International Journal of Scientific Research in Modern Science and Technology
International Journal of Scientific Research in Modern Science and Technology is an International Open Access, Peer-reviewed, Refereed, Multidisciplinary, Monthly, Multilanguage Online Journal that aims to facilitate the dissemination of high-quality scientific research across various fields of modern science and technology. With a commitment to fostering innovation and advancing knowledge, the journal provides a platform for researchers, scholars, and scientists to share their findings and insights with the global scientific community. ISSN: 2583-7605 (Online) Subject Category: Multidisciplinary Journal Type: International Open Access, Peer-reviewed, Refereed Journal Issue Frequency: Monthly Criteria for Manuscript Submitted manuscripts must be Plagiarism free (Less than 10%). Submitted manuscripts must not contain more than 20% AI-generated content. Manuscript must be original and should not have been published previously anywhere. The writing must be clear, concise and unambiguous. The data should be valid. The discussions and conclusions drawn by the authors must be reasonable and supportable. The information must be relevant and interesting to area of research. For any query or submission, E-mail: editor@ijsrmst.com Mobile: 9415093911 (WhatsApp Only)
A Comparative Study of Career Preference among Graduates
Who we are today solely depends on the choices we made in the past. Regarding our careers, what we pursue in our professional lives is the outcome of the decisions/preferences we made previously. This research examines the career choices of graduates in science, arts, and commerce. Multistage sampling was employed to choose 150 graduates from both aided and Self-Financing Colleges in Meerut City. The instrument employed for data gathering was the “Career Preference Choice Record” created by Prof. Arun Kumar and Dr. Jitendra Singh Goyal. Mean (M), Standard Deviation (SD), and Critical Ratio (CR) were utilized for analyzing and interpreting the aims and the hypotheses. The outcome indicates a distinction in career choices among graduates of science compared to those of arts, as well as between science and commerce graduates. Additional findings indicate that there is no distinction in career choices between graduates of commerce and those of arts.
Career Choice, Graduates, Multistage Sampling, Statistical Analysis, Stream Differences
Copyright (c) 2026 International Journal of Scientific Research in Modern Science and Technology https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Integration of Information and Communication Technology in 21st Century Classroom Teaching
The 21st century has witnessed a revolutionary transformation in the field of education, primarily driven by the integration of Information and Communication Technology (ICT). ICT has not only reshaped traditional teaching methodologies but has also expanded the boundaries of learning beyond classrooms. This research article explores the multifaceted role of ICT in modern classroom teaching, focusing on its impact on pedagogy, student engagement, accessibility, teacher roles, and educational outcomes. The study also examines challenges, opportunities, and future prospects of ICT in education, especially in the context of developing countries like India. The findings suggest that ICT is a powerful tool that enhances teaching-learning processes when effectively implemented.
ICT, Classroom Teaching, Student Engagement, Digital Learning, Educational Outcomes
Copyright (c) 2025 International Journal of Scientific Research in Modern Science and Technology https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Lifelong Learning Skills Among Teachers in the 21st Century
Lifelong learning and educational reform are crucial issues in the 21st Century, shaping curricula, teacher training, and learning strategies. Their interconnectedness is highlighted by societal visions and policies aimed at enhancing quality of life through human resource development. Lifelong learning outcomes must address environmental and socio-economic challenges, improving overall life quality. Global acceptance of lifelong learning underscores the need for skills that enable continuous education beyond formal schooling. Institutions should recognize the qualities necessary for lifelong learning when removing entry barriers. Educational bodies must foster attitudes essential for lifelong learning, emphasizing skills that promote ongoing development. These skills encompass continuous learning, eliminating obstacles, and understanding what, when, and where to learn. Lifelong learning skills closely align with self-directed, independent, and competency-based education, adapting to educational goals. For students, the essence of these skills lies in planning, monitoring, and assessing their learning. Educators, too, should perpetually refine their lifelong learning skills throughout their careers.
Lifelong learning, educational reform, learning strategies, Educational bodies.
Copyright (c) 2024 International Journal of Scientific Research in Modern Science and Technology https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
The Teacher's Role in Addressing Mental Health Issues of Students
Tremendous gains in understanding mental health among young people have occurred over the past decade, yet it remains a high policy priority. Schools are identified as crucial for interventions to support mental well-being. However, the intended promotion of mental health in schools has not resulted in significant changes in many countries. It is often sidelined, with limited policy and practical guidance available for schools. Moreover, insufficient professional development and training hinder efforts to identify and improve student mental health effectively. Various resilience-based frameworks, such as the 10 Key Competencies to Survive and Thrive and the Four Attitudes of the Stress Interview, have been created to assist educators. Despite this, sustained attention to mental health in schools is lacking, leaving many teachers unsure about how to integrate it into the curriculum or school initiatives. (O’Reilly et al., 2018) (Shelemy et al., 2019) Keywords: Mental health, educators, health education.
