Open Access and Knowledge Sharing: The Role of Institutional Repositories in Indian Higher Education

Authors- Assistant Professor Rakesh Kumar

Abstract-The open-access (OA) movement has revolutionized scholarly communication, promoting unrestricted access to academic knowledge and addressing disparities in research accessibility. Institutional repositories (IRs) play a pivotal role in this ecosystem by ensuring the long-term preservation and dissemination of scholarly outputs. In India, the adoption of IRs within higher education institutions (HEIs) has gained momentum through government initiatives such as Shodhganga and the National Digital Library of India (NDLI). However, challenges such as inadequate digital infrastructure, institutional resistance, limited researcher awareness, and policy inconsistencies hinder the widespread implementation of IRs. While prior research has explored technical and infrastructural barriers, there remains a critical gap in understanding the institutional and policy-level challenges affecting IR adoption in India. This study examines the evolution, challenges, and impact of IRs in Indian higher education by analyzing existing policy frameworks, technological advancements, and institutional strategies. By synthesizing empirical research and government initiatives, this paper provides a comprehensive assessment of IR implementation and offers strategic recommendations to strengthen India’s open-access ecosystem. The findings contribute to the broader discourse on knowledge equity, digital scholarship, and sustainable OA practices in emerging economies.

DOI: /10.61463/ijset.vol.10.issue1.276