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We study how consumer spending responds to digital payments, using the differential switch to digital payments across consumers induced by the sudden 2016 Indian Demonetization for identification. Digital payment use rose by 2.94 percentage points and monthly spending increased by 2.38% for an additional 10 percentage points in prior cash dependence. Spending remained elevated even when cash availability recovered. Robustness analyses show that the spending response is not driven by purchase substitution, income shocks, credit supply, or price changes. We provide causal evidence that digital payments increase consumer spending due to subdued endowment effects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic and the economy's general situation, many households are now financially vulnerable. It is like a vicious cycle: once a household is caught, it will remain in the trap until and unless it competently manages its finances. These problems experienced by households have drawn attention to social capital. Self-help groups (SHGs) originated in India to pull out low-income households from poverty and are now recognized as social capital, which can be defined as the action of a group cooperating to enhance all its members' benefits. This article aims to explain how SHGs have contributed to reducing various factors or determinants of household financial vulnerability through a review of several other publications, theses, newspaper articles, and reports. It was discovered that SHGs now provide much more benefits than just alleviating poverty. They have helped to reduce bad loans or non-performing assets, reduced the dependence on informal sources of finance, made households more resilient toward crises such as COVID-19, and enabled households to save money and manage their finances accurately. Organizing themselves into SHGs is the only way for rural households to overcome financial difficulties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Government of India has provided Indian Public Health Standards to improve rural health care services and health status, but still rural laboratory is a cause of concern. This study is performed to understand the laboratory facility-level gaps that need to be addressed to improve the public primary health centres (PHCs) present in rural areas. The laboratory assessment is performed for governance, financing, resources and services, and results are validated with the PHC laboratory performance. The current assessment shows critical gaps in the facilities regarding governance, services, resources and financing required for the laboratory services at the rural primary health care level. Governance and services need to be strengthened the most, followed with sustained availability of resources and financing. Poor health status in rural areas necessitates public health response based on health systems. Therefore, health system preparedness in the form of laboratory services is essential in primary health care facilities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Small and medium enterprise (SME) development is essential for India's economic expansion. SME is an important participant in the development of accessories that supports major industries. The current study is focused on the variables impacting performance measurement in SMEs, despite the fact that many small and medium businesses are experiencing significant losses and closures as a result of poor performance. The next goal is to determine the connection between small and medium business performance management and financial management practices. This study uses SME performance measurement as a dependent variable. Risk management, working capital management and credit management are three independent factors that can be used to assess SME financial management practices. The questionnaire that was used for each item was based on the earlier research. A five-point Likert scale was used to score each item scale used in this investigation. Working people in a few districts in South Tamil Nadu, India and used online structured questionnaires to gather data. The present sample size of the study is 157. The statistical data analysis has been carried out employing jamovi 1.8. For factor loading, reliability, sample size, model fit, regression analysis for hypothesis testing and structural education modelling were used. Policymakers and SME entrepreneurs who are familiar with performance measurement of many elements can benefit from the study's findings. The study found a relationship between SMEs' performance measurement and financial management practices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Health insurance has evolved as a most steady financial management instrument for Indian people who are interested and who are seeking for health care. India health insurance received a major boost after the outbreak of deadly COVID-19 pandemic. During the starting phase of the prevalent pandemic, there has been change in mindset and thought process of individual. The individual opinions saw major transformation about medical and health related issues. The public became more serious and started taking health seriously and individual opinion about medical and health insurance programs also saw major shift. Hence, this study makes an effort to find out the effect of Covid 19 on demand for health insurance policies in Mumbai region. It also tries to understand and to know the perceptions of individual towards buying health insurance policies. It can be concluded that Covid -19 had a positive impact on the buying behaviour of health insurance policy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Agriculture is the backbone of the Indian economy, and it is essential for the country's food security and rural development. In order to boost agricultural production and productivity, farmers need access to credit. Agricultural credit institutions are financial institutions, that provide loans to farmers for agricultural purposes through various schemes. The Kisan Credit Card (KCC) scheme is one of the schemes designed to provide farmers with timely and adequate credit support through a simplified and flexible process. An attempt is made in this paper to study and analyze the performance of KCC in India and Karnataka. The study is based on the secondary data collected from various reports, journals, and websites. The study found that the Kisan Credit Cards issued by commercial banks have shown an increasing trend during the study period in India and fluctuation in the growth of operative KCCs and the amount outstanding in Karnataka for the study period. The study concluded that to uplift the well-being of farmers, financial institutions should educate them in utilizing these schemes and implementing KCC properly. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Ayushman Bharat-Pradhan Mantri Jan Aarogya Yojna (AB-PMJAY) as a financial risk protection scheme intends to reduce catastrophic health expenditure (CHE), especially among poor. The current study was carried out to assess the utility of AB-PMJAY in terms of reduction in CHE from before and after admission in a tertiary hospital in the northern state of India. Methodology: It was a hospital-based cross-sectional study carried out from August 2020 to October 2021 at a public tertiary hospital of Himachal Pradesh, India. Data were collected from surgery- and medicine-allied (SA and MA) specialties. Along with socio-demographic details, information for total monthly family expenditure (TMFE), out-of-pocket expenditure (OOPE), and indirect illness-related expenditure (IIE) was recorded before and after hospital admission. CHE was considered as more than 10.0% OOPE of THFE and more than 40.0% of capacity to pay (CTP). Results: A total of 336 participants with a mean age of 46 years were recruited (MA: 54.6%). The majority (-93.0%) of participants had illness of fewer than 6 months. The mean TMFE was observed to be INR 4213.1 (standard deviation: 2483.7) and found to be similar across specialties. The OOPE share of TMFE declined from 76.1% (before admission) to 30.0% (after admission). Before admission, CHE was found among 65.5% (10.0% of THFE) and 54.2% (40.0% of CTP) participants. It reduced to about 29.0% (based on both THE and CTP) after admission to hospital. Conclusion: AB-PMJAY scheme found to be useful in reducing CHE in a tertiary hospital. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of African Journal of Reproductive Health is the property of Women's Health & Action Research Centre and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