Copyright (c) 2023 International Journal of Scientific Research in Modern Science and Technology https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
EDUCATION FOR SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT: THE ROLE OF TEACHERS
Education for Sustainable Development (ESD) incorporates sustainability into curricula, equipping students with essential knowledge, skills, values, and attitudes to tackle societal challenges. Teachers are pivotal in this process, acting as key agents for ESD implementation. Examining teachers' access to professional development that enhances sustainability-oriented competencies is crucial. This study explored ESD implementation globally, focusing on teachers’ experiences and the competencies required. A literature review identified seven broad competencies for educators: knowledge and understanding, critical thinking, pedagogy and assessment, curriculum, school leadership, collaboration, and advocacy. Additionally, the study analyzed barriers and enablers affecting teachers' transformative roles. Insights revealed the significance of supportive pedagogical frameworks, clear policy directions, and continuous professional collaboration across educational sectors. (Catherine Jaspar, 2009) Keywords: Education for Sustainable Development (ESD), knowledge, skills, values, professional development.
Copyright (c) 2022 International Journal of Scientific Research in Modern Science and Technology https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Continuous Professional Development of Teachers: A Policy Perspective
Continuous Professional Development (CPD) for teachers should be a policy-driven, evidence-based approach that enhances educational quality by linking to student outcomes, equity, and sustainability. CPD is defined as any activity that develops skills and knowledge relevant to a professional’s duties. In education, it encompasses both formal and informal learning, involving various activities with different durations, purposes, and impacts. Evidence shows that teachers benefit from deepening their Subject Content Knowledge (SCK), enhancing pedagogical skills, and improving technology use. Nonetheless, many countries face challenges like limited time, funding, and guidance for effective CPD. (Nooruddin & Bhamani, 2019). Keywords: Continuous Professional Development, educational quality, technology, Subject Content Knowledge (SCK).
Activity Based Costing in Manufacturing Facilities and Electrical Power Distribution Systems Equipment Manufacturing
Manufacturing processes are critical to the success of the nation’s economy. Due to availability of raw materials and labour in certain economies lead to large scale establishment of manufacturing facilities. Depending on global supply chain, many industries procure raw materials from a broader geography. One such example is petroleum industry the relies on cross-country pipelines for inflow of crude for refining and marketing purposes. The project managers must take care of the internal decision by proper use of the accounting figures available with the internal environment. Especially in a large manufacturing unit with low and high-volume products and services are delivered the accounting of the overhead costs incurred needs to be allocated so that an optimal pricing decision is made. Traditional costing allows undifferentiated allocation of the overheads to all types of the products irrespective of the volume. However, the activity-based costing has a greater significance when a literature review was performed to study the advantages of activity-based costing (ABC) and its success. Later on, a comparison of two hypothetical products “X” and “Y” distinguished based on the volume was performed against following the traditional methodology and activity-based methodology to understand how it would impact the pricing strategy been followed. The steps followed in the ABC were enumerated and presented in a manner to be able to understand by a person with non-business background. A general analysis has provided an insight in application of ABC for the management in taking the right decisions for the betterment of the company. In electrical power systems industry there are many equipment manufactured. The majority of them comprises of copper and aluminium conductors. The respective manufacturing facilities require attaining high energy efficiency, optimized processes, leverage of new technologies at the same time allocate the appropriate pricing strategy to promote both company profits and recover costs for research and innovations. Keywords: manufacturing; project accounting; electrical equipment manufacturing.
Transfer Learning-Based Deep Learning Framework for Medicinal Plant Leaf Analysis and Disease Detection
Medicinal plants play a significant role in both conventional and modern medical procedures, it is imperative that their leaves be accurately observed. Examining medicinal plant leaves by hand is time-consuming and prone to human error, especially when trying to spot early signs of illness. This research suggests using a transfer learning-based deep learning approach based on a pre-trained ResNet50 model to analyze photos of medicinal plant leaves in order to solve this issue. The experimental evaluation of this work was conducted using a standard dataset of leaf images from medicinal plants. Three classes representing healthy leaves and two main illness states were created from the dataset. All the images were scaled prior to the application of any preprocessing technique like data augmentation and normalization. The final classification layers were used to train the classification layers for a three-class classification problem with the convolutional part of the pre-trained ResNet50 network. The transfer learning approach based on feature extraction can prevent overfitting and improve the efficiency of learning for datasets of moderate sizes. Experimental findings demonstrate that the developed framework effectively captures meaningful feature representations and achieves reliable classification performance for medicinal plant analysis. The work has verified that the transfer learning approach using ResNet50 is a robust and efficient method for the automatic medicinal plant leaf monitoring and intelligent plant health evaluation.
