TRANSFORMING TRANSACTIONS: INDIA’S UNIFIED PAYMENTS INTERFACE AND THE DIGITAL SHIFT

Title: TRANSFORMING TRANSACTIONS: INDIA’S UNIFIED PAYMENTS INTERFACE AND THE DIGITAL SHIFT
Author: Ms. S. Muthukarpagam and Dr. C. Yogalakshmi
Abstract:

Unified Payments Interface (UPI), launched by the National Payments Corporation of India, has transformed the Indian payment ecosystem. Its simplicity and accessibility have accelerated the growth of digital transactions, reaching even small corner shops. This paper explores the relationship between digital infrastructure, such as broadband and smartphone penetration, and UPI adoption in India, alongside the government-led initiatives that have facilitated its expansion. The analysis further highlights developmental outcomes, including enhanced financial inclusion, the integration of MSMEs into the formal financial system, and broader economic formalisation. At the same time, systemic challenges such as market concentration, technical downtimes, security concerns, and regulatory constraints that may affect UPI’s long-term sustainability are critically examined. Based on these findings, the paper also offers policy recommendations to strengthen UPI’s role in advancing inclusive and sustainable digital finance in India.

Keywords: Unified Payments Interface, Digital Infrastructure, Financial Inclusion, Digital Payments, FinTech
DOI: https://doi.org/10.38193/IJRCMS.2026.8263
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Date of Publication: 26-04-2026
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Published Vol & Issue: Volume 8 Issue 2 March-April 2026

EMPOWERING STAKEHOLDERS’ DECISIONS THROUGH INTERIM FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Title: EMPOWERING STAKEHOLDERS’ DECISIONS THROUGH INTERIM FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Author: A. Arunkumar and M. Balaji
Abstract:

Corporate boards are at the centre of policy debate concerning governance reform and financial reporting. Without developing an effective communication to stakeholders through financial statements, it could be difficult to develop an organisational culture satisfying the needs and expectation of the stakeholders (Moneva et al., 2007). In this article, we have evaluated the impact of the interim financial reports published by Nifty 50 companies of quarter 3 (December 2025) for the financial year 2025-26 and the shareholder decisions based on the reports through their price movements.

Keywords: Interim Financial Reporting, Stakeholder Decision-Making, Nifty 50 Companies, Share Price Movement, Corporate Governance
DOI: https://doi.org/10.38193/IJRCMS.2026.8262
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Date of Publication: 26-04-2026
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Published Vol & Issue: Volume 8 Issue 2 March-April 2026

THE CHANGING WORK LANDSCAPE: A THEMATIC ANALYSIS OF SELF-EFFICACY IN REMOTE WORKING

Title: THE CHANGING WORK LANDSCAPE: A THEMATIC ANALYSIS OF SELF-EFFICACY IN REMOTE WORKING
Author: Prinka Dogra
Abstract:

Purpose-This study aims to systematically explore self-efficacy in remote working by using a bibliometric analysis.
Design/methodology/approach- The study scientifically analysed 68 papers related to self-efficacy in remote working in the Scopus and Web of Science core set from 1991 to 2022, using R package – ‘Biblioshiny’.
Findings- An analysis of the key journals, papers, authors, relevant institutions, countries, theme maps and four cluster segments on primary themes and future research directions were found within the existing field of self-efficacy in remote work.
Originality/value: One of the most important indicators of adjustment and successful behavioral methods Self-efficacy was studied in the complex, multifaceted, and globalized business world where remote work (RW) has been the most notable work

Keywords: Self-efficacy, Remote work, Bibliometrics, Scopus and Web of Science
DOI: https://doi.org/10.38193/IJRCMS.2026.8261
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Date of Publication: 26-04-2026
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Published Vol & Issue: Volume 8 Issue 2 March-April 2026

SUSTAINABLE CONSUMER BEHAVIOUR THROUGH GREEN DIGITAL MARKETING PRACTICES: A SKILL DEVELOPMENT PERSPECTIVE – OPPORTUNITIES AND CHALLENGES

Title: SUSTAINABLE CONSUMER BEHAVIOUR THROUGH GREEN DIGITAL MARKETING PRACTICES: A SKILL DEVELOPMENT PERSPECTIVE – OPPORTUNITIES AND CHALLENGES
Author: Rina Kumari Singh
Abstract:

