009691   Palaniswamy R;Dinesh Kumar S;Selvakumar N (Jansons School of Business, , Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu, Email: r.palaniswamy@jsb.ac.in) : Impact of store size on impulse purchasing behaviour of respondents: a study with reference to Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu. Indian J Market 2012, 42(9), 52-59.

An impulse purchase or impulse buy is an unplanned or otherwise spontaneous purchase. Impulse buying disrupts the normal decision making models in consumers' brains. The logical sequence of the consumers' actions is replaced with an irrational moment of self-gratification. Impulse items appeal to the emotional side of consumers. Marketers and retailers tend to exploit these impulses which are tied to the basic want for instant gratification. Several researchers have studied impulse purchase with respect to customers' behavior and also how the size of a mall influences the impulse purchase behavior. In the present study, the researchers are made an attempt to find out the impact of store size on impulse purchasing behaviour in Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu.

10 ref

009690   Ogege S;Udoka C O (Finance Dep, Faculty of Business Administration, University of Lagos, Lagos, Nigeria, Email: ogegesamson@yahoo.com) : Efficiency of the Nigerian stock exchange: a theoretical and empirical analysis. Indian J Finance 2012, 6(9), 13-20.

Growth is a key objective of developing nations, including Nigeria. However, inefficiency of stock markets can pose real dangers to the economic growth of any nation through misallocation of scarce investible resources. The study investigates weak-form of the Nigerian stock market in the context of the Efficient Market Hypothesis. The stock market prices were modeled to test for weak-form efficiency- the search for serial correlation, which will indicate whether or not current stock market prices depend on previous prices. Using monthly time-series data from 1985-2010, a unit root test and regression analysis involving both the least squares and two stage least squares estimation techniques was used to test efficiency of the Nigerian Stock Exchange. The results revealed that the market was not efficient and also indicates the presence of market seasonality. It is , therefore, recommended that there is a strong need to put in place policy measures that would guarantee competitive participation and avoid the "buy and hold" attitude of securities by investors which have delayed the rapid development of Nigeria's national economy.

2 ref

009689   Naidu B V R (NO, School of Management Studies, Swarnandhra College of Engineering and T, Narsapuram, W.G. District, Andhra Pradesh, Email: drnaidubandaru@gmail.com ) : Perceptions of investors on the service quality of Reliance Life Insurance: a study in the West Godavari district of Andhra Pradesh. Indian J Market 2012, 42(8), 8-18.

Early history of insurance in India can be traced back to the Vedas. The Sanskrit term `Yogakshema' (meaning well being), the name of Life Insurance Corporation of India's corporate headquarters, is found in the Rig Veda. Some form of `community insurance' was practiced by the Aryans around 1000 BC. The family system prevalent in India was an important form of social cooperation. Life insurance in its modern form came to India from England. Recognizing the global trend, most of the foreign insurance companies have preferred to form joint ventures with Indian companies. Banks, financial institutions, and non-banking finance companies (NBFCs) are permitted to enter the insurance sector. The introduction of private players in the industry has added colors in the dull industry. There are many reputed companies in the market which provide the Insurance for living being and non-living beings. The initiatives taken by the private players are very competitive and have given immense competition to one time monopoly of the market leader LIC. Since the advent of the private players in the market, the industry has seen new and innovative steps taken by the players in this sector. The new players have concentrated on providing a new variety of services and improved the service quality of the insurance. Reliance General Insurance is India's fastest growing general insurance company and is among the top three private sector insurers and is concentrating on the service quality for its investors. In this context, an attempt has been made to evaluate and analyze the perceptions of investors on "Service Quality" of Reliance Life Insurance Company Ltd.

21 ref

009688   Nagu V K (NO, Staniey College of Engineering & Technology for Women, Hyderabad, Email: vinnysri@gmail.com) : Managing customer relations through online banking. Indian J Market 2012, 42(9), 13-18.

Marketing exchanges have shifted from transactions to relationships. Relationship marketing in retail banking is the activity done by banks to attract, interact and retain more profitable customers because most retail banks have both profitable and unprofitable customers. Retention of small number of customers (5 percent) yields 95 percent increase on the net present value. To gain competitive advantage, big companies are now moving to a new orientation which is termed as customer-centric orientation. Electronic banking refers to Internet banking. The Internet has had a great impact on electronic banking now, it can be done without any time and geographic remoteness. Consumers all over the world can easily access their accounts 24 hours a day, seven days a week. This provides many opportunities to banks as well as customers and the person using online banking is young, well educated, having a high level of income and a good job. A customer-centric firm is considered one, which has the capability to treat every customer individually and uniquely. The core of relationship marketing is to develop and maintain long-term relationship with customers rather than simply a series of discrete transactions. They noted that the guiding principle for the management is the customer's lifetime value; firms must consider the entire relationship with the customers rather than calculate discrete transactions.

10 ref

009687   Mohapatra S P;Panda B (NO, Institute of Management and Information Science, Bhubaneswar, Odisha, Email: sibapm2001@yahoo.co.in) : Macroeconomic factors (other than the FIIS) affecting the sensex: an empirical analysis. Indian J Finance 2012, 6(11), 35-43.

Attempts to investigate the impact of various macroeconomic factors upon the movement of the stock market index, i.e. the BSE Sensex. The researchers opined that since liberalization, the FIIs have played a bigger role in the movement of the Indian stock market, but whether the FIIs are responsible for both the upward and the downward state of the Sensex remained to be seen. To get an answer to the posed question, the researchers made a correlation analysis between the top ten rises and the top ten falls of the Sensex with the corresponding net flow of FIIs to know exactly the dependency of the Sensex upon the FIIs. The results showed that FIIs have a higher correlation with the Sensex at the time of its downward spiral rather than upward growth. So here the question arises, can India stabilize the Sensex at the time of FII withdrawal by promoting any other factor? Thus, the researchers tested the impact of other macroeconomic factors along with FIIs affecting the Sensex for the last 10 years from March 2001 to April 2011. Correlation and multiple-regression models were used for this study and the results depict that IIP and Exchange Rate (INR/USD) have a higher influence (than FIIs) on the stock markets. The findings suggest that by improving the IIP figures and by controlling the Exchange Rate, the Sensex can be stabilized at the time of heavy selling by the FIIs in the Indian stock market.