Transfer Learning, Medicinal Plant, Feature Extraction, RestNet50, Leaf Image Analysis
Bridging the Equity Assessment Divide - Teachers Culturally Responsive Practices
The National Education Policy 2020 envisions a fundamental shift in how we assess students moving toward approaches that are competency-based, holistic, and fair to all learners. But how much of this vision has actually reached classrooms? This study looked at how teachers in Tamil Nadu's Karur district are putting Culturally Responsive Assessment (CRA) into practice. We surveyed 312 teachers from government, aided, and private schools, asking them how often they use CRA, how confident they feel about it, and what gets in their way. This study found reveals a telling gap between policy and practice. While 82% of teachers agreed that CRA matters for meeting the needs of diverse students—including first-generation learners and children from different language backgrounds—only 28% said they actually use it regularly. The main obstacles? Overcrowded classrooms (85% of teachers pointed to this), lack of training in alternative assessment methods (78%), rigid syllabi that leave little room for flexibility (70%), and the relentless pressure to prepare students for board exams (68%). Teachers who had received training under the NEP 2020 framework were noticeably more likely to use CRA. The takeaway is clear: if we want real change, teachers need practical training modules in Tamil, district-level support for creating resources, and systemic reforms that bring state board evaluations in line with NEP's vision for formative assessment. Keywords: Culturally Responsive Assessment, NEP 2020, Tamil Nadu education, equity in assessment, teacher practices, Karur district.
AI-based Adaptive Learning Platforms for Vocational Education: A Personalized Approach to Skill Development
In the evolving landscape of vocational education, the need for personalized, flexible, and industry-relevant learning solutions is more critical than ever. This paper explores the integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) into adaptive learning platforms to enhance skill development in vocational training programs. AI-based adaptive systems personalize the learning experience by analyzing learner’s performance, predicting knowledge gaps, and dynamically adjusting content delivery to suit individual learning styles and pace. The study investigates how such platforms can improve learner engagement, reduce dropout rates, and better align educational outcomes with industry demands. A prototype platform tailored for vocational learners was implemented and evaluated within a B. Voc. program. Results indicate significant improvements in both learner satisfaction and practical skill acquisition when compared to traditional static content delivery. The research concludes that AI-driven adaptive learning systems hold substantial potential to revolutionize vocational education by fostering personalized, data-driven, and outcome-oriented learning environments. Future work will focus on integrating multilingual support, real-time feedback systems, and industry certifications within the adaptive framework. Keywords: Artificial Intelligence, Adaptive Learning, Vocational Education, Skill Development, Personalized Learning
Integrating Artificial intelligence in higher education: Challenges, Opportunities and Future Directions for Enhancing Student Engagement
Artificial Intelligence (AI) is a growing force for change in higher education, supporting students, faculty, and administrators in teaching, learning, and administrative roles. In this study, we examine the opportunities and challenges associated with using AI for student engagement in higher education. In addition, this paper will outline recommendations for the future integration of AI in higher education for student engagement. The methodology of this article is qualitative in nature, using a in-dept literature review method of content analysis techniques. The results of this study show that AI has the potential to revolutionize student participation and quality in higher education systems. However, for this to be successfully implemented, it is essential that it is planned and balanced so that it complements human teaching strategies. By addressing current problems and exploring new avenues, AI has the potential to have a significant impact on the inclusion, creativity and student-centeredness of higher education systems in the future. Keywords- Artificial Intelligence in Higher Education, Student Engagement, AI-Supported Learning, Personalized Learning.
Caregiver Burden and Geriatric Well-Being: A Literature Synthesis with Reference to Assam
The world's rapidly aging population is demanding for caregiving. In the Indian context, especially in Assam, family members are the main caregivers for senior citizens. Although providing care guarantees emotional support, caregivers frequently experience significant financial, emotional, and physical strain. Elderly people's mental health and general well-being are directly impacted by this caregiving load, in addition to the caregivers themselves. With a particular emphasis on Assamese research and publications, this paper conducts a literature-based synthesis to investigate the connection between caregiver burden and geriatric mental health. Secondary data has been gathered from government reports, doctoral theses, published articles, and Assamese-language literature on mental health, family care, and aging. The study focuses on important issues like stress, anxiety, depression, and social isolation in older adults and demonstrates how the caregiving environment affects these outcomes. Assamese cultural customs are also given particular consideration. The study comes to the conclusion that although family caregiving is still crucial to elder care in Assam, growing caregiver burdens frequently result in mental health issues for senior citizens. It demands awareness campaigns, more organized community support networks, and mental health treatments that are adapted to the sociocultural context of Assam. This literature synthesis helps us to understand the importance of the topic by placing geriatric mental health within a regional framework of Assam. Keywords: Caregiver Stress, Geriatric Mental health, Modernization, Family Care
Histopathological and Bioaccumulation Assessment of Surfactants (NPE and LAS) in Freshwater Fishes Using GC–MS Analysis
Nonylphenol ethoxylates (NPE) and linear alkylbenzene sulfonate (LAS) serve as surfactants whose production exceeds 1000 metric tons yet scientists find them in all freshwater ecosystems because wastewater treatment systems fail to remove them completely. The lipophilic metabolites of NPE degradation, especially nonylphenol (NP), present severe risks to ecological systems. The research examined how NPE/LAS pollutants accumulate in organisms and their subsequent impact on Labeo rohita (rohu) fish through histopathological testing. The fish received three sublethal concentrations (0.1, 0.5, and 1.0 mg L⁻¹) of a commercial NPE mixture and LAS for 28 days. Researchers used Gas Chromatography–Mass Spectrometry (GC–MS) to examine liver, kidney, gill, and muscle tissue samples for NP and LAS residues. The researchers assessed histopathological changes that occurred in gill, liver, and kidney tissues. The GC–MS analysis showed that NP, which acts as the persistent metabolite of NPE, accumulated in liver and kidney tissues at significant levels that increased according to the administered dose. The examination showed LAS to have lower accumulation levels which remained detectable. The histopathological examination discovered extensive tissue damage which progressed according to the dose consumed by the subjects. The study found a direct relationship between tissue NP residue levels and histopathological severity assessment. The research proves that freshwater fish experience major organ harm through chronic exposure to NPE at levels found in their natural environment because NP bioaccumulation leads to various health problems which affect their ability to function and survive. The tissue stress from LAS showed lower accumulation levels than other substances. The research demonstrates that environmental surfactant discharge requires strict regulation because environmental monitoring benefits from combined bioaccumulation (GC–MS) and biomarker (histopathology) assessment methods.
