Industrial Clusters in India: Perspectives and Issues for Research

Considering the Indian context as the basis of enquiry into industrial clustering three important issues that largely determine the performance and strategy of firms to survive compete and grow are identified. These three issues relate to the characteristics of the existing and potential market; nature of informality and macro policy environment. To appreciate the issues and prior to offering policy suggestions for intervention, it is vital to reflect upon the spatial context of the clusters in which these progress or ail. Future research could reflect upon these aspects, preferably by conducting enquiries on ground. As dynamic clusters are said to be holding the key for much of the small firm development in the future, it would be most useful to understand and appreciate their modus operandi [GIDR WP No. 159].Industrial clusters; Flexibility; Markets; Informality Macro policy; Research issues; India