26 ref

009686   Mishra B P;Singbal V (Zuari Industries Ltd., , Zuarinagar, Goa-403 726) : Policies and reforms in fertiliser sector. Indian J Fertil 2011, 7(9), 78-87.

The Government of India has been giving priority to develop the agricultural sector. As fertilisers forms an important constituent of the agricultural development, the Government announced and implemented various policies related to fertiliser sector from time to time. The recent partial reform to bring phosphatic and potassic fertilisers in Nutrient Based Subsidy (NBS) policy ªw.e.f.1.4.2010 to get complete benefit of BS policy. Urea needs to be brought under ambit of BS without loss of time to make this sector more attractive. In this paper, an overview of various policies and reforms in fertiliser sector is presented. Some suggestions have also been outlined.

8 illus, 1 table, 22 ref

009685   Merabet A;Benhabib A (NO, Tlemcen University, Tlemcen, Algeria, Email: amina.merabet@free.fr) : Brand personality: antecedents and consequences. Indian J Market 2012, 42(10), 11-21.

Understanding of branding, advertising, processing and buying decision making is necessary for the definition of consumer oriented branding strategy. Thus, the main purpose of the study is to study the impact of persuasive advertising on the perception of brand personality. In the present study, the researchers have tried to determine the level of alteration features of brand personality as well as the attitudes toward brands and purchase intention in the case of either two types of processing that relates to central and peripheral persuasive advertising, and have tried to emphasize the moderating role of product involvement. The results validate the hypothesis that persuasive advertising has a significant impact on the personality traits formation of the brand. However, it shows a variation of influence depending on the treatment of persuasive advertising and product type.

45 ref

009684   Lather A S;Abha Kumar (NO, University School of Management Studies, GGS Indraprastha University, New Delhi, Email: anusinghlather@gmail.com) : Perception of work culture and its impact on performance in DMRC. Indian J Market 2012, 42(8), 27-33.

Study was undertaken to examine the perception of work culture by managerial associates and its impact on performance in DMRC. A group of 199 associates belonging to top, middle, and lower levels served as a sample for the study. To attain the objectives of the study, Organizational Culture Survey, developed by Pareek (2001), Organizational Culture Questionnaire (Mathur, Khurana, and Parida,1990) and Performance scale (Lather and Jain,2008) were administered. Results indicated structure, exercise of authority and beliefs to be relatively strong dimensions of culture as perceived by the entire group of associates. Significant differences were also observed across three hierarchical levels in respect of different dimensions of work culture. Results further showed a significant effect of support, structure and individual responsibility on employee performance. Implications of findings of the study have been discussed.

15 ref

009683   Laldinliana (Commerce Dep, Mizoram University, Tanhril, Aizawal, Mizoram, Email: madinavarte@yahoo.co.in) : Consumer behaviour towards two wheelers and four wheelers: a study on rural and urban Mizoram. Indian J Market 2012, 42(10), 53-9.

Vehicles are identified as a means of logistic and conveyance, a dynamic of livelihood, and even an insignia of wealth and luxury. Whatever the perception be, vehicles, whether two-wheelers or four-wheelers, are expensive and need constant care and maintenance. Tries to study the factors considered in buying two-wheelers and four-wheelers in Mizoram, a remote and rugged State in the North East corner of India having a total road length of 4,046.37 kms, out of which 2,220.30 kms were surfaced road (Census of India, 2001) and only 18 petrol pumps all over the State (Economic and Statistics, 2008). Given the various infrastructural constraints and backwardness of the State, the study tries to identify which of the ancillary attributes play prominence in the buying behaviour of the rural and urban Mizoram consumers with respect to two-wheelers and four-wheelers.

18 ref

009682   Krishna Murthy I;Anupama T;Deeppa K (NO, University of Petroleum and Energy Studies, College of Management and, Dehradun, Uttarakhand, Email: kris0779@gmail.com) : Forecasting gold price using geometric random walk growth model. Indian J Finance 2012, 6(9), 36-44.

Gold price forecast is important to ascertain the performance of gold as a precious commodity in money and capital markets. Addresses the applicability of a geometric random walk model also known as ARIMA(0,1,0) with constant and log transformation as a forecasting tool and analyze the performance of forecast for a short-term and long term horizon. Findings suggest that use of a geometric random walk model to gold price data is valid and comparatively better than other regular ARIMA models. In the study, both in sample and out sample and combined sample forecasts were studied. A forecast for the short-range period is developed and validated through the measures of accuracy of the forecast.

12 ref

009681   Karamjeet Kaur (Commerce Dep, ASSM College, Mukandpur, Punjab, Email: ksandhu_75@redifmail.com) : Motivations of share buybacks in India. Indian J Finance 2012, 6(10), 26-31.

Majority of the studies on share buybacks have been undertaken in the developed countries, especially the U.S. As the Indian capital market has unique features, it is desirable to examine the motivations of Indian share buybacks. A total of 119 events of share buybacks were analyzed over a period of 2003 - 2010. Public announcements provided by the companies were studied to identify the major reasons provided by the companies for undertaking share buybacks. The results reveal that the main motivations for announcing share buy backs in India are: Improving financial performance and returning of surplus cash. There is no shift in motivations across time and methods.

10 ref

009680   Ingavale D;Thakar H M (Commerce and Management Dep, Shivaji University, Kolhapur, Maharashtra, Email: deepaingavale@yahoo.co.in) : Customer preferences for milk and milk products. Indian J Market 2012, 42(8), 19-26.

Dairying has become an important secondary source of income for millions of rural families and for millions more, it has assumed the most important role in providing employment and income. The per-capita availability of milk has also increased to a level of about 245 gms per day. With the increasing purchasing power of the urban middle class, value-added products occupy a key position in dairy products range. Not only increasing urbanization means greater consumerism, but with the rapid spread of the modern communication systems like television in the rural areas and ever increasing emphasis on advertisements, the consumption pattern for dairy products is rapidly changing all over the country. Highlights the study of changes in purchase decision of customers for milk and milk products from 1991 to 2006.

13 ref

009679   Gupta V K (Chambal Fertilisers and Chemicals Ltd., , Corporate One, 5 Commercial Centre Jasola, New Delhi-110 025) : Strategy for maximisation of fertiliser sales. Indian J Fertil 2011, 7(9), 62-7.