Nonylphenol ethoxylates, surfactants, freshwater, lipophilic metabolites
INDIGENOUS THERAPEUTIC PRACTICES FOR THE MANAGEMENT OF HEMORRHOIDS IN NORTHEAST INDIA
The goal of present investigation is to throw light on the traditional knowledge of indigenous tribal communities of Northeast region of India with special reference to Sivasagar district of Assam and Namsai district of Arunachal Pradesh on the use of various medicinal flora and fauna in the treatment of various ailments especially like piles. Hemorrhoids or piles are a common problem faced by around 60% of the people of the North eastern region. Most of the used medicinal flora and fauna are native to the local area as the region has tremendous potential of bio-resources. Despite being rich in ethnicity and well equipped with traditional knowledge, due to lack of proper documentation and ethical belief, much useful information is confined only to the local folk communities. The present research is an assemblage of reports of folk medicines used by local people or Kabiraj for the treatment of piles through individual questionnaires. And the information generated from the current study will provide valuable facts of the indigenous medicine to the masses for proper utilization and systematic commercialization with scientific practices.
Piles, Folklore, ethno medicines, North East, Assam, Arunachal Pradesh
Solutions to Inclusive Physical Education: A Comprehensive Outline for Implementation in Indian Schools
Inclusive Physical Education (IPE) represents a critical paradigm shift in educational practice, ensuring equitable access to physical activity and fitness education for all students, regardless of ability or disability. Despite progressive policy frameworks in India, including the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act (2016) and the National Education Policy (2020), implementation remains constrained by infrastructural deficits, inadequate teacher preparation, curricular limitations, and societal attitudes. This paper synthesizes evidence from recent research to propose a comprehensive solutions framework addressing these barriers. Drawing from studies examining teacher attitudes, assistive technology implementation, administrative barriers, and international best practices, this paper presents strategic interventions across five key domains: teacher capacity building, infrastructure development, curriculum adaptation, assistive technology integration, and community engagement. The proposed solutions framework emphasizes professional development programs, adaptive equipment provision, modified assessment strategies, and policy implementation mechanisms. Evidence indicates that comprehensive teacher training, combined with adequate resources and institutional support, significantly improves inclusive practices and student participation outcomes. This paper contributes to the inclusive education discourse by providing evidence-based recommendations for policymakers, educators, and stakeholders to transform inclusive physical education from policy aspiration to classroom reality.
STIGMA, ACCESS, AND TREATMENT GAPS IN WOMEN’S MENTAL HEALTH DURING COVID-19: A CRITICAL REVIEW OF THE INDIAN CONTEXT
The COVID-19 pandemic creates a parallel mental health crisis in India and exacerbates the challenges faced by women who experience a disproportionate amount of psychological distress due to long-standing gender norms, stigma, and unequal access to services. Mental health issues are commonly seen through social judgment and moral frameworks in India and as a result, there is pressure on women, whose identities are inextricably linked to their roles as caregivers and representatives of their families to not disclose their illness or to seek help. The lockdowns resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic have increased these vulnerabilities by disrupting livelihoods, limiting mobility, increasing domestic responsibilities, and restricting access to mental health services. The paper examines how demand side barriers such as stigma and social judgement interact with structural barriers around access, cost, and knowledge of services to create and perpetuate gaps in treatment for women's mental health in India during the COVID-19 pandemic. This research uses both qualitative and quantitative forms of research for a complete understanding of the impact the stigmatization of mental illness has on help-seeking behaviour as well as how specific areas disrupt access to care. Through utilising secondary data from peer-reviewed journals, governmental policy documents, and data from publicly avaiable resources there are four themes of emerging evidence from the literature identified: stigma and gender-specific barriers to help-seeking; structural barriers that disrupt access to care; widening gaps in treatment during public health emergencies; and possible intervention points. The analysis also highlights how the disruption of services as well as fear and restrictions of movement are increasing during crises which ultimately yields significant treatment gaps due to increased control of women's autonomy within the household. Finally, although several governmental initiatives exist regarding digital mental health care, their effectiveness is dependent on a number of factors (e.g., awareness, confidentiality, affordability, and cultural competence). According to the research paper, circumstances leading to unmet mental health needs in female patients are not due to unpredictable service failures, but rather are due to systemic gender-based factors; thus, in order to address these gaps in service delivery and create more equitable outcomes for female patients, emergency mental health services must be gender sensitive and use a combination of expanding service availability, reducing stigma around mental health care, and improving practical access to those services.
