Library and Information Science Education in India: Growth, Development, Problems and Prospects

The purpose of the study is to explore the history and growth of the Indian LIS education system, its sustainability, and describe a critical review of recent UGC proposed Learning Outcomes-based Curriculum Framework (LOCF) syllabi. The formal LIS education which was started before independence with few universities currently witnessed a phenomenal growth of LIS departments/schools in the county. The structured questionnaire and survey methods were used to collect relevant data about availability of various courses and supplemented by searching websites and personal contacts. The findings of the study indicates that that 237 universities/colleges/ polytechnic institutes and professional associations found offering LIS education from six months certificate course to a doctoral research program. The survey revealed that at present B.A. (Hons.), B.Sc. (H), Dip. in LIS (3 years), CLIS, BLIS, MLIS, MLIS (two years integrated), PGDLAN, M. Phil., Ph.D., and D.Litt. courses are available in 31 states and UT of Indian universities/colleges in Library and Information Science. The study also finds that during the span of 20 years (2001-2020) 105 LIS departments came into existence primarily in private universities and colleges. The latest UGC proposed LOCF syllabi for BLIS also examined its acceptability and sustainability as a uniform model curriculum framework for the LIS departments in India, In addition, the study describes key issues, challenges and recommendations to enhance LIS education scenario.