This paper investigates the relationship between earnings management and financial distress and considers whether this relationship varies based on the severity of financial distress and signs of discretionary accruals (a proxy for earnings management). For this purpose, multiple regression analysis has been employed on a sample of 192 financially distressed Indian firms during the period 2011–2018, counting to 1,272 firm-year observations. Discretionary accruals are estimated by the Modified Jones model and Raman and Shahrur (2008) model, while Altman's Z -score and distance-to-default model are used to detect the degree of financial distress. The findings disclose that the low distressed firms are indulged in higher earnings management than high distressed firms. Also, the low distressed firms are engaged more in income-decreasing earnings management. However, the results are not consistent across both earnings management and distress measures. The findings have significant implications for investors and creditors. They need to be aware of this fact while evaluating creditworthiness of a firm since firms with even a low degree of financial distress can indulge in earnings management to camouflage their true financial condition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The COVID-19 pandemic has significantly affected the way supply chains function and operate. Supply chain resiliency (SCR) has become increasingly more relevant to the pandemic, with corporations and governments realising that their supply chains were not as resilient leading to shortages/delays of many consumer products. Delays in the delivery of essential items, including medicines, food supplies and healthcare equipment, have exposed the challenges that a supply chain might face during a major disruption such as the global pandemic, regional conflicts and natural disasters. The purpose of this study is to identify and evaluate some of the critical inhibitors associated with SCR during COVID-19. The study employs multi-criteria decision-making utilising the fuzzy analytical hierarchy process. This research was conducted in the context of the Indian pharmaceutical supply chains. The research showed that there are seven major inhibitors to SCR. The findings of the current study are expected to aid the pharmaceutical supply chain managers in identifying and evaluating the critical inhibitors to achieving SCR and designing strategies to mitigate any future catastrophe like a global pandemic. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Reproductive Health Account construction was a long-envisioned dream in the State of Karnataka, India, for capturing inter-actor fund flows in reproductive health. Previous attempts in few states lead to successful identification of enablers and disablers within this systemic context. A Reproductive Health Account was constructed using primary reproductive health expenditure data, collected from a pre-estimated sample size of 519 households spread across 15 villages, using probability proportional to size method, from two selected sub-districts Channapatna and Ramanagara, having mediocre performance indices, within Ramanagara District of Karnataka. Secondary data were extracted from public health websites. Expenditures incurred on six types of health services by respondents of reproductive age group (15–49) during financial year, 2017–2018, within two sub-districts was collected over financial year, 2018–2019. Processed data were then converted to four 'origin to destination' matrices each capturing fund movement among two actors, based on accounting principles of National Health Account to develop a contextual Reproductive Health Account. Study included four actors namely financial sources, financial agents, health providers and health activities, all pertaining to reproductive health domain. Matrices helped identify a massive 87.23% burden on households, majorly financed by mortgage bearing astronomical interests and sale of meagre assets. Public sector healthcare at 5.47% was found performing unsatisfactorily. Tertiary level was absorbing disproportional amount of 62.93% funds in conjunction with the laboratory and imaging services. Moreover, pharmaceutical bills at 22.97% caused prolonged distress to these households. Government intervention towards absence and shortage of quality infrastructure at the primary and secondary sector levels needs reviewing, for containment of the massive out-of-pocket expenditures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: India is witnessing a demographic transition, leading to a rapid increase in the number of older people. Present study was aimed to study health problems and disability of elderly population at a tertiary hospital. Material and Methods: Present study was prospective, observational study, conducted in cases above 60 years, both gender, selected were from daily medicine OPD. Results: 100 elderly cases satisfying study criteria were studied. Majority of elderly were from age group of 66-70 years (31 %), were male (56 %), belongs to socioeconomic class IV (38 %). Common disabilities were visual (32.39 %) followed by locomotive (28.16 %), hearing (23.94 %), mental (8.45 %) & speech (7.04 %). Genderwise visual (12 males & 11 females) & locomotive (11 males & 9 females) disabilities were common. According to age groups, disabilities were common in 60-69 years (29 cases) followed by > 80 years (28 cases) & 70-79 years (18 cases). Majority adults showed good abilities of selfcare as bathing (92 %), self-feeding (92 %), dressing (90 %), ambulation (88 %), toileting (88 %) & transfer (86 %). Among male elderly 5.86% were able to Prepare meals for themselves, 89.28% were able to shopping, 85.71% were able to light homework, 82.14% were able to financial management, 78.57% were able to medical managements 85.71% able to use the transportation, 19.64% were able to use telephone. Among female elderly 95.45% were able to Prepare meals for themselves, 90.90% were able to shopping, 90.90% were able to light homework, 81.81% were able to financial management, 86.36% were able to medical managements 77.27% able to use the transportation, 20.45% were able to use telephone. Conclusion: The common health morbidities seen in elderly were anaemia, hypertension, diabetes, cataract, arthritis and neuropsychiatric. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: An increase in the on-field intensity in modern cricket, results in an increased number of player injuries. Integration and easy access to professional physiotherapy, technology, rehab protocols, and mental/physical conditioning aid in early return to sports in the injured; however, at the grassroots, these facilities may not be available with untrained support staff and limited funds. Injuries can go unnoticed and, therefore, there is a need for an easy process of identification and documentation of such injuries. We devised a questionnaire-based survey to evaluate its effectiveness at the junior level of professional cricket. Materials and Methods: An Online self-administered questionnaire was prepared and the link was given to active Union Territory Cricket Academy (UTCA), Chandigarh, cricketers of any gender between 15 and 35 years of age, through different online platforms like WhatsApp, Telegram and emails, for the submission of their responses. Results: The questionnaire was administered to 98 participants out of which 77 participants' responses were evaluated (41 males and 36 females). 74/77 participants were below 30 years of age. There were 18 wicketkeepers, 33 bowlers and 26 batsmen as per their major role in the team. 37/77 cricketers (20 males, 17 females) had injuries during the previous 2 years; this included 17 bowlers, 11 batsmen and 9 wicketkeepers. The most common body part injured in the survey were fingers (12) followed by the back (7). The amount of training time lost, reported in the survey ranged from a week up to 1 year. Conclusion: Online surveys could be the first step to accumulating data and making initial player profiles, starting even at junior levels of cricket. Further detailed evaluations may be performed after this, and coaches and administrators could potentially profile cricket injuries and identify chronic issues. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Asia's pharmaceutical sector has experienced remarkable growth over the last two decades, with companies in the region producing bulk of the world's specialty generics, biologicals, and active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs). The Asian pharma growth story has had several pillars for a strong and sustainable foundation that provided non-linear growth. This report introduces three models showing how Asian countries at different development stages — India, South Korea, and Singapore — have nurtured their own, self-sustaining pharmaceutical sectors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background & objectives: The COVID-19 pandemic exposed the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare systems across the world. Many directives, guidelines and policies for pandemic control were laid down centrally for its implementation; however, its translation at the periphery needs to be analyzed for future planning and implementation of public health activities. Hence, the objectives of this study were to identify the challenges faced by frontline health managers in selected States in India during the pandemic with regard to implementation of the COVID-19-related policies at the district level and also to assess the challenges faced by the them in adapting the centrally laid down COVID-19 guidelines as per the local needs of the district. Methods: A qualitative study using the grounded theory approach was conducted among frontline district-level managers from eight different States belonging to the north, south, east and west zones of India. The districts across the country were selected based on their vulnerability index, and in-depth interviews were conducted among the frontline managers to assess the challenges faced by them in carrying out COVID-19 related activities. Recorded data were transcribed verbatim, manually coded and thematically analyzed. Results: Challenges faced in implementing quarantine rules were numerous, and it was also compounded by stigma attached with the disease. The need for adapting the guidelines as per local considerations, inclusion of components of financial management at local level, management of tribal and vulnerable populations and migrants in COVID context were strongly suggested. The need to increase human resource in general and specifically data managers and operators was quoted as definite requirement. Interpretation & conclusions: The COVID-19 guidelines provided by the Centre were found to be useful at district levels. However, there was a need to make some operational and administrative modifications in order to implement these guidelines locally and to ensure their acceptability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the digital age, financial inclusion continues to be connected to social inclusion. While most personal financial transactions are shifting from cash currency to digital transactions, we must ensure that marginalized members of society are not unbanked and excluded from financial opportunities. Many countries are declaring their intention to transform to cashless societies. India is one such country. As a case study, we investigated rural Indian villages that declared themselves as cashless to assess the financial reality of villagers. We conducted a survey of households (N=3,159) within villages across seven Indian states. In each state, we studied a village that was officially declared cashless and a nearby comparison village. Our findings suggest that the comparison villages did as well as the cashless villages, as financial inclusion via digital banking was minimal to nonexistent. Alongside significant state variations, we found that financial literacy and online access were the best predictors of performing any digital banking activity. This study concludes with a warning against rushing toward digital banking and the formation of cashless societies, as marginalized populations may be excluded. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Cash-In-Hand is a vital tool for managing finances and making decisions since it gives users access to real-time information about their available cash. Maintaining a clear grasp of the cash on hand is essential for efficient financial management in today's volatile economic environment. This interactive dashboard gives consumers a thorough understanding of cash flow, liquidity, and financial flexibility so they can confidently make decisions. The Cash-In-Hand Dashboard transforms complex financial data into aesthetically pleasing charts, graphs, and KPIs with an intuitive user interface. Users may quickly visualize past trends, spot future cash shortages or surpluses, and track incoming and outgoing cash transactions. The dashboard provides real-time updates and customisable perspectives, enabling organizations, businesses, and people to react quickly to shifting financial conditions. The Cash-In-Hand Dashboard offers practical insights for maximizing cash use and is based on strong data integration and cutting-edge analytics. Users can analyse the effects of various scenarios, create alerts for crucial cash thresholds, and manage resources intelligently. This application ensures that cash is managed and exploited as an asset for business owners, executives, and financial planners. In conclusion, the management of financial resources is revolutionized by the Cash-In-Hand Dashboard. Users are given the skills they need to face financial issues and seize opportunities by providing a clear, succinct, and timely perspective on cash available. This dashboard is a priceless tool in the quest for financial success, whether it is used for personal finances, commercial operations, or organizational decision-making. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The paper explores the relationship between Central bank independence (CBI) and fiscal deficit in India. Moreover, the study tries to assess the impact of CBI on the levels of fiscal deficit. The study incorporates other variables like Gross Domestic Product, financial development, and trade openness to analyze their impact on the fiscal deficit. The study employed Auto-regressive distributed lag model (ARDL) Bounds test developed by Pesaran, Shin, and Smith (2001) to examine the long-run relationship between CBI and fiscal deficit. The study also employs a legal index for measuring CBI developed by Jasmine et al (2019) as well as an actual measure of independence developed by Cukierman (1992) to measure CBI in India. The study confirms the long-run relationship between the CBI and fiscal deficit as well as among other variables. An increase in the levels of CBI leads to falling in the levels of fiscal deficit. The other explanatory variables used in the study also confirm the long-run relationship and impact fiscal deficit negatively except for trade openness, which positively impacts the fiscal deficit. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Self-perceived health, a subjective assessment of health status, is influenced by state of economic independence and employment status after controlling for other demographic, social and health-related factors, particularly for elderly people as they tend to face discrimination in intra-household resource allocation. Being economically independent and employed increase the likelihood of elderly people rating their health as good/excellent compared to others and employment status came out as even more impactful. This study provides new insights by observing that across the expenditure quintile groups of the households, the importance of these variables varies as the bias in intra-household resource allocation against elderly people is supposed to increase with declining economic resources of the households. Economic independence improves the likelihood of rating one's health as good/excellent in the lowest expenditure quintile much more compared to those in the uppermost expenditure quintile. For employed too, the positive influence of employment status on self-perceived health of elderly people has been strictly increasing as we move down the expenditure quintiles of households. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Birth preparedness and complication readiness (BPCR) helps in improving the effective utilization of available maternal and newborn health care services through knowledge of danger sign, identifying birth place and attendant, means of transportation, managing fund for an emergency, birth companion and identification of blood donor. Aim: To find the association between socio-demographic characteristics and BPCR index indicators. Settings and Design: A cross-sectional study was conducted among the recently delivered and pregnant women in urban and rural areas of the Gandhinagar district of Gujarat. Methods and Material: Total 420 pregnant and recently delivered women from urban and rural areas were interviewed for study. A pretested semi-structured questionnaire was used to interview women at household setting. BPCR index is estimated by set of 7 quantifiable indicators and expressed in the percentage of women with specific characteristics. Results: Regarding ANC registration within 12th weeks of pregnancy and skilled birth attendant for delivery. Significant difference was observed with variable like APL/BPL status, education of women and their husband, parity and type of family. Conclusions: Hindu religion, APL economic status, higher education level, joint family, high parity and joint family were found important predictor of better BPCR practice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Several countries with diverse health systems have achieved universalization (UHC). The trajectory towards universal coverage almost always has three typical features: (i) a political process driven by a range of regulatory changes to simplify access; (ii) an increase in health spending; (iii) an increase in the share of pooled spending rather than paid out-of-pocket. Therefore, a study was undertaken to understand the extent of the provider-purchaser relationship of governments to achieve UHC while reforming healthcare. The present paper focuses on extensive secondary research across countries and evaluates the experiences of select developed and developing economies with India's experiments on- Financing mechanisms, management arrangements, governance and health outcomes; to offer a comparison of practices and their impact. While Italy, the UK, Germany, Australia, Japan, Canada and most recently China are countries that have achieved UHC; countries like USA and Brazil are on the verge of achieving UHC. These nine countries represent the entire spectrum of pure purchasing models, mixed and pure provisioning models to help us leverage from their experience. All countries that have attained UHC have a well-defined package of services that the government commits to fund and provide for (both public and private). Additionalities around wellness and cosmetic care is managed through supplementary insurance. Overall funding is through an autonomous body, at arm's length of government; primarily to govern and manage the state's health priorities. And the government purely behaves as a regulator setting policy and giving directions to the providers. However, ensuring the sustenance of such a mixed model requires; (i) a well-regulated ecosystem that thrives on evidence, (ii) the governments must clearly define the role/s of each stakeholder and hold them accountable for their deliverables in attaining UHC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The socio-environmental aspects of southern Assam reflect a general pattern of backwardness. Moreover, child healthcare resources in the region are inadequately used, leading to low vaccination coverage. Given this background, this paper attempted to comprehend wealth-based inequality in full vaccination in rural areas of southern Assam. Methodology: Based on a multistage cluster sampling approach, 360 children of 12–23 months were selected from the study area. To identify the predictors of a child, a non-linear model was estimated by using the generalized linear model (GLM) approach followed by Erreygers decomposition technique to quantify the wealth inequality in the obtained predictors in explaining the disparity in full vaccination. Result: The Bacillus Calmette–Guérin (BCG) vaccination recorded the highest vaccination coverage, at nearly 90% and the lowest was observed for the measles vaccine, around 61 percent. Slightly more than half of the eligible children (54 percent) were vaccinated against all the Universal Immunization Programme (UIP)-recommended vaccines. The decomposition analysis revealed that the occupation of the child's father, maternal age, birth order of the child, and health-seeking behavior such as antenatal care (ANC) were the prime factors related to inequality in full vaccination in the region. Conclusion: Vaccination coverage in the region has improved over time, however, full vaccination is concentrated towards the economically advantaged section of the society in rural southern Assam. Targeted, context-specific, and expanded government initiatives could aid in addressing the overall wealth-related full vaccination inequalities in the valley. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The lack of robust financial management is an integral growth constraint faced by small and medium enterprises (SMEs). For the sustainability and growth of SMEs, it is vital to choose the correct long-term projects. Yet, literature shows that SMEs across the globe hardly practice the sophisticated capital budgeting (CB) method. The present study identifies, prioritizes, and proposes a structural model of the barriers to CB practices. The study adopts an integrated method combining the fuzzy analytical hierarchy process (F-AHP) and the fuzzy decision-making trial and evaluation laboratory (F-DEMATEL) approach to evaluate the barriers to CB practices among SMEs in India. The prioritization obtained through the F-AHP suggests that the knowledge barrier of the decision-makers and the inherent barrier associated with the CB techniques are the most weighted main barriers impeding the practice of CB among SMEs. Also, the most important sub-barriers are time consumption and high complexity of the methods, lack of financial education and training of decision-makers, and lack of computation technology. F-DEMATEL provides a reliable quantitative measure of the association of the barriers to implementing sophisticated CB practices among SMEs. To the best of the authors' knowledge, this study is the first to identify, prioritize, and structure the barriers to CB practices. Also, it is the first to apply multi-criteria decision-making tools in this field of research. Our findings can help financial managers/practitioners of SMEs to formulate sophisticated CB techniques in their investment decision strategies and efficiently manage their long-term funds. Plain English Summary: Capital budgeting is a financial management instrument that evaluates potential investment alternatives and decides which investment project will benefit the firm most. It deals with large long-term funds and their allocations. Despite its prominence, studies report that small and medium enterprises do not practice capital budgeting. This study explores the barriers faced by small and medium enterprises towards the use of capital budgeting while making their long-term investment decisions. The study finds that the lack of financial knowledge and training of the decision-maker and the complexity, calculation difficulty, and time associated with the capital budgeting techniques are the biggest impediments to the practice of capital budgeting among small firms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: India has adopted several policies toward improving access to healthcare and has been an enthusiastic signatory to several global health policies to achieve Universal Health Coverage (UHC). However, despite these policy commitments, there has been limited success in realizing these goals. The COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the urgent need for health system re-design and amplified the calls for such reforms. Objectives: We seek to understand the views of a diverse group of policy actors in India to address the following research questions: what are the (i) conceptualizations of UHC, (ii) main barriers to realizing UHC, and (iii) policy strategies to address these barriers. Data and Methods: We collected data through in-depth interviews with 38 policy actors from diverse backgrounds and analyzed using the Framework Method to develop themes both inductively and deductively using the Control Knob Framework of health systems. Findings: There was congruence in the conceptualization of UHC by policy actors. Quality of care, equity, financial risk protection, and a comprehensive set of services were the most commonly cited features. The lack of a comprehensive systems approach to health policies, inadequate and inefficient health financing mechanisms, and fragmentation between public and private sectors were identified as the main barriers to UHC. Contrasting views about specific strategies, health financing, provider payments, organization of the delivery system, and regulation emerged as the key policy interventions to address these barriers. Discussion and Conclusion: This is the first systematic examination of a diverse set of policy actors' problem analyses and suggestions to advance UHC goals in India. The study underscores the need to recognize the complex and interlinked nature of health system reforms and initiate a departure from path-dependent vertical interventions to bring about transformative change. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In India tax saving and investment of savings for the future is the bigger concern. Most investors invest in GPF, Fixed Deposits, Recurring Deposits, Real Estate, Gold, etc. without considering the consequences of these alternatives on tax liability. For saving tax, Indians buy insurance policies and invest in GPF, PPF, etc. As per sec 80C of the Income tax act saving up to Rs 150000 in some of the instruments like GPF, PPF, ELSS, Life insurance premiums, etc. are tax deductible i.e., taxable income is reduced by this amount to calculate the tax liability. This Case Study will help the students and practitioners of wealth management to learn the practical aspects of dealing with the tax planning of small investors, particularly the salaried employees in the lower middle-class category. The case will also help to learn the calculation of the equivalent returns and comparison of various investment alternatives. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To study the physical, emotional and social impact of clubfoot on the lives of affected children and their families. Methods: A purposive sample of children with treated idiopathic clubfoot and their parents was recruited from two geographical locations—the United Kingdom (UK) and India. Children were divided into age groups of 5–7 and 8–11 years. Questionnaires were administered separately to children and parents; the former comprised multiple-choice questions scored using an 'emoji' system, and the latter included open-ended questions divided into pre-defined themes of daily limitations, social life, general health, emotional barriers and family impact. Results: Thirty-four children and parents participated from UK; 96 children and parents participated from India. The majority of children (> 80%) reported no problems in daily activities, although 32.8% reported having pain. Difficulty finding appropriate footwear and limitation in sports were more common among UK children, whereas difficulty in squatting was more problematic for Indian children. Self and emotional perceptions regarding their appearance/condition were lower among older as compared to younger children in both countries. Parents' responses mirrored those of children; additionally they reported emotional and financial difficulties during initial treatment phase, and ongoing concerns about the future during the maintenance phase. Conclusion: Treated clubfoot continues to impact the lives of affected children and families. Perceptions of the condition and its impact vary between population groups; this needs to be appreciated when collecting and analysing outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Financial literacy refers to knowledge and skills related to effective and informed money management decisions. Healthcare professionals graduate with some of the highest student loan debt level. They complete their graduation with minimal unbiased financial planning guidance. Aim: To assess the effectiveness of seminar based approach on the level of financial literacy among dental students of Vadodara, Gujarat, India. Materials and Methods: This prospective interventional study was conducted in Vadodara, Gujarat, India from May 2021 to October 2021. The data was collected from 332 participants through a closed ended questionnaire which included 83 statements related to banking, alternate banking, investment and income and expenditure. The data was assessed using Paired t test to assess the effectiveness of financial education seminar at 95% confidence level. The software used was IBM Statistical Package for the Social Science (SPSS) Version 21.0 for Windows. Results: This study included 332 interns and postgraduate students, of which 209 participants were female while 123 participants were male. There was a significant difference in the knowledge of students on various financial aspects covered in the study before and after the seminar with respect to gender, age and category of students (p-value<0.05). There was a significant difference in the knowledge of participants before and after the seminar on financial literacy (p-value<0.001). Conclusion: The result shows that the score of the participants improved after the 90 minutes seminar which will helpful to them for their future long-term investment decisions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Domestic violence (DV) is a significant public health problem in India, with women disproportionately impacted. This study a) identified risk and protective correlates of DV and, b) barriers and facilitators for seeking and receiving help for DV among women in India. A systematic search of 5 databases was performed to identify correlates of DV in the quantitative literature. The search resulted in inclusion of 68 studies for synthesis. For qualitative exploration, data were collected from 27 women in India. While factors such as social norms and attitudes supportive of DV were both risk correlates and barriers to addressing DV, women's empowerment, financial independence and informal sources of support were both protective correlates of DV as well as facilitators in addressing DV. Strong efforts in India are needed to reduce DV-related risk factors and strengthen protective factors and enhance access to care for women in abusive relationships. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The COVID-19 pandemic has exposed the financial-economic vulnerability of the public and threatened the household financial stability, especially of the low-income group population, in developing economies such as India. The assessment of household financial vulnerability has gained considerable attention these days, especially in poor and developing countries. This article seeks to assess the level of household financial vulnerability in India, based on a household survey conducted across India. Design/methodology/approach: This paper has proposed a financial vulnerability index (FVI) based on three self-reported parameters: (1) making end meet, (2) perception of income shock and (3) perception of expenditure shock. Subsequently, the impact of various behavioural and socioeconomic factors on the proposed financial vulnerability index has been assessed using fractional probit regression. Findings: The research findings indicate that higher financial knowledge, better money management skills and lower impulsivity in financial behaviour can reduce financial vulnerability. It is suggested that suitable financial literacy programmes be implemented for vulnerable sections of society to enhance their financial knowledge, improve money management skills and manage impulsivity, thereby helping them make informed financial decisions leading to their financial well-being. Originality/value: To the best of the authors' knowledge, none of the past studies have developed and assessed the financial vulnerability index in India. This study provides relevant recommendations for various financial sector regulators and government institutions in India. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Public Financial Management System (PFMS) has been established for managing the flow of Government of India's funds efficiently. The system has been integrated with banks' core banking system that enables Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) to the beneficiary accounts directly. This article explains the management of central government schemes through Central Nodal Agency [CNA] account and Single Nodal Agency [SNA] account. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Primary Objective: To assess the challenges faced by private clinic physiotherapists in Pune after easing of lockdown using validated self-reporting questionnaire. Secondary Objective: 1. To assess the financial impacts on private clinics. 2. To assess the foot fall in the private physiotherapy clinic in Pune after easing of lockdown. 3. To assess the physiotherapy treatment limitations during this pandemic. 4. To assess difficulties while following Maharashtra State Occupational Therapy and Physiotherapy Council (MSOTPT) guidelines while treating patients during covid-19 pandemic. 5. To assess problems faced during tele-rehab using Validated self-reporting questionnaire. Method: A cross sectional study was done in Pune City with a sample size of 60 over the period of 3 months using self-reporting validated questionnaire. Participants were picked based on inclusion and exclusion criteria. Questionnaire was circulated through the social media & emailing the link of google form of questionnaire to the participants after the approval of ethical committee. A total of 60 participants submitted the correctly filled questionnaire. After receiving the responses, it was analysed statically and Questionnaire results was presented in the graphical form & conclusion were made according to the pie charts and graphs. Results: Through results it was sighted that the COVID-19 pandemic reinforced critical weakness and numerous challenges for the private clinic physiotherapists. They were facing financial problems, number of patients have reduced in the clinic, they have lost their follow ups during the pandemic, many are following MSOTPT guidelines while treating patients and finding it difficult to follow the guidelines while treating patients and many have shifted their mode of practice to tele-rehabilitation and having problems in that. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Financial necessity and desperation is the primary reason for females to enter into sex work. The health and well-being of female sex workers (FSWs) depend on the balance between their earnings and the cost of living in their local environment. Therefore it would be of value to examine the comparative cost of living adjusted earnings of FSWs in different countries to gauge equity or its absence in their financial state. Data about per client per encounter earnings for FSWs in Pune, India was taken from primary research conducted by the first author. Equivalent secondary data was acquired for the US and Thailand from an online literature review. Earnings after converting to US dollar values were adjusted against the cost of living in the respective environments of the FSWs and then compared. An FSW in India, (Pune) earned on the average US $4.40 after adjusting for the cost of living locally, while in Thailand (Bangkok) the equivalent earning was US $18.77 and in the US (Washington DC region) it was $101.79. These results suggest that an FSW in the US earns 23 times more, and a Thai FSW earns 4 times more than an FSW in India. There are numerous variables that affect the earnings of an FSW and the limited defined scope of this paper based on available data does not permit detailed analyses of causal or intermediate influencing factors. Nonetheless, it can be said with reasonable confidence that much needs to be done and can be done to mitigate the earning disparity, particularly in an emerging economy like India as shown in this small study, and that can perhaps be done best under the umbrella domain of a "harm reduction approach." [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In India, 15 nutrition interventions are delivered and financed through the National Health Mission (NHM). Programmatic know‐how, however, on tracking nutrition budgets in health sector plans is limited. Following the four phases of the budget cycle—planning, allocations, disbursements and expenditure, this paper presents a new method developed by the authors to track nutrition budgets within health sector plans. Using the example of the Anemia Mukt Bharat (AMB) or Anemia Free India strategy, it reports preliminary findings on the application of the first two phases of the method, that is, to track and act for improved planning and allocations, covering 12 states. The paper lists out the budget heads, cost norms and developed tools to plan adequately. Supportive action was undertaken through sharing trends and trainings for AMB's budgeting to create opportunities for improvements. It was observed that the AMB budget increased over 3 years despite the COVID situation. It increased from INR 6184 million in FY 2019–2020 to INR 6293 million, a 2% increase in FY 2020–2021, and to INR 7433 million, an 18% increase in FY 2021–2022. The difference in allocations and planned budgets were low (16%, 4% and 11%, respectively) while the difference in required budgets and planned budgets were significant but reduced consistently (41%, 31% and 22%, respectively). The paper concludes that the methods adopted for tracking and acting for improved nutrition budgets helped in informing national and state governments regarding yearly trends. Such methods can be effective and be developed for other nutrition interventions. Key messages: Tracking budgets and timely action can improve planning and allocation efficiency.Support to states in planning budgets is essential. No major gaps were found in approvals.Technical partners can assist in supporting governments for improving financial efficiency. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

It is a common belief that microfinance plays a dual role of poverty alleviation and socioeconomic upliftment of its women participants. However, there are enough researches that negates the positive impact of microfinance loans on spousal violence. Recognized as one of the most predominant social evils, violence against women is not only a violation of their human rights but also an act of exploitation and denial of freedom. In the present study, we have tried to investigate if microfinance loan takers experience more spousal violence as compared to their counterparts by analyzing the National Family Health Survey IV, 2015–16. Our results indicate that 40.8% of women microfinance participants experience spousal violence. Additionally, the likelihood of microfinance participants to experience spousal violence is much higher than the non-microfinance participants (odds ratio = 1.35, p value =.000). Microfinance programs are designed to increase the individual agencies of women participants, which, in turn, reduce the chances of them becoming victims of spousal violence. However, if the credit program participation induces the woman to be a victim of spousal violence together with becoming financially autonomous, then such hidden costs need to be taken into account while evaluating the effectiveness of the gendered policy design. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fungal endophthalmitis is a potentially blinding condition. It is more often reported from Asia, including India. The incidence is lower than bacterial endophthalmitis. But it is relatively more challenging to treat than bacterial endophthalmitis. Many eyes may need therapeutic keratoplasty and/or evisceration. The current mainstays of treatment are vitrectomy irrespective of the presenting vision, intravitreal antifungal agents, and systemic therapy; additionally, the patients could require prolonged treatment with repeat vitreous surgeries and intravitreal injections. Difficulty in clinical diagnosis, delay in microbiological culture, and limited options of antifungal drugs make the treatment more difficult and less rewarding. Three common fungi causing endophthalmitis are Aspergillus, Fusarium, and Candida. The former two are molds, often identified in exogenous endophthalmitis, postoperative and traumatic; the latter is yeast and is more often identified in endogenous endophthalmitis. A faster diagnosis with newer molecular microbiological technologies might help institute treatment earlier than it is currently possible. A target trial using big data from different regions of the world might emulate a randomized clinical trial to design a definite treatment strategy. Given fewer antifungal drugs, one must be mindful of antifungal stewardship to prevent resistance to the existing drugs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: The performance of Accredited Social Health Activists (ASHAs) is crucial for the achievement of the 'health for all' goal in India. The