PurposeThis study seeks to examine the progression of research productivity and patterns among Indian researchers in library and information science (LIS). This study seeks to better understand the transition from intrinsic to extrinsic research motivation, focussing on the influential consequences of governmental interventions. Additionally, the study aims to assess the effects of government regulations, such as University Grant Commission (UGC) guidelines and initiatives like National Institutional Ranking Framework, IQAC (An Internal Quality Assurance Cell) and UGC-CARE (Consortium for Academic and Research Ethics), on academic autonomy and the cultivation of a “publish or perish. The goal is to determine the effectiveness of these policies in driving research output within the LIS domain in India by analysing the relationship between publishing policies and research output.Design/methodology/approachThe data were collected using the Scopus bibliographical database between 1976 and 2023 and yielded 2,853 records from 222 journals. To understand Indian researchers’ contributions to LIS, the dataset is categorized into three groups: Category A (all publications), Category B (excluding Indian journals) and Category C (excluding Indian journals and discontinued journals) to analyse trends over time. Statistical analysis was utilized using descriptive methods, t-tests, ANOVA and Pearson’s correlation and Microsoft Excel 2019 and Biblioshiny were used for visualization.FindingsThe study found a significant increase in top-tier journal publications, collaborative research and citations post-2010, corresponding with the adoption of UGC rules stressing publishing criteria for academic promotions. Library Philosophy and Practice emerged as the most chosen publishing source, while Delhi University and the University of Kashmir demonstrated outstanding research output. The study also emphasizes geographical discrepancies, the rise of newly established departments and a significant increase of authors publishing in different publications. Correlation analysis found strong connections between publication year, journal quartile, citations and author count.Research limitations/implicationsThe study acknowledges limitations, including potential biases in the Scopus database and search strategy adopted. The constraints might affect the applicability of the results. However, the insights acquired contribute to comprehending the dynamic research landscape in Indian LIS, guiding future research paths and academic policy decisions.Originality/valueThis study offers novel insights into the evolving dynamics of research productivity among Indian LIS researchers, elucidating the impact of government initiatives and academic policies. Examining patterns in publishing, preferences among academic journals and the behaviour of authors yields useful insights for policymakers, academic institutions and researchers seeking to improve research output and excellence in the field.
