bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Securities Scam: Genesis, Mechanics, and Impact
Authors: Barua Samir K , Varma Jayanth R 
Published: September 2016

The term “securities scam” refers to the diversion of funds from the banking system to various stockbrokers in a series Of transactions—primarily government securities—during the period April 1991 to May 1992. An understanding of the scam is a prerequisite for any meaningful analysis of policy alternatives to improve the functioning of the financial system. This paper by Samir K Barua and Jayanth R Varma presents a plausible reconstruction of how the scam originated, how it was perpetrated, and what would be its aftermath.
Towards an Indian Market for Corporate Control
Authors: Venkiteswaran N 
Published: September 2016

As the Indian economy is being modernized through dismantling of rigid controls and greater reliance on market forces, the Indian industry is likely to witness major restructuring through a spate of mergers and acquisitions. This paper by N Venkiteswaran examines the historical impediments against corporate restructuring through mergers and takeovers in India. The author is of the view that given the economic compulsions, India is also about to witness significant growth in mergers and acquisitions in the coming years. In this emerging scenario, the importance of regulatory reforms covering a wide area such as competition, investor protection, taxation, corporate governance, etc. is underscored so that the Indian market for corporate control is developed along orderly lines.
Labour Relations in the New Economic Environment
Authors: Sheth N R 
Published: September 2016

The process of rationalization and liberalization dominating the government's new economic policy (NEP) is an inevitable part of India's need to exist and grow with dignity in the emerging global economy. While this implies freedom and flexibility for industry, this has also led to incidence of labour redundancy, unemployment and casualization. With the government committed to full employment in the current five-year plan and the trade unions bearing a crucial social responsibility to protect workers' interests, the industrial relations issues involved in NEP need to be resolved amicably. This paper by N R Sheth examines these issues in detail and discusses the need for a meaningful dialogue among the various concerned parties in an atmosphere of mutual trust.
Assessing Ability for Strategic Planning
Authors: Das J P , Misra Sasi , Mishra Rama K 
Published: September 2016

The ability to find parsimonious solutions to problems, make good judgements and decisions relates to the intelligent functioning of humans. These are particularly significant functions of managerial work. However, standard intelligence tests and aptitude tests of one sort or another predominantly measure the ability to code information, to store it and retrieve it when necessary. Whereas these abilities are necessary for academic and scholastic success, what counts outside the scholastic environment of classrooms is the former. This, in essence, is called "planning." The research reported here by J P Das, Sasi Misra and Rama K Mishra includes the development of a test of "planning" that is contextually relevant for management and examines its psychometric properties.
RBI Autonomy and the Indian Financial Sector
Authors: Barua Samir K , Varma Jayanth R 
Published: September 2016

In the context of the worldwide trend towards greater independence for the central banks and the recent public pronouncements by the Governor of the Reserve Bank of India (RBI), there is now a strong possibility of the RBI being given more autonomy. This is likely to be accompanied by several changes in the operations of the RBI including a pruning of its peripheral functions. This paper by Samir K Barua and Jayanth R Varma argues that these changes would have momentous implications for the financial system as a whole. Portfolio managers would have to contend with a wider choice of securities, more frequent portfolio rebalancing and use of risk hedging mechanisms. Corporate finance managers would face increased complexities in decisions like financing mix, cash management, designing financial instruments, capital budgeting and management of exchange risk.
Conceptualizing the Link between Strategy, Structure and Information Technology : Implications for Computer Based Systems Configuration
Authors: Bajwa Deepinder S , Chaudhuri Shekhar , Ramaprasad Arkalgud 
Published: September 2016

In order to choose an appropriate computer based systems (CBS) configuration for an organization, it is necessary to consider the complex interrelationships between its strategy, structural form and the information technology. In this paper, the authors present a conceptual framework integrating the three dimensions which, apart from providing useful insights on their relationship, would also serve as a basic template for CBS configuration design.
Volatility Shifts in Stock Market Returns : A Look at Emerging Markets
Authors: Broca Dilbagh S 
Published: September 2016

The volatility or risk parameter, usually defined as the standard deviation of stock returns, forms the cornerstone of contemporary finance theories. Reliability of results obtained from various financial decision making models depends on the stability, finiteness, and accuracy of risk estimates. This paper by Broca examines the stability of this parameter using weekly market data over 1990-91 in respect of 17 emerging markets identified by the International Finance Corporation. Through an application of nonparametric test procedures, the study detects variance heterogeneity for 6 out of 17 markets. Though not pervasive, a review of major political-economic events over the sample period, with special reference to the Gulf crisis of August 1990, is attempted to partly validate empirical findings.
Agricultural Finance Corporation, Zimbabwe
Authors: Pandey I M , Ramnarayan S 
Published: September 2016