Marketing strategy for maximisation of fertiliser sales has to undergo a sea change in emerging fertiliser scenario. The fertiliser sales strategy in a free market economy will have to be reoriented to achive complete customer satisfaction. In this paper, various issues related to supply chain management (network issue, warehousing / handling), marketing mix (product, price offer/ incentives), distribution (inventory management, cost vs. lead), promotion (pull and push tactics, long term branding strategy, finance), etc. are discussed.

2 illus

009678   Gupta D;Mohanty R P (NO, Institute of Management and Information Science, Bhubaneswar, Odisha, Email: divya83_g@yahoo.com) : Factors affecting capital budgeting decisions: a structural equation modeling study. Indian J Finance 2012, 6(10), 18-25.

Purpose of the study is to validate the impact of various factors which influence the capital budgeting decisions taken by firms. Capital budgeting decisions use the structural equation modeling approach after undergoing factor analysis, which results in a better developed model after various rotations with different variables for arriving at the best fit structural model. The study is based on primary data. Using a sample size of 75 companies, and by categorizing the variables into four factors - Size, Risk, Social Cost Benefit Analysis (SCBA) and Trait, a regression analysis was conducted, which found that the first three factors (Size, Risk and SCBA) are significant and influence the decision of acceptance of the Type of Capital Budgeting Technique (TCBT) used by the companies.

33 ref

009677   Ghosh P K;Bose T K;Shahriar M (Business Administration Discipline, Khulna University, Khulna, Bangladesh, Email: pkghosh1982@gmail.com) : Constraints obstructing the smooth operation of the capital markets of Bangladesh and probable solutions to these constraints: an empirical study based on investors' perception. Indian J Finance 2012, 6(10), 39-53.

Study was directed towards finding out the problem areas which are causing problems in the capital markets of Bangladesh. The investigation of such problems has been done after collecting the opinions of the investors through structured interviews with a well-documented questionnaire. Retail investors reckon incorrect price manipulation, insider trading, weak framework and policies as the main problems obstructing the development of the capital markets. They also notified that improper dividend policy, wrong valuation or corruption in SEC/DSE have a significant impact on the fluctuations of the markets. The study also covered the responses of the investors regarding the probable solutions suggested by the experts of the security markets. The investors feel that to get a better environment in this market, the concerned authorities should exercise the demutualization process as soon as possible and stop the insider trading. Strong and effective legal framework, standard face value and market lot, balance between demand and supply, surveillance of the central bank, and a strong and effective legal framework are pertinent to solve the problems that plague the capital markets of Bangladesh.

13 ref

009676   Gangopadhyay S;Bandopadhyay P (NO, Durgapur Society of Management Science, Dr. Zakir Hussain Avenue, Hudco More, Bidhannagar, Dugrapur-713 206, Email: soumik74@gmail.com) : Hospital advertising: myth or reality?. Indian J Marketing 2012, 42(6), 47-52.

Hospital in the Indian scenario was a free service provided by the government. People received the service consistently through the traditional system, except in a few cases. As the sector is getting priority among the Indian people due to versatile reasons, hence, the business opportunity of the sector is also flourishing day by day. Unlike traditional businesses, today's hospitals are promoted as a business centre, which is accepted by the Indian society. Care for a patient is getting top priority. Hence, advertisements of hospitals are also changing their direction. Explains today's need of hospital advertisement and its modern forms.

32 ref

009675   Dwivedi H;Pareek R (NO, R.A. Poddar Institute of Management, Jaipur, Rajasthan, Email: harsh_dwivedi1@rediffmail.com) : Empirical study on critical success factors of six sigma with special reference to the banking sector. Indian J Market 2012, 42(8), 45-52.

On the basis of the characteristics of services in banking, implementing six-sigma has become a challenge in this financial area. Introduces the status of Six Sigma implementation in the banking sector in the past and present, and then overviewed some studies of implementing Six Sigma in service, especially in banking. There are some factors that influence the results of implementation, which we should take notice of, and also some limitations and new ways of implementing Six Sigma. To apply Six Sigma is not an easy job, and the measurement of service quality is not easy as that of the quality in manufacturing, so a choice of service quality models is quite important. The successful introduction of Six Sigma requires adjustments to the culture of the organization and a change in the mindset of its employees. Employees have to be motivated towards the introduction and development of Six Sigma program through various reward and recognition schemes. There can also be a problem of employees dismissing Six Sigma as the latest fad or hype.

9 ref

009674   Devi Prasad U;Madhavi S (Hyderabad Business School, GITAM University, Hyderabad, Email: prasad_vungarala@yahoo.co.in ) : Prediction of churn behaviour of bank customers using data mining tools. Indian J Market 2012, 42(9), 25-30.

The customer churn is a common measure of lost customers. By minimizing customer churn, a company can maximize its profits. Companies have recognized that existing customers are the most valuable assets. Customer retention is critical for a good marketing and a customer relationship management strategy. The prevention of customer churn through customer retention is a core issue of Customer Relationship Management (CRM). The paper presents churn prediction based on data mining tools in banking. In this paper, a study on modeling purchasing behavior of bank customers in Indian scenario has been attempted. A detailed scheme is worked out to convert raw customer data into meaningful and useful data that suits modeling buying behavior and in turn, converts this meaningful data into knowledge for which predictive data mining techniques are adopted. In this analysis, the researchers have experimented with 2 classification techniques namely CART, and C 5.0. The prediction success rate of Churn class by CART is quite high but C 5.0 had shown poor results in predicting churn customers. However, the prediction success rate of Active class by C 5.0 is more effective than the other technique. However, for reaping significant benefits, the models have predicted the churn behavior.

19 ref

009673   Dash D P;Akhtar S (NO, ICFAI University, Mizoram, Email: devidash1@gmail.com) : Trends, technology and addiction: an explorative study on cyber behavior of students. Indian J Market 2012, 42(10), 41-52.