performance and motivation of workforce are dependent on various financial and non-financial incentives. This study analyses the linkage of current incentive practices and perceived rewards/sanctions, with the motivation and performance of ASHA. Methods: Cross-sectional qualitative approach and interpretive structural modelling (ISM). Results: The motivation and performance of ASHAs were driven by various inter-related factors. The predominant rewarding factors identified were: monetary incentives, awards, and support and respect of the community towards the ASHAs. Dissatisfaction was fuelled by factors, such as sense of underpayment, comparison with peers and the community cadres of other departments, erratic duty hours, scarce disbursement of resources, financial insecurity post-retirement, difficulty in reading or writing, unavailability of health services and medicines in the nearby healthcare facilities. Conclusions: For a sustained advance in motivation and performance of ASHAs, the public health systems' focus needs to be oriented on: capacity building; optimal resource allocation, rationalised payoffs to the ASHAs working in difficult terrains and improving availability of healthcare services in primary healthcare facilities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background/aims: Successful community reintegration is the ultimate goal of traumatic brain injury rehabilitation and care. The aim of this study was to explore the community reintegration of people with a traumatic brain injury living in south India who had completed a comprehensive holistic rehabilitation programme. The level of community reintegration based on the demographic variables of the patients was also investigated. Methods: A total of 104 community-dwelling people with a traumatic brain injury, and a minimum of 1 year post injury, received treatment from a rehabilitation team in a therapeutic centre for 7 hours a day, 6 days a week for a maximum of 16 weeks. A usual care, transdisciplinary service delivery model was implemented, and the Craig Handicap Assessment and Reporting Technique was used to quantify the main outcome measures. Results: The mean and standard deviation scores for each Craig Handicap Assessment and Reporting Technique domain were physical independence (91 ± 23), social integration (87 ± 20), cognitive independence (70 ± 33), economic self-sufficiency (67 ± 40), occupation (66 ± 40) and mobility (63 ± 29). The participants who had gone back to work after their traumatic brain injury showed significantly higher scores in all the domains of the Craig Handicap Assessment and Reporting Technique than those who were unemployed. Only the occupation and mobility domain scores were influenced by the severity of the traumatic brain injury. The economic self-sufficiency, occupation and mobility domain scores were higher among married patients compared to those who were unmarried. Conclusions: A significant proportion of the participants were able to return to work and reintegrate into community life through this service delivery model. This comprehensive, holistic approach, which targets physical, cognitive and psychosocial needs and then provides adequate vocational rehabilitation, can result in good outcomes in people with a traumatic brain injury. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of the present study was to explicate the factors determining customers' intention to use budgeting apps since the outbreak of COVID-19 pandemic. A cross-sectional survey in South India was conducted to collect data from 285 FinTech users. The data were analyzed using partial least square regression to estimate path coefficients and the PROCESS macro technique to identify moderation effects. Firstly, app engagement and self-efficacy were found to have a positive effect on the intention to use budgeting apps. Secondly, individuals who use FinTech services less frequently and those who use it to pay for a variety of expenses were found to have a greater effect on usage intentions of customer engagement, perceived trust, and perceived ease of use. Therefore, customization, real-time suggestions, providing tools for data visualization, smart data insights, and artificial intelligence-based recommendations and advice would assist customers in prudence money management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The concomitant availability of services and care with the rise in the older population in India does not commensurate with their health care needs, thus affecting their well-being and quality of life (QoL). The Indian State of Kerala, epidemiologically and demographically advanced and often compared with developed countries, has the highest number of older persons. It also ranks top in the human development index in the country. This study seeks to explore the factors influencing QoL among older persons in Kerala, a state located within a low middle-income country. Materials and Methods: Qualitative methods using exploratory design were employed. Ten focus group discussions and ten face-to-face in-depth interviews were conducted in two districts of Kerala. The data were thematically analyzed using a framework approach. Results: The study explored a multitude of factors influencing QoL among older people in Kerala. The themes that emerged from the study were, "Financial securities and insecurities," "psychological well-being," "lifestyle," "health-care utilization," and "social engagement." Conclusion: The current study findings have explored the changing importance or value of the factors attributed to older persons' QoL in an advanced population within a low middle-income country such as India. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The administration and governance of grant funding across global health organizations presents enormous challenges. Meeting these challenges is crucial to ensuring that funds are used in the most effective way to improve health outcomes, in line with the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goal 3, "Ensure healthy lives and promote well-being for all at all ages." The Good Financial Grant Practice (GFGP) Standard (ARS 1651) is the world's first and, currently, only international standard for the financial governance and management of grant funding. Through consensus building and global harmonization between both low- and middle-income and high-income country players, the GFGP Standard has achieved a leveling impact: GFGP applies equally to, and can be implemented by, all types of organization, regardless of location, size, or whether they predominantly give or receive funding. GFGP can be used as a tool for addressing some of the challenges of the current funding model. Here, we describe our experiences and lessons learned from implementing GFGP across 4 diverse research institutions in India, Nigeria, Colombia, and the Philippines as part of our National Institute for Health Research Global Health Research Unit on Genomic Surveillance of Antimicrobial Resistance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Financial management within the family is essential to avoid disease and disaster and to make a healthy family. The study was aimed to analyze the effect of empowerment programme on awareness and attitude regarding family financial management among the Area Development Society workers in selected panchayath in Thrissur District. Objectives: The objectives of the study were to evaluate the effect of empowerment programme on awareness and attitude regarding family financial management. Methods: The research design was two group pretest posttest design. The population was ADS workers in Thrissur district. 