection, Patent Law, Trademark Infringement, Artificial Intelligence, Open Source Software Introduction Intellectual property rights have undergone significant evolution since the first documented patent in Florence, Italy, in 1421. However, the digital revolution, a monumental milestone in this evolution, has fundamentally altered how intellectual property is generated, safeguarded, and enforced. The transition from manual to digital patent filing systems has streamlined verification procedures while introducing new challenges. Modern IPR frameworks now encompass emerging technologies like artificial intelligence, blockchain, biotechnology, genetic engineering, and nanotechnology. The digital era has brought forth new challenges in content reproduction, distribution, and protection, necessitating stronger enforcement measures. The ease of data transfer and storage has led to a surge in piracy, trade secret theft, and geographical indicator misrepresentation. Recent cases, such as Anil Kapoor’s complaint against Simply Life India (CS(COMM) 652/2023), underscore the pressing need to address the new issues of preserving individual rights in an AI-powered future. The evolving landscape of intellectual property rights. The first ever recorded patent is from Florence, Italy, in 1421, which granted exclusive rights for 3 years exclusive right for his invention of a ship transportation machine to Filippo Brunelleschi; this tells us that IPR had existed for a very long time and had changing and evolving with the time. The primary change that occurred over this time is that, before, the patent had to be done manually in paperwork and submitted personally, making it a time-consuming process. Also, it was hard to verify the originality of the invention because it was challenging to match the patent with the existing one. However, in modern times, when patents are recorded digitally, it is easy to verify the originality of patents in records. Only products, machines, inventions and improvement methods were considered for patents before, but now AI, blockchain, biotechnology, genetic engineering & nanotechnology are also eligible for patents. The evolving landscape of IPR has improved and made it harder to plagiarize content, making it safer for copyright holders. Trademarks are now globally recognized and cannot be misused by local businessmen to misrepresent their products. However, the current IPR provides for stricter penalties for stealing trade secrets, as it is now more likely that a trade secret could be stolen with the use of technology. The impact of digital technology on IP In the current age of the world where technology has advanced so much, it has been happening often now that infringing on IPR has become an issue for copyright holders. In this digital world, it is easy to transfer and store data from one place to another, causing widespread piracy, stealing trade secrets & misrepresentation of geographical indicators. Scams like these are happening all around the world. Also, with the introduction of AI, which uses collected data from publically available data and user-generated data, Personality rights are under threat; for instance, in the case of Anil Kapoor’s lawsuit against Simply Life India (CS(COMM) 652/2023). In this case, Anil Kapoor’s face was morphed into another person by using AI deepfake for advertisement purposes, violating his Personality rights and IPR (Intellectual Property Right). Challenges of Copyright Protection in the Digital Age: A Detailed Analysis The digital era has dramatically challenged copyright protection, changing how creative works are reproduced, disseminated, and consumed. This section rephrases and reframes the most critical subjects and cites and references for each argument, highlighting the digital era’s impact on copyright protection.1. Product reproduction and distribution have become effortless in the digital age, revolutionizing the speed of copying and distributing intellectual property. Digital books, music, and movies can now be replicated and shared globally in a matter of seconds. This rapid distribution has significantly complicated the control of copyrighted content, underscoring the urgent need to address this issue.2. Mis-Measurement of utilization: Online publication of works has led to their unrestricted download, sharing, and redistribution availability. This extensive distribution makes it challenging to monitor and regulate the use of content, thereby complicating copyright enforcement.3. Complex Ownership Issues: The digital revolution has clouded and complicated intellectual information ownership. With the ease of copying and dissemination, identifying a work’s creator or legal owner is harder. This dilemma gets significantly more complicated when many parties claim ownership, highlighting digital ownership issues4. The expensive expense of law enforcement: Copyright enforcement in the digital age is costly and time-consuming. Due to the abundance of internet material, infringement is hard to spot. Additionally, prosecuting lawbreakers demands financial and administrative resources.5. International distribution: Digital material may be sent worldwide. However, due to national copyright laws, worldwide infringement is difficult to manage, and the international reach hampers enforcement. Impact Of Open Source Software On Intellectual Property This case study examines creating an IP portfolio to commercialize with a technology. Trade secrets, patents, and copyrights are key IP rights. OSS affects each of these rights, especially licensing constraints and IP protection.1. Trading Secrets: However, a changed ingredient selection code based on OSS with a restrictive license may need to be disclosed openly. This could potentially reveal the recipe’s trade secret, eroding its protection and posing a significant risk2. Patents: If the mixer control code uses OSS modules with restrictive licensing, control algorithm patent rights may be significantly limited. A restricted OSS license may mandate that software modifications—and perhaps the copyrighted invention—be made freely accessible.

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Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure
Priyanka D

The Future of Work: How AI and Automation Will Reshape the Labor Market and Impact Human Jobs

Artificial intelligence (AI) and automation are reshaping industries, enhancing productivity, and driving economic growth. While these technologies streamline processes in sectors like healthcare, manufacturing, and finance, they also present challenges such as job displacement and widening economic inequality. AI-driven advancements demand a shift in workforce skills, emphasizing the need for reskilling and upskilling to ensure adaptability in an evolving job market. The Fourth Industrial Revolution underscores the importance of digital literacy, critical thinking, and emotional intelligence, bridging the gap between human capability and technological progress. Governments and corporations play a crucial role in fostering inclusive AI adoption through strategic policies, education reforms, and ethical AI practices. As AI continues to transform global economies, balancing innovation with workforce welfare is essential for sustainable development. By addressing skill mismatches and ensuring equitable access to technology, societies can harness AI’s potential while minimizing its disruptive impact on employment and social stability.

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Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure
Amrita Avilipsa

Inclusive Finance: Driving Innovation, Infrastructure, and Growth

Financial inclusion is a critical driver of economic development, particularly in achieving Sustainable Development Goal 9 (SDG 9), which focuses on building resilient infrastructure, fostering inclusive industrialization, and promoting innovation. Access to financial services enables small and medium enterprises (SMEs) to integrate into markets, scale operations, and drive economic growth. However, challenges such as limited credit access, regulatory constraints, the digital divide, and gender disparities continue to hinder progress, particularly in developing economies.

Infrastructure plays a fundamental role in enhancing financial inclusion. Studies show that both physical and digital infrastructure are crucial in bridging financial gaps and improving economic participation. Fintech solutions such as mobile money, blockchain, and digital lending platforms have revolutionized financial access, especially in underserved regions. Case studies from Sub-Saharan Africa, China, and Indonesia highlight the impact of financial infrastructure in enabling broader financial access and supporting industrialization.

To ensure sustainable financial inclusion, governments and financial institutions must invest in digital literacy, broadband expansion, and regulatory frameworks that foster inclusive growth. Strengthening public-private partnerships, promoting gender-inclusive financial policies, and leveraging fintech innovations will be key in unlocking financial opportunities and driving long-term economic resilience. Financial inclusion is not just about banking access—it is the foundation for sustainable global development

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Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure
Middat Khan

SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure – A Path to Sustainable Development in India

By Middat Khan

Overview:
This article provides a discussion on the topic characteristic at the Sustainable Development Goal 9 (SDG 9) that deals with the industrial innovation and infrastructure development for its advancement, resilience and inclusiveness. It describes how all these three constituent parts are relevant in supporting global balance and economic progress as well as in the fight for most important matters affecting the world today such as poverty, injustice and ecological ill-health. The emphasis of the article is placed on the India’s accomplishment and difficulties in relation to SDG 9 with regard to the mentioned programmes, namely Bharat-mala Pari-yojana, Make in India and Digital India. It also reviews India’s increasing standing in the industrial growth, the importance of more secure structures for economic and societal cooperation, and the requirements for environmental enhancement in industry and construction. Moreover, the article discusses the place and function of MSMEs, private stakeholders, perspectives for the further development of India as well as green industrialization and digitalization.

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Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure
Sneha Majhi

Misconceptions About Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA)

This article explores common myths associated with Environmental Impact Assessments (EIA), which is an important process in assessing the potential environmental impacts of proposed projects and actions. It clears up misconceptions about the purpose, methodology, and importance of EIA in promoting sustainable development, dispelling the myths regarding its efficiency, scope, and influence on decision-making. By debunking these myths, the article seeks to increase understanding of EIAs and their critical role in environmental protection.

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Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure
Leeza Lowanshi

CONCEPT OF SOCIAL SECURITY AND LABOUR WELFARE IN INDIA

SOCIAL SECURITY-  Social Security is a system that helps people and families by giving them financial support when they face challenges like getting old, losing a job, being sick, becoming disabled, or losing the person who earns money for the family. Social security also includes different programs that make sure people can get healthcare and have money to live on during tough times.[1][2] Components of Social Security Program- The Social Security program is designed to protect people during various stages of life or in difficult situations[3]. Here are some main components[4]: Pension Scheme – This program ensures that when individuals retire from work, they continue receiving income regularly. The goal of this program is to help retirees maintain a decent standard of living after they stop earning a salary.[5] Unemployment Insurance- This provides financial support to people who lose their jobs, helping them cover essential expenses until they find new employment. It acts as a temporary safety net during the period of their joblessness[6]. Disability Insurance- For individuals who cannot work because of having mental or Physical Disability, this program offers financial assistance to help them manage daily living expenses even though they can’t earn a regular income due to their conditions[7]. Health Insurance- This program ensures that people can get the Healthcare facilities they need without having to pay the full amount, preventing them from facing financial problems due to medical bills[8]. Family Benefits- This provides financial help to families, especially if a worker dies. For example, Survivor benefits give money to the dependents ‘like children and spouses’ of the deceased. Workers ensure the family has financial support even though the main earner is no longer there[9]. Challenges faced by Social Security Systems– Funding Shortfalls: As the Population Ages and people live longer, more individuals rely on social security benefits, which puts a strain on the system’s money. If there isn’t enough money from taxes and contributions to support these benefits, the system can run out of funds. For Example, a country might have more retirees collecting pensions than working people paying into the system, causing a money shortage. Coverage Gaps: Not everyone can access social security benefits, especially those who are in informal jobs ‘like street vendors and freelancers’ who don’t have to contribute. This leaves many people without financial protection. For example, a worker in an informal job might not get benefits like unemployment support or healthcare because they haven’t paid into the social security system. Political Resistance: When the government wants to change social security policies, such as how much people can contribute or who can qualify for benefits, they often encounter opposition from different political groups or the general public. This pushback can make it difficult to make important changes that could help the Social Security system work better. For example, suppose a government suggests increasing the retirement age to solve the money problem in the system. In that case, many citizens might protest against it because they believe it’s unfair to require them to work longer before they can retire.[10] Impose on economic stability and Poverty Reduction: Social Security is important for economic stability because it offers financial help during tough times. It helps lower poverty by making sure that vulnerable groups can meet their basic needs, like food, healthcare, and housing. Additionally, it supports economic growth by keeping consumer spending steady during economic downturns[11].  Labour Welfare Labour Welfare[12] means the Different programs and support systems designed to make the work environment better for employees. This includes making working conditions better, providing social security, and enhancing worker’s quality of life. Employers, trade unions, and government groups all work together to promote this initiative according to the International Labour Organization (ILO), labour welfare includes services and facilities that help create a healthy and positive work Environment, which can increase workers’ morale and productivity.[13] Components of Labour Welfare Program: Health and Safety- this focuses on making sure that workers have a safe place to work and also ensures that workers will have access to medical care when they are in need[14]. Recreational Facilities- This means providing activities that workers can do in their free time, like sports, cultural events, or places to relax and enjoy themselves[15]. Educational Support- This includes offering training programs to help workers improve their skills and also providing scholarships to help worker’s children with their education. Housing Assistance- This means helping workers find affordable homes or providing them with housing facilities, making it easier for them to live comfortably. Social Security Measures- These are programs that offer protection to workers, like insurance that covers health issues, job loss i.e., unemployment, or money for retirement i.e., Pension money. Challenges in Implementing Labour Welfare Programs: Funding Limitations- There’s not enough money to create or run programs for workers, making the programs less effective and harder to reach everyone who needs them[16]. Awareness Gaps- This means that many workers do not know about the benefits available to them, so they don’t use the programs that could help them. Regulatory Compliance- Many complex legal rules must be followed, which can make it harder to set up and run the Programs smoothly[17]. Contribution to Employee Satisfaction and Productivity: Labour welfare programs help make workers happier by providing a supportive work environment that takes care of their needs, some positive effects are[18]– Higher Morale: when workers feel like their well-being is important to the company, they feel more appreciated and motivated[19]. Increased Productivity: Workers who are happy with their jobs tend to be more motivated, which helps them work harder and be more productive. Reduced Absenteeism: Welfare programs such as health benefits improve worker health, resulting in fewer sick days and increased presence at work[20]. CONCLUSION: In India, social security and labour welfare systems are very important for workers it play an important or an crucial role in improving their life both financially and socially, especially during the of their retirement , duration of unemployment, or at the time of sicknesses., health issues, major illness etc. The Program social security include retirement plan

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