Women’s mental health, COVID-19, stigma, treatment gaps, tele-mental health
A Chronological Review of the TPACK Framework in Pre-Service Teacher Education (2006–2025)
This review synthesizes research on Technological Pedagogical Content Knowledge (TPACK) in teacher education, focusing on its evolution and detailed analysis to address fragmented understanding and methodological limitations in the field. The review aimed to evaluate TPACK’s conceptual development, assess measurement approaches, synthesize instructional strategies, compare disciplinary and contextual variations, and identify implementation challenges. A systematic analysis of empirical, theoretical, and bibliometric studies from 2006 to 2025, predominantly from Asia, North America, and Europe, was conducted using mixed- method and thematic frameworks. Findings reveal that TPACK has evolved from PCK to a dynamic, integrative framework, yet inconsistencies in definitions and assessment tools persist. Instructional interventions, including collaborative lesson design and technology-infused courses, effectively foster TPACK development; however, they often emphasize technological skills unevenly across different domains. Disciplinary and contextual factors significantly influence TPACK enactment, though cross-disciplinary and socio-cultural investigations remain limited. Common barriers include resource constraints, insufficient training, and resistance to change, compounded by methodological weaknesses in research designs. These findings converge to highlight the need for rigorous, context-sensitive assessment and tailored instructional models. The review underscores theoretical refinement and practical application of TPACK as essential for advancing teacher education programs that integrate technology, pedagogy, and content knowledge effectively. Keywords: Technological Pedagogical Content Knowledge (TPACK), technology-infused course, instructional interventions
Fintech Enabled Financial Inclusion: Evidence From India’s Digital Payment Revolution
Fintech growth changed India's banking and payment ecosystem. The Unified Payments Interface (UPI) and government led financial inclusion initiatives like the Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana (PMJDY) have significantly contributed to this change. This study examines the statistical relationship between fintech driven digital payment adoption and financial inclusion in India from 2014 to 2025. The study is based on secondary data obtained from the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) and the PMJDY portal. For analysis, it employs trend analysis, descriptive statistics and correlation analysis to evaluate patterns of digital transaction growth and account ownership. Data from the National Payments Corporation of India and the PMJDY portal show clear trends. UPI transactions grew exponentially since 2018. UPI transaction values correlate strongly with PMJDY account growth. Access to formal banking increases digital payment usage. Rural areas hold the majority of new PMJDY accounts. Rural account penetration succeeded in reaching underserved populations. Digital payments and policy led inclusion support each other. India continues its transition toward a digital financial system. The results provide insights for policymakers and financial firms. They must design strategies that integrate account penetration with digital usage. This approach ensures inclusive and sustainable financial development.