The case by IM Pandey and S Ramnarayan published in this issue throws up the following issues for discussion. First, what are the major changes in the environment of AFC and what are the major elements of AFC's strategy to meet the demands of the new environment? Second, how should AFC be organized to perform a developmental role? What skills, work methods, and culture should it develop? Third, what should be the programme for human resource development and financial policy to fulfil the organization's mission and objectives? Readers are invited to send their views on the case to Vikalpa office.
Analysis of the Indian Securities Industry: Market for Debt
Authors: Barua Samir K , Raghunathan V , Varma Jayanth R , Venkiteswaran N 
Published: September 2016

In the current liberalized environment, the Indian debt market appears to be all set to take off. With the commencement of trading of debt instruments by the National Stock Exchange this year, the secondary market of the Indian debt market is expected to achieve a significant level of activity. In this context, a closer understanding of the Indian debt market in terms of the private corporate sector, public sector, government sector, and the housing finance sector assumes increased importance. In this paper, the authors provide the much needed perspective on the Indian debt market as a whole and make recommendations for its development wherever necessary.
The National Renewal Fund: Promise, Performance, and Prospects
Authors: Cowlagi V R S 
Published: September 2016

The National Renewal Fund (NRF), set up in February 1992, aims to provide a safety net to protect the workers in industrial enterprises from possible adverse consequences of the new economic policy. In this article, V R S Cowlagi examines the scope and the performance of the NRF and suggests various ways of enhancing its impact.
The Case of the Sharavathi Tailrace Project
Authors: Varambally K V M 
Published: September 2016

The Chief Executive of Karnataka Power Corporation (KPC) is wondering what steps he should take now to continue work on the Sharavathi Tailrace Project as the renewed opposition to the project by the environmentalists now has the added support of the religious leaders. Readers are invited to send their responses on the case to Vikalpa office.
A Framework for Analysing the Handloom Industry
Authors: Thakur Anupama 
Published: September 2016

In the past, we have been receiving several short articles for consideration in Vikalpa. Because of their limited scope and length, we were unable to accommodate them in the journal.as full-fledged articles. We are happy to announce that from this issue onwards, Vikalpa is starting a new feature titled Notes with a view to include such short pieces whichcan be researchbased, experience-based or idea-based. Vikalpa invites researchers and managers particularly young researchers and managers to contribute to this new feature.
Implementing the Global Biodiversity Convention: IPR for Public Good
Authors: Swaminathan M S 
Published: September 2016

Transparent and implementable methods of recognizing and rewarding the contributions of tribal and rural women and men in the conservation of biodiversity have become exceedingly urgent in the context of the provisions of the Trade Related Intellectual Property Rights (TRIPS) under the World Trade Agreement. In this paper, M S Swaminathan points out how considerations of equity can be integrated with those of ecology and economics in recognizing and rewarding informal innovations in genetic conservation and enhancement.
The Making of an Entrepreneurial Global Manager
Authors: Jain Arun Kumar 
Published: September 2016

The context, scale, and intensity of global competition demands that firms, in order to gain sustainable competitive advantages, adopt proactive, innovative strategies. Impact-making and pioneering innovations require a global perspective, a scientific temper, and teamwork. Such path-breaking entrepreneurship is possible through high potential individuals who would need to have not only an ability to think through logically but also be innovative. In this article, Arun Kumar Jain emphasizes the need for making such globally-relevant, professional entrepreneurial managers, outlines some important characteristics, and identifies key opportunity areas.
Currency Swaps: An Instrument of International Finance
Authors: Sivakumar Sivaprakasam , Mathew Anita 
Published: September 2016

A currency swap involves exchange of principal and interest payments in two different currencies between two parties. Swaps are off balance sheet transactions and have grown at a phenomenal rate. This article by Sivaprakasam Sivakumar and Anita Mathew focuses on the development of the swap market, presents an overview of currency swaps, and analyses the participants. It also discusses the basic types of swaps, assesses the risks and regulatory means of minimizing the risks, focuses on the practical applications, and evaluates the relevance of swaps to India.
National Dairy Development Board
Authors: Kanitkar Ajit 
Published: September 2016

This case briefly discusses how NDDB came into existence, its role in promoting dairy activities in the country, the new initiatives taken by this institution beyond the dairy sector, and the present scenario under the new economic policies and the political environment in the country. The case also raises a few strategic and other related questions that the organization needs to address. Readers are invited to send their responses on the case to Vikalpa office.
Future of Industrial Relations and Industrial Relations in Future : The Indian Scenario
Authors: Rath Devashis , Misra Snigdharani 
Published: September 2016