Internet has revolutionized every sphere of our life. From the urgency of office cubicles to the comfort of our home recliners, people are living a substantial part of their everyday hours online. And now, with the emergence of portable devices such as smart phones, net-books and tablets, everyone is "connected", even while they are on the move. No doubt, the internet has opened up a whole big window of unlimited possibilities for everyone. From social networking to net-banking, it has, in many ways, made our life simpler, fancier and better. However, on the other hand, it has also caused serious concerns, and at times, has posed threats that tend to go beyond our ordinary control. Today, the students, especially the ones in their teens and early twenties have become the most vulnerable segment to fall on the wrong side of this revolutionary technology. Explores internet usage behaviour among a selected sample of college and school students from Lunglei town in Mizoram, and on the basis of the findings of the study, it draws suggestions for more healthy and productive use of the Internet.

19 ref

009672   Dahiya R H (NO, Agribusiness Management, Amity Business School, Jaipur, Rajasthan) : Information technology and rural marketing. Ann hort 2011, 4(2), 108-12.

Strengthening agriculture is critical for facing the challenges of rural poverty, food insecurity, unemployment, and sustainability of natural resources. Accessible, transparent and remunerative markets are necessary to raise incomes and improve livelihoods of the rural poor. In developing countries, agricultural markets rarely meet these needs. In today's business marketplace, effective use and flow of information is the key to success. The global revolution in information and telecommunication technologies has created an opportunity to remedy the situation and to assist livestock producers, development practitioners, researchers and policy makers to make informed decisions and identify appropriate choices and strategies to cope with and mitigate the effects engendered by constraints in the pastoral livestock sub-sector. Information Technology (IT) is a strategic in the successful deployment of new technologies and the international competitiveness of agricultural producers. The main purpose is determination the role of information technology in improvement of rural marketing in Iran. Various ICT tools and techniques have been explored to acquire market. These tools include: Word Wide Web, Mobile Phones and Word Space Satellite Radio. The combination of theses technologies affords a unique opportunity to overcome the challenges in the remote areas.

009671   Chetan K S (NO, Christ University, Bangalore, Email: chetan.ks@res.christuniversity.in) : Stock markets reaction to announcements of acquisitions by mid cap Indian IT companies. Indian J Finance 2012, 6(11), 16-25.

Analyses the stock market's reactions to announcements of acquisitions in the Indian mid cap IT sector by using the event window method in the framework of the semi- strong form of efficient markets. Looks into the question - that does the stock market react irrationally to announcements of acquisitions in the mid cap IT sector, as result of which, there could be abnormal returns for the investors. Mid cap stocks are not efficiency priced all around the world, and a number of papers have supported this statement. The traditional notion of efficient markets described in the academic finance literature is quite strong ,and probably, is unrealistic. Irregularities may well exist in the market and even persist for periods of time, and the markets, at times, can be influenced by fads and fashions. For the study, the researcher used a five-year period that is from 2005 to 2010 to select the sample for the study.

18 ref

009670   Chavda V (NO, NSVKMS MBA College, Sankalchand Patel Shakar Vidyadham, Gandhinagar, Ambaji Link Road, Visnagar-384 315, Email: chavdavirendra@gmail.com) : Role and effectiveness of celebrities in advertisements. Indian J Marketing 2012, 42(6), 23-36.

Celebrity's popularity in the masses turns out to be an important criteria in selling a particular product. It is more the trust and love for the celebrity than the quality or durability of a product to be sold. The celebrity endorsement influences the minds of the consumers. Consumers perceive the brand as having superior quality because it has been endorsed by a credible source; this makes endorsement as one of the indictors of quality for any brand. Thus, it is important to study the role of celebrities and their effectiveness in advertisements. Aims to ascertain the role of celebrities & measuring the celebrities' effectiveness for aspects such as image creation, attracting audience, surviving competition, overshadowing the product, etc.

19 ref

009669   Chandra H;Selvaraj A (Commerce Dep, PKR Arts College for Women, Gobichettipalayam, Erode, Tamil Nadu, Email: gobichandrapkr@gmail.com) : Working capital management in selected Indian steel companies. Indian J Finance 2012, 6(11), 5-15.

Working capital is the backbone of an organization. It refers to a portion of the total fund which finances the day to day working expenses during the operating cycle. Management of working capital is one of the most important functions of corporate management. It is rightly said, "Inadequate working capital is advantageous, whereas redundant working capital is a criminal waste". As a large manufacturing industry, working capital management in the steel industry involves a large portion of the company's total assets. The optimum working capital ensures the success of the business, while its inefficient management will lead to the down fall of the company. Analyses the working capital management of selected steel companies in India. Further, to measure the effective utilization of the working capital, Operating Cycle and Cash Conversion Cycle were used. To measure the determinants of Cash Conversion Cycle, the Kieschnick model has been used. Finally, it was concluded that the size of a company plays a vital role in determining the efficiency of its working capital management.

13 ref

009668   Biswas S (NO, CMC Ltd, CMC House, Kolkata, Email: supriya_biswas@hotmail.com) : Gender specific study on relative impact of convenience and non convenience factors on mobile users' brand switching in Kolkata. Indian J Market 2012, 42(10), 31-40.

Switching behavior, irrespective of the product and services is not uncommon in the present-day context, where loyalty has become uncertain. While the same applies in case of mobile users, causes could be varied and many of those have already been identified that contribute to such an act. What is not clearly explored is the gender-specific profile of this switching behavior in case of mobile users. Research focusing on business-to-business relationships is likely to be male dominated and deal with male-male relationships. As such, it may not apply equally to other types of relationships (female-male or female-female). Similarly, most research in consumer relationship marketing is based on theoretical frameworks developed in western cultures. It is quite possible that the benefits received, or their importance, in firm-consumer relationships may be very different when considered in other cultural contexts. The study fills a gap in the current thinking about how to identify the consumers who engage themselves in relational behavior by considering these missing links, particularly while viewed in the Indian context and subsequent identification of the key factors that drive the switching behavior. The study has been conducted with the following objective in focus, namely, identification of relative importance of key factors (convenience and other than convenience, i.e., Price, Service Provider's Indifference & nothing specific (clubbed together as `Other than Convenience') influencing the consumers into the act of switching the service provider, exploring how the switching behavior varies between the genders. The study was conducted during June - July 2010.

44 ref

009667   Bhaskaran M N;Subrahmanyam S V S (NO, Nagarjuna Fertilizers and Chemicals Ltd., Nagarjuna Hills, Hyderabad-500 082) : Marketing strategy for customised and innovative specialty fertilisers. Indian J Fertil 2011, 7(9), 70-6.