Fintech, Financial Inclusion, Digital Banking, UPI, PMJDY
Barriers in the Effective Use of Educational Technology by Teachers
The research paper investigates the obstacles which stop teachers from using educational technology in their classroom teaching. The implementation of technology shows inconsistent results because schools have made significant investments in infrastructure and they acknowledge the teaching advantages of technology. The study identifies barriers through a systematic literature review which analyzes external resource limitations inadequate infrastructure insufficient support and time constraints together with internal technological anxiety and insufficient pedagogical knowledge and resistance to change and limited self-efficacy. The research uses Ertmer's framework which separates first-order barriers from second-order barriers to study how extrinsic barriers and intrinsic belief systems block technology integration. The study found that first-order barriers have decreased but second-order barriers which stem from teacher beliefs and pedagogical knowledge and institutional culture remain the main barriers. The study identifies professional development which focuses on pedagogical integration needs institutional support academic communities and sufficient planning time and organizational cultural change toward innovation as essential elements for overcoming barriers. The recommendations target three groups which include policymakers’ administrators and professional development designers. Keywords: Educational Technology, Barriers Effective, Pedagogical Knowledge, Teacher self-efficiency
Linear Alkylbenzene Sulphonate in Freshwater Ecosystems: Sources, Persistence, Bioaccumulation and Impacts on Fish Health – A Critical Review
Linear alkylbenzene sulphonate (LAS) is one of the most widely used anionic surfactants and so it is used mainly in detergents for the household, cleaning, and personal care products. The massive quantity of LAS consumed makes it very often introduce into freshwater environments through different routes such as domestic sewage, industrial discharge, and urban drainage. Environmental monitoring data collected from different places show that LAS levels in surface waters are usually between 0.01 to 1.2 mg L⁻¹ and in untreated sewage systems it is much higher ranging from 5 to 20 mg L⁻¹. Although LAS is recognized as readily biodegradable under aerobic conditions, its environmental persistence in sediment and oxygen-depleted zones increases with degradation half-lives of 30-40 days. Studies on bioaccumulation performed on different types of fish have already shown the existence of bioconcentration factors in the range of 100 to 500, where variation comes mainly from the differences in the length of alkyl chains. The chronic exposure scenarios reveal that Las (Linear Alkylbenzene Sulfonates) have a negative impact on fish health through various physiological mechanisms such as damage to gill tissues, the development of oxidative stress, disturbance of the activity of enzymes, and the impairment of the reproductive system. The current paper reviews very comprehensively the whole process of exposure of freshwater fish to LAS, which includes the sources in the environment, fate processes, bioaccumulation dynamics, and toxicological consequences, especially the ecological risks linked with the continuous low-level exposure of the aquatic systems receiving wastewater inputs to the environment. Keywords: water pollution, cuticle agent, piscine toxicity, Shrimp batter, additional environmental endurance, and seepage of wastewater
Impact of Seasonal Water Deficit on the Secondary Metabolite Profile and Antioxidant Defense System of Andrographis paniculata (Kalmegh) in Jharkhand’s Forest Ecosystem
Seasonal water deficiency is among the most significant non-living elements which disrupt the growth, activity and chemical composition of medicinal plants in the tropical forests. Andrographis paniculata (Burm. f.) Nees is among the most demanded plants among the large number of medicinal plants due to its biogenetic secondary metabolites as a diterpene andrographolide and other derivative compounds. The current study is expected to be focused on the study of effects of seasonal water scarcity on metabolite profile and photo-protection of A. paniculata that naturally grows in Jharkhand, India. The experiment was founded on field experiments, carried out using three different seasons, i.e. monsoon (enough water), post-monsoon (moderate lack of water) and summer (extreme lack of water). The total phenolic content, flavonoid, and andrographolide concentration and the activity of antioxidant enzymes such as superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), and peroxidase (POD) were assessed by scientists. the moderate level of stress caused the most significant increase in the quantity of secondary metabolites and antioxidant enzyme activities, and the so-called metabolic imbalance and the damage of the oxidative processes were observed during the periods of toxic droughts. The paper introduces the crude biochemical state to which A. paniculata has adapted due to the seasonal drought and in that, presents the agricultural and harvesting techniques which are dependent on the droughted-water situation as the primary benefit. Keywords - Andrographis paniculata, seasonal drought, secondary metabolites, antioxidant enxymes
A STUDY ON INNOVATIVE PEDAGOGICAL PRACTICES AND THEIR IMPACT ON STUDENT ENGAGEMENT IN HIGHER EDUCATION
This paper explores the revolutionary nature of new pedagogy in reinventing student engagements in the new environment of higher education. Since conventional didactic models are becoming more questionable due to their inability to satisfy the demands of a digitally-native and diverse student population, the study examines the transition to active learning models, such as the flipped classroom, gamification, and AI-driven personalized teaching. The article explores how these methodologies can provoke three key dimensions of engagement: behavioral, emotional, and cognitive by combining the existing theories of education with the empirical evidence. The results indicate that the adoption of high-impact practices, i.e. project-based learning, the use of immersive virtual simulations, etc., has a significant positive effect on retention rates and the development of critical competencies of the 21st century. The paper also mentions the implementation systemic issues, such as the faculty digital literacy and strong institutional support. The paper concludes by asserting that the shift to the innovative pedagogy is not only a technological update but the entire switch to the more inclusive, flexible, and student-centered academic ecosystem. Keywords: Pedagogical Innovation, Active Learning, Higher Education Reform, Student Engagement, Digital Transformation
THE IMPACT OF AI INTEGRATION ON STUDENT MOTIVATION IN CLASSROOM LEARNING
This paper focuses on the effects of the implementation of Artificial Intelligence (AI) on student motivation during classroom performance. As AI-powered learning devices like adaptive learning system, intelligent tutoring systems, and automated feedback systems are being more adopted, these tools have on the motivational levels of students has gained greater significance. The researchers examine the impact of AI integration on the essential areas of student motivation such as their engagement, interest, autonomy, and persistence in learning activities. The results show that AI-enhanced classroom learning has a positive effect on student motivation due to the improvement of personal learning experience, instant feedback system, and active engagement. The study notes the issues with the technological accessibility, teacher preparedness, and possible over-reliance on the AI tools. The researchers find that a positive and efficient integration of AI alongside pedagogical support can contribute essentially to the motivation of students and the overall learning outcomes of the classroom. Keywords: AI-powered, classroom learning, student motivation and pedagogical support.