60 ADS workers were selected using multistage random sampling with 30 each in experimental and control group. The tools used were valid and reliable -FFM questionnaire (r 0.86) and FFM attitude (r 0.95). Results and Conclusion: Statistical analysis was done using unpaired t test which revealed that mean scores of awareness and attitude regarding family financial management were significantly higher in experimental group than in control group (t 0.25, p 0.001 & t 4.26, p 0.001). It was concluded that the empowerment programme was effective in enhancing awareness and attitude regarding family financial management among ADS workers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: As the world tries to come to terms with the exact economic and human cost of the Covid-19 pandemic, businesses are trying to discern and act on the implications of the "new normal" in order to survive and grow. Amongst all the industries impacted by the Covid-19 pandemic, travel and tourism has been the hardest hit. Operators across the value chain are trying to innovate and improvise in order to mitigate the impact of the pandemic on cash flows and working capital. The primary purpose of this paper then is to take a closer look at the measures adopted by the Indian hotel industry to restore revenues, conserve resources and attain greater operational and cost efficiencies in the midst of the Covid-19 crisis. The article also brings to the fore the growth-enhancing measures adopted by the industry in anticipation of a "new normal" in the post-Covid world. Design/methodology/approach: This study is based on primary data collected via a survey, followed by a series of interviews with a select group of senior finance managers from a wide spectrum of hotels based in India. Findings: Our findings suggest that Indian hotels have adopted several measures to enhance cash flows/revenues, reduce operating costs and cash outflows and conserve resources in order to tide themselves over during the crisis. Prominent cash flow–enhancing measures include price drops on special offers and reductions on list prices. Cost-cutting measures include economizing on energy consumption, reductions in labour costs and the postponement of maintenance expenses and discretionary spending. Resource conservation measures that have been adopted focus on postponement of capital expenditure and an increasing shift to localizing supply chains. Growth-enhancing measures adopted by the industry in anticipation of the long-term "new normal" include restructuring of the workforce and measures aimed at attracting domestic tourists and increasing product diversity. Originality/value: This study attempts to understand the short-term and long-term financial management strategies adopted by Indian hotels in the face of unprecedented disruption caused by the Covid-19 pandemic. To the best of our knowledge, this paper is the first of its kind in the Indian context. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Social work has historically engaged in pioneering interventions to improve the financial well-being of people. India is an interesting case as it has the highest number of unbanked people on one side and numerous policy interventions on the other. Using systematic review and Gioia methodology, we analyzed 24 years of financial inclusion policies. Our analysis revealed that the efficacy of policies was impeded by flawed designs, as the policymakers preferred 'quick fixes' over long-term solutions. Our study highlights the need for learning from the past and organizing complex information in a way that helps policymakers in taking informed policy design decisions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Insurance is an important financial risk transfer tool. The risk is being transferred from the insured to the insurer on the payment of consideration called as the premium. This is an important financial product and is designed to take care of the interests of the insured in case a loss happens. The loss can be of life, health, assets. Worldwide, insurance forms the backbone of the financial sector and the economy. The insurance companies are cash rich ones that hold the funds for investment in the various sectors of the economy. Conventionally, the insurance companies play a big role in the economic development of the nations. Also they play a big role in protection of the assets and lives. Well-functioning financial reporting and monitoring ensures compliance and timely intervention in case of mismanagement or non-compliance of statutory regulations, corporate governance or risk management issues thereby minimizing the risk of insolvency. This paper discusses on the broad global framework of insurance sector regulation in respect of Solvency, investments, financial management, Risk and capital management and reporting and also draws reference to the Indian sector and the present situation of the insurance sector in India in respect of these parameters of regulatory environment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present paper attempted to study the performance of the Sthree Shakti Groups (SSG) in Dharwad district of north Karnataka. Twelve SSGs were identified from four taluks of Dharwad district in consultation with Child Development Project (CDP) Officers. The primary data about the groups were collected from group representatives and respected group members by using the schedule developed for the study. The results indicated that the majority (69.17%) of the respondents belonged to middle age, 37.50 per cent were illiterate and more than one third (35.00%) were practicing Agriculture + Dairy as their family occupation. More than two-fifth (42.50%) had medium annual income, 63.33 per cent had medium social participation. More than two-fifth (41.66%) of the SSGs belonged to the low organizational capacity category. More than twofifth (41.67%) of the SSGs were medium saving and credit category. Half of the group (50.00%) SSGs were found in the medium financial management category, followed by 50.00 per cent of SSGs were found in the medium microenterprise development category and 50.00 per cent were in high category of network and linkage. The majority (83.34%) of the SSGs were categorized into the high empowerment and influence category. More than 50.00 per cent (58.33%) of the SSGs belonged to the medium performance category. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Present study aims to examine the socioeconomic and demographic factors that affect health care utilization, health care expenditure and financing strategies for delivery care in India. Methods: The study uses data from National Family Health Survey (NFHS-4), 2015-2016. Descriptive, bivariate and multivariate regression analysis were carried out to examine health care utilization, out of pocket expenditure and financing strategies for delivery care in India. We used hardship financing as when people resort to borrowings, or sale of property/jewelry to pay for healthcare expenditure Results: Overall, Janani Suraksha Yojana (JSY) could cover less than 40% of the delivery care expenditure across all states. One-third of the households borrowed money or sold property/jewelry for delivery care expenditure. Highest exposure to hardship financing was observed in utilisation of private healthcare facilities for delivery. Women from the higher income quintiles are less likely to experience hardship financing as compared to women from the poorest wealth quintile. Conclusions: The study results will be useful for government to ensure that financing policies for delivery such as JSY are effective to provide availability and affordability of delivery healthcare in India. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To assess medical leadership competencies of physicians in India, to analyse the competency gaps, and suggest measures for medical leadership development. Methods: A survey questionnaire was developed to assess 30 medical leadership competencies at 'Self-assessed proficiency' levels (1 very poor to 5 very good), 'Perceived importance of competency' levels (1 not important to 5 very important) amongst physicians and perceived need for medical leadership development programmes (MLDPs) to which 540 doctors responded (54%). Findings: Majority (70%) self-assessed their competencies between 'Average to Good'. Self-assessed competency levels fell significantly short of the perceived importance of each of the competencies across all demographic variables. Thus, the study demonstrated existence of significant 'Medical leadership competency gap'. The competencies, which were consistently deficient were in the NHS-MLCF domains of Setting directions, Working with others, and Managing services, with the lowest rated competency being 'Knowledge of HR, procurement, financial and contracts management'. The variables, which were observed to have significant influence on competency levels included: Formal management training, Speciality and Duration of management/leadership experience. Majority (94.8%) of physicians indicated need for MLDPs at all levels. Conclusions: This is the first study from India highlights leadership competency gaps amongst physicians and confirms need for MLDPs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]