Fertiliser cons.umption in India is grossly imbalanced which limits the expression of yield potential and negatively impacts crop quality. Even if the advanced biotechnological techniques can deliver on their promise to increase crop yield through genetics and improve nutrient uptake efficiency, fertiliser is still crucial to avoid depletion of soil nutrients and ensure soil quality. In many areas improper and imbalanced fertilisation is root cause of poor crop yields and poor soil fertility status. Now the challenge is to enhance nutrient use efficiency (NUE), especially for major cropping systems like rice-wheat, maize-wheat, rice-rice demands immediate attention to correct the imbalances in nutrient consumptions to prevent further deterioration of soil quality and to break the yield barriers. One of the ways to increase NUE is to follow Fertilisers Best Management Practices (FBMP) which calls for the new products that provide customized fertiliser solutions and enhance the overall use efficiency of all the plant nutrients. In the paper an effort has been made to illustrate various marketing strategies to promote customized and innovative specialty fertilisers. As a part of offerings to customers"this paper also discusses about innovative concept of customized water soluble bio-fertiliser products (WSBF).

12 illus, 9 ref

009666   Baishya A K (Entrepreneurship Cell, Era Business School, Dwarka, New Delhi-110 077, Email: jaan_arup@yahoo.com) : Market response to deregulation of Swedish pharmacies: an empirical study on consumers' opinion in Stockholm city. Indian J Marketing 2012, 42(7), 45-53.

Swedish Government deregulated the pharmacy market in 2009, ending a four-decade long monopoly of the state-run Apoteket AB and opening the market for other competitors. This transition from monopoly to free market generated high level of expectations from consumers. In an attempt to shed light on the complex changes concomitant with the deregulation and to analyze the liberalized market, studies the public opinion on deregulation and consumers' expectations from the pharmacy market. The study found Swedish consumers to be overwhelmingly supportive of the deregulation, and they expected higher accessibility, better quality drugs and improved service level. Based on the results, suggestions have been made for increasing opening hours, process improvement using Six Sigma and designing a people focused marketing mix. Proposition for a new framework of customer service management (CSM), called "ICTAS Framework" is put forward for consideration.

6 ref

009665   Awakaje A G (NO, Institute of Resource Assessmet, Univesrity of Dar es Salaam, P.O. Box 35097, Tanzania, Email: amwakaje@udsm.ac.tz) : Coffee market liberalization and private sector performance in Tanzania. Indian J Marketing 2012, 42(6), 15-22.

In the traditional neo-classical view, a high market share usually implies market power and exploitation of consumers or producers. However, following high transaction cost of marketing in developing countries, concentrated markets can sometimes be seen as efficient outcomes of competitive behaviour. Analyzes the performance of coffee traders in Rungwe District Tanzania following market liberalization in 1994. The focus of the study was on market share, producer price and gross margins across the 11 coffee-buying companies which participated in the 2008/9 marketing season. Using Concentration ratio and Herfindal Index techniques, the results show a high market concentration suggesting that only few companies were controlling a large share of the coffee trade in the district. Nevertheless, there was no strong evidence to suggest that traders were exploiting farmers as companies' gross margins were modest and producer price increased as compared to the period before the market liberalization. High marketing costs resulting from expensive and time-consuming licensing procedures, poor transport infrastructure and low coffee production levels seem to erode most of the coffee profits in the district.

25 ref

009664   Almeida A (NO, Sri Sri Institute of Management Studies, St. Joaquim Road, Borda, Margo, Goa) : Role of children in the family decision making unit. Indian J Market 2012, 42(8), 53-62.

Family as a consuming and decision making unit is a central occurrence in marketing and consumer behaviour. Various studies show that out of all the family members, children have started to emerge as a growing influence on family purchase decisions in a variety of product ranges, not just products meant for them, but also those used by the entire family. Gone are the days when marketers would solely focus on the adults as targets to market their product. Children have been acknowledged as playing an important role within family purchase decisions, with their ability to directly and indirectly influence decisions. An attempt is made to have an understanding of the family as a decision making unit and understanding the role of children in a family decision making unit. It also looks at understanding the various influencing tactics used by children. Possible implications to marketers are also put forth. Gives an insight to researchers to conduct further research in this area.

18 ref

009663   Ajit S;Joseph Paul Raj V (St. Joseph's College of Engineering, , Chennai, Email: ajitsam@gmail.com) : Role of gender in consumers' response to fear appear advertisements. Indian J Market 2012, 42(9), 19-24.

In today's world, the dynamic nature of consumers, their needs and wants are reflected in their response to marketing stimuli usually done by advertising. There is a marked difference in the influence of males and females in decision making for buying goods and services. It is of utmost importance for the marketers to understand each and every customer's needs to achieve effectiveness of marketing activities. It is logical that each individual may have unique responses to different types of advertisements according to their characteristics, and they may react most positively when exposed to advertisements that match their personality. Fear appeal ads, as a tactic of persuasion, influence that attitude and behaviour of customers. The purpose of this study is to investigate whether gender influences the responses to fear appeal advertisements. The results of the study show that fear appeal advertisements are effective in changing the perception of respondents towards bad oral care. It was found that there was a significant difference in the perception of male and female respondents towards health and social consequences of bad oral care before and after watching the advertisements.

22 ref

009662   Ahmed A;Sureshramana M (Commerce & Management Dep, Sri Mahaveera College, Moodbidri, Karnataka, Email: ajazahmed.smc@gmail.com) : Impact of shopping malls on the unorganized retail sector: a case study of Mangalore region. Indian J Market 2012, 42(9), 31-40.

Retailing is the largest private industry in India and the second-largest employer after agriculture. Organized corporate retailing is poised to become the business of this decade in India. The unprecedented growth of corporate retailing and the entry of major foreign retail players in the Indian retail market has caused concern that the small and marginal unorganized retailers will be adversely affected. The review of literature revealed that there are several global and Indian studies, which clearly indicates that there is a significant impact of organized retailing on the unorganised sector. In the backdrop of this appalling situation, the present study was undertaken to examine and investigate the extent of impact, and more specifically; an empirical attempt was made to answer certain critical and analytical questions with respect to the extent of impact of shopping malls on the unorganized retail sector in Mangalore, Karnataka.