THE 4-Year Integrated Teacher Education Programme under NEP 2020: A Systematic Review of Implementation Concerns and Challenges
This A new and transformative approach in the field of teacher education is represented by the 4-Year Integrated Teacher Education Program (ITEP). ITEP was created as an integrated program for the acquisition of subject knowledge, teaching methodology, and experiential learning in one cohesive program, as opposed to traditional programs that provide these three components separately. The success of ITEP, however, will depend on many different factors including physical resources, financial feasibility, restructuring the ITEP curriculum, professional development of faculty members and access to ITEP by marginalized groups. This systematic review of recent studies and policy documents will help identify significant barriers to ITEP's implementation and how they affect higher education. While findings from this study suggest that ITEP has the potential to create positive changes in the way teachers are educated through progressive pedagogical methods aligned with the goals of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, it will require implementing ITEP in stages, investing large sums of money into ITEP, developing strong curricula, increasing institutional capacity, and creating a collaborative system of governance to sustain ITEP as a model for teacher education in India today.
More Is Not Always Better: Digital Usage Levels and Psychological Well-Being Among Students
This study investigated the relationship between digital usage levels, gender, and psychological well-being (PWB) among students. A two-way ANOVA was conducted on data from 294 participants. Results revealed a significant main effect of digital usage on psychological well-being, F(2, 294) = 3.50, p = .031, with students reporting lower well-being at high levels of digital use compared to low levels. However, neither the main effect of gender, F(1, 294) = 2.55, p = .111, nor the interaction effect between gender and usage level, F(2, 294) = 0.05, p = .953, were significant. Post-hoc analysis confirmed significant differences only between high and low digital users. These findings suggest that while gender does not significantly shape well-being outcomes, the intensity of digital engagement plays a crucial role. Moderate and mindful technology use supports psychological health, whereas excessive use undermines it. The study highlights the importance of balanced digital engagement and recommends that educational institutions integrate digital wellness and self-regulation strategies into their student support systems. Keywords: Digital usage; psychological well-being; gender differences; technology.
Understanding Human Relationship: A Psychological Perspective
In the present day modern society human relationship has nosedived to its lowest ebb. Once the most sought after topic, now a days no one cares to discuss it. Human relation is an asset for any progressing and developing society. Modern day society has pushed this concept in the back and technological advancement coupled with new discoveries and inventions in the front. The question here arises as to why there is disturbance and conflict in the society inspite of its technological progress. The root cause here is to give weightage to the ignorance of human values. No society in this whole world can claim to be tension free. The main aim of selecting this topic is to find out the root causes and unearth the factors responsible for deforming this concept. Human relationship depends upon numerous factors out of which some are inhibiting in nature. A close look at the complete picture is helpful in examining the negative impact of modern day technological advancements on human relationships. The main focus here is to find out ways and means to bring to the fore degradation being experienced and efforts to bring about improvement in human relationships. In order to do so the foremost objective should be the in depth study of the society as a whole. Man to man relationship must be honest and without any self interest. All types of concern must be side lined in order to enjoy harmonious relationships. So many psychological aspects play an important role in determining human relationships. Keywords: Human relation, Asset, Society, Human values and Psychological aspects.
Early Childhood Care and Foundational Literacy in NEP 2020: A Pathway to Holistic Learning
ABSTRACT The objective of this study is to explore the importance of Early Childhood Care and Education (ECCE) and Foundational Literacy and Numeracy (FLN) as part of India's National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 and the evaluation of these building blocks towards holistic learning of children whose age is between 3 to 8 years. The research aims to examine the extent to which NEP 2020 imagines a seamless transition from pre-primary to early primary education by means of use of play-based and experiential pedagogy and competency-driven pedagogy. It also seeks to identify some of the key challenges and opportunities for the policy's vision of equitable and quality early education in a country like India with diverse socio-economic and regional contexts. Methodology This study employs a qualitative, descriptive, and analytical research design, relying on secondary data and policy analysis. Primary sources include official policy documents such as the National Education Policy 2020, the National Curriculum Framework for Foundational Stage (NCF-FS) 2022, and reports from NIPUN Bharat Mission, NCERT, and UNICEF. Supplementary data were drawn from academic articles, government publications, and international frameworks on early childhood education. A thematic content analysis approach was adopted to examine core dimensions such as curriculum design, pedagogy, teacher training, inclusivity, and monitoring systems, enabling a critical understanding of both policy intent and practical implications. Results Findings suggest that the emphasis in NEP 2020 on ECCE and FLN is a transformative vision of education reform agenda in India. The reorganisation of the school structure into that of 5+3+3+4 recognises the importance of the early years as the foundation of a lifetime of learning. The policy encourages activity-based and child-centred learning experiences that encourage cognitive, emotional and social growth. However, the study notes the major barriers to implementation, which include poor teacher preparation, infrastructural gap, inconsistent quality among states and limited awareness among parents. Despite these challenges, there is evidence that well implemented ECCE programs can have a positive effect on literacy, numeracy and socioemotional skills that can really form a strong foundation for future academic success, and global development. Implications The research highlights several implications for policy, practice, and future research: Policy Implications: There is a need for continuous government investment in ECCE infrastructure, teacher education, and curriculum development aligned with NEP 2020’s vision. Policy coherence between the Ministry of Education, Women and Child Development, and local governance structures is crucial for effective coordination. Practical Implications: Teacher training programs must emphasize child psychology, play-based pedagogy, and inclusive classroom practices. Community participation and parental engagement should be strengthened to ensure learning continuity beyond classrooms. Research Implications: Further empirical studies are required to measure the long-term impact of ECCE and FLN interventions on student outcomes. Future research should focus on regional disparities, indigenous learning methods, and digital tools for early education.
