Abstract:
Grassroots innovations may result out of completely new or new
combinations of hybrids of existing elements with local ingenuity
which emphasizes on the ingenious capacity of grassroots innovators
to devise innovative solutions by using traditional and indigenous
knowledge to solve the problems faced locally by innovator and (or)
by community it belongs. These grassroots innovations have emerged
as a recent policy tool for inclusive and sustainable economic growth
in developing countries because of tremendous potential of such
innovations to contribute for sustainable socioeconomic development
and poverty alleviation. Despite these, grassroots innovations possess
a distinct socioeconomic advantage in the inclusive development
process; they are often neglected and kept separate from mainstream
innovation support system. In addition, the discrete nature of innovation
in the informal setup makes it different from the formal setup and holds
the least attention of research scholars. This explorative study finds
that, like the conventional innovation in formal sector, pluralism also
exists with grassroots innovation in informal sector but both are not
exactly similar in nature. This study explored different underlying
theories, critical factors, challenges associated with grassroots
innovations in informal economy. Further, this paper highlights the
distinguishing characteristics of grassroots innovations, development
models and theories, institutional engagements, and policy initiatives
to promote and support such innovations in Indian context. Finally, the
paper suggests a few policy implications to strengthen the grassroots
innovation within the inclusive innovation system framework.
