Ekta Selarka | Economics | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Ekta Selarka | Economics | Best Researcher Award

👤 Dr. Ekta Selarka, Madras School of Economics, India

Dr. Ekta Selarka is an accomplished academic and researcher in the field of economics, with a focus on corporate governance, financial economics, and gender diversity. Currently an Associate Professor at Madras School of Economics, Chennai, Dr. Selarka has built a robust career, having previously held academic and research roles at esteemed institutions such as the Indira Gandhi Institute of Development Research and Amrita School of Business. She holds a Ph.D. from IGIDR, Mumbai, with her dissertation centered on corporate governance in India. Over the years, Dr. Selarka has earned recognition for her contributions to economic research, publishing extensively in renowned journals and books. Her expertise includes applied corporate finance, firm performance, and banking misallocation. She is also deeply involved in various academic services, serving on editorial boards and doctoral committees. Dr. Selarka is passionate about mentoring students and advancing research in the field of economics.

Professional Profile 

Scopus

🌟 Summary of Suitability for the “Research for Best Researcher Award”

Dr. Ekta Selarka demonstrates strong qualifications for the Research for Best Researcher Award through her extensive academic background, diverse research portfolio, and significant contributions to her field. With a Ph.D. from the Indira Gandhi Institute of Development Research (IGIDR) in Mumbai, her dissertation on corporate governance in India laid the foundation for her research focus on critical topics such as corporate governance, gender diversity in corporate boards, corporate social responsibility, and the banking sector.

Her professional trajectory showcases both depth and breadth. As an Associate Professor at the Madras School of Economics, she has successfully combined teaching, research, and academic service. Her roles as an academic council member, seminar coordinator, and doctoral committee advisor demonstrate her commitment to advancing institutional and academic excellence.

🎓  Education 

Dr. Ekta Selarka holds a Ph.D. in Economics from the prestigious Indira Gandhi Institute of Development Research (IGIDR), Mumbai, completed in 2008. Her doctoral dissertation, “Essays on Corporate Governance in India,” was supervised by Professor Subrata Sarkar. Dr. Selarka also earned her Bachelor of Engineering (B.E.) in Electrical Engineering from Bhilai Institute of Technology in 2000. Throughout her educational journey, she has developed expertise in the intersections of corporate governance, finance, and economics. Her academic foundation has been further strengthened through various fellowships and research grants, including the Indian Council of Social Science Research (ICSSR) and Endeavour Executive Fellowship. Her academic endeavors are deeply rooted in empirical research and data analysis, which she combines with her teaching and outreach activities. Dr. Selarka’s education not only defines her research expertise but also underpins her ability to contribute meaningfully to discussions on corporate governance, sustainability, and gender diversity in economics.

💼 Professional Experience

Dr. Ekta Selarka is currently serving as an Associate Professor at Madras School of Economics (MSE), Chennai, a position she has held since December 2017. Prior to her current role, she was an Assistant Professor at MSE from April 2011 to November 2017. She has also contributed as a Visiting Faculty at the Amrita School of Business, Coimbatore, and worked as a Research Economist at IGIDR, Mumbai, where she developed her expertise in corporate governance and applied finance. In addition to her academic roles, Dr. Selarka has gained industry experience as a Business Analyst at GE Capital International Services Ltd. Her diverse experience includes teaching courses such as Behavioral Finance, Financial Economics, and Corporate Finance, as well as conducting workshops and online lectures on research methods, corporate governance, and gender diversity. Dr. Selarka is also involved in various academic services, further advancing her professional portfolio.

