EduSpark_v8i1_January-March 2026
March 31, 2026
Sparkling_v9i2_April-June 2026
June 30, 2026
EduSpark_v8i1_January-March 2026
March 31, 2026
Sparkling_v9i2_April-June 2026
June 30, 2026

John Foundation Journal of EduSpark

(A Quarterly Peer Reviewed/Refereed Multidisciplinary Journal)

Volume 8 Issue 2 April - June 2026

SUSTAINABLE MOBILITY CHOICES: ELECTRIC CAR USERS’ PURCHASING PATTERNS AND SATISFACTION LEVELS

Preethi, K. N.

Assistant Professor & Head, P.G. Department of Economics, Sree Vidyadhiraja NSS College, Vazhoor, Kottayam District, Kerala, India.

Abstract

The study highlights strong consumer satisfaction and clear motivators driving electric vehicle (EV) adoption. TATA emerges as the most popular brand, favoured by over half of respondents, while MG Motors and Mahindra trail behind. Digital platforms, especially social media, dominate in shaping consumer awareness, surpassing traditional media. Cost efficiency and sustainability are identified as the most influential factors, with lower operating costs and environmental impact leading the rankings, followed by practical considerations such as maintenance and charging infrastructure. However, infrastructural limitations, particularly insufficient charging stations, remain a significant barrier to wider adoption. Despite these challenges, overall sentiment is highly positive, with a Likert scale value of 4 indicating strong satisfaction among users. The findings suggest that affordability, sustainability, and infrastructure development are critical to accelerating EV adoption, while performance-related aspects play a secondary role.

Keywords

electric vehicle, affordability, influencing factors, problems of EVs, level of satisfaction, charging infrastructure, maintenance cost, environmental impact.

Abstract
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EXPLORING THE UNTAPPED POTENTIAL OF FRESHWATER POND AQUACULTURE IN KERALA

*Bejoy D Abraham, & **Shaju, M. J.

*Assistant Professor, Post Graduate and Research Department of Economics, Catholicate College, Pathanamthitta, Kerala and Research Scholar, Research and Post Graduate Department of Economics, Mar Thoma College, Tiruvalla, Kerala. India.

**Associate Professor in Economics, Sree Narayana Law College Poothotta, Ernakulam, Kerala and Research Guide, Research and Post Graduate Department of Economics, Mar Thoma College, Tiruvalla, Kerala. India.

Abstract

Aquaculture is an emerging sector in the modern economy. It helps address the basic problems of traditional agriculture and those created by capture fisheries. Rural people and urban capitalists use artificial tanks for aquaculture development. However, there are large numbers of water bodies and areas that remain unutilised for aquaculture activities. Kerala possesses significant potential for the development of both freshwater and brackish water aquaculture. The unutilised freshwater ponds can be considered as a potential area for the development of freshwater aquaculture. Proper utilisation of freshwater ponds will help people find employment, raise income, and strengthen forward and backward linkages in economic activities across sectors.

Keywords

aquaculture, capture fisheries, freshwater aquaculture, freshwater ponds, pond aquaculture kerala.

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EDUCATION FOR SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT IN SCHOOLS: CHALLENGES AND OPPORTUNITIES

Jaba Singh, J.

 Assistant Professor, Bethlahem College of Education, Karungal, Kanyakumari District, Tamil Nadu, India.

Abstract

Education for Sustainable Development (ESD) is a comprehensive educational approach that prepares learners to respond effectively to pressing environmental, social, and economic challenges. Integrated within the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), ESD emphasises holistic learning, interdisciplinary curriculum design, and participatory pedagogies. Schools play a vital role in promoting sustainability because they shape students during their formative years and influence lifelong behaviours. This article explores the importance of implementing Education for Sustainable Development in school education, as well as the challenges and opportunities involved.

Keywords

sustainable development, transformative learning, challenges, opportunities, and SDGs.

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YOUTH UNEMPLOYMENT IN KERALA: AN ANALYSIS OF CAUSES, CHALLENGES AND POLICY IMPLICATIONS

Reshma, M.

HSST Economics, Pandit Motilal Government Model Higher Secondary School, Near Victoria College, Palakkad, Kerala, India.

Abstract

Entrepreneurship and Youth unemployment have emerged as one of the most pressing socio-economic challenges in Kerala. Despite achieving high literacy rates, educational attainment, and human development indicators, the state continues to experience a significant mismatch between educational qualifications and employment opportunities. The increasing number of educated unemployed youth has resulted in economic dependency, migration, skill underutilization, and social insecurity. This study examines the determinants of youth unemployment in Kerala and evaluates the socio-economic factors contributing to the problem. The study also analyses the effectiveness of government employment initiatives and suggests policy measures to enhance employability and job creation among youth.

Keywords

youth unemployment, employability, skill development, labour market, kerala economy.

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AN EVALUATION OF GREEN PROTOCOL IMPLEMENTATION IN THE SCHOOLS UNDER THE COCHIN MUNICIPAL CORPORATION

*Jane Celine, **Dona Pius, & **Renjini, S.

