Rishabh Gupta, Srikanta Routroy, Prem Chhetri, Prasanta Sahu and Mathews Nkhoma
This study integrates economic, environmental, and social dimensions into the distribution network for India’s Public Distribution System (PDS). It aims to identify multi-modal…
Abstract
Purpose
This study integrates economic, environmental, and social dimensions into the distribution network for India’s Public Distribution System (PDS). It aims to identify multi-modal strategies that balance cost efficiency, lower emissions, and community well-being.
Design/methodology/approach
A model is proposed to allocate grains from base to field silos via road, rail, and inland waterways considering Triple Bottom Line (TBL). The costs, emissions, and social factors (e.g. employment) were quantified and combined to generate a composite score, enabling rigorous trade-off evaluation.
Findings
Results from a representative case study show that integrating rail and waterways reduces total costs and emissions while boosting employment and community welfare. Intermodal configurations improve the PDS’s sustainability, demonstrating the feasibility of aligning economic objectives with environmental and social outcomes.
Research limitations/implications
Future work could incorporate stochastic demand or disruptions, and extend beyond a single commodity or region, enhancing the model’s robustness and generalizability.
Practical implications
Insights guide planners in selecting routes, modes, and facility investments aligned with cost reduction, emissions control, and social uplift.
Social implications
The approach promotes inclusive development by increasing employment opportunities and ensuring a more equitable distribution of benefits in vulnerable communities.
Originality/value
This research extends conventional cost-centric frameworks by incorporating TBL metrics in a large-scale, government-run distribution setting. It provides a practical blueprint, informing infrastructural investments and policy interventions for holistic, enduring improvements in food security and resource utilization.
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Shamsher Singh, Abhas Jain, Prachi Chaudhary, Rishabh Gupta and Harlal Singh Mali
This paper aims to investigate the dimensional accuracy and surface roughness of printed masked stereolithography (m-SLA) parts. The fabricated specimens of photosensitive polymer…
Abstract
Purpose
This paper aims to investigate the dimensional accuracy and surface roughness of printed masked stereolithography (m-SLA) parts. The fabricated specimens of photosensitive polymer resin have complex shapes and various features. The influence of four process parameters of m-SLA, including layer height, exposure time, light-off delay and print orientation, is studied on response characteristics.
Design/methodology/approach
The Box–Behnken design of response surface methodology is used to examine the effect of process parameters on the shrinkage of various geometrical dimensions like diameter, length, width, and height of different features in a complex shape. Additionally, a multi-response optimization has been carried out using the desirability function to minimize the surface roughness and printing time and maximize the dimensional accuracy.
Findings
The layer height and print orientation influence the surface roughness of parts. An increase in layer height results in increased surface roughness, and the orientation parallel to the z-axis of the machine gives the highest surface roughness. The dimensional accuracy of m-SLA parts is influenced by layer height, exposure time, and print orientation. Although not significant in dimensional accuracy and surface roughness, the light-off delay can affect printing time apart from other parameters like layer height and print orientation.
Originality/value
The effect of layer height and print orientation on dimensional accuracy, printing time, and surface roughness is investigated by researchers using simple shapes in other vat photopolymerization techniques. The present work is focused on studying the effect of these parameters and additional parameters like light-off delay in complicated geometrical parts in m-SLA.
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Ratna Achuta Paluri, Rishabh Upendra Jain and R. Sankara Narayanan
This case allows students to critically analyse the business model of Zomato which is a multi-sided platform/in the foodtech industry. It helps students to critically analyse how…
Abstract
Learning outcomes
This case allows students to critically analyse the business model of Zomato which is a multi-sided platform/in the foodtech industry. It helps students to critically analyse how firms enter into the global market to create value and maintain dominance over the local market (especially in a large market such as India). The case can also be used to introduce students to the business canvas model by analysing foodtech start-ups. The outcomes are as follows: to understand the Business Model Canvas as a tool to describe and analyse the foodtech business such as Zomato’s, based on its value proposition and the way it sells its services; to conduct a value chain analysis and analyse the business models adopted by foodtech companies; to understand how Zomato can aim at global value creation; and to design a clear growth strategy and evaluate Zomato’s options to internationalize or expand locally.
