Editorial

The landscape of business research is undergoing a profound transformation. Once anchored primarily in questions of efficiency, profitability, and market expansion, contemporary inquiry is increasingly shaped by a more complex mandate—ESG concerns and financial viability, green human resource management, generation Z discretions and the rapidly evolving gig economy. As we present the 11th issue of the journal, it is timely to reflect on how the priorities, methods, and responsibilities of business research are evolving in response to a rapidly changing global environment. Importantly, the methodological landscape of business research is also evolving. The increasing availability of granular data, combined with advances in analytical tools, allows for more sophisticated and evidence-based insights. However, this also necessitates a critical examination of data quality, representativeness, and ethical use. Qualitative approaches, case-based studies, and participatory research methods remain equally vital, particularly when exploring context-specific phenomena in diverse socio-economic settings. This journal issue brings together contributions that reflect evolving priorities. From studies on Environmental, Social, and Governance to sustainability in gig economy the articles collectively underscore the multidimensional nature of contemporary business research.

Soumili Bishnu and Dr. Gangotree Ghosh examined the key barriers affecting the implementation of GHRM practices in pharmaceutical companies operating in Sikkim. They found that the effective implementation of Green Human Resource Management practices in pharmaceutical companies is constrained by multiple interrelated barriers rooted from lack of top management commitment, inadequate green training and awareness, absence of formal and well-defined GHRM policies and financial constraints,

Trikal Kumar Paul and Dr. Soumitra found that Business Responsibility and Sustainability Reports (BRSRs), annual reports, and other similar reports had conflicts of information from the same company in the same year and arose primarily due to the difference in how companies report on a mandatory framework such as the BRSR and how they report on voluntary reports. They found that private banks have stated ESG issues more frequently than PSU banks. This is in conjunction with the results which exhibit no differences in the proportions across clusters of material ESG topics.

Tsering Wangyal and Dr. Abhijeet Bag emphasized that energy is responsible for the majority of climate change-causing greenhouse gas emissions, mostly from the burning of fossil fuels. India stands 3rd in global ranking in emission of CO2 gases from fuel combustion [IEA]. They have explored the influence of CSR together with company financial performance on its future growth and to know the overall impact on ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) score of the energy
sector in India.

Risha Chettri and Sagar Sharma found that influencer marketing significantly affects Gen Z’s purchase intention. Trustworthiness, transparency in sponsored content, and alignment between influencer values and brand identity were found to be strong predictors of purchase intention. Influencer expertise, particularly in product categories such as technology, beauty, fashion, and fitness, positively influenced consumer decisions. While physical attractiveness had some impact, it was less influential compared to trust and expertise. Additionally, parasocial interaction was found to mediate the relationship between influencer marketing and purchase intention, highlighting the importance of emotional connection and longterm
engagement.

Dr. Tapash Ranjan Saha and Dr. Sandip Nandi found that the gig economy can contribute to inclusive growth and environmental efficiency, but it has to be sustained by favorable regulatory frameworks, responsible governance of the platforms, and the incorporation of social protection systems. They suggest an inclusive approach for sustainability in the gig economy and achieve balanced and robust platform-based working ecosystems.

Dr. Saraswati Lama meticulously reviewed the book Agency Banking in India-Operations, Viability and Impact written by Dr. Pintu Prasad Jaiswal & Prof. Samirendra Nath Dhar

As editors, we strive to ensure that the future of business research lies in its ability to remain relevant, responsible, and responsive. We encourage the contributors to address the real-world challenges faced by businesses and societies and be relevant. As for as possible we advise the contributors to adhere to ethical standards and a commitment to societal well-being. We hope that the journal will be useful for all category of users in carrying out business and environmental research.

Prof. Samirendra Nath Dhar
Chief Editor