Journal of Social Welfare and Management

This review article posits that the contemporary crises of environmental degradation and social anomie are rooted in a pervasive anthropocentric worldview. It argues that the philosophy of Deep Ecology, pioneered by Arne Naess, offers not merely a policy adjustment but a fundamental reorientation of human consciousness and identity from a narrow, egoic self (the ‘ego-self’) to a expansive, ecological self (the ‘Ecological Self’). This shift is presented as the critical fulcrum upon which a genuinely sustainable and welfare-oriented human destiny hinges. The article systematically reviews the core principles of Deep Ecology, contrasting them with dominant ‘shallow’ environmentalism and exploring their implications for social welfare paradigms. It engages with existing literature to situate Deep Ecology within broader ecological and philosophical discourses. A unique personal statement articulates the argument for Deep Ecology as an essential, yet often overlooked, dimension of sustainability. Furthermore, the article draws parallels between the principles of Deep Ecology and the ancient wisdom of the Bhagavad Gita, suggesting that its teachings on non-attachment, duty, and the unity of all existence provide a timeless template for the lifestyle practices necessary to embody the Ecological Self. The conclusion asserts that the realization of human destiny is inextricably linked to the recognition of our intrinsic belonging to the ecosphere, necessitating a transformation in management, welfare, and personal conduct. The article concludes by outlining a scope for further research into the practical application of these principles in socio-economic systems.

The way business’s function has been dramatically altered by entrepreneurs’ use of FinTech. For instance, digital payment systems make transactions quicker and safer, lowering the need for currency and enhancing the client experience. The study aims to give policymakers, FinTech companies, and entrepreneurs practical insights by examining the functions of perceived utility, ease of use, value, service quality, regulatory support, and reputation. In the end, the research hopes to help Oman build a strong digital financial ecosystem that would allow business owners to fully use FinTech products. The study concludes that a comprehensive method tackling usefulness, value, service quality, regulatory support, and reputation is indispensable for promoting the adoption of FinTech solutions. These findings provide actionable comprehensions for FinTech developers, policymakers, and entrepreneurs targeting to influence FinTech for improved business development and innovation.

The rise of the gig economy has opened new pathways for women to engage in income-generating activities, providing flexibility, autonomy, and opportunities for economic empowerment. This study examines the experiences of women gig workers in Thoothukudi district, focusing on their socio-economic characteristics, occupational patterns, income levels, and factors influencing earnings. A total of 120 women working in diverse gig sectors such as catering, tailoring, beauty services, and online freelancing were surveyed using structured questionnaires. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, Garrett Ranking, correlation, and multiple regression techniques. Results indicate that most participants are middle-aged and have completed higher secondary or graduate-level education. Gig work offers flexible hours, supplementary income, opportunities to apply skills, and enhanced confidence, thereby serving as a platform for both economic and social empowerment. Nevertheless, challenges such as digital illiteracy, irregular earnings, absence of social security, cultural constraints, and safety concerns hinder full participation. Statistical findings highlight education as the strongest predictor of monthly income, while age and prior employment experience exert a smaller, yet positive influence. The study concludes that while gig work provides significant opportunities for women, interventions such as digital literacy training, skill development initiatives, and social protection measures are crucial for promoting income stability, safety, and long-term empowerment. Such strategies can help women in Thoothukudi district maximize the benefits of gig work and contribute effectively to local economic development.

The concept of natural farming coupled with the concept of recycle, reuse is not only environmental friendly but also sustainable in nature. Natural farming by the Padmashri awardee Subhash Palekar is the primary focus of the article. It deals into the details of the process of natural farming. The article also focuses on the key issues & challenges faced in the process of this farming. Thereafter it moves into the realm of 4Rs - ‘Reduce, Refuse, Recycle & Reuse’ of waste management. Out of these, two are discussed in the article. The concept of reuse & recycle are discussed through various facets of the referred case studies. The article looks into organic farming in one angle & the modern farming on the other. The issue of genetically modified foods is linked to modern farming on one hand and the organic farming on the other hand is free from these issues. Soil fertility is linked in a better way with organic where as in a negative way with the modern or fertilizer based farming. Mixed cropping, rotational cropping, horticulture farming are the various effective strategies that addresses soil fertility. On the other hand, the nation has to address the issue of food security and this can only be addressed by mass production that lies within the fringes of modern farming. Food security is a triangle that is completed by the elements of availability, accessibility, affordability with utilization at its tip. Food has to be produced, ensure that it is within the reach of people geographically & economically. Finally, the body has to be in a shape or stage where the food is used optimally.

Electronic publishing has become a powerful tool in the academic environment, revolutionizing how scholarly content is created, disseminated, and accessed. Its primary objective is to make academic work more accessible, increasing the reach of research findings beyond traditional printed journals and books. Through open-access platforms and digital repositories, electronic publishing ensures that research can be accessed by a global audience, fostering collaboration and enhancing the exchange of knowledge. Electronic publishing has revolutionized the way we think, talk and act. Objective/Purpose: The purpose of this study is to explore the role of electronic publishing as a powerful tool in the academic environment. It focuses on Use, Prospects & Trends, Models, advantages and disadvantages of Electronic Publishing along with Future trends of Electronic publishing. This paper aims to explore the transformative potential of electronic publishing in the academic environment. It seeks to highlight how it is reshaping the academic world, fostering greater collaboration, and ensuring more equitable access to knowledge. Methods: The methods used include a review of current literature on digital publishing platforms and analysis of key trends in open access and multimedia integration in scholarly communication. Key trends and challenges were analyzed to assess the evolution and benefits of electronic publishing in academia. Results: The findings indicate that electronic publishing significantly enhances the visibility of academic work, accelerates dissemination, and allows for broader global access. It also integrates multimedia elements such as data sets and videos, enriching the research experience. Moreover, it reduces traditional barriers such as high subscription costs and geographic restrictions. It has enabled more researchers, particularly from developing regions, to contribute to and benefit from the global body of knowledge. Conclusions: Electronic publishing is a critical advancement for democratizing academic research. It fosters increased collaboration, particularly benefiting researchers from developing countries. The study concludes that future developments, including AI and blockchain, will further enhance the efficiency, transparency, and reach of academic publishing.