Case overview/synopsis
The year 2018 was an important year for Zomato as it geared up to chart new heights amidst the changing dynamics of the industry on one hand and a co-founder exiting the company on the other hand. Zomato was incepted in 2008 as a restaurant discovery platform offering users the ability to access restaurant menus and post online reviews. It provided a range of value-added services for both its restaurant partners and end customers. Its vertical integration enabled it to grow its revenues across its three lines of business, namely, dining out, delivery and sustainability. Zomato was an early internet start-up that expanded rapidly in the international markets. In the past ten years, the company both scaled and rolled back its operations with unique lessons learned in each market that paved its path for success both locally and globally. The domestic market was being dominated by a few large players sharing the market. Reports by market intelligence firms showed that Swiggy, the closest competitor was starting to dominate Zomato in India [1]. Deepinder, CEO, Zomato’s dilemma for adding value and increasing revenues by weighing options of whether the company should strengthen its presence in the domestic market, or, venture into foreign markets or serve both local and foreign markets.
Complexity academic level
This case is appropriate for postgraduate courses in Strategic Management or International Business.
Supplementary materials
Teaching notes are available for educators only.
Subject code
CSS 5: International Business.
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Girish Kumar, Rajesh Kr. Singh, Rishabh Jain, Raman Kain and Naveen
The purpose of this study is to understand the different types of risks affecting the demand for the automotive sector in India. The study is further trying to illustrate an…
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this study is to understand the different types of risks affecting the demand for the automotive sector in India. The study is further trying to illustrate an approach for analyzing the relative intensities of these risks in the present uncertain business environment.
Design/methodology/approach
Risk on the overall demand is assessed by a combined Bayesian – multi-criteria decision-making approach. Data related to the different factors, affecting their product demand is collected from major automobile firms. Then, weights for these factors are evaluated by applying the analytic hierarchy process approach. Further, these weights are used in the Bayesian analysis network to evaluate the risk intensity for different subgroups, namely, political, economic, social, technological and environmental.
Findings
From the literature and experts’ opinion, total 16 risk factors have been finalized and these are further grouped into 5 categories i.e. political, economic, social, technological and environmental. It is observed that the demand for organizations functioning in the automotive sector is more vulnerable to economic risk as compared to other risks considered in the study.
Practical implications
Managers and decision makers of associated organizations can use the proposed framework to assess the demand risks so as to pre-evaluate their demand corresponding to future changes. Factors can be added or removed and importance could be assigned to different risk factors according to the prevailing business environment for an organization or sector. This will also help the organizations to conduct a more effective risk management in an uncertain business environment.
Originality/value
The study will help in better understanding of the various demand risks prevalent in the Indian auto sector. The methodology used, provides a novel approach for assessing the macroeconomic demand risks and can be used by the firms working in the automotive sector. The proposed methodology could be used for assessing supply chain risk or any other business initiative risk. The suggested approach will help managers in devising flexible management techniques so as to mitigate the risk.
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Rishabh Rajan, Sanjay Dhir and Sushil
The purpose of this study is to examine the existing literature and evaluate the theories, characteristics, context and methods of alliance termination research published from…
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this study is to examine the existing literature and evaluate the theories, characteristics, context and methods of alliance termination research published from 1992 to 2019. This study also aims to identify the gaps in the literature and recognize directions for future research focusing on alliance termination research.
Design/methodology/approach
The main research methods followed in this study are bibliometric review, citation analysis, co-citation analysis and cluster analysis.
Findings
The main findings of this study are the most cited articles, most productive journals and most productive countries. The results show that a total of 100 research articles were published between 1992 and 2019. The maximum number of publications were observed during 2011–2019. The article “Knowledge, bargaining power, and the instability of international joint ventures” (Inkpen and Beamish, 1997) was the most cited article and the “Academy of Management Review” was the most prominent journal, with 847 citations. The USA, France, the UK, Singapore and Canada are the most productive countries. The study also includes the analysis of the network of co-citation of references and co-occurrence of keywords in the context of alliance termination research.
Originality/value
To the best of authors’ knowledge, this study seems to be the first to perform bibliometric review and analysis in the area of alliance termination research. Therefore, it can help academicians and practitioners to identify the research trends and gaps in the alliance termination literature on which future research can be performed. Overall, this research paper leads to a better understanding of the alliance termination research and offers new insights into strategic management studies.