In the context of increasing environmental concerns and rapid digital transformation, green digital marketing has emerged as an important approach for promoting sustainable consumer behaviour. This paper examines the role of green digital marketing practices in influencing environmentally responsible consumption, with a particular focus on the importance of skill development. Using secondary data and an extensive review of existing literature, the study explores how digital tools such as social media, data analytics, and artificial intelligence can be effectively utilized to encourage sustainable purchasing decisions.
The study finds that green digital marketing enhances consumer awareness, engagement, and brand loyalty when supported by professionals possessing both digital and sustainability-related skills. It further highlights that skill development in areas such as digital marketing, ethical communication, and environmental knowledge is essential for designing credible and impactful marketing strategies. However, several challenges persist, including greenwashing, consumer scepticism, digital inequality, and lack of standardized regulatory frameworks.
The paper concludes that integrating skill development with green digital marketing practices can significantly improve sustainable consumption patterns while also generating employment opportunities. It emphasizes the need for coordinated efforts among policymakers, educational institutions, and businesses to promote green digital competencies and ensure inclusive and effective implementation of sustainability-driven marketing strategies.

Keywords: Green Digital Marketing, Sustainable Consumer Behaviour, Skill Development, Digital Skills, Green Skills, Sustainability, Consumer Awareness, Environmental Marketing
DOI: https://doi.org/10.38193/IJRCMS.2026.8260
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Date of Publication: 23-04-2026
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Published Vol & Issue: Volume 8 Issue 2 March-April 2026

INITIAL PUBLIC OFFERS (IPOS): A DETAILED THEORETICAL & CRITICAL REVIEW OF LITERATURE

Title: INITIAL PUBLIC OFFERS (IPOS): A DETAILED THEORETICAL & CRITICAL REVIEW OF LITERATURE
Author: Vanalika Kalia and Dr. Neha Rohra
Abstract:

This research presents a summary of empirical research on initial public offerings (IPOs) from 2010 to 2023, concentrating mainly on pricing anomalies, like underpricing in Indian and global markets. In these markets, average first-day returns reach 14.45% due to information asymmetries, market overvaluations, and firm signals such as oversubscription, which boost gains while dividend yields curb volatility. Traditional theories are challenged by these findings because insiders seem to have advantages and the market often gets overheated. Of course, SEBI regulations influence offer bands and subscriptions. Besides this, ESG disclosures made by companies let investors know what the companies are really doing, so these disclosures are a big plus point for the firms that want to be sustainable in terms of environment, social, and governance components. At the same time, the macroeconomic factors like the ones that cause the overall prices to increase (inflation and so on) have an impact on the volume of the transactions in the market. P/E (price-earnings) ratios plunge even during the periods of thematic strength. The problems in the researches highlight the lack of methodological rigor, small sample sizes and insufficient coverage of the post-2023 SME/digital sentiment aspect, which have limited depth. So, we need integrated behavioural-quantitative frameworks and meta-analyses to help refine predictive models not only for scholars but also for new investors and regulators who have to deal with constantly changing/dynamic emerging markets

Keywords: IPO underpricing, Information asymmetry, ESG disclosures, SEBI regulations, Macroeconomic factors.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.38193/IJRCMS.2026.8259
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Date of Publication: 23-04-2026
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Published Vol & Issue: Volume 8 Issue 2 March-April 2026

CONSUMER BEHAVIOUR ON AI-POWERED FINANCIAL APPLICATIONS

Title: CONSUMER BEHAVIOUR ON AI-POWERED FINANCIAL APPLICATIONS
Author: C. PRASANNA and Dr. K. GANESAMURTHY
Abstract:

As more people begin to use Artificial Intelligence in their financial dealings, the interaction between consumers and financial services continues to be transformed. Most of the current studies about the adoption of AI (Artificial Intelligence) are primarily focused on technology efficiency and security (trust), as well as intent to use. Conversely, there are fewer recent studies about the more in-depth behaviours and psychology that shape a consumer’s acceptance of AI-based financial tools, which is what this study aims to fill by providing new behavioural insights into AI usage that are beyond the existing tech usage acceptance theories. The results of this study demonstrate two forms of trust: trust in a system to be secure and provide accurate results, and emotionally based trust. There is a difference between these types of trust that needs to be validated from the perspective of a consumer. The findings also indicate that consumers perceive “control” as a major driver of their behaviours when interacting with these types of technologies; therefore, providing the consumer with the control to make decisions themselves (rather than allowing someone else to dictate) as well as providing explanations of how the and why the AI [is] providing this information [to them], are key elements to the consumer adopting these technologies for financial purposes. The study has identified what the authors call an algorithm awareness gap that impacts the consumer’s behaviours to either be over-reliant upon AI and/or resist AI recommendations. As a result of Ethical Sensitivity’s Moderating Role on Building Trust and Creating Long-Term Loyalty, the Findings of this Research Address Issues Relating to Automation Fatigue, Behavioural Differences That Are Task Specific to Financial Activities, and Recovery of Trust Following AI System Failure. Hence, the present study covered all the aspects of Psychological, Ethical, and Context Based on Consumer Behaviour Toward AI Financial Applications, and Provides Useful Consideration for the Implementation of Responsible, Transparent, and User-Cantered AI To Support Financial Institutions and is beneficial to all stakeholders of the company.

Keywords: Artificial Intelligence, Consumer Behaviour, FinTech, AI-Powered Financial Applications, Trust, Technology Adoption
DOI: https://doi.org/10.38193/IJRCMS.2026.8258
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Date of Publication: 23-04-2026
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Published Vol & Issue: Volume 8 Issue 2 March-April 2026

EMPLOYEE SATISFACTION AND WORK–LIFE BALANCE: A DESCRIPTIVE STUDY ON EMPLOYEE PERCEPTIONS IN ORGANIZATIONAL SETTINGS

Title: EMPLOYEE SATISFACTION AND WORK–LIFE BALANCE: A DESCRIPTIVE STUDY ON EMPLOYEE PERCEPTIONS IN ORGANIZATIONAL SETTINGS
Author: Dhrusti K M, Akash Shetty, Akash Rai, Ashwith K G, Radhakrishna Gowda V and Abhishek Suvarna
Abstract:

Employee satisfaction and work–life balance have emerged as critical factors influencing employee well-being and organizational performance. Organizations increasingly recognize that employees who experience a balanced relationship between professional responsibilities and personal life demonstrate higher motivation, commitment, and productivity. The present study examines the relationship between work–life balance and employee satisfaction among employees working in a structured organizational environment. A descriptive research design was adopted and primary data were collected through a structured questionnaire administered to 102 employees. Statistical tools including descriptive statistics, correlation analysis, and regression analysis were applied to analyze the collected data. The findings reveal that work–life balance significantly influences employee satisfaction, while job stress negatively affects employee satisfaction. Employees who experience supportive working conditions and adequate personal time tend to report higher levels of job satisfaction. The study highlights the importance of organizational practices that support employee well-being, flexible working arrangements, and stress management initiatives. The findings provide useful insights for managers and policymakers seeking to enhance employee satisfaction and organizational effectiveness.

Keywords: Employee Satisfaction, Work–Life Balance, Job Stress, Employee Well-being, Organizational Performance
DOI: https://doi.org/10.38193/IJRCMS.2026.8257
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Date of Publication: 23-04-2026
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Published Vol & Issue: Volume 8 Issue 2 March-April 2026

EMOTIONAL BRANDING VS. RATIONAL BRANDING: WHAT WORKS BETTER FOR GEN Z IN ORGANIC SKINCARE

Title: EMOTIONAL BRANDING VS. RATIONAL BRANDING: WHAT WORKS BETTER FOR GEN Z IN ORGANIC SKINCARE
Author: Dr S Saikrishnan, Dhiya Shaji, Kiruthanya V S, Nagavarshini L, Paul Moses R, Rinishagowri, Sri Hari Prasath S, Vinothini R D
Abstract:

The organic skincare industry is expanding due to increased awareness of health and environmental sustainability. This study analyzes the effectiveness of emotional and rational branding among Generation Z consumers. Emotional branding builds strong connections through feelings and values, while rational branding focuses on product quality, ingredients, and benefits. The findings show that Gen Z consumers are influenced by both emotional and logical factors in their purchasing decisions. They prefer brands that are transparent, sustainable, and trustworthy, along with clear and reliable product information. Emotional branding helps in building trust and loyalty, whereas rational branding strengthens confidence and supports informed decisions. Digital platforms and social media play a significant role in shaping consumer behaviour. The study concludes that a balanced approach combining both emotional and rational branding is most effective in attracting and retaining Generation Z consumers.