🏅Awards and Recognition 

Dr. Ekta Selarka has received numerous prestigious awards and fellowships in recognition of her contributions to the field of economics. She was awarded the Indian Council of Social Science Research (ICSSR) grant for the period 2018–2020, following a similar grant for 2013–2015. In 2018, Dr. Selarka was honored with the Endeavour Executive Fellowship in Australia. She has also received the UK-India Education and Research Initiative (UKIERI) fellowship (2013–2015) and a Doctoral Student Fellowship from the Reserve Bank of India (2000–2004). Her academic accomplishments are further reflected in her 3rd rank achievement at Pandit Ravishankar University in 2000. Dr. Selarka’s work on corporate governance, financial economics, and sustainability has earned her recognition within both academic and policy-making circles. She continues to be a sought-after speaker at international conferences, sharing her insights into economic theory and practice, especially in emerging markets.

🌍 Research Skills On Economics

Dr. Ekta Selarka’s research skills encompass a wide range of quantitative and qualitative methodologies that have been honed through years of academic and industry experience. She specializes in empirical research, with a particular focus on corporate governance, applied corporate finance, and firm performance. Her skills in econometric analysis, statistical modeling, and financial data interpretation enable her to address complex economic issues, particularly in emerging markets. Dr. Selarka is proficient in various programming languages and statistical tools, including Excel, SAS, and Matlab, which are integral to her research. She has extensive experience in panel data analysis, event study methodologies, and structural equation modeling, all of which contribute to her work on topics such as gender diversity, CSR, and banking misallocation. Her interdisciplinary approach, combining finance, economics, and governance, positions her as a leading researcher in the field of corporate governance and financial economics.

đź“– Publication Top Notes

How Effective are Stock Market Reforms in Emerging Market Economies? Evidence from a Panel VAR Model of the Indian Stock Market
    • Authors: S.K. Bhaumik, M. Chakrabarty, A.M. Kutan, E. Selarka
    • Citation Count: 1
    • Year: 2021
    • Journal: Journal of Quantitative Economics (Vol. 19, Issue 4, pp. 795–818)
Women on board and performance of family firms: Evidence from India
    • Authors: J. Sarkar, E. Selarka
    • Citation Count: 40
    • Year: 2021
    • Journal: Emerging Markets Review (Vol. 46, Article 100770)
Corporate borrowing exuberance and credit cycles- some insights from an emerging economy, India
    • Authors: S. Bhaduri, E. Selarka
    • Citation Count: 0
    • Year: 2021
    • Journal: Macroeconomics and Finance in Emerging Market Economies (Vol. 14, Issue 2, pp. 180–199)
Corporate Social Responsibility Around the World—An Overview of Theoretical Framework, and Evolution
    • Authors: S.N. Bhaduri, E. Selarka
    • Citation Count: 9
    • Year: 2016
    • Book: CSR, Sustainability, Ethics and Governance (pp. 11–32)
Corporate Governance and Corporate Social Responsibility—Introduction
    • Authors: S.N. Bhaduri, E. Selarka
    • Citation Count: 11
    • Year: 2016
    • Book: CSR, Sustainability, Ethics and Governance (pp. 1–10)
Corporate Social Responsibility in India: Evolution and Progress of CSR and Regulations
    • Authors: S.N. Bhaduri, E. Selarka
    • Citation Count: 0
    • Year: 2016
    • Book: CSR, Sustainability, Ethics and Governance (pp. 43–60)
Corporate Social Responsibility—Guidelines and Best Practices
    • Authors: S.N. Bhaduri, E. Selarka
    • Citation Count: 1
    • Year: 2016
    • Book: CSR, Sustainability, Ethics and Governance (pp. 33–42)
Impact of Corporate Governance on Corporate Social Responsibility in India—Empirical Analysis
    • Authors: S.N. Bhaduri, E. Selarka
    • Citation Count: 5
    • Year: 2016
    • Book: CSR, Sustainability, Ethics and Governance (pp. 87–113)
Impact of Corporate Governance on Corporate Social Responsibility: An Empirical Exploration Using Structural Equation Technique
    • Authors: S.N. Bhaduri, E. Selarka
    • Citation Count: 1
    • Year: 2016
    • Book: CSR, Sustainability, Ethics and Governance (pp. 115–125)
CSR Activities in Large Indian Firms—Descriptive Statistics
    • Authors: S.N. Bhaduri, E. Selarka
    • Citation Count: 2
    • Year: 2016
    • Book: CSR, Sustainability, Ethics and Governance (pp. 73–86)

