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Article History

Received: 19 April 2025

Accepted: 23 October 2025

First Online: 24 November 2025

Declarations

:

: In India, the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) National Ethical Guidelines for Biomedical and Health Research Involving Human Participants (2017) state that minimal-risk, non-clinical social or behavioral research, particularly when conducted independently, does not require review by an ethics committee. (ICMR, 2017, Chapter II, Paragraph 3; Chapter IV). As an independent researcher without institutional affiliation, the author has adhered to internationally recognized ethical standards, including the World Health Organization (WHO, 2011) and the ESRC Framework for Research Ethics (2023), in conducting this study. Given the anonymous nature of participation, minimal risk involved, and adherence to voluntary informed consent procedures, no separate ethics approvals or waivers were necessary from the countries of residence. Nonetheless, the ethical principles of respect, confidentiality, and voluntary participation were rigorously maintained throughout the study.

: Not applicable.

: The authors declare no competing interests.