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Suhail Mohammad Ghouse, Rishabh Shekhar and Monica Chaudhary
This study explores green consumer behaviour among Generation Y (Gen Y) and Generation Z (Gen Z) in India, applying the Theory of Planned Behaviour (TPB) to assess how digital…
Abstract
Purpose
This study explores green consumer behaviour among Generation Y (Gen Y) and Generation Z (Gen Z) in India, applying the Theory of Planned Behaviour (TPB) to assess how digital literacy and eco-friendly behaviour, alongside knowledge, attitude, subjective norms, and perceived behavioural control, shape purchase intentions in line with Sustainable Development Goal 12 (SDG 12).
Design/methodology/approach
The research involved a survey of 680 randomly selected respondents from educational institutions across three northern Indian cities. Data collection was conducted using a structured questionnaire with items measured on a 5-point Likert scale. Statistical methods, including confirmatory factor analysis, were used to validate the measurement model, while descriptive statistics, reliability analysis, and regression analysis were employed to analyse the data.
Findings
The study uncovers differences between Gen Y and Gen Z regarding the factors influencing green product purchase intentions. Gen Y’s purchase intentions are shaped by attitude, digital literacy, eco-friendly behaviour, and perceived behavioural control, whereas Gen Z’s intentions are also affected by environmental knowledge and subjective norms.
Research limitations/implications
This research provides significant insights into the factors determining green consumer behaviour among Gen Y and Gen Z in India, enriching the knowledge of sustainable consumption practices. It highlights the importance of digital literacy and eco-friendly behaviour in promoting green purchase intentions, and the differing roles of environmental knowledge and subjective norms across generational cohorts.
Practical implications
Understanding the drivers behind green product purchase intentions for Gen Y and Gen Z enables stakeholders to craft specific marketing strategies, educational programs, and policy initiatives that promote sustainable behaviours and mitigate environmental impacts.
Social implications
The study’s findings have significant social implications, promoting sustainable lifestyles and behaviours among younger generations. By influencing peer groups and communities, and guiding the development of effective public campaigns and CSR initiatives, the study contributes to fostering a more informed and engaged citizenry that advocates for environmental sustainability.
Originality/value
The uniqueness of this study comes from its focus on the Indian youth demographic, the application of the TPB framework with additional variables, and its contribution to SDG 12, enhancing our comprehension of green consumer behaviour and supporting sustainability advancements in India and globally.
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Pragya Singh, Karishma Chaudhary and Rishabh Upendra Jain
The learning outcomes of this case study are as follows: Students will be able to comprehend and visualize the initial hiccups and operational hurdles faced by digital start-ups…
Abstract
Learning outcomes
The learning outcomes of this case study are as follows: Students will be able to comprehend and visualize the initial hiccups and operational hurdles faced by digital start-ups in an emerging market. Students will be able to evaluate the importance of digital marketing for promoting start-ups dealing with sustainable products in the service industry, thereby helping them to develop digital marketing strategies to organically promote a service. Students will be able to perform strategic positioning of a start-up based on perceptual mapping methodology. Students will be able to identify the various aspects for identifying and creating a viable business model. Students will be able to use Osterwalder’s business model canvas for identifying the important operational aspects of the start-up. Students will be able to visualize the entrepreneurial challenges in an emerging market.
Case overview/synopsis
This case study highlights the dilemma the protagonist, Prerna Prasad, faced in her travel start-up venture, Ecoplore. Ecoplore is an aggregator platform that onboards only eco-hotels. To the best of the authors’ knowledge, Ecoplore is India’s only platform that promotes and onboards only those hotels made up of mud, wood, bamboo, stone or any local architecture and that maintain at least 30% green space on their premises. Ecoplore has been recognized by the United Nations Environment Program for fulfilling Sustainable Development Goal 12 and has also been bestowed with the Gold Award by Indian Responsible Tourism Awards 2019. Prasad had already identified her target market. Prasad took conscious steps towards reaching her target audience, and her first step towards that was designing Ecoplore’s website. Being aware of the importance of content marketing, Ecoplore’s content was curated with fresh and quality write-ups, pictures, blog posts, etc. Ecoplore’s website was also optimized for mobile and desktop versions to deliver a great user experience. Features like easy navigation and the website's speed were also taken care of. Being active on social media platforms, Prasad made sure that the pages of Ecoplore across various social media platforms were well connected with her website. Despite doing so much, it was found that the number of visitors was few after a span of two years. Conversion on the website was low, which ultimately affected the return on investment. Prasad was befuddled as to why the conversions were low despite having a great website that was considered a window to the organization. She faced the challenge of reaching her target audience despite being present online. Upon detailed analysis, Prasad found that Ecoplore was showing up in the search engine research pages (SERP) in only a few keywords, meaning the keyword density was low. Also, the website lacked backlinks, which would eventually help them to rank high on search engine optimization (SEO). This means that Ecoplore will need to revisit its SEO strategy if Prasad wants to promote her organization organically. Now, to increase visibility and ranking on SERP, Prasad had two options before her; first, she could do it organically via SEO or through search engine marketing. She was keen to build the traffic organically, knowing its long-term benefits. As a marketer, what should be Prasad’s strategy? This case study can be used for class discussion purposes for the students pursuing the courses on digital marketing, SEO and digital marketing optimization.
