Daily Archives: October 17, 2025

Authors: Arun Prabhu S, Dr. chetan V Hiremath

Abstract: Kerala, known as the “Spice Garden of India,” plays a vital role in India’s spice trade, with Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) forming the backbone of the sector. However, these SMEs face significant sustainability challenges due to climate variability, market volatility, certification hurdles, and infrastructural limitations. This study aims to analyze the key risk factors affecting the supply chains of Kerala’s spice SMEs and their impact on sustainable supply chain performance (SSCP). Using a structured questionnaire and descriptive analysis, the study identifies five major risk dimensions—climate and environmental risks, market price volatility, certification and regulatory compliance, financial constraints, and logistics and infrastructure gaps. Findings reveal that climate and environmental risks and price volatility negatively influence SSCP, while certification and compliance contribute positively. Financial and infrastructural challenges show limited but notable effects on resilience. The study concludes that effective risk management, improved access to finance, climate adaptation training, and sustainable practice adoption are essential for enhancing supply chain resilience and competitiveness. Recommendations include establishing price stabilization mechanisms, upgrading infrastructure, and promoting sustainability certifications. The research offers valuable insights for policymakers and SMEs to strengthen Kerala’s spice supply chain against sustainability risks.

Published by: vikaspatanker

Authors: NahulRaj.K

Abstract: The study titled “A Study on Quality Management Practices in Small-Scale Manufacturing Units in Karur, Tamil Nadu” aims to examine the extent of adoption, challenges, and impact of quality management practices (QMPs) in the region’s manufacturing sector. Small-scale industries (SSIs) play a vital role in Karur’s industrial landscape, particularly in textile and allied manufacturing, contributing significantly to local employment and exports. However, these units often face barriers in implementing structured quality systems due to constraints such as limited financial resources, lack of technical expertise, and inadequate awareness.This research investigates the various quality management tools and practices adopted by SSIs, including Total Quality Management (TQM), ISO certification, and continuous improvement initiatives. It also analyses the challenges faced in implementing these systems and evaluates their influence on business performance indicators such as customer satisfaction, productivity, competitiveness, and profitability. The findings reveal that while awareness of quality management practices is increasing, the degree of implementation remains moderate due to cost and resource limitations. Units that have adopted structured QMPs report noticeable improvements in product quality and customer satisfaction. The study concludes that fostering government support, providing technical training, and promoting awareness can significantly enhance the quality performance of small-scale manufacturing units in Karur

Published by: vikaspatanker

Authors: Koushal.M

Abstract: The outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic brought severe disruptions to global and local supply chains, impacting production, labour, transportation, and market dynamics across various sectors. The tea industry, a vital component of Tamil Nadu’s agricultural economy, was particularly affected due to its heavy reliance on manual labor and complex distribution networks. This study investigates the post-pandemic supply chain challenges faced by tea estates in Tamil Nadu, focusing on major tea-producing regions such as the Nilgiris, Coimbatore, and Anamalai Hills. The research aims to identify key factors influencing supply chain resilience and sustainability after the pandemic. Primary data were collected through structured questionnaires from 160 respondents, including estate managers, supervisors, and supply chain personnel. The study examines the role of technology adoption, supplier relationships, workforce flexibility, risk management practices, and market access in strengthening supply chain resilience. The collected data were analysed using SmartPLS (Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modelling) to validate the conceptual model and assess the significance of hypothesised relationships. The model demonstrated a good fit (SRMR = 0.047, NFI = 0.868), confirming the reliability of the proposed framework. The findings revealed that all five independent variables have a positive and significant impact on supply chain resilience, indicating that digital transformation, strong supplier networks, flexible labor practices, and proactive risk management collectively enhance post-pandemic recovery. This study contributes to the limited literature on supply chain resilience in the Indian plantation sector and provides practical insights for tea estate managers and policymakers. It emphasises the need for modernising the supply chain through technology integration, digital forecasting tools, and workforce development to ensure long-term competitiveness and sustainability.

Published by: vikaspatanker