13 ref

009661   Agrawal P K;Pradeep Kumar;Gupta S (NO, Dewan Institute of Management Studies, NH-58 By-pass Road, Meerut, Uttar Pradesh, Email: directorprofessionaliimt@gmail.com) : Analysis of the relationship between brand loyalty and market share: a comparative study of durable and non - durable products in India. Indian J Marketing 2012, 42(6), 53-61.

Brand is any name, symbol, term, design or blend of any of them for the purpose of recognizing or identifying any goods or services of a service or product provider or a group of them, which can also help them in differentiating from all other brands which compete with them. Therefore, in short, a brand helps to recognize the manufacturer or it can be a seller. Till now, if you thought a brand to be only the name of a product or service, then surely you are missing an important concept. Vital challenges posed in front of branding is to improve the deep set of meanings for a brand. Well, the distinguishing factor of any marketer is to form, protect or augment a brand. The level of success of any brand lies in making a identifiable (it could be a consumer, as well as an industrial brand); it could be a person, a place, a product, or services. Branding is amplified in a way that the customer who buys this product or a consumer who will use this product would be satisfied by the product. If the product succeeds in providing utility over many years, then it extracts the advantage of familiarity and reliability. The added utility comes from the experience which the consumer has formed by using the product; and in the process, reliability, character formation, familiarity and risk reduction are also formed.

18 ref

008653   Thareja P;Gupta A;Garg M (NO, PEC University of Technology, Chandigarh, Email: prof.pthareja@yahoo.co.in) : Metrics and measures to job placement. Curr Trends Inf Technol 2012, 2(1), 26-38.

Successful job search procedure is marked by nearness to the dream job. This work elaborates the job navigation progression on basis of some experiments and studies. The most potent, elaborate with global reach, and efficient media to interface both job seekers and employers rides on internet. The work is attempted to serve the former and resolve problems. Some most experienced steps for searching jobs are detailed with. For more special fields, many search engines are also tabulated, showing their popularity with respect to use of various well known and available job search engines. Aim or working wise these are categorized. In the present work, job aspirants from a class of course MA-505 - Design of Experiments and Research Methodology at PEC University of Technology were surveyed, and the performance of popular search engines investigated vis-…-vis their expectations. Statistical monitoring of 15 options is attempted using t-test of significance so as to validate their utility. To (im)prove quality, some examples from different natures of jobs are taken and five queries on every topic are tested by executing on different search engines, and results verified by t-test. The most critical prerequisite for securing a dream job evolves identifying "the most appropriate job search engine."

5 illus, 2 tables, 13 ref

008652   Thareja P (NO, PEC Universty of Technology, Chandigarh) : Institutionalize quality to excellence in technical university. J Prod Res Mgmt 2012, 2(2), 14-29.

Case study of an institute upgrading to a Deemed University is analyzed in this work, and reported with more generic treatment. Though various initiatives reported have largely been a reactive response to the mandate of Deemed University framework, many situational corrections have been undertaken with strategically planned interventions firmly in place. Analysis of the case institute (name with-held because the institute remains in public (government) sector even after upgradation, and grant of autonomy), has been prescriptively built around the Joseph Juran quality model. The circumscribing objective of this work is to count how quality may be institutionalized in an academic setup. Cognizance is driven from AUM model - the acronym meaning as Alignment, Utilization and Metamorphosis, to elucidate the hierarchical progression of learner for excellent performance. Need of inculcating excellence is emphasized in this work.

4 illus, 33 ref

008651   Srivastava S;Sharma A (NO, College of Management, Shri Mata Vaishno Devi University, Katra, Jammu and Kashmir) : Value stream mapping - a strategic tool for managing waste in small and medium enterprises. J Prod Res Mgmt 2012, 2(1), 36-45.

Study is based upon the application of Value Stream Mapping (VSM) in small and medium enterprises and its effectiveness in minimizing the waste in these organizations. It brings out that the concept of lean organization is the major requirement of small and medium enterprises. The lean organizations need to deal with various kinds of wastages. Each and every type of wastage has its own limitations and thus unique solution for management. Attempts to find out the outlook of some of the production managers, workers and promoters to analyze the waste management techniques with their respective perspective. It brings out the identification of various kinds of wastages that are of prime concern in small and medium enterprises and the priority of tools that can be applied to manage these kinds of wastages with the application of Value Stream Mapping in the management of wastages. With an applied methodology, the study deals with the theoretical perspective and the management of wastages in inbound, outbound and process of small and medium enterprises. The study is an outcome of the application of Value Stream Mapping over three medium enterprises.

1 illus, 5 tables, 21 ref

008650   Sharma A;Sharma S (Faculty of Management Studies, Mody Institute of Technology and Science, Lakshmangarh, Sikar, Rajasthan, Email: achisharma02@gmail.com) : Customer perception on the acceptance and performance of internet banking in Public Sector Banks. J Prod Res Mgmt 2012, 2(1), 13-29.

Internet Banking is one of the most promising areas in which today's banks deal with. They provide easy and simple method to the customers for various financial transactions without any hurdles. The advanced information technology provides full support to the banks for serving their customers. The acceptance of Internet banking has increased gradually and has attracted more and more customers towards banks. The performance can be one criterion on which the acceptance of Internet banking can be judged. Performance is a complex word which itself contains a number of factors which cover all the issues of Internet banking. It can be measured on different factors such as usage, working, security, easiness, simplicity and many more. Explores some major factors responsible for Internet banking based on respondents' perception of various activities of Internet, on the basis of which we can measure the level of customer satisfaction.

^iia4 tables, 17 ref

008649   Nair S R;Ndubisi N O (School of Business, Monash Univ, Jalan Lagoon Salatan, 46150 Bandar Sunway Selangor, Malaysia) : Stakeholdr influences on environmental marketing. J Mgmt Res 2011, 11(2), 67-76.

This paper tries to identify the relative importance and the degree of influence that the stakeholders of an organization exert on its environmental marketing practices. Stakeholders are classified into three groups based on their relative importance. Differentiated strategies are proposed to connect with each group of stakeholders.

28 ref

008648   Muzir E (Yildiz Technical Univ, School of Vocational Studies, Istanbul-34300, Turkey) : Triangle relationship among firm size, capital structure choice and financial performance: some evidence from Turkey. J Mgmt Res 2011, 11(2), 87-98.