Today, the Indian economy has opened up to face global competition and there is already a rush of foreign capital and industry into this country. This change in the economic environment has affected the entire gamut of structures, styles, and contents of all those who have a stake in the economic firmament of this country. This article by Devashis Rath and Snigdharani Misra analyses the effect of this change on the industrial relations scenario of our country and makes an attempt to put forth a possible futuristic model of industrial relations in the years to come.
Alternate Management Structures : The Case Study of a Corporate Executive Turned into a Strategic Partner
Authors: Sankar Chetan S 
Published: September 2016

This case study briefly describes how Mr Sampath Kumar, the Chief Executive of a company, left that job to work under an alternate management structure — that of forming strategic alliances — and compares the traditional set up and strategic partnerships. Readers are invited to send their responses on the case to Vikalpa office.
A System Dynamic Study of Apple Movement from Orchards to Wholesale Market
Authors: Sharan Girja , Kayastha Sandeep 
Published: September 2016

This paper presents a simulation model of fruit movement from orchards in Himachal Pradesh to the market of Agricultural Produce Market Committee (APMC) in Delhi. Daily arrivals in Delhi as predicted by the model are compared with the data on actual arrivals from records maintained at APMC. The comparisons appear satisfactory. The results suggest that the system dynamic modelling approach is promising and, with some refinement, can provide an analytical support for those engaged in formulation of policies to improve the post-harvest systems of fruit industry.
Southern Soft Board Limited
Authors: Venugopal R , Dixit M R 
Published: September 2016

The liberalization policies of the government have affected the indigenous manufacturers of soft board indus try in general and Southern Soft Board Limited (SSBL) in particular. The Managing Director has appointed a task force to diagnose the situation faced by the company and develop strategic action plans for the future. Considering that the opportunities are few, threats are more, and options are limited, what should SSBL do? Readers are invited to send their responses on the case to Vikalpa Office.
Economic Reforms and the People Sector
Authors: Bhatt Ela R 
Published: September 2016

In recent years⁄ there has been considerable discussion in India on Structural Adjustment Programme and its impact on the economy. However⁄ the moot question is whether restructuring efforts have benefited the ‘people sector’ that includes the workers who are informal⁄ unorganized, and selfemployed. Based on years of experience with SEWA, Ela Bhatt argues that most economic policies including the recent economic reforms have largely benefited the large corporate bodies and have completely ignored the poor and the women. According to her⁄ it is possible to benefit from the reforms if the focus of economic reforms is shifted to the micro level.
Abstracts
Authors: Sarkar Mitali 
Published: September 2016

This section features abstracts of articles covering empirical studies, experiences, ideas, and theories published in Indian and international journals and is sponsored by the Indian Council of Social Science Research, New Delhi. Making a departure from the regular practice, in this issue, we bring you extended abstracts of selected articles on economic reforms in India. These articles reflect the responses of academicians and bureaucrats on different aspects of India's economic reforms, including the Indian economy, industry, agriculture, financial sector, employment and labour relations.
Aokam Perdana Berhad
Authors: Varma Jayanth R , Raghunathan V 
Published: September 2016

When you hold put options on a convertible bond, it is considered to be a wonderful opportunity to profitfrom the upside potential of the underlying security while enjoying downside protection. A Singaporebased portfolio manager of a London-based fund has investments in Euro convertibles with put options of a large Malaysian timber company. However⁄ he is jolted out of his sense of complacency about his put options when he learns that the put option may spell bankruptcy for financially weak companies like Aokam Perdana Berhad. So⁄ aren't put options safe after all? Readers are invited to send their responses on the case to Vikalpa Office.
Crisis in East and South East Asia
Authors: Sarkar Mitali 
Published: September 2016

This special volume of abstracts, focused on the East Asian economic crisis, captures the interpretations of various experts in the field. These extended abstracts are based on selected articles and speeches reflecting on the rise and fall of these economies, on the probable causes and the suggested cures, and on their implications for the different economies, including India. We look forward to your comments on this special volume. Abstracts of Indian Management Research is a regular feature of Vikalpa and is sponsored by the Indian Council of Social Science Research.
Precious Shipping Public Company Limited
Authors: Raghuram G. 
Published: September 2016

Precious Shipping Public Company Limited (PSL) went through a process of financial restructuring in response to the economic crisis that hit Thailand in 1997. PSL faced trouble since payments were due in dollars and they had investments in Thai baht, which had devalued during the crisis. Being a professionally managed company with a high level of transparency in their transactions, they came out of the situation by managing to restructure their secured and unsecured debts. A large part of the unsecured debt proved a little more complex since it was tied to a swap. The case describes the financial restructuring process and the business scenario during the crisis, and provides an opportunity for learning about financial risk management. Readers are invited to send their responses on the case to Vikalpa Office.
Organizational Environment and Information Systems
Authors: Malik Kamna , Goyal D P 
Published: September 2016