Complexity academic level
This case study is suitable for students learning the fundamentals of digital marketing (basic and advanced) course, marketing management students and digital marketing workshops. The level of difficulty is medium. The knowledge pre-requirement is marketing management.
Supplementary materials
Teaching notes are available for educators only.
Subject code
CSS 8: Marketing.
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Besides the metrics developed to measure the impact of the video campaign run by the company, the case has serious practical implications for all companies in emerging markets…
Abstract
Learning outcomes
Besides the metrics developed to measure the impact of the video campaign run by the company, the case has serious practical implications for all companies in emerging markets selling budget/low-cost products. Marketing managers can take note of these key performance indicators in evaluating the success of their social media campaigns.More importantly, students need to understand how the campaign managed to integrate uninitiated and less-privileged consumers to the world of social media with aspirational sentiments.
Case overview/synopsis
The case deals with a digital media planning activity for a low-cost handset company based in India. TRIVIA International Ltd is a manufacturer and marketer of smart phones and feature phone in the price range of below US$70–100 and US$20, respectively. The phones cater to low-income consumer bracket, which forms the vast microcosm of India. The consumer base is huge, but the purchasing power is very low, so they are at times referred to as the micro-consumer in Bottom of Pyramid approach. To approach this consumer base, Trivia planned a very engaging campaign on social media that yielded positive results, contrary to popular belief that only high-income individuals explore the social media intensively through their smart phones. The chapter ends with a set of recommendations for all digital managers who want to analyse their campaigns effectively via awareness, sentiment and engagement metrics.
Complexity academic level
The case is meant for all post graduate programs in Business Management, which include the MBAs, Masters in Business Administration and the Executive Development program for managers. The case can also be used in Part Time Business Management programs held over weekends for working professionals. Most likely the students are going to handle this case in their second year of a full-time program or at an advanced level of their career development programs. The subjects so mentioned here were offered as electives or areas of specialization. It is presumed that the students undergoing these courses have basic understanding of marketing management.
Supplementary materials
Teaching notes are available for educators only.
Subject code
CSS 8: Marketing.
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The purpose of this paper is to explore perceptions of Indian consumers regarding corporate social responsibility (CSR) in the apparel industry, and to investigate its importance…
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to explore perceptions of Indian consumers regarding corporate social responsibility (CSR) in the apparel industry, and to investigate its importance in the apparel decision‐making process.
Design/methodology/approach
A qualitative research design was used as the methodological basis for the study. In‐depth interviews were conducted in India with a total of 26 participants (19 males and 7 females). Interviews lasted between one and two hours and were conducted until saturation in responses was achieved.
Findings
Interviews were transcribed verbatim and analyzed via a thematic approach; six themes emerged that are used to organize participants’ responses regarding CSR in the apparel industry. A conceptual framework grounded in the data was developed that highlights relationships between factors that surfaced as important to CSR in the decision‐making process.
Research limitations/implications
Because data were collected specifically with Indian consumers, study findings may not be applicable to consumers in other developing countries. Participants were asked about their perceptions of CSR as consumers, thus it would also be important to know how manufacturers in India view CSR and what it means for their businesses.
Practical implications
Results of this study provide in‐depth insight into Indian consumers’ perceptions of CSR in the apparel industry. Understanding CSR from the Indian consumers’ perspective helps to articulate the economic and social value of addressing ethical concerns within the global apparel supply chain.
Originality/value
The paper's findings are consistent with those of previous studies on CSR and the paper is one of the first to examine the issues relative to the Indian consumer population. India is an important sourcing destination for international apparel retailers, and at the same time, boasts a large population of consumers with a growing level of purchasing power. The paper provides insight into what this group thinks about CSR in an industry that contributes significantly to their country's economy.
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Abhishek Behl, Manish Gupta, Angappa Gunasekaran and Zongwei Luo