This paper is prepared to examine and test the relationships among firm size, capital structure, and financial performance providing evidence from Turkey. It is also aimed to argue the validity of three major capital structure theories - Irrelevance Theorem, Static Trade-Off Theory, and Pecking Order Theory - on a comparative basis. A data set of the financial statements for at least five years between 1994 - 2003, of 114 firms listed at the Istanbul Stock Exchange is used in modeling insolvency risk based on specific financial ratios through a binary logistic regression analysis. The results present some robust evidence suggesting that the effect of firm size on financial performance and sustainability may differ according to the way how size expansion is financed. Any asset expansion financed with debt has proved to increase risk exposure especially during economic downturns, which favors the Static Tradeoff Theory over the others.

5 tables, 19 ref

008647   Muzamil Naqshbandi M;Sharan Kaur (Business Strategy and Policy Dep, Malaya Univ, Kuala Lumpur-50603, Malaysia) : Relative capacity dimensions and open innovation. J Mgmt Res 2011, 11(2), 77-86.

Rapid technological advances and pressures of globalization have necessitated not only creation of innovation but faster innovation to gain or sustain competitive advantage. Open innovation paradigm answers this need by utilizing larger resources and expertise that firms involved in the open innovation process offer. The creation of open innovation, among other factors, depends on relative capacity, a firm's ability to retain knowledge outside its boundaries in the inter-firm relations. This conceptual paper first examines relative capacity and proposes its dimensions - realized and potential capacities. Secondly, the relation between relative capacity and creation of open innovation is addressed and how this relation can be affected by different external factors like regimes of appropriability and complementary assets is also discussed. Propositions are developed, managerial implications underscored and future research directions highlighted.

1 illus, 47 ref

008646   May-Chiun L;Ramayah T (Faculty of Economics and Business, Malaysia Sarawak Univ, 94300 Sarawak) : Multi-dimensional nature of power bases in a non-western context the case of Malaysia. J Mgmt Res 2011, 11(2), 99-111.

Past researches have observed a shift in the dimensions of power bases behavior. Power bases possessed by the managers have often been known as the essence of leaders' behavior which is the major driving force behind this continuous recognition of power in the management literatures. The purpose of the research reported here is to test empirically and to validate a conceptualization of bases of power that consists of five dimensions developed by French and Raven (1 959). Data was gathered through a survey using a structured questionnaire to employees working in 61 large manufacturing companies in Malaysia with a total of 276 respondents. A series of tests such as factor analysis, correlation, and reliability analysis was conducted to confirm that the instrument is valid (content, construct, convergent, discriminant and nomological) as well as reliable. Implications regarding the value of conducting validity and reliability test for practitioners and researchers are discussed.

6 tables, 79 ref

008645   Bhanu S (Credit Suisse Business Analytics, Hiranandani Business Park, Mumbai-400 076) : Effect of pay satisfaction in information technology enabled sector in India. J Mgmt Res 2011, 11(2), 112-28.

This paper explores the relevance of pay satisfaction in generating desired organizational outcomes among the technically qualified workforce in the Indian IT and IT enabled sector and the relationship between social communications as a means of pay comparison affecting pay satisfaction. The results of the study suggest that a strong relationship exists between pay satisfaction and social comparison. However, its strength varies at different levels of hierarchy. The study also explores the various mechanisms of social comparison namely social contact and task interdependence and finds out that both the factors weakly influence pay satisfaction.

6 tables, 52 ref

007597   Jain V;Kiran R (School of Management and Social Sciences, Thapar Univ, Patiala, Punjab-147 004, Email: rkiran@thapar.edu) : Technology management strategies and small and medium enterprises of Punjab manufacturing: a use-based sector analysis. J Intellect Prop Right 2012, 17(1), 64-72.

The present study tries to explore the factors that influence the growth, performance, and development of IPR attitude of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the manufacturing sector of Punjab. The aim of the present research is to examine the technology management strategies of manufacturing SMEs, primarily on the basis of use-based classification. The study is within a single region, namely, Punjab in North India, to minimize the effects of regional variation and to concentrate on this region in need of adoption of emerging technology management strategies in view of increased competition. The liberalization of the Indian economy has opened new opportunities for the manufacturing sector. The success of SMEs is widely dependent on innovations, research and development and intellectual property. It is critical not only to remain competitive but also, to gain significant advantages by developing and commercializing new technologies. In the use-based classification, three categories, namely, durable, non-durable and essential goods have been included. The results indicate that manufacturing SMEs are not active filers of IPRs and mostly file trademarks. Patent filing has been reported by firms in essential goods segment, basically in food and pharmaceutical sector. In order to enhance the IPR environment, the 'policy initiatives' factor is more important than the organizational factor.

1 illus, 5 tables, 45 ref

006573   Senthilkumar S;Ramprabhu R;Serma Saravana Pandian A (NO, Veterinary Training and Research Centre Univ, Parakkai-629 601, Email: usveteng@gmail.com) : Small ruminant marketing practices in southern Tamil Nadu: a case study. Indian J Small Rumin 2012, 18(1), 129-31.

A study was carried out to analyze the marketing practices of small ruminants in Tirunelveli district Tamil Nadu. It was observed that majority of farmers preferred to sell animals in their own villages itself to reap the benefits of negotiation. The modes of transportation of sheep and goats to bring them to the market were mainly jeep/truck (32.7% in livestock market-l and 35.4% at market-ll), followed by through walking and by autorickshaws. The main reasons for selling the animal was urgent need of money (marked by 52.73 and 58.46%), fodder scarcity (21.82%) and fear about sickness. The most common criterion used by respondents for selling of animals was based on muscle thickness at loin and thigh region (70.91 and 81.54% in livestock market-l and market-ll, respectively). In most of the cases trading was based on muscle thickness of animals at loin and thigh region. It was observed that 50 to 60% of respondents sold male kids below 6 months of age.

1 table, 6 ref

006572   Padmini Devi G;Reddy R;Venugopal Reddy C (Agricultural Extension Dep, Acharya N.G. Ranga Agricultural Univ, Rajendranagar, Hyderabad-500 030) : Enterprises taken up by the women entrepreneurs in Ranga Reddy, Chittoor and Guntur district of Andhra Pradesh. J Res-ANGRAU 2011, 39(1-2), 74-8.

