Review of Economics and Econometrics Studies

Environmentally responsible behaviour (ERB) is essential for the sustainable development of our planet. Eco-tourism destinations are vital for fostering such behaviour. Eco-tourism destinations are characterized by their commitment to preserving and protecting the natural environment, often in fragile and pristine ecosystems. Visitors to these destinations are encouraged to engage in activities that have minimal negative impact on the environment while promoting conservation efforts. The research explores the ERB of young tourists involved in ecotourism. The study proposes a behavioural model indicating that a tourist’s environmentally responsible actions are shaped by their perceived value of the eco-travel experience, their satisfaction, and their level of engagement in activities. The paper also examines whether the degree of environmentally responsible behaviour varies based on education level and gender during eco-friendly travel experiences. Researchers collected and analysed 265 valid questionnaires from college students in Kerala. The results indicate that the participation of young people in eco-travel activities significantly influences their environmentally responsible behaviour. Therefore, the initial step in a series of actions to promote stronger environmentally responsible behaviour involves enhancing the perception of tourists regarding eco-friendly travel activities, thereby increasing the involvement and satisfaction levels of eco-tourists.

Keywords: Environmental Responsible Behaviour, Activity involvement, Perceived value

The paper offers a comprehensive analysis of international migration trends in OECD countries, with a specific focus on Indian migration, including women. The study spans the years 2000 to 2022 and explores multifaceted dynamics, considering economic, social, and geopolitical factors. The study highlighting the unprecedented shifts in international migration to OECD countries, marked by a surge in permanent migration and a record number of asylum applications. The Russia-Ukraine conflict emerges as a key geopolitical influence, reshaping migration patterns with millions seeking refuge in OECD nations. A critical aspect of the paper revolves around the interconnectedness between migration trends and labour market outcomes. As labour demands increase, the study underscores the urgent need for adaptive labour migration frameworks, evident in policy contemplations across OECD nations. India, as a significant source of migrants, takes centre stage, with an exploration of historical context, socioeconomic factors, and recent changes in labour migration frameworks. The analysis extends to international student flows from India, emphasizing its role as a key player in the global higher education landscape. The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on migration patterns is examined, revealing temporary disruptions followed by resilient recoveries. The study also delves into the push-pull dynamics of migration from South Asia to OECD countries, considering demographic, economic, and quality of life factors. Policy responses to labor shortages, ongoing conflicts, and the need for international protection are discussed, highlighting the dynamic nature of migration policies in response to global challenges.

Keywords: Migration Policies, South Asia, OECD countries, Push-pull dynamics

Purpose – In today’s business environment, the significance of Corporate Social Responsibility and ethical considerations is increasingly pronounced. This paper aims to measure and evaluate the Corporate Social Performance of banks over the past five years, utilizing their CSR expenditure as a benchmark for comparison.

Design/Methodology/Approach – The current study is used secondary sources of data, this including both qualitative and quantitative information obtained from the respective bank’s website, to fulfill its objectives. Multiple regression analysis is used to know the influence of the independent variables on the dependent variable.

Findings – The CSR practices and expenditure by the Private sector banks are good compared to public sector Banks. It is evident that both sets of banks have failed to adhere to the regulations outlined in Section 135(IV) of the Companies Act 2013 and the guidelines provided by the RBI. It is found that the priority has been given by the banks on Health, Education, Environment, Women Empowerment, Community Development, Gender Equality, Livelihood and Vocational Skill sectors only. It is also noticed that the selected banks neglected and not focused on various other sectors which are identified under schedule VII of the companies Act 2013.

Practical Implications –The banking sector stands to gain numerous benefits from engaging in CSR initiatives. enhancing their performance through improved goodwill, a positive social image, and expanded business opportunities, serving as a compelling model for other industries to follow.

Originality/Value – The Paper measure and evaluates the performance of public and private sector banks on the basis of their CSR expenditure.

Keywords: Corporate Social Responsibility, Corporate Social Performance, CSR Practice, Public Bank, Private Bank.

All the three Groups of economists viz., Classical Economists, Neo Classical Economists and Modern Economists have highlighted the importance of savings in the economic development of any country. It is true that as income increases the consumption increases and a portion of the increase in income will go to the savings. However, there is a controversy in terms of the extent of saving rate in any country as there is inverse relationship between the consumption and savings and its impact on economic development i.e., Gross Domestic Product. As the consumption increases automatically the savings rate declines and when savings rate increases the consumption declines. However, there is a positive relationship between the increase in income of individuals and its resultant impact on consumption and savings. As the income increases saving and also the consumption increase. Therefore, in this paper an effort is made to understand the savings behavior in India over a period of time i.e., Before, During the Liberalization regime and Post Liberalization regime based on the secondary data. The paper comes out with the conclusion that the savings rate was low before the liberalization regime compared to the liberalization and post liberalization regimes as the income was low before compared to the liberalization and post liberalization regimes.

Keywords: Classical Economists, Neo Classical economists, Growth Rate, Number of Banks, Indian and Foreign SCBs, Bank Branches, Savings, Rural Areas, Urban Areas and Performance

The present research study explores the 12-year growth and performance of Self-Help Groups (SHGs) in the southern states of India, such as Undivided Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Kerala, and Tamil Nadu. SHGs, a pivotal element of grassroots economic empowerment, have witnessed significant expansion and transformation in this region. This study aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of their evolution, impact, and financial dynamics. The analysis begins by examining the number of SHGs, their savings patterns, loan disbursement, outstanding loans, and Non-Performing Assets (NPAs) in each state. Furthermore, the Kruskal-Wallis H Test and post hoc tests are used to identify significant differences among the states. The study helps to know that Undivided Andhra Pradesh leads in the case of SHG numbers and savings groups, indicating robust financial inclusion and savings mobilization efforts. However, it also grapples with a substantial burden of outstanding loans. Tamil Nadu stands out with the lowest NPAs, reflecting prudent asset management. Karnataka and Kerala exhibit greater variability in financial indicators, suggesting diverse SHG experiences within these states.

Keywords: Self-Help Groups, Southern India, Financial Performance, micro-finance
JEL Codes: C12, G21, I38