National Education Policy 2020, Early Childhood Care and Education (ECCE), Foundational Literacy and Numeracy (FLN), Holistic Learning, Foundational Stage, Educational Reform India
Mapping the Intellectual Structure of Digital Consumer Behaviour Research: A Bibliometric Analysis
This study examines the intellectual structure and thematic evolution of digital consumer behaviour research through a bibliometric analysis. Bibliographic data comprising 1,000 research papers published between 2000 and 2024 were retrieved from the Crossref database using Publish or Perish software. VOSviewer was employed to conduct a term co-occurrence analysis based on titles and abstracts in order to identify dominant research themes and patterns. The findings reveal that digital consumer behaviour research is structured around key thematic clusters, including the influence of digital marketing and online advertising, the role of digital transformation accelerated by the COVID-19 pandemic, psychological and emotional drivers of online purchasing, and trust- and society-based evaluative perspectives. The analysis further indicates a growing emphasis on health consciousness and changing consumption patterns in the post-COVID digital environment. By providing a systematic and comprehensive overview of existing research, this study contributes to a clearer understanding of major research directions and emerging themes in digital consumer behaviour, offering a useful foundation for future academic inquiry.
Digital Consumer Behaviour; Digital Marketing; Online Purchasing; Bibliometric Analysis; VOSviewer; Digital Transformation
Effects of Substances on the Fetus with Disabilities and Implications for Learning Outcomes
The increasing urgency surrounding the opioid epidemic and other substance-use dynamics necessitates focused attention on how prenatal substance exposure and accompanying fetal disabilities shape children’s learning trajectories. This analysis reveals that distinct cohorts of affected children can be identified based on the mix of substances and resulting disabilities, each associated with differential impacts across behavior, cognition, and academic achievement. Given the widespread implications for the population and the mounting demand for targeted initiatives in early-life learning, policymakers, researchers, and practitioners must concentrate efforts on these specific cohorts. To stimulate clarifying research, establishing formalized networks for sharing information, data sources, indicators, and instruments is recommended. Furthermore, fostering broader stakeholder coordination and reinforcing channels to influence general educational policy are essential steps for mobilizing relevant actors and addressing the complex links between prenatal exposure and learning outcomes systematically. Keywords: Prenatal Substance Exposure, Learning Trajectories, Fetal Disabilities, Cohort Identification, Educational Policy
ECONOMIC IMPACT OF NATURAL DISASTERS ON REGIONAL RECOVERY
Natural calamities have increasingly become a very common event and a source of serious destruction, thus causing huge economic disruptions that are hard to measure and that will take a longer time than the physical destruction to be fully felt. This research investigates the issue of how varied natural calamities differ in their impact on the pattern of economic recovery in the region, depending on the geographical place where such changes are happening. The research team has access to the economic data for the years 2014 to 2024 and the data can include places that have been affected by earthquakes, floods, hurricanes, and droughts, thus mapping the recovery paths, looking at impacts on different sectors, and finding out the factors that contribute to the resilience. They have applied a mixed-methods strategy that involves combining secondary economic indicators with primary survey data collected from around 280 businesses and 320 households in the impacted areas. The research results indicated that there are large differences in recovery periods caused by the type of disaster, the regional economic structure, and the capacity of institutions. The longest recovery periods are observed in case of earthquakes, which on average last 6 to 8 years, while the recovery in regions where floods occurred is fast but partial, taking place within 3 to 4 years. The researchers have pointed out the factors such as insurance penetration, infrastructure quality, government response effectiveness, and pre-disaster economic diversity, and have classified them as determinants of recovery speed and completeness. Among the factors, insurance penetration, infrastructure quality, government response effectiveness, and pre-disaster economic diversity are identified by the researchers as the main drivers of recovery speed and completeness of the affected region. Thus, these results are beneficial for disaster preparedness planning, as well as for the development of economic resilience strategies. Keywords: Natural disasters, economic recovery, regional resilience, disaster economics, business continuity, infrastructure damage, economic vulnerability