4 tables, ref

005520   Yeledhalli R A;Patil P H;Patil C;Naik V R (Agribusiness Management Dep, U.A.S., Dharwad-580 005, Email: rayeladhalli@gmail.com) : Changing direction and magnitude of India's major fruit export to middle east countries. Int J agric statist Sci 2012, 8(2), 651-8.

The study was undertaken on a macro framework based on secondary data on various aspects of international trade among Middle East countries. Many agricultural commodities are commonly exported from India to Middle East countries. The yearly data on export quantity and value have been compiled for the period of 18 years (1993-94 to2009-10). The study revealed that compound annual growth rate of export quantity of mango, grapes and pomegranate to Oman was significant while export of sapota was non-significant. U.A.E. has most stable market for fruits such as mango, grapes, pomegranate and sapota as reflected by high retention probabilities of 96.13,93.62,90.46 and 44.89 per cent, respectively among the Middle East countries.

8 tables, 6 ref

005519   Venkateswaran K;Rajendran G (Management Studies Dep, Anna Univ, Chennai-600 025, Email: prof.venkateswaran@gmail.com) : Indian floriculture export performance after the trade reforms. Int J agric statist Sci 2012, 8(2), 561-71.

Transformations are inevitable in the economy of any country. After the Indian trade policy reforms since July 1991, floriculture has become one of the important commercial activities in Indian agriculture. It has evolved with a potential to generate alternate income to farmers and sustain their livelihood. Though the world floriculture industry is growing considerably, the challenges to Indian floriculture industry is quite substantial and unique. However, the scope of the article is limited to examining the export performance of Indian floriculture products using Export Index of Revealed Comparative Advantage (XRCA), Export Revealed Symmetric Comparative Advantage (XRSCA) Index and Double Relative Measure (DR_ij) of Trade Intensity Index as well as identifying the key important countries for Indian floriculture export. The result of the analysis reveals that India has comparative disadvantage in the floriculture exports due to unique set of challenges. The article is concluded with probable strategies to overcome these challenges.

1 illus, 5 tables, 9 ref

005518   Khuntia D K (NO, Xavier Institute of Management, Bhubaneswar (XIMB), Orissa) : Motivation: the essence of library management. Pearl 2010, 4(4), 232-7.

Key aspect of successful Library Management, "motivation" is a powerful force that can maximize productivity, boost employee enthusiasm and foster a positive corporate culture. Effective Library managers understand it as a dynamic and ongoing process. It makes a difference to results, but just saying or believing this does not guarantee that it will be done; In this regard, this paper is a theoretical analysis of Motivation which is essential in Library and information centers. This paper explains application of motivation theories for the development of human resources in Libraries. Suggestions have been made for different steps to motivate staff in the libraries, in today's modern and rapidly changing context.

14 ref

005517   Bulajic M;Knezevic S;Jerermic V K; Zarkic-Joksimovic N (Faculty of Organizational Sciences, Belgrade Univ, Serbia Jove Ilica 154, Belgrade 11000, Serbia, Email: jeremicv@fon.rs) : Towards a framework for evaluating bank efficiency. Int J agric statist Sci 2012, 8(2), 377-84.

Banks play a vital role in a country's economy and the evaluation of their overall performance is crucial. Over the last ten years, the banking sector in Serbia has experienced a period of turbulence, changes in its ownership structure caused by privatization, organizational structure changes inside bank institutions themselves and changes due to legal requirements. With all of these structural fluctuations, it is essential for banks to maintain and improve their efficiency. Although this issue has been frequently elaborated on in numerous papers, no standard method for evaluating efficiency has been yet agreed upon. Therein, in this paper, a new approach based on the statistical Distance Based Analysis approach shall be presented.

3 tables, 27 ref

003355   Vijayalakshmi K (NO, St. Xaviers R.G. College, Hyderabad 46, Andhra Pradesh) : Satisfaction with work life balance: a study of women police personnel in Hyderabad. Prabandhan: Indian J Mgmt 2012, 5(8), 4-10.

This paper studies the WLB satisfaction of female police personnel who work at irregular hours in the midst of their domestic caring responsibilities by focusing on their perceptions of work responsibilities, their domestic caring responsibilities and their perception of work-life balance satisfaction. It was based on the structured survey through a questionnaire, with women police who work in Hyderabad police stations. The Findings suggest a need for change both in organizational and work policies for female police in Hyderabad.

15 ref

003354   Tersmeden K;Pandit V (Technical Marketing, Tube Div, AB Sandvik Materials Technology, Sweden) : High-performance stainless steel for longer service life in nitric acid plants. Indian J Fertil 2011, 7(12), 50-3.

In Nitric acid plants, steel type AISI 304L performs well in contact with 65% acid upto about 100°C, but at higher temperatures a more corrosion resistant alloy should be used. This paper provides an update on the use of Sandvik stainless steel grade 2RE10, including an overview of corrosion properties and welding aspects. For nitric acid production process today, Sandvik 2RE10 has shown to be the best performing stainless steel in medium nitric acid concentrations (around 65%). By selecting a higher alloyed steel grade, corrosion problems can be avoided many years giving economical advantages in a longer perspective, Sandvik 2RE10 is specially suitable for cooler/ condenser and tail gas preheatrs. Tubes of 304L can be replaced with new material retaining the same tubesheet.

5 illus, 3 ref

003353   Tarakesewara Rao S;Tulasi Rao G;Suri Ganesh M P (Commerce & Management Studies Dep, Dr. B.R. Ambedkar University, Srikakulam, Andhra Pradesh, Email: taraksivvala@gmail.com) : Management of micro-enterprises : a study on performance of micro-enterprises in Srikakulam district, Andhra Pradesh. Prabandhan: Indian J Mgmt 2012, 5(7), 35-42.

The Government of India ushered in the new millennium by declaring the year 2001 as 'Women's Empowerment Year' to focus on a vision 'where women are equal partners like men'. The most common explanation of 'women's empowerment' is the ability to exercise full control over one's actions. The last decades have witnessed some basic changes in the status and role of women in our society. There has been a shift in policy approaches from the concept of 'welfare' in the seventies to 'development' in the eighties and now to 'empowerment' in the nineties. This process has been further accelerated with some sections of women becoming increasingly self-conscious of their discrimination in several areas of family and public life. They are also in a position to mobilize themselves on issues that can affect their overall position.

22 ref