This study investigates the trade dynamics between ASEAN and India focusing on agricultural trade between 2011 and 2023. It examines the expanding economic ties between the two regions, with particular emphasis on trade intensity, relationship, and variations. Using Revealed symmetric comparative advantage (RSCA), revealed comparative advantage (RCA), and Trade Intensity Index (TII), the research shows that India has significant competitive advantages in oilseeds and grains, offering prospects for growth in these areas. The findings highlight India’s strong trade relationships with Vietnam and Myanmar as well as potential trade vulnerabilities. India's reliance on ASEAN for essential commodities, especially palm oil, is highlighted by its import dependency on Indonesia and Malaysia. This study also identifies emerging opportunities for Indian agricultural export in aquaculture and fisheries. India must focus on diversifying exports in fisheries and aquaculture to enhance its agricultural trade with ASEAN. Reducing import dependence is vital, especially through boosting domestic palm oil and alternative oilseed crops. Enhancements in trade policy and sustainable practices are necessary. Strengthening trade relations via targeted agreements and agricultural research will improve productivity and resilience, solidifying India's agricultural position in ASEAN markets
ORIGINAL RESEARCH ARTICLE | May 9, 2025
Inclusive Empowerment Through MGNREGS: A Study of Socially Marginalized Communities in Uttar Pradesh, India
Tahawwar Husain, S.M. Jawed Akhtar, Mudasir Ahmad Ganie
Page no 163-174 |
https://doi.org/10.36348/sjef.2025.v09i05.002
Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme (MGNREGS) is an effectual and comprehensive flagship program of the Indian government aimed at offering causal and assured employment opportunities to the rural population of the country, especially women, schedule caste (SCs) and schedule tribes (STs) communities. The MGNREGS Programme aims to promote inclusive development through a demand-driven and participatory approach because India’s rural areas have been characterized by rampant deprivations and lack of resources. This study analyses the recent developments in the financial progress, physical progress, and inclusiveness of the MGNREGS in Uttar Pradesh, India. This study used secondary data sourced from the official MGNREGA websites covering the period from 2020-21 to 2024-25. The analysis shows that the effectiveness of the MGNREGS programme in the state of Uttar Pradesh, India, has not been effective in achieving the objectives of a minimum of 100 days of satisfactory job, and only a small number of people completed the 100 days from 2020-21-2024-25 and overall average days of employment was 44.44 days. However, the participation of women in the MGNREGS was more than the statutory limit of 33% over the year from 2020-21 to 2024-25 and continuously increased every year but slightly declined to 41.8% in 2024-25. The SC/ST person-days generated reduced over the year, and it found that the SC and ST person-days under the MGNREGS were the highest at 31.75% and 1.13% in 2022-23 and 2021-22, respectively. However, the study recommends aligning the MGNREGS programme with the marginalized group of people and focusing on climate-resilient works that create sustainable infrastructure in rural India and give priority to agriculture and allied sectors to transform the livelihood security of the rural community.
ORIGINAL RESEARCH ARTICLE | May 13, 2025
The Economic Condition of India under the British Crown Rule after the East India Company Rule (1858-1947): An Analytical Study
Ram Krishna Mandal, Ms Bar Yakar
Page no 175-181 |
https://doi.org/10.36348/sjef.2025.v09i05.003
The British East India Company used the enormous sums of money produced by the provinces under its control to buy Indian commodities, raw resources, and spices. The company's political clout in India steadily grew starting in 1757. India saw frequent famines, widespread poverty, a high percentage of illiteracy, and one of the lowest life expectancies in the world. Objective: Examining India's economic situation under the British Crown rule after East India Company rule is the study's goal. Method and Materials: The study is based on a wide range of published and unpublished research articles, papers, books, government reports, etc. Results and Discussion: There are so many Causes of the 1857–1858 Revolt. The so-called Indian Mutiny of 1857 served as the impetus for Britain's move from East India Company to Crown administration through the Government of India Act of 1858. Conclusion: India's economy was looted for British profits during the British Crown's dominion, which resulted in deindustrialization, agricultural crises, trade exploitation, and pervasive poverty. By the time India gained independence in 1947, its economy was weak and in poverty as a result of British policies that hampered its growth.
ORIGINAL RESEARCH ARTICLE | May 19, 2025
Impact of IFRS on Information Asymmetry: An Applied Study on Companies Listed in the Saudi Stock Market
Atheer Khaled Alhamwan, Ahmed Alsalman
Page no 182-193 |
https://doi.org/10.36348/sjef.2025.v09i05.004
The rise of multinational corporations and the globalization of global capital markets have led to a growing need for a unified set of accounting standards that can be used internationally. In line with these global trends, implementing consistent and clear financial reporting has become more important than ever in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. This study aims to analyze the impact of adopting International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) on information asymmetry in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. To evaluate this impact, the study employs quantitative proxies—namely, bid-ask spreads and cost of capital—as measures of information asymmetry, assessing how financial reporting has changed following IFRS implementation. Based on a sample of 30 companies according to specific criteria, the analysis focuses on two distinct time periods: the pre-IFRS period (2014-2016) and the post-IFRS period (2018-2020). By covering all sectors, this study provides a comprehensive assessment of the impacts of IFRS on a broad economic scale. The findings reveal a statistically significant reduction in information asymmetry following the adoption of IFRS. Specifically, the cost of capital decreased by 1.2%, while bid-ask spreads narrowed by approximately 0.1%. These results indicate improved financial reporting transparency and increased market efficiency following the adoption of the standards. The impact was more pronounced and direct in market metrics, highlighting investors' response to higher reporting quality. The results remain robust after controlling for firm-specific financial variables and applying the necessary model diagnostics.