The convergence of information technologies has opened new vistas of opportunities as well as risks for organizations. Organization structure, controls, and management have all witnessed a sea change with their information systems (IS) becoming technology driven. IS is seen as a strategic tool that must be watched carefully in order to lead to corporate vision. For the first users, IS may bring competitive advantage but, for most, it becomes a need for survival. To sustain in this dynamic environment, executives need to be on all- time-alert to make sure that they do not lag behind competition. A study of best-run organizations indicates that to keep business and IS aligned, they have highly collaborative behaviour as well as well-defined policy for evaluating IS. This paper suggests an ACE Model – a 3-ring model, comprising of processes to (A)dapt, (C)ollaborate and (E)valuate, in order to establish and evaluate organizational effectiveness for improved IS effectiveness in the organizations. At the core is the need to cultivate a culture to adapt the latest tools and techniques for higher end use. Next, the people must collaborate and work in teams for faster and beneficial plans and implementation. Finally, a well-defined process for constant monitoring and refinements of the plans is required. The rings signify continuity of the three processes. These processes should not be triggered at specific intervals. Rather, these must be imbibed in the culture of the organization so that the employees breathe in and breathe out the same thoughts and execute them together. The model offers a simple, flexible, and modular approach to assess organization's environment for IS effectiveness on a 5-point scale. This paper highlights the following issues: There is a need for IS evaluation vis-a-vis organizational environment. In order to realize value from IT, it is worthwhile to analyse and ensure an effective environment in the organization that is conducive to change of technology and systems. This can ensure alignment of organization, its purpose, employees, functions, and stakeholders. Irrespective of the technologies in use, organizational evaluation process must be an indicator of contribution of IS towards growth or sustenance of business though the opponents of IS evaluation may like to conclude this as infeasible on the ground that IS benefits are largely intangible and hence unquantifiable. The findings of this study can help the business organizations in identifying and improving the environment for cultivating IS in their organizations. It is recommended to have more software tools for decision-making and information analysis so that the spending on IT can be utilized better. Decision makers can deploy the suggested model on their intranets to keep a constant watch on the culture of the organization and act accordingly in order to keep the effectiveness index to the highest level.
Do Program Implementation Factors or Fidelity Affect Chronic Disease Self-Management Education Programs’ Outcomes?
Authors: Brady Teresa J. , Murphy Louise B. , O’Colmain Benita J. , Hobson Reeti Desai 
Published: September 2016

Purpose: To evaluate whether implementation factors or fidelity moderate chronic disease self-management education program outcomes. Design: Meta-analysis of 34 Arthritis Self-Management Program and Chronic Disease Self-Management Program studies. Setting: Community. Participants: N = 10 792. Measures: Twelve implementation factors: program delivery fidelity and setting and leader and participant characteristics. Eighteen program outcomes: self-reported health behaviors, physical health status, psychological health status, and health-care utilization. Analysis: Meta-analysis using pooled effect sizes. Results: Modest to moderate statistically significant differences for 4 of 6 implementation factors; these findings were counterintuitive with better outcomes when leaders and participants were unpaid, leaders had less than minimum training, and implementation did not meet fidelity requirements. Conclusion: Exploratory study findings suggest that these interventions tolerate some variability in implementation factors. Further work is needed to identify key elements where fidelity is essential for intervention effectiveness.
Worksite Food and Physical Activity Environments and Wellness Supports Reported by Employed Adults in the United States, 2013
Authors: Onufrak Stephen J. , Watson Kathleen B. , Kimmons Joel , Pan Liping , Khan Laura Kettel , Lee-Kwan Seung Hee , Park Sohyun 
Published: September 2016

Purpose: To examine the workplace food and physical activity (PA) environments and wellness culture reported by employed United States adults, overall and by employer size. Design: Cross-sectional study using web-based survey on wellness policies and environmental supports for healthy eating and PA. Setting: Worksites in the United States. Participants: A total of 2101 adults employed outside the home. Measures: Survey items were based on the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Worksite Health ScoreCard and Checklist of Health Promotion Environments and included the availability and promotion of healthy food items, nutrition education, promotion of breast-feeding, availability of PA amenities and programs, facility discounts, time for PA, stairwell signage, health promotion programs, and health risk assessments. Analysis: Descriptive statistics were used to examine the prevalence of worksite environmental and facility supports by employer size (<100 or ≥100 employees). Chi-square tests were used to examine the differences by employer size. Results: Among employed respondents with workplace food or drink vending machines, approximately 35% indicated the availability of healthy items. Regarding PA, 30.9% of respondents reported that their employer provided opportunities to be physically active and 17.6% reported worksite exercise facilities. Wellness programs were reported by 53.2% working for large employers, compared to 18.1% for smaller employers. Conclusion: Employee reports suggested that workplace supports for healthy eating, PA, and wellness were limited and were less common among smaller employers.