*Student of Integrated MA Economics, St. Teresas College (Autonomous), Ernakulam, Kerala, India.

**Assistant Professor, Department of Economics, St Teresas College (Autonomous), Ernakulam, Kerala.

***District Coordinator, Haritha Keralam Mission, Ernakulam, Kerala, India.

Abstract

The present study aims to evaluate the implementation of the Green Protocol in CBSE-affiliated and Government-aided schools under the Cochin Municipal Corporation. The study uses primary data collected from both the officials and the students of 60 schools out of 138 schools under the Cochin Corporation with a structured questionnaire prepared under the Green Protocol framework of the Haritha Keralam mission. The findings reveal a high level of compliance of schools with Green Protocol guidelines, with the majority of the schools practising waste segregation, promoting reusable materials, and maintaining clean and green campus environments. To measure the extent to which institutions reduce waste generation, the Waste Minimisation Index were used, and it is found that CBSE institutions demonstrate slightly better waste minimisation practices compared to State institutions, with a mean score of 0.941. Resource Recovery Index was used to measure the effectiveness of the institutions in recovering or reusing waste materials, and it is found that CBSE institutions may be more effective in recovering and reusing resources, with a mean score of 0.971. Behaviour Change Index was used to assess the level of environmentally responsible behaviour among staff and students, and it is found that behavioural practices related to environmental awareness and sustainable actions appear to be somewhat stronger in CBSE institutions, with a mean score of mean value 0.700 and Overall Environmental Impact Score also showed higher performance among CBSE institutions, with a higher mean score of 0.888 compared to the schools. Comparative analysis indicates that CBSE schools perform slightly better in waste minimisation, infrastructure, and overall environmental impact, whereas State schools demonstrate stronger administrative compliance. However, challenges still exist in areas such as composting facilities, e-waste management, and liquid waste treatment.

Keywords

haritha keralam mission, green protocol, green certification, sups, sustainability, green schools.

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IMPACT OF CLIMATE CHANGE ON AGRICULTURAL INCOME: AN EMPIRICAL ANALYSIS OF FARMERS IN KERALA

Sreeja, U.

Guest Teacher, HSST Economics, GHSS Tholanur, Palakkad, Kerala, India.

Abstract

Climate change poses significant challenges to agricultural productivity, farm income, food security, and rural livelihoods in Kerala. This study examines the impact of climate variability on agricultural income among farmers, focusing on changes in temperature, rainfall, extreme weather events, and seasonal uncertainty. The study adopts an empirical research design based on primary and secondary data. Primary data were collected from 200 farmers across different districts of Kerala using a structured questionnaire covering climate perceptions, agricultural productivity, production costs, farm income, adaptation practices, and institutional support. Secondary data were obtained from government departments, agricultural institutions, international organisations, and published research. Percentage analysis, correlation analysis, and multiple regression analysis were employed to examine the relationships between climate variability, agricultural productivity, and farm income. The findings indicate that climate variability significantly affects agricultural income through changes in productivity, production costs, resource availability, and market conditions. The study highlights the need for effective policy support, climate-resilient technologies, financial assistance, and agricultural extension services to strengthen farmers’ adaptive capacity, income security, and livelihood resilience in Kerala.

Keywords

climate change, agricultural income, climate variability, farmers, agricultural productivity, climate adaptation, kerala.

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INDUSTRY 4.0 AND PRODUCTIVITY GROWTH IN INDIAN MANUFACTURING INNOVATION AND COMPETITIVENESS OF MSMES

Dhanya, M.

Associate Professor, Department of Economics, HHMSPB NSS College for Women, Neeramankara, Kaimanom PO, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, India.

Abstract

Industry 4.0 is transforming modern manufacturing through the integration of advanced technologies such as Artificial Intelligence, the Internet of Things, Big Data Analytics, Cloud Computing, Robotics, and Cyber-Physical Systems. This study examines the impact of Industry 4.0 adoption on productivity growth, operational efficiency, innovation capability, and competitiveness among Indian manufacturing Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs). Primary data were collected from 250 manufacturing MSMEs and analysed using descriptive statistics, Pearson correlation, multiple regression analysis, ANOVA, and hypothesis testing. The findings reveal that Industry 4.0 adoption has a significant positive effect on productivity growth (r = 0.742, p < 0.001), operational efficiency (r = 0.718, p < 0.001), innovation capability (β = 0.768, p < 0.001), and competitiveness (β = 0.744, p < 0.001). Financial constraints, inadequate digital infrastructure, limited technological readiness, and shortages of skilled human resources were identified as major barriers to adoption. Government initiatives, including Make in India, Digital India, Atmanirbhar Bharat, and the Production Linked Incentive Scheme, were found to support digital transformation. The study concludes that Industry 4.0 adoption significantly enhances the performance and competitiveness of Indian manufacturing MSMEs, while effective government support can help overcome key barriers to digital transformation.

Keywords

industry 4.0, manufacturing MSMEs, productivity growth, operational efficiency, competitiveness, artificial intelligence, digital transformation, smart manufacturing.

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