O.R. Applications in Industry and Problems of Industrialisation of a Developing Economy with Special Reference to India

Abstract

The paper has two distinct parts. The first part reviews industrial applications of O.R. in developing countries in general and India in particular. Based on the analysis, the paper suggests concrete steps for further use of operational research in industry.

The second part of the paper deals critically with the problems of industrialisation leading to a specific industrial structure in the economy of a developing country. Analysing various relevant criteria for industrialisation of developing economies the paper outlines a methodology suitable for modelling the problem. It then attempts to identify the prerequisites for successful use of O.R. in the multicriteria problem of industrialisation. The paper also discusses the role that national and international agencies can play in bringing about more meaningful applications of O.R. in developing economies.