The Impact of Sustainable Supply Chain Practices on the Environmental Performance of SMEs in Himalayan Region: Evidences from Uttarakhand

Abstract

The primary goal of this research is to identify the critical success factors for sustainable supply chains among small and medium-sized enterprises in Uttarakhand's hills and plains. The Covid-19 pandemic in India had a significant impact on the SMEs sector. The Covid-19 outbreak demonstrates how pandemics can disrupt supply chains all over the world. Therefore, more research needs to be done in this area so that we can handle worsening situations in future. This article discusses the key success criteria in terms of management strategies and critical management practices that are critical for a sustainable supply chain. Secondary research was used to generate data on the success of SMEs in Uttarakhand, which was then examined for the contribution of management practices and their impact on SMEs' performance. 150 SMEs employees were evaluated using a systematic questionnaire. The questionnaire analyzed managerial personnel's commitment to and desire to implement long-standing business practices in light of management principles, as well as their impact on the performance of SMEs. Statistical methods were used to analyze the final results. It was established that managerial practices were critical for the development and expansion of SMEs in Uttarakhand's hilly regions. Employee recruitment and selection have a substantial impact on the growth of SME's. The study has immediate implications for academics researching how management practices affect the performance, growth, and development of SMEs, as well as for government officials who must take the necessary steps to properly train entrepreneurs and encourage them to incorporate these practices in their businesses located in Uttarakhand's hills and plains.