Halima Begum | Economics | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Halima Begum | Economics | Best Researcher Award

👤  Dr. Halima Begum, University Utara Malaysia, Malaysia

Dr. Halima Begum is a distinguished economist and sustainability expert with extensive global experience. Currently serving as an International Research Fellow at the National Bureau of Economic Research and a Visiting Researcher at the Centre for European Economy, she integrates innovative methodologies with strategic insights to achieve sustainable financial and environmental outcomes. Her contributions span academic teaching, project management, and international research collaborations, with her focus on financial sustainability, economic development, and climate resilience. A prolific author, Dr. Begum has published extensively in Scopus and ISI-indexed journals, with over 1,470 citations and an impressive h-index of 17. Her scholarly pursuits are complemented by leadership roles in various sustainability-focused organizations worldwide, where she fosters interdisciplinary partnerships and capacity-building initiatives. Driven by a commitment to impactful research and education, Dr. Begum continues to lead groundbreaking projects that bridge academia and practice.

Professional Profile

Scopus

Orcid

Google Scholar

🌟 Evaluation of Dr. Halima Begum’s Suitability for the “Research for Best Researcher Award”

Summary of Suitability

Dr. Halima Begum demonstrates exceptional qualifications for the “Research for Best Researcher Award” through her extensive academic achievements, prolific research contributions, and diverse international affiliations. Her academic journey, including a PhD in Environmental Management (Financial Sustainability) from the National University of Malaysia, is marked by excellence, supported by numerous merit-based scholarships and accolades. Her research output is substantial, with 130 publications spanning journal articles, book chapters, and conference proceedings, many of which are indexed in prestigious databases such as ISI and Scopus. She has a notable H-index of 17 and over 1,470 citations, underscoring the impact and relevance of her research.

Dr. Begum’s contributions to sustainability and financial sustainability, particularly in the palm oil milling sector, align well with global priorities in environmental management. She has played pivotal roles in international research collaborations, including her affiliations with esteemed organizations such as the National Bureau of Economic Research (NBER).

🎓 Education 

Dr. Halima Begum holds a PhD in Environmental Management (Financial Sustainability) from the National University of Malaysia, where she earned top distinctions, including an “A” grade in all courses. Her doctoral research, focused on sustainability practices in Malaysia’s palm oil milling sector, exemplifies her dedication to addressing complex global challenges. She completed her MBA in Finance and Banking at the International Islamic University Chittagong, securing a first-class standing and a merit-based scholarship. Prior to that, she earned a BBA in Finance and Banking from the same university, achieving another first-class ranking. Additionally, Dr. Begum has enriched her expertise through specialized training at institutions such as the United Nations University in Japan and Johns Hopkins University, covering climate resilience, sustainability, and advanced social survey methodologies. These qualifications reflect her lifelong commitment to fostering economic and environmental sustainability through innovative research and education.

💼   Professional Experience 

Dr. Halima Begum has a dynamic professional portfolio spanning academia, research, and consultancy. She serves as an International Research Fellow at NBER and a Visiting Researcher at the Centre for European Economy, where she applies her expertise in financial sustainability to global economic challenges. As an Associate Fellow at the Center for Sustainability Research, she mentors students and contributes to high-impact projects. Previously, Dr. Begum held roles as a Lecturer at Southern University Bangladesh, where she taught business administration, and as a Cambridge-certified teacher in Malaysia. She also worked with Imperial Development Technology as a Research Associate, conducting impactful studies under esteemed leadership. Her vast experience includes producing indexed research papers, designing surveys, and facilitating workshops. Through her contributions to international organizations, including the European School of Sustainability Science and Research, she has influenced policies and practices, solidifying her reputation as a thought leader in sustainable development.

🏅 Awards and Recognition 

Dr. Halima Begum’s exemplary contributions have earned her accolades from global institutions. She is recognized as a World-Listed Sustainability Researcher by prominent organizations, including the European-North American Sustainability Research Consortium. Her role as a management team member at WASP-SSR reflects her influence in advancing sustainability science. A recipient of the prestigious Zamalah Scholarship from the National University of Malaysia, she has been acknowledged for her outstanding academic achievements during her doctoral studies. Dr. Begum also received merit-based scholarships throughout her MBA and BBA programs. Additionally, she has been invited to collaborate with esteemed organizations such as the European School of Sustainability Science and Research and the Islamic Sustainable Finance & Investment Forum. These recognitions underscore her unwavering commitment to excellence, innovation, and impactful research, further cementing her legacy in the global academic and sustainability landscape.

🌍 Research Skills On Economics

Dr. Halima Begum excels in a diverse range of research skills, including sustainability assessment, economic modeling, and advanced data analysis. Her expertise in survey design, statistical methods, and qualitative analysis enables her to address complex research questions effectively. She leverages innovative tools to integrate sustainability principles into financial and environmental management frameworks. Dr. Begum’s work often bridges theoretical research and practical applications, focusing on trends, patterns, and strategic insights for policymaking. As a mentor and project leader, she has guided numerous graduate students and research initiatives, fostering collaboration across academic and professional domains. Her ability to synthesize data into actionable recommendations has contributed to influential publications and presentations at international forums. Driven by a passion for interdisciplinary research, she continuously adapts her methodologies to address emerging challenges, reinforcing her position as a pioneer in economic and environmental sustainability studies.

đź“– Publication Top Notes

Adaptation barriers and strategies towards climate change: Challenges in the agricultural sector
    • Authors: MM Masud, MN Azam, M Mohiuddin, H Banna, R Akhtar, ASAF Alam, …
    • Citation Count: 267
    • Year: 2017
Malaysian oil palm industry: Prospect and problem
    • Authors: AF Alam, AC Er, H Begum
    • Citation Count: 186
    • Year: 2015
Fresh insight through a Keynesian theory approach to investigate the economic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic in Pakistan
    • Authors: K Abbass, H Begum, ASAF Alam, AH Awang, MK Abdelsalam, …
    • Citation Count: 102
    • Year: 2022
Agriculture insurance for disaster risk reduction: A case study of Malaysia
    • Authors: ASAF Alam, H Begum, MM Masud, AQ Al-Amin, W Leal Filho
    • Citation Count: 100
    • Year: 2020
Development of Islamic microfinance: a sustainable poverty reduction approach
    • Authors: H Begum, ASAF Alam, MA Mia, F Bhuiyan, ABA Ghani
    • Citation Count: 94
    • Year: 2019
Fresh insight through the VAR approach to investigate the effects of fiscal policy on environmental pollution in Pakistan
    • Authors: K Abbass, H Song, F Khan, H Begum, M Asif
    • Citation Count: 91
    • Year: 2022
Impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the environment and socioeconomic viability: a sustainable production chain alternative
    • Authors: H Begum, K Abbas, ASAF Alam, H Song, MT Chowdhury, ABA Ghani
    • Citation Count: 79
    • Year: 2022
Oil palm smallholders and its sustainability practices in Malaysia
    • Authors: CM Abazue, AC Er, ASA Ferdous Alam, H Begum
    • Citation Count: 57
    • Year: 2015
Tourist’s perceptions towards the role of stakeholders in sustainable tourism
    • Authors: H Begum, AC Er, ASAF Alam, N Sahazali
    • Citation Count: 56
    • Year: 2014
Sustainability practices at higher education institutions in Asia
    • Authors: W Leal Filho, MAP Dinis, S Sivapalan, H Begum, TF Ng, AQ Al-Amin, …
    • Citation Count: 36
    • Year: 2022