Keywords: Gen Z(Age 18-26), Emotional Branding, Rational branding, Skincare, Organic
DOI: https://doi.org/10.38193/IJRCMS.2026.8256
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Date of Publication: 22-04-2026
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Published Vol & Issue: Volume 8 Issue 2 March-April 2026

A STUDY ON ADOPTION AND CHALLENGES OF SOLAR PUMPS IN AGRICULTURAL FARMING WITH RESPECT TO COIMBATORE DISTRICT

Title: A STUDY ON ADOPTION AND CHALLENGES OF SOLAR PUMPS IN AGRICULTURAL FARMING WITH RESPECT TO COIMBATORE DISTRICT
Author: Dinesh Kumar R, Gopi Sankar J, Mary Cathrine P, Nivedha V, Shri Sidhya S S and Vaishnov T A, Mr. Kamala Kannan S,
Abstract:

This study focuses on the adoption and challenges of solar pumps in agricultural farming with reference to Coimbatore District. Solar pumps are becoming an important solution for farmers as they reduce dependency on electricity and diesel. The study aims to understand how far farmers have adopted solar pumps, the benefits they receive, and the difficulties they face while using them. Data is collected from farmers to analyse their awareness, usage, and problems. The study also highlights the need for better support from the government and awareness among farmers to increase the usage of solar pumps.

Keywords: Solar Pumps, Agricultural Farming, Government Subsidy, Irrigation, Renewable Energy, Cost efficiency.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.38193/IJRCMS.2026.8255
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Date of Publication: 22-04-2026
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Published Vol & Issue: Volume 8 Issue 2 March-April 2026

A COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL PERFORMANCE, STRATEGIC POSITIONING, AND MARKET SHARE OF ULTRATECH CEMENT AND BIRLA CORPORATION (2020–2025)

Title: A COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL PERFORMANCE, STRATEGIC POSITIONING, AND MARKET SHARE OF ULTRATECH CEMENT AND BIRLA CORPORATION (2020–2025)
Author: Amita Sharma and Shekhar Kumar Mishra
Abstract:

The purpose of this study is to provide a comparative analysis of UltraTech Cement Ltd. and Birla Corporation Ltd., with a particular emphasis on their respective market share, strategic positioning, and financial performance for the period of 2020–2025. As a result of the tremendous growth that the Indian cement industry is currently experiencing, which is being driven by the development of infrastructure, urbanization, and efforts taken by the government, competitive strategies are becoming increasingly crucial. Quantitative financial analysis, which makes use of important indicators including revenue, Profit After Tax (PAT), operating margins, and leverage ratios, is combined with qualitative evaluation, which makes use of strategic frameworks such as SWOT and Porter’s Five Forces. This research takes a dual approach.
According to the findings, UltraTech Cement continues to hold a strong market position by virtue of its superior scale, operational efficiency, and market share of about 25–28%. This position is reinforced by aggressive expansion and acquisition initiatives. In contrast, Birla Corporation functions as a regional player with a premiumization strategy that is focused. The company has seen consistent growth in sales, but it has a higher degree of volatility in profitability due to the fact that it is limited in scale and faces cost pressures. In addition, the study indicates disparities in resilience, with UltraTech being better equipped to handle swings in the business, whereas Birla Corporation relies on regional strength and product differentiation.
In general, the findings of the research indicate that although large-scale operations offer a durable competitive advantage in an industry that is highly competitive, niche and region-focused strategies can also continue to be successful if they are backed by good cost management and strategic positioning.

Keywords: Cement Industry Analysis, UltraTech Cement Ltd, Birla Corporation Ltd, Financial Performance, Strategic Positioning, Market Share, SWOT Analysis, Porter’s Five Forces, Infrastructure Development, India
DOI: https://doi.org/10.38193/IJRCMS.2026.8254
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Date of Publication: 22-04-2026
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Published Vol & Issue: Volume 